It seems the older I get, the more I realize how little I know. Twenty years ago, when I was 23, I was pretty sure I had it all figured out. Now I’m quite sure I don’t have anything figured out. And if I live to be as old as I want to, well there’s no telling how dumb I’ll be by then.
My point is this: You need to know what you know. But more importantly, you need to know what you don’t know.
Many times I’ve been in the position of teaching and can’t get my point across because of people telling me what they know. It’s hard to understand why anyone would attend a clinic and then spend that time trying to impress me with their stories or theories rather than learn. My patience at times runs thin and one of my favorite quotes by Dr. Phil comes to mind, “Never miss an opportunity to shut up.”
The person I’ve looked up to the most all my life, undoubtedly has been my dad. He has always amazed me with his ability to listen quietly to stories, often embellished beyond belief, and never make a comment. He is humble and patient, and in reality my dad has forgotten more than most will ever know about being a cowboy.
My lesson is this: shut your mouth and listen. I’m speaking to myself. I’m often asked to speak at events, but I know that doesn’t mean I’m any smarter than anyone else in the room. I’m getting to the point where I’d rather listen than speak. The more time I can spend with my mouth shut and ears open, the better I am.
Remember, you need to know what you know. But more importantly, you need to know what you don’t know.
Until next time, God Bless and I’ll see you down the line.
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