Trust your instincts

It’s wild how every idea is open for debate these days. In the name of feedback, people feel entitled to offer opinions on things they know little about.

You’ll see someone giving medical advice as if it holds the same weight as advice from a doctor who’s spent years studying the field. This happens in business, health, investments, relationships —everywhere. Everyone thinks their opinion should carry the same value as that of a professional.

But here’s the thing: professionals spend years reading, studying, and engaging with other experts. They build a depth of understanding that’s hard for outsiders to grasp.

That’s where many people go wrong when giving their opinion. They share their thoughts with the best intentions, but they expect the other person to act on them. If you’re a true expert in the subject —someone who’s put in the time, read the books, and had the conversations —this makes sense. Otherwise, expecting someone to act on your opinion is crazy.

I’ve been on the receiving end of this. Well-meaning people try to help, but often they don’t really know what they’re talking about. Just because you have an opinion doesn’t make you an expert. And when you expect someone to do what you said, it creates frustration on both sides.

The best approach? Just listen. Offer your opinion only when asked, and don’t expect the other person to follow it —unless you are an expert in that field.

Often, speaking with others helps you hear your own thoughts more clearly, guiding you toward the answer you were looking for all along. The answer is usually within you; you just need help drawing it out.

Talk to people, listen to their input, seek advice from experts —but ultimately, make the decision that feels right to you.

Trust your instincts. If it feels right, go for it.