Don’t tell people what to do. It’s just that simple. If they didn’t ask for your opinion, you shouldn’t be giving them your opinion anyways. Unless you are someone who has a position of power over said person, do not tell them what to do.

There is always going to be someone who feels like they are the one in charge, and sure, maybe they are. Maybe it’s for a group project, or you’re in charge of a committee, or you were asked to take over the class while the teacher walked out. There are plenty of circumstances where it is appropriate to instruct other individuals, however, in normal day to day life, who are we as individuals to instruct others because we want them to do things a certain way, or act in a way we wish they would?

You wouldn’t tell your boss what to do, so why would you tell a stranger what to do? You wouldn’t walk up to somebody you’ve never met and say, “Don’t eat that, it’s filled with sodium and if you eat it to much you will lose your appreciation for it.” Excuse me? Who are you to say what I can and cannot eat? Nobody asked for your opinion, so please, don’t give it.

I’ve encountered many people in my life who want to take control of what I do or who I am simply because they’re in the business of manipulation. I, however, will not stand for it. If you aren’t someone who is in my immediate family or friend circle, there is almost a 100% chance if you tell me what to do, I won’t listen. Unless you are someone who is in a position of authority, or I’m asking for help, do not tell me what to do. I’m not a doll you can play with.