Wisdom of Ignorance: Acknowledging What We Don’t Know

Have you ever put on a persona of appearing to have it all figured out when underneath the surface, you were filled with emotions far from that truth?

If so, you’re not alone.

Using the words "I don't know" has become so taboo that acknowledging it can sometimes bring immense overthinking, fear and doubt.

In a world that typically rewards being right and having it all together, leaning into the unknown can foster uneasiness. Yet, our ability to be uncomfortable in these moments becomes a birthplace for transformation — if we give ourselves the patience, permission and compassion to show up in courage.

As leaders and positive difference-makers, it is essential to understand what we don't know. It’s also vital to acknowledge it. Not knowing and recognizing this becomes the foundational cornerstone of evolving holistically as individuals and agents of change. Only by actively and intently listening can we begin to narrow the gap between what is known and what needs to be known.

It's always okay if we don't know something. That makes us human. It becomes problematic when we realize we don't know something that we need to and do nothing about it to grow.

The moment we stop learning, unlearning and relearning with intentionality is the moment we open ourselves up to stagnation and complacency. These both derail the vibrance of our habits, systems and culture, no matter how distinguished they are. Our inability to respond to the unknown and reflect on what we don't know will cause us to stumble blindly from a place of fear.

Those who master their craft by mastering themselves never stop yearning to discover new ideas and new ways to get better. Life can become a laboratory of self-exploration if we take the time to nurture and develop our curiosity each day while leaning more profoundly into the words "I don't know."

Let's use today to focus on what's in our control and give ourselves grace while finding solutions to what we don't know but need to.