What’s the Best Piece of Advice a Friend Has Given You?
We’ve gathered the most profound pieces of advice from CEOs and founders, distilled into seven impactful insights. From the significance of embracing change for personal growth to seeing failure as a learning opportunity, discover the valuable wisdom that has shaped the lives of these leaders.
- Embrace Change for Personal Growth
- Focus on Controllable Aspects
- Learn the Power of Forgiveness
- Be Open to Learning From Others
- Prioritize Relationships Over Transactions
- Understand the Power of Saying No
- See Failure as a Learning Opportunity
Embrace Change for Personal Growth
One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received was from a friend who encouraged me to “embrace change with an open heart.” This guidance significantly shaped my perspective, urging me to see life’s transitions and challenges as opportunities for personal growth rather than obstacles.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I embraced change by stepping out of my comfort zone, pursuing new experiences, and adapting to evolving circumstances with resilience. This shift in mindset, from fearing the unknown to welcoming the possibilities ahead, has become a guiding principle in my life.
It empowers me to navigate complexities with a positive mindset, fostering continuous personal development and enriching my journey.
Peter Capp
CEO, Sodick
Focus on Controllable Aspects
A friend once advised me, “Focus on what you can control, and let go of what you can’t.” This advice has profoundly impacted my approach as the CMO of Kualitee. It taught me to concentrate on areas where I can effect change rather than fretting over uncontrollable external factors.
Embracing this philosophy has been crucial in managing the complexities and uncertainties of running a business in the ever-changing tech and marketing landscape. It has fostered resilience and proactive thinking, guiding me to focus on actionable solutions rather than being paralyzed by challenges.
This mindset shift has eased stress and enhanced my decision-making and problem-solving skills, significantly shaping my professional effectiveness and personal well-being.
Khurram Mir
Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Kualitee
Learn the Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is valuable advice that my friend gave me. By letting go of grudges, I have experienced a profound impact on my life. Forgiving myself has allowed me to move forward, learn from my mistakes, and grow as a person. For example, I made a major error at work that cost the company money. I was devastated and filled with guilt.
However, my friend reminded me we all make mistakes. I forgave myself, took responsibility, and worked toward rectifying the situation. This advice helped me release negative emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and focus on personal growth. It taught me the power of forgiveness and its ability to bring peace and happiness.
Yoana Wong
Co-Founder, Secret Florists
Be Open to Learning From Others
One of my friends once said to me, “Everyone you meet knows something you don’t—be ready to learn.” This advice instilled a profound sense of curiosity in me.
As the CEO of a company teaching Japanese, I increasingly adopted this mindset and pushed myself to understand the perspectives of others—from my students and teachers to my software developers and financial planners.
It catalyzed my willingness to listen and comprehend new viewpoints, allowing me to forge an all-embracing educational environment.
Nooran Zafarmand
Co-Founder and CEO, Japamana
Prioritize Relationships Over Transactions
The most valuable advice I received was to “focus on building relationships, not just transactions” in marketing.
This perspective shifted my approach, emphasizing the long-term connection with customers over short-term gains, leading to stronger brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
John Frigo
E-commerce Manager, Best Price Nutrition
Understand the Power of Saying No
The most valuable advice a friend gave me was, “Embrace the power of saying no.” This advice transformed my approach to both my personal and professional life. It taught me the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing my time and energy on things that align with my values and goals.
Saying no to unnecessary commitments and distractions has allowed me to focus on what truly matters, leading to increased productivity, reduced stress, and a more balanced life. This simple yet powerful shift has been instrumental in achieving a healthier work-life balance and maintaining my overall well-being.
Amanda Miller, CEO, Angel Numbers Guru
See Failure as a Learning Opportunity
My friend’s advice was to ’embrace failure as a stepping-stone to success.’ It helped shape my view and way to deal with life’s challenges. Failure is a part of learning; thus, it means someone is gaining something new that will positively affect their life.
It also made me more patient and stubborn while learning from my mistakes. I could combat fears and try new things, improving my life and career. I can now take more risks, follow my passion, and learn from everything I pass through.
Mark Stewart
CPA, Step By Step Business
Submit Your Answer
Would you like to submit an alternate answer to the question, “What’s the most valuable advice a friend has given you? Explain its impact on your life.”
