Have you ever wondered why certain conversations stay surface-level, even with people you care about? Or why someone close to you seems to shut down when you try to help? The answer might surprise you: it often comes down to unsolicited advice.

This well-intentioned habit—offering solutions when no one asked for them—can quietly erode trust and emotional safety. A casual “You should…” or “Why don’t you just…” can make someone feel unheard, dismissed, or judged, even when your goal is to support them.

I’ve seen it in my own life and relationships. One morning, I returned from a walk with a new perspective on a personal challenge. I shared it with my wife—not to be fixed, but to be seen and understood. Before I finished, she offered advice. And in that moment, I realized I’d done the same to her many times before.

Understanding this dynamic can be a game-changer for building stronger, more authentic connections. In my latest Psychology Today article, I explore what to do instead of rushing to fix—and how that small shift can transform your conversations and your relationships.

👉 Read the full article here