When we do not know something, are at a loss when asked to decide, or when with others we are not as well informed or knowledgeable, we sometimes feel inadequate. Often, we try and cover up, wanting others to carry a good impression of us. We often forget that three powerful words – ‘I don’t know’, can transform us.

Accepting that I don’t know, breaks the false sense of ego and looking good to others which we may sometimes slip into. We stop pretending and start being ourselves, comfortable in expressing that there may well be things we are not as knowledgeable about. ‘I don’t know’ builds our humility and grace.

It opens our minds to the point of view of others, knowing that they may well fill the knowledge gap we may be having. Not only do we expand our thinking and perspectives, but we also develop a better understanding of people and life. ‘I don’t know’ makes us better listeners.

We soon realise that not having all the answers can be detrimental, and it opens up our collaborative skills. We learn to reach out, seeking advice and help from others, not only enriching ourselves but our relationships as well. ‘I don’t know’ builds strong and enduring partnerships.

Often we embark on a journey, and when asked about how we will achieve things, in all honesty we often say that we don’t know. It is not that we have gone ahead recklessly, but sometimes, we just follow a strong gut and intuition that we cannot always put into words. ‘I don’t know’ builds our faith.

Someone who has an ‘I know it all’ attitude is generally not very easy to deal with. They constantly advise us and are often full of themselves. However, when we allow others into our life by admitting that we don’t know, it brings them closer to us and they too feel the comfort of sharing their vulnerabilities. ‘I don’t know’ builds friendships.

It is true that when asked how we managed our success, we genuinely say we don’t know how it happened. It is not from a false sense of humility, but a true acceptance that circumstances favoured us along the way in an explicable manner. ‘I don’t know’ from the heart builds our gratitude.

Admitting that we don’t know is not a weakness, in fact, it takes courage and inner security to be comfortable in saying this. True power does not come from feeling egoistic and complacent with what we know, no matter how smart we are. It comes from the thirst for knowledge and wisdom, by accepting and knowing that ‘I don’t know’.

(Picture – Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France )