A friend is in the early stages of trying to tackle a major business challenge. It is a fun challenge with many potential rewards. If one gets right, doors open where anticipated benefits will pay big dividends to everyone involved. At the same time, in looking at things through a worst case scenario lens, the deal could not only not provide any benefits, it could lead to new expenses that do not exist in the business today. With all to play for and significant downside to avoid, I find myself thinking about the lessons I try to hold onto in any challenge.
Ask for, listen to, and use trusted advice. There is an end to end lifecycle to advice that is critical. Advice is more than a request. One must listen, clarify, seek to understand, and then use! Early in my career, a casual friend has a critical business decision to make. In the end, he was referred to a profession in the space who charged him for the time they spent together. Despite the investment, the advice was, from what I could see, never understood and more importantly, never used.
Asking for advice in context is helpful to both parties. Details matter, especially if the source of advice cares! When describing the situation, creating a setting where questions of clarity and motivation are willingly heard and answered, dramatically changes the quality of the advice offered.
Trust, especially on the listener creates new windows and possibilities. I love the unknown in an old Psalm with advice; “Bow before the beauty of God, then to your knees – everyone worship!” (Psalm 96.9) To the uninitiated, s/he has no idea what will follow. If you trust the other, it does not matter. The action will lead to new experiences, insights, and possibilities.
If the receiver asks for follow-up feedback, s/he will create new channels of communication and understanding. This action opens up everything! The choice is with the receiver. Without the embrace and the follow-up, it is a gift that remains unopened.
I am hoping for the best.
