Seeking clarity and depth

From a young age, I have cherished a conviction that has always guided me: true wisdom lies in recognizing our ignorance. This philosophy has shaped my life, both personally and professionally.

I remember a pivotal moment in my career when I faced an important decision. Before making my choice, I embraced the path of doubt. This decision led to wonderful conversations, valuable stories full of others’ experiences, alternative perspectives, and ultimately to a more informed decision. This moment taught me that doubt is not a sign of weakness, but a powerful weapon in the arsenal of decision-making.

Throughout my life journey, there have been countless moments when admitting my ignorance opened doors to unprecedented learning opportunities. I’ve learned that humility in learning is not about undermining your knowledge, but about welcoming endless growth and understanding.

I used to see doubt as synonymous with indecision, or worse, a sign of insecurity. But as I grew older, I realized that it’s actually about seeking clarity and depth. In the same way, listening is a skill that I try to continue developing daily – challenging, yes, but undeniably enriching for my relationships and understanding of the world.

How do I continue to practice the art of doubting and remain a perpetual learner in listening? It starts with recognizing that my knowledge is just a drop in the ocean compared to all there is to learn. I continue this journey of discovery by writing down my thoughts and deeply reflecting on my conversations, always looking for ways to improve. Additionally, I constantly challenge myself to push the boundaries of my comfort zone, critically question my own beliefs, and be open to the insights of others.

My life journey has taught me that doubting and staying curious is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s a journey of personal growth and connecting with the world around us. It is an endless process of learning, unlearning, and relearning.

I invite you to reflect on your own experiences, challenges, and successes this December, a month when we often look back on the year. How has embracing doubt and continuing to cherish curiosity shaped your year?

Art: Doubt by Hayk Matsakyan