So what, you're going to say "yes" to everything?

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, 
 but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.
Proverbs 29:25

There are many people in our lives whose approval we seek.  Often opinions are pushed upon us from all directions and it can be hard to know what is right.  The advice of those you respect is invaluable, but seeking to please everyone will only lead you in circles.  How do you sort out the truth through all the noise?

Something that stands out in this proverb for me is the opening line, 'fear of man'.  If you are afraid of what people may think of you and you seek to keep everyone happy, you are effectively succumbing to this fear.  It takes courage to stick to your guns and do what you know is right.  I have heard it said that if your actions do not cause offence to someone, then you are probably not doing anything truly great. This is not to say that causing offence should be your aim, rather that in achieving great things in life you will always come across opposition.

So where does that leave us?  Simply put, the answer lies in trusting God.  I don't want this to sound all airy fairy, but when you understand that God actually does have a plan for your life, you can ask him and trust that the right door will open.  

Build strong relationships and don't disregard the wisdom of those around you.  This has been a key factor in my life.  Find people you trust and respect, and listen to what they have to say.  Surround yourself with those who are wiser than you, and you may find that wisdom is contagious.

Do not spend your life seeking to please everyone. Rather, develop relationships with people whose advice you respect, and above all else, trust in God and he will direct your paths.