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Psychology expert: Use these 5 phrases to shut down unsolicited advice every time

By Shadé Zahrai

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Psychology expert: Use these 5 phrases to shut down unsolicited advice every time

This validates their effort but sets a clear boundary. This approach prevents further unsolicited input while leaving the door open for you to seek advice on your terms.

It’s useful when you need to firmly close the conversation, like when you’re getting bombarded with “shoulds” at work, or when someone keeps overstepping in your personal life.

One important thing to keep in mind: Tone changes everything. The very same words can come across as gracious or defensive depending on how you deliver them. Aim for calm, steady, and respectful. That’s what makes these responses work.

Advice will always come, whether you want it to or not. At work, at home, in the grocery line, even at the gym. Your power lies in how you receive it.

Shadé Zahrai is an award-winning peak performance educator, behavioral researcher, and leadership strategist to Fortune 500 companies. She has educated more than 7 million professionals through LinkedIn Learning and is the author of “Big Trust: Rewire Self-Doubt, Find Your Confidence, and Fuel Success.” Recognized as one of LinkedIn’s Top 50 Most Impactful People, she supports leaders at some of the world’s biggest brands, including Microsoft, Deloitte, Procter & Gamble, and JPMorgan, through her firm, Influenceo Global. She earned her doctorate from Monash University. Follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

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