Guidance is help or advice that points someone in the right direction. When you receive guidance from a teacher on a difficult project, they show you how to think about it or what steps to take next, rather than doing the work for you. A guidance counselor at school helps students figure out which classes to take or how to handle problems with friends.

The word suggests sustained help that comes from someone with more experience who wants to help you succeed. A coach provides guidance to athletes learning a new skill. Parents offer guidance when their kids face tough decisions. Unlike commands that tell you exactly what to do, guidance gives you the information and perspective you need to make your own choices.

Think of guidance like a lighthouse for ships: it doesn't steer the ship or tell the captain every move to make, but it shows where the rocks are and helps the captain navigate safely. When you ask for guidance on something, you are recognizing that you could benefit from someone else's experience and insight.