Listening to the Obvious

Seeing the Obvious

There's no shortage of advice in the world. It can be from a parent, coworker, friend or even a fortune cookie. Most of it is uninvited, unappreciated and easily forgotten. Nevertheless, I believe that the most effective advice is that which is most obvious, and comes from a source most unexpected. An example:

The legendary Management guru Peter F. Drucker's teachings are nothing but clear and simple advice. They are sound, and very obvious. When you read one of his notes, you're like, "Wow, why didn't I think of that?" The note will probably say something very basic and obvious like "Listen first, speak later" or "Do right things, not just things right". But just the fact that it is put so simply, it is now in your cognizance. It compels you to think, implement and benefit from it. 

I've been through a similar experience in the last few months, which have probably been the toughest of my life. A broken engagement, malaria, deaths in the family, obscene pressure at work, the commute, college apps, and what not. I was spiraling into a life of burning myself out, staying awake all night, shutting myself out from loved ones, and being mopey in general. Then a certain someone told me just five words that forced me to get out of my miserable stupor and get on with life. Hell, not just get on with life, but start enjoying it once again. Those words were: "Shit happens. Deal with it." I'm partying, working hard, exercising, reading, writing, smiling...living...once again. 

So next time someone gives you unwanted, uninvited or unappreciated advice, take a moment and think about it. It might just tell you the one obvious thing that you really needed to be told. And bring you back on track.