Somewhere along the way I got the idea that I had to know everything about a particular topic to “teach” or “present on” it. And I never considered myself an expert on anything because my definition of expert meant “someone who knows everything.” Logically, I know it is impossible to know everything. That I should not hold myself to this standard. And yet here I am, down-playing my accumulated knowledge and experiences because I am not omnipotent. Am I alone in falling into this trap?
The beautiful thing about life is we get to learn. Constantly. And hopefully be changed by that learning. I have–and continue to be given–lessons that I want to share in order to help others. There is never a shortage of lessons and knowledge, until we die.
The challenge? Overcoming the feeling that just because there is so much to learn does not mean we are any less capable of teaching what we know.
We don’t have to have it all figured out. Beating ourselves up about not being perfect or an “expert” is a waste of time. I think I’ve said that before and it’s because I need to learn it, too. So this is a real meta post. I’m actually teaching something and learning it at the same time. And I hope you’ll join me on this journey and in embracing the position as learner-and-teacher without guilt or fear of being an imposter.
Bonus: All the leaders I admire have humility as a trait. I know that’s not something everyone agrees on as being valuable. But for me, I think it’s important. Being open to the idea that there is more to learn as a leader IS being humble–and is a good practice.
My #30DaysofQ2 important but not urgent action for today: Live happily in the intersection and trust it is where I can do the most good.
Update on March 22, 2108: If you’re interested in topics like these, I invite you to follow me on Medium where I am more active these days–although “active” is a relative term.