Opinions are free of charge.
I was reflecting yesternight on how forming an opinion is one of the cheapest things to do. It does not cost a thing to form an opinion about something or someone. I vividly recall a conversation I had last year with a pilot and another friend just as the COVID lockdown was gradually easing up. My friend had a plethora of opinions on airplanes—how they should be maintained, how they should be flown, and even suggestions on potential improvements. Although some of his points seemed logical, the pilot responded with a statement that left a lasting impression:
“Hard fast rules and checklists fly a plane and not opinions, no matter how great they seem.”
His response struck a chord. It made me realize that there are aspects of life that demand adherence to principles rather than relying on subjective opinions. Whether it's flying an airplane or navigating through personal and professional challenges, established principles and guidelines often serve as the bedrock for success. So, the next time someone bombards you with a barrage of opinions about your choices or actions, don't be swayed as long as you are operating within the framework of well-established principles. The pilot's assertion underscores the importance of relying on proven methodologies and guidelines, especially in situations where precision and safety are paramount.
another common area of opinion is how people advice others on to spend their wealth, even though they lack firsthand experience in managing substantial resources. In essence, the lesson here is that while opinions may be abundant and freely given, they often pale in comparison to the value of principles and established guidelines. Just as a pilot relies on hard and fast rules to navigate the skies safely, embracing principles in various aspects of life can lead to more grounded and successful outcomes. So, the next time you find yourself inundated with unsolicited opinions, take comfort in the knowledge that, like a well-guided flight, adherence to principles often charts a more reliable course.
He gives understanding to the simple.
Oluwaseun ADEPOJU
