WHEN TO SEEK WISDOM FROM OTHERS – IFA’S EMPHASIS ON COMMUNITY COUNSEL.
Why We Can’t Do It Alone
Ever found yourself stuck, unsure of what to do next? Maybe you’ve wrestled with a major life decision—career choices, relationship struggles, or financial dilemmas. In moments like these, the worst thing you can do is assume you have to figure it all out on your own.
In Ifa philosophy, seeking wisdom from others isn’t just encouraged—it’s essential. Ifa teaches that true knowledge isn’t hoarded but shared. No one has all the answers, but together, we have what we need to make the best decisions.
So how do you know when to seek wisdom from others? And how do you choose the right people to guide you? Let’s break it down.
1. When You’re Emotionally Charged and Can’t Think Clearly
Ever made a decision when you were angry, stressed, or overwhelmed—only to regret it later? That’s because heightened emotions cloud our judgment.
In Ifa, Esu (the divine messenger) represents crossroads and choices. He reminds us that when emotions are high, we might mistake a wrong turn for the right path.
Seeking wisdom from a trusted friend, mentor, or advisor helps you gain perspective before acting impulsively.
Practical Tip: Before making a big decision, talk to someone outside of your emotions.
Ask: Am I seeing this clearly, or am I reacting?
2. When You Keep Making the Same Mistakes
Patterns repeat when we don’t learn from them.
If you notice yourself in the same bad relationships, financial troubles, or career ruts, it’s time to ask for guidance.
Ifa’s Odu (sacred wisdom texts) emphasize that stubbornness can be a downfall.
The proverb says, “A river that forgets its source will dry up.”
Translation?
Without outside wisdom, we limit our growth.
Practical Tip: Find someone who has successfully navigated what you’re struggling with and ask, What did you do differently to change your situation?
3. When You Need an Objective Opinion
Sometimes, we’re too close to a problem to see it clearly.
We might convince ourselves that something is fine when it isn’t or ignore red flags.
Ifa encourages seeking advice from elders, mentors, or trusted community members because they offer objective insight.
Their experience helps us see beyond our blind spots.
Practical Tip: Choose someone who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear.
Real guidance helps you grow, even if it’s uncomfortable.
4. When You’re About to Enter a New Chapter in Life
Big life changes—marriage, career shifts, parenting—come with uncertainties.
In Ifa, major decisions aren’t meant to be made in isolation.
Community guidance ensures you walk into new seasons with wisdom, not guesswork.
Practical Tip: Before making a major transition, consult multiple perspectives—not just one.
The more insight, the better your decision-making.
5. When You Feel Stuck and Need a Fresh Perspective
Ifa teaches that stagnation isn’t just about external obstacles; sometimes, we’re the ones blocking our progress. Talking to someone who has walked a different path can help break that mental block.
Practical Tip: If you’ve been stuck for a while, ask for a perspective outside your usual circle. Sometimes, insight from unexpected places is the key to breakthrough.
How to Choose the Right People for Wisdom
Not everyone’s advice is good advice.
Ifa warns about taking direction from those who lack integrity or experience.
Here’s how to choose wisely:
- Look for someone with real-life experience – Not just theories, but results.
- Seek those who prioritize wisdom over personal gain – If their advice benefits only them, rethink it.
- Choose those who challenge you, not just agree with you – Growth comes from honest counsel, not flattery.
Wisdom Is a Shared Resource
The myth of “doing it all alone” is just that—a myth.
Ifa reminds us that our greatest strength is in our ability to seek, listen, and apply wisdom from others.
Next time you’re unsure, don’t carry the burden alone.
Ask. Listen. Learn.
The right guidance could be the missing piece to your next best decision.
Question for You: What’s one time you sought wisdom from someone, and it changed everything? Drop your answer in the comments!
Want more practical Ifa wisdom?
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