They can only hear if their ears are open

If you want to inspire someone don't start off telling them all their faults. If they feel personally attacked your "words of wisdom" that follows they will not hear because they have quit listening. Start with your "words of wisdom" that get their attention and they will open their minds as well as their ears and possibly be inspired by you. If you want to make a positive difference then keep the conversation positive. There will only be a negative impact if they only hear your negative comments. While their ears are open they will hear you. Don't let the only thing they hear be a list of their faults.