
As someone who offers a lot of advice, I’m often asked questions in which it’s clear to me that the asker already knows the answer. In fact, they’re often first to point out that they know exactly what to do, but they’re just unable to do it. I had been thinking a lot about this and then it dawned on me; they’re probably just looking for permission to do the “wrong” thing.

When you're down and out or dealing with a difficult situation, it seems that most people are at no loss for
words of wisdom even if that's the last thing that you want to hear. The same goes for advice too. Whether you’re complaining about an annoying colleague or an argument with your boyfriend, sometimes you’re just looking for an eager ear and not a mouthful of encouraging solutions.

If you’re even moderately well mannered, there’s probably been a time or two when you’ve listened to someone else recount a story or
gripe over a personal issue that you had absolutely no interest in. In those moments, it’s often easier to just nod and smile then actually try to follow what they’re saying. It may not be the nicest thing to do, but it’s better than just completely ignoring someone so let me ask you: do you ever just pretend to listen?

You and a friend have made a great duo for the past year while you’ve both been single. It’s been so nice to have someone to commiserate with over all the bad dates and giggle with after the great late nights. While you’re not opposed to finding a guy, you’re actually really happy with the way things have been lately.

I love to
people watch. I think it's a fun past time as long as you do it in a way that isn't obvious or rude, but what are your thoughts on eavesdropping? It's like people watching but with your ears, and I'll admit that if the opportunity presents itself, I've definitely been one to listen in on other people's conversations.

Women spend a lot of time worrying and thinking about things. That's just our nature. If I spend too much time running thoughts or problems over and over in my own head, I get totally stressed out.

If there's anyone who can beat Randy Newman at the
Oscar game, it's Beyonce. Endearing veteran Newman earned his 17th
nomination this year, for "Our Town" from the movie
Cars. But the perennial nominee has only won once, and this year, he faces tough competition from
Dreamgirls, whose soundtrack features three of this year's five nominated songs.