If someone asks for your advice and then ignores the answer, it can be frustrating and disheartening, especially if you genuinely invested time and effort into providing thoughtful guidance. Several reasons could explain this behavior:
They had a different expectation: The person seeking advice might have been looking for validation or reassurance rather than genuine guidance. When the advice doesn't align with what they wanted to hear, they may choose to ignore it.
They received conflicting advice: Sometimes, people seek advice from multiple sources and receive differing opinions. They might follow the advice that aligns better with their pre-existing beliefs or preferences.
Fear of change or commitment: Taking advice can sometimes involve making significant changes or decisions, and some people might feel hesitant or resistant to the idea of change.
Decision paralysis: Overwhelmed by too many options and advice, they may end up not making any decision at all.
Lack of trust or credibility: The person may not have full confidence in your advice or might perceive you as lacking expertise or understanding of their situation.
Timing and readiness: They might not be ready to implement the advice at that particular moment due to various reasons.
Miscommunication or misunderstanding: Perhaps there was a miscommunication, and they didn't fully grasp the advice you provided.
Handling this situation can be challenging, but here are some approaches you can consider:
Empathize: Understand that people have their reasons for accepting or rejecting advice. Be patient and try to put yourself in their shoes to understand their perspective better.
Ask for feedback: Politely inquire about their reasons for not following the advice. This can provide insights into their thought process and help you understand the situation better.
Avoid being confrontational: Refrain from being pushy or confrontational, as it can create animosity and make them more resistant to considering your advice in the future.
Respect their autonomy: Remember that ultimately, it's their decision to make. Respect their autonomy and acknowledge that they have the right to decide what's best for them.
Offer support: Let them know that you're there to support them regardless of their decision. Show that you genuinely care about their well-being and are willing to assist if needed.
Reevaluate your approach: Reflect on how you provided the advice. Maybe your delivery or communication style could be improved to make your suggestions more accessible and appealing.
Let it go: Sometimes, despite your best efforts, people will make their choices. It's essential to recognize that you cannot control their decisions.
Be open to revisiting the topic: They might come back to you later if they find your advice valuable, or circumstances change.
Remember that offering advice is not about gaining control over someone else's choices, but about genuinely helping and sharing your insights. Sometimes, the impact of your advice may not be immediately evident, and they might come to appreciate it later on. It's essential to stay supportive and understanding, regardless of the outcome.