“It is easier to be wise for others than for oneself.”Luc de Vauvenargues · Reflecții și maxime · 1746 · Maxima 390
We see other people's lives clearly because we don't live them with their fear.
Distance makes the difference: we see other people's problems from above, without the fear, pride, or desire that clouds our own decisions. A friend tells you plainly that your relationship is toxic but cannot see his own situation as clearly. It is the classic case of the eye that cannot see itself. That is why people seek advisers, mentors, therapists: not because these know more, but because they look from outside our storm.
Why it matters Explains why it is worth asking a clear-headed friend before a big decision, even when you have all the information yourself.