nature of advice

advice is a weird thing. i usually get lots when i don't need it, but when i am actually seeking some, it's nowhere to be found. or it seems that no one truly understands my dilemma and hence whatever advice i hear seems to be something i've already thought about.

but am i really asking for advice, or am i shopping for agreement, looking for encouragement with whatever it is i have already decided on?

something to bear in mind when i'm attempting to give other people advice.