1. Advice vs. Guidance
Advice implies “do exactly this.” Guidance means “here are factors to consider.” I share context, frameworks, and questions—so you stay in the driver’s seat.
- I offer research and perspective, not a one‐size‐fits‐all prescription.
- Real change comes when you own the decision, not when someone else hands it to you.
2. The Risks of Giving Advice
- Context matters: What worked for me may not suit your situation.
- Liability & ethics: Tailored advice in legal, medical, or financial matters demands professional credentials.
- Dependency vs. autonomy: Over‐advising can foster dependency instead of empowering critical thinking.
3. Empowering Self-Determination
My role is to equip you with tools and insights so you can think through trade-offs, risks, and values. When you arrive at your own conclusions, they stick—and you grow.
“Tell me, and I'll forget; show me, and I'll remember; involve me, and I'll understand.”
— Chinese Proverb
4. What I Offer Instead
- Contextual research, historical examples, and data analysis.
- Critical questions that expose hidden assumptions.
- Frameworks for evaluation: SWOT, cost-benefit, decision trees.
- Alternative viewpoints to challenge echo chambers.
- Follow-up prompts to refine your own thinking process.
5. How to Work Together
- Share your situation succinctly, focusing on key facts.
- Ask open-ended questions—“What should I do?” becomes “What factors matter most here?”
- Use feedback loops: propose your conclusion, get reactions, then iterate.
- Frame decisions around your values, goals, and risk tolerance.
6. Disclaimer & Best Practice
I am not a licensed professional. For legal, medical, financial, or mental-health issues, consult a qualified expert. Think of me as a fellow explorer: I’ll map the terrain, but you choose the path.