Caution in taking advice
Advice from the bible (Sirach 37.7-15) has always caught my attention because they inculcate some essential leadership qualities and traits for every individual to develop.
" Anyone can give advice, but some people do so only in their own interest. Be careful when somebody offers you advice. Find out first what his interest in the matter is, because you can be sure that he is thinking primarily of himself. Why should he come out on top instead of you? He will assure you that things look good, and then stand back to watch what happens to you.
Do not give advice to anyone who is jealous of you.
Do not ask advice from a man or woman about the rival of theirs.
Do not ask advice from anyone who does not trust you.
Do not ask advice from a coward about war.
Do not ask advice from a merchant or trader about a bargain.
Do not ask advice from a buyer about selling.
Do not ask advice from a stingy person about gratitude.
Do not ask advice from a cruel person about kindness.
Do not ask advice from a lazy person about work.
Do not ask advice from casual worker or labourer about finishing a job.
Do not ask advice from lazy person about a difficult task.
Pay no heed or attention to any advice they may give. Instead, rely on someone who is religious and known to keep the Lord's commands, someone who is sympathetic with you, who will not see you fail, and trust your own judgement; no one's advice is more reliable. Sometimes your own intuition can tell more than seven watchman on high tower. Above all, pray to the Most High that he will show you the right thing to do."