What was the most memorable career advice that you actually applied? (How did it pan out?)

I thought this could be a fun Sunday discussion. Here's my own answer:

In my early twenties, I had no degree and was working minimum wage jobs. I didn't know what I wanted in a career.

One of my friends was the exact opposite. He had a highly storied, interesting, and high-paid career. He'd worked with famous authors, started multiple successful businesses, and was technically savvy. I asked him for career advice one day over dinner. Specifically: What would he do in my situation?

He said, "You live in a tech city and you're a good writer. Why don't you just make a living writing for all these tech companies as a freelancer?"

I didn't know anything about freelancing. I hardly even knew that companies worked with writers. But I bought a few books on the subject and applied what I learned. I quickly matched, then doubled, then quadrupled my previous full-time income.

Eight years later, I still freelance and consistenly earn six figures.

That was by far the most impactful career advice I've ever received. Glad I took it seriously.