The Best Advice Starts with This Question

by John Cooper

The Question That Matters

When you're talking to potential advisors, ask them: "If you were me, what would you do?"
A good advisor will give you a straight answer. They'll tell you exactly what they would do in your situation and why.

What I've Noticed:
Some advisors avoid this question. They'll say "that's your decision" or "I can't tell you what to do."

That's not helpful. You're asking for their professional judgment based on your specific circumstances.

Time Pressure:
If someone's rushing you because "the market's moving fast," be careful. Good advisors help you understand your options, not pressure you into quick decisions.

How I Handle It:
When someone asks me what I'd do, I actually think about their situation and give them a real answer. If I don't fully understand their circumstances, I'll ask more questions first. That's what they're paying me for.

Bottom Line:
You deserve an advisor who can put themselves in your position and give you honest guidance. Don't settle for generic advice when you're making one of the biggest decisions of your life.

That's it. Hope this helps.