What are your thoughts?

How many times have people you know asked you, “What are your thoughts on this?” The question may precede what they are about to tell you or follow their own thoughts on the subject. The question to ask yourself is, “Is this a platitude or are they seriously seeking my thoughts?” If it is a platitude, it really doesn’t matter what you respond. If they are serious, then it requires you to give consideration to your answer. Perhaps they want to know how you would approach a decision to a financial investment or how to handle a relationship problem. It would be important to differentiate your thoughts on the matter from giving them advice. Your thoughts might include your own experience with the situation or posing questions to assist them in deciding what action they would take. In the end, it is up to the other person to act on the information provided. When you are the person asking for another person’s thoughts, be clear on what you are seeking knowing that it is ultimately up to you to make the choice as to what you will do. What were the last thoughts you shared with someone and what resulted from them?