We’ve all been there. Someone says, “Can I get your honest opinion?” What they usually mean is, “Can you please confirm that the decision I already made is brilliant, courageous, and possibly visionary?” Honest feedback sounds great in theory, right up until it arrives.

In my opinion, many people don’t really want advice. They want applause with a better vocabulary. They want you to nod thoughtfully while they explain why their questionable idea is actually “strategic.” And if you dare to point out a flaw, suddenly you’re being negative, unsupportive, or “not seeing the full picture.” 

Real advice is uncomfortable because it challenges the story we’re telling ourselves. 

So the next time you ask for advice, ask yourself this first: Do I want the truth, or do I want a standing ovation for a bad idea?