While it can be super helpful to get feedback or advice from people you trust when you’re facing a conundrum or are feeling unsure about a big decision, there are some people you definitely shouldn’t be looking to for guidance because it’d be like the blind leading the blind. While you might love them, you definitely shouldn’t be taking advice from them because they’re absolutely terrible at it.
1. People who love drama
Their life is a never-ending soap opera, and they’ll drag you straight into the mess. Their advice is all about escalation, confrontation, and burning bridges. They always seem to be at the center of some new conflict, and thrive off the attention and excitement it brings. Unless you actually want your problem to become a trending social media topic or the subject of gossip at the water cooler, steer clear of their “helpful” suggestions.
2. People focused on the negative
For them, the glass isn’t just half-empty; it’s cracked and leaking all over the floor. They see potential disaster in every scenario, highlighting all the ways things could go wrong. Seeking their advice is like asking for a list of all the reasons why you’ll fail and should probably just give up now. Not exactly the pep talk you need to boost your confidence when facing a challenge.
3. People who think they know everything
They have an opinion on everything, regardless of whether they have actual expertise on the topic. Their advice is based on assumptions, bravado, and a desperate need to seem like the smartest person in the room. Following their lead is like letting a blindfolded person guide you across a busy street – a recipe for disaster. Instead of seeking their guidance, do your own research and consult those with genuine knowledge.
4. People who are stuck in the past
These types of people are usually older family members who are convinced that the way things used to be done is the only right way. Their advice always seem to ignore modern challenges, changing norms, and technological advancements. Taking their word might land you a job as a milkman or with a fantastic collection of rotary phones… but it’s unlikely to lead to success in today’s fast-paced world.
5. People who act on impulse
They make decisions based on gut feelings, ignoring logic, reason, and the potential for consequences. Their advice comes in hot, encouraging you to leap without looking and figure things out as you go. While every so often a little spontaneity is fun, blindly following their lead can have serious consequences, especially when it comes to important life choices.
6. People who never admit they’re wrong
For them, infallibility is everything. Even when faced with undeniable evidence, they’ll twist facts and deflect blame rather than take responsibility. Seeking advice from someone who refuses to acknowledge their mistakes is a dangerous game. You could end up following a flawed plan and taking the fall when things go sideways.
7. People who are constantly gossiping
They thrive on spreading rumors and talking crap about people to make themselves feel better about their own lives. Their advice is likely to be motivated by stirring up drama or settling personal scores, not genuinely helping you. Confiding in someone who loves to gossip puts your private matters at risk of becoming public knowledge, potentially with some added embellishments for entertainment value.
8. People who can’t keep secrets
Similar to the above, they have a burning desire to share juicy information, regardless of who it might hurt. If you need advice on a sensitive situation or issue, they’re the last person to confide in. It’s almost guaranteed that your secret will be common knowledge before the day is out, potentially causing damage and destroying trust.
9. People who are extremely jealous
They see your success as a threat. Their advice will be subtly designed to sabotage your efforts and hold you back. They might downplay your achievements, discourage you from taking risks, or try to sow seeds of doubt in your mind. Never underestimate the lengths a jealous person will go to bring you down to their level.
10. People who give unsolicited advice
They have an opinion on everything, whether you asked for it or not. Their advice often disregards your unique situation and needs. They’re more interested in pushing their own agenda than genuinely helping you find solutions that work for you. It’s okay to politely decline their “generous” but unrequested input.
11. People who are always playing the victim
For them, the world is constantly against them, and they shoulder none of the responsibility. Seeking their advice leads you down a path of excuses, blame-shifting, and a refusal to take ownership of your actions and problems. This mindset is contagious and will hinder your ability to overcome challenges and grow.
12. People who refuse to apologize
Even when clearly in the wrong, they can’t bring themselves to say “I’m sorry.” Their advice likely disregards the impact their actions have on other people. Following their lead could damage your relationships and reputation. A genuine friend or mentor will encourage you to own your mistakes and make amends when necessary.
13. People who rely heavily on stereotypes
Their advice is clouded by prejudice and generalizations. They make assumptions about people based on factors like race, gender, age, or background. Relying on their narrow-minded worldview can lead you to make unfair judgments and miss out on valuable opportunities or connections.
14. People who put you down instead of building you up
Their “advice” is often disguised as harsh criticism or thinly veiled insults. They chip away at your confidence instead of offering encouragement and support. Seeking their input is a recipe for self-doubt and discouragement. Surround yourself with people who champion your growth and celebrate your wins.
15. People who don’t practice what they preach
They talk a big game but rarely follow through on their own words of wisdom. Their advice is hypocritical and lacks credibility. Why follow the lead of someone who clearly doesn’t believe in their own advice? If you really want some advice, seek it from people who lead by example and live by the principles they promote.
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