In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the ability to communicate effectively is essential. However, most of us are often more focused on expressing our thoughts and providing solutions to others' problems than we are on truly understanding what they are saying. Contrary to popular belief, advising is not a form of listening. In fact, it can escalate a person’s frustrations and lead to conflict. As any good mediator will tell you, the best way to help others is often to stop giving advice and start actively listening. In this article, we will explore the power of active listening, the pitfalls of giving advice, and the various strategies you can employ to become a better listener.