Having the wisdom to know how little we know

Wisdom is knowing how little we know.

~ Socrates

This week, as I listened to our daughter's presentation about branding to women in Tech, I was reminded that, despite having a background in financial technology, I am now far from well-equipped to impart wisdom to young people in this field. I no longer speak their language. 

To continue thriving in a rapidly evolving technology landscape, developing some competence makes sense. In fact, it may be hazardous not to, but the pursuit of expertise in this field is no longer my priority. My interests have changed.

Becoming aware of our limitations is a sign of wisdom and humility.

Recognizing humility or lack thereof

Sometimes, silence is the best way to win an argument.

~ Jorge P. Guerrero

Being an occasional caregiver to toddlers and older adults, I have come to see emotional volatility at both ends of the age spectrum.

While it is easy to have empathy for emotional outbursts in the young and inexperienced, it can be a challenge to tolerate them in older people who have become set in their ways.

Although it would be nice to empower them with knowledge that would update their beliefs, when someone argues passionately and with complete conviction about a topic they have little expertise in, it is unlikely we can change their mind. Sometimes, avoiding an argument is the kindest thing we can do.

In my pursuit of knowledge, the more I learn, the more I realize how little I know. That's humbling, yet motivating.