We often find ourselves in situations where, despite knowing right from wrong, our emotional attachments or misleading information cloud our judgment, leading us to make poor decisions for ourselves. In these moments of confusion, we desperately seek guidance from others. But who can we trust to provide truly sound advice and illuminate the right path? Determining the right person to seek counsel from is crucial, especially during challenging times.

1. **Expertise and knowledge**:
The ideal advisor is someone who embodies experience and resilience. They are individuals who, despite facing setbacks, never relinquished hope and ultimately found success in their own lives. This success doesn't necessarily need to be grand or widely recognized; it could simply be a life lived peacefully and joyfully. Their journey demonstrates a capacity for navigating life's complexities and emerging stronger.

2. **Emotional intelligence**:
Furthermore, we should gravitate towards individuals known for their kind and compassionate nature, particularly those who speak well of others, even those they might have disagreements with. Someone who speaks kindly about their enemies behind their backs is a testament to a pure heart, devoid of malice and ill will. Their intentions are likely genuine and rooted in empathy.

3. **Proven track recod**:
Conversely, we should be wary of those who habitually engage in gossip, backbiting, and backstabbing. Gossipers, often with large social circles, thrive on negativity and cannot be trusted with sensitive information. Instead, we should seek advice from individuals renowned for their honesty and integrity. They are the ones who demonstrate consistent trustworthiness through their actions.

4. **Reliability and Consistency**:
We must carefully observe a person's actions and words. If their actions consistently align with their words, they are practicing what they preach. These ‘practicing preachers’ possess a deep understanding of advice, recognizing what is truly beneficial and what is ultimately harmful. They understand that even the most sound advice is useless if it's not practically applicable. 

5. **Active listener**:
While quietude can often be associated with wisdom, it's crucial to remember that not all quiet individuals are wise. Some may merely cloak ignorance and foolishness behind a facade of politeness and reserved demeanor. Their silence can be a manipulative tool, a pretense of sage-like knowledge. The true measure of a person's understanding lies in their ability to navigate challenging situations, and an ignorant individual might remain silent even when a child would know the appropriate response. Therefore, equating quietness with wisdom is a fallacy.

6. **Piety and Intentions **:
In contrast, a truly wise individual is often characterized not only by their knowledge and intelligence but also by their genuine piety and good intentions. They are not prone to gossip or negativity, preferring instead to focus on uplifting and constructive conversations. Such a person possesses the wisdom of a sage and the ability to impart advice that is both practical and beneficial, always prioritizing the best interests of others.

7. **Moral values and Accountability**:
A truly sensible person is a beacon of wisdom, honesty, and trustworthiness. They avoid causing harm through words or actions, remaining vigilant in all situations and employing sound judgment to steer clear of evil and negativity. Their actions are guided by a strong moral compass and a deep understanding of right and wrong.

Ultimately, seeking guidance from the right person is paramount. Blindly accepting advice from anyone, regardless of their character, can be detrimental. When facing challenges or seeking direction, it's essential to carefully choose your advisor. The wrong advice, if followed, can have irreversible consequences. If you truly desire success and wish to achieve your goals, ensure you approach those who possess the wisdom, integrity, and genuine concern for your well-being.