Listening To Advice 

Should we, as writers, listen to the advice of others? Depending on who those others are, the benefits of doing so could be great. The advice found in writing groups can be helpful, even very helpful. I feel it is intended to be. The writer bringing his, or her, story before such a group should listen attentively. They are writers, seeking the same from you. Listen, but with a critical ear. It's okay to disagree. Your story is your own, and this is the perfect time to discuss it. But listen. Some in these groups may be more practiced and knowledgeable about writing than you are. They may be published, and what they say could prove invaluable. Some may just be "joiners," and are happy to direct their comments to you rather than your story. In the end, listen, but listen with care. When it's your chance to give advice, do so to help, not to hurt. We're all writers, who are all all seeking the same things. 

If you're seeking editing advice, especially form a professional editor, that's when you should step up your listening. Editing can help you see things you may have missed, and can help you tighten your story and can open yourself to suggestions that will make it more readable. An editor will look at your story objectively, and this may just what you need. In addition to the above, listening to advice you may give yourself is, I think, greatly worthwhile. I subscribe strongly to the practice of self-editing. This should not be taken lightly, though. Editing yourself is not easy. You may not want to edit your own work, and think your story doesn't need any editing, especially from yourself. An outside editor may appreciate the work you do to turn your story into something good. What might be helpful to you may be making your story one you'd be interested in reading. The care you give your story might go a long way in showing your professionalism, and that cannot be a bad thing. Write, yes, but do take and listen to advice. It could be what you need.

You've listened well. Now what? Acting on what you've heard would be something you can do. Remember that deciding not to act is itself an action. If you are well aware of your capabilities, and are full of self-confidence, perhaps you might try this non-action is action route. You can take, or discard, the advice you've heard. Can you decide if the advice you hear is helpful or not? If asked, can you  give good advice to others? Whatever you do, it's your decision. This is, I think, is as it should be.