Stop listening to people who aren’t doing what you’re doing.
SHAKING THE TREE #62
“Opinions are like assholes” … muses Simone Elkeles—the American author known for the teen romance Perfect Chemistry trilogy and How To Ruin trilogy—. She continues: “everybody's got one and everyone thinks everyone else's stinks.”
Indeed.
Regardless of the armchair quarterbacks and the Monday-morning sports heroes, anyone who is not doing what you’re doing, anyone who is not pursuing whatever it is that you’re pursuing—those people have no business … NONE … questioning what you’re doing, where you’re going in terms of your goals, or hwo you’re going to get there.
Listening to—ANYONE—who is not actively engaged in or experienced in what you are doing is counterproductive.
Here are a few reasons why you ought to give zero weight to their opinions or advice:
1. Lack of context:
People who are not directly involved in your specific field or endeavor may lack the necessary context to fully understand the nuances and challenges you face. Their advice might not be relevant to your situation. Understand and accept this.
2. Different goals:
Everyone has their own goals, priorities, and values. What works for someone pursuing a different path may not align with your objectives. It's important to consider whether the advice is in line with your specific goals. Embrace and cherish this.
3. Limited understanding:
Those who are not actively engaged in your field may have a limited or outdated understanding of it. They might not be aware of the latest trends, techniques, or best practices. Realize and nurture this.
4. Risk aversion:
People who are not taking the same risks as you might be more risk-averse. Their advice could be overly cautious and might not align with your willingness to take calculated risks to achieve your goals. Calculate and assess this.
5. Potential for misalignment:
Following advice from individuals who are not doing what you're doing can lead to misalignment between your actions and your goals. Their guidance might divert you from your intended path. See this and follow this.
6. Unique journey:
Every journey is unique. What works for someone else may not work for you due to differences in background, circumstances, and personal strengths. Your path may require a different approach.
7. Motivation and passion:
Your motivation and passion for your specific endeavor are driving factors in your success. People who are not pursuing the same goals may not understand the depth of your commitment. Nurture this and comprehend this.
OK. I get it.
The points above might seem … extreme, and none of the above means you should completely disregard all advice from those who are not directly involved in your field.
Sometimes, fresh perspectives from outside your domain can offer valuable insights.
But the key here lies in carefully evaluating and considering the source's understanding, motivations, and relevance to your unique journey.
Ultimately, the decisions you make should align with your goals, values, and circumstances, not with anyone else’s.
This is your path.
Take it.
This is your goal.
Pursue it.
As always, thanks for reading.
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P.S. Next time on Shaking the Tree … Wisdom from the North