Don't give hasty advice

Good advice is one of those things. Many people don't understand when they are really being asked for advice and when their counterpart actually just wants to be confirmed. Be thoughtful in giving advice and really only give advice when you are asked for it. The difference between you and your counterpart is quite simple: your counterpart knows the whole story - you do not. You never have the same knowledge about a situation, about feelings or actions, as your counterpart. 

How can you make an informed decision and give good advice? We all often fall into the trap of giving advice, thinking we are helping the other person by doing so. However, it is better to help our counterpart make the decision that is right for him or her. Recognize whether you are being asked for advice or your counterpart wants reassurance.