Very Good Advice
Kat Edmonson Lyrics

In the opening lines of Kat Edmonson's "Very Good Advice," the singer reflects on the dichotomy between giving oneself sound advice and the difficulty in actually following through on it. This introspective dialogue sets the tone for the song's exploration of self-awareness and personal growth. The acknowledgement that they offer themselves valuable guidance implies a degree of self-awareness and understanding of what is necessary for their well-being. However, the admission that they "very seldom follow it" suggests a recurring pattern of self-sabotage or a struggle with self-discipline. This conveys a sense of inner conflict and a constant battle between knowing what is right and being able to act on it. The singer's admission of their failure to heed their own advice sets the stage for the ongoing theme of personal accountability and the consequences of their actions or inactions.

The lyrics further delve into the consequences of not following through on their own advice, as the singer laments being in trouble due to their habitual disregard for their own wisdom. The expression "explains the trouble that I'm always in" implies a sense of resignation or acceptance of the repeated patterns of behavior that lead to negative outcomes. This admission reflects a sense of frustration and a desire for change, demonstrating a recognition of the need to break free from this cycle of self-inflicted turmoil. The theme of impatience is introduced as the singer grapples with the conflict between waiting for the right time to act and the curiosity or restlessness that accompanies prolonged periods of inaction. This internal struggle underscores the complexity of decision-making and the internal battles we all face in reconciling conflicting desires or impulses.

As the song progresses, the singer reflects on missed opportunities and the consequences of not heeding their own advice. The line "Well I went along my merry way And I never stopped to reason" suggests a lack of foresight or consideration for the potential repercussions of their actions. This sense of recklessness or impulsivity hints at a pattern of behavior characterized by a tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term consequences. The acknowledgment that "I should have known there'd be a price to pay Someday, someday" conveys a sense of regret and a recognition of the inevitability of facing the consequences of one's choices. This reflection on the potential cost of their actions serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-reflection and the willingness to learn from past mistakes.

In the closing lines of the song, the singer returns to the central theme of self-reflection and personal growth as they ponder whether they will ever be able to break free from the cycle of self-sabotage and finally learn to prioritize their own well-being. The repeated refrain "I give myself very good advice But I very seldom follow it" reinforces the ongoing struggle between knowing what is best for oneself and the difficulty in implementing change. The unresolved question "Will I ever learn to do the things I should" encapsulates the underlying theme of striving for self-improvement and the perseverance required to overcome obstacles and ingrained patterns of behavior. This reflection on the challenges of self-discipline and personal growth serves as a universal message about the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and the ongoing journey towards self-betterment.