The first year I taught, I wanted to exude knowledge in the classroom – always knowing the right answer. The kids in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade, after all, had a limited idea of what the world looked like, right?
Wrong.
I very quickly got bombarded with questions to which I did not hold the answer… “what if…what about…how might this work?”
“I don’t know.” (and stop asking!)
I very quickly learned that not knowing an answer needed to be ok. The hardest part was to accept that for myself.
Soon, I learned to steer inquiry into examination, investigation, and growth.
“I don’t know. But let’s find out!”
Later, working mostly with adults, and often in a collaborative role, or advising on a project, or working as part of a longterm initiative, I find the same is still true.
“What outcomes can we expect when we do X?” or “When can we get this done so we can do that?”
“I don’t know. But let me check on a few things and get back to you.”
Most people know you don’t know everything. And they don’t either. Even some of us with expert knowledge in our domain can’t possibly know all there is to know.
But.
Your attitude towards knowledge is key. You might not know, but are you ready to allow yourself to say so? Are you ready to admit that to others?
If you do, then you’re on the right track.
If you let your experience and domain knowledge lead the way, along with being open to new possibilities, connecting with others to widen your worldview a bit, you’re off to a good start.
If you’re willing to gain insight, new possibles, and seeing a new way forward it’s ok if you don’t (initially) know the right answer. You’re able to find it…
So…
Are you ready to go find out?