The Best Advice You Ever Ignored (and Why You Should Reconsider It)

3 minute read

By Ryan Pauls

People love to give advice, but not all of it sticks. Sometimes, the best wisdom comes at the wrong time, or we’re simply not ready to hear it. Over the years, you may have dismissed valuable insights that could have saved you time, stress, or regret. By revisiting this ignored advice, you might find guidance that still applies today.

“Slow Down—You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out”

When you’re younger, there’s often pressure to have a clear plan for the future. Whether it’s choosing a career, settling down, or reaching personal milestones, society encourages quick decisions. The idea of slowing down can feel like falling behind.

But the truth is, life is unpredictable, and taking time to explore different paths can lead to more fulfillment. Many successful people didn’t follow a straight road. They experimented, failed, and adjusted. The advice to slow down isn’t about avoiding ambition—it’s about making thoughtful choices rather than rushing into situations that don’t align with your long-term happiness.

“Failure Isn’t the Opposite of Success—It’s Part of It”

Most people grow up fearing failure. Whether in school, work, or personal relationships, making mistakes can feel like a setback. It’s easy to ignore advice that tells you failure is necessary when you’re focused on avoiding it.

However, failure is often the best teacher. Some of the world’s greatest innovators, from entrepreneurs to artists, failed repeatedly before they found success. Instead of seeing failure as something to fear, view it as a learning opportunity. Reconsidering this advice allows you to take risks and grow in ways you wouldn’t have if you played it safe.

“Say No More Often—You Don’t Have to Please Everyone”

Many people struggle with saying no, especially when they want to be seen as reliable and kind. Whether it’s taking on extra work, attending every social event, or agreeing to favors, the pressure to please others can be overwhelming.

Ignoring this advice can lead to burnout and resentment. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re selfish—it means you respect your time and energy. People who value you will understand when you need to decline. Learning to say no creates space for opportunities that align with your priorities.

“Stop Worrying About What Others Think”

This advice is easy to dismiss, yet many people spend years trying to meet other people’s expectations. From choosing a career to expressing personal opinions, fear of judgment can hold you back.

The truth is, people are often too focused on themselves to analyze your every move. And even if they do, their opinions don’t define you. When you embrace this advice, you gain confidence and the freedom to live on your terms.

Reconsidering the Advice You Ignored

Good advice doesn’t expire—it waits for the right moment to be useful. If any of these ideas feel relevant now, it’s not too late to apply them. The wisdom we once ignored often becomes the guidance we need most. By reconsidering past advice, you open yourself up to personal growth and new possibilities.

Contributor

Ryan has been writing and editing professionally for a dozen or so years. From his time covering music news at his university newspaper to his current role in online publishing, Ryan has made a career out of his love for language. When he isn’t typing away, he can be found spending time with family, reading books, or immersed in good music.