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I start my day by offering peace and kindness to others. In my neighborhood, I often engage in small acts such as waving to people during my morning bike rides, even in the early hours of darkness. I make a point to greet drivers and exchange hellos with pedestrians and joggers. One of my favorite ways to spread positivity is through simple gestures like offering a smile or holding a door open for someone, or a warm hello. A recent encounter at Home Depot left a lasting impression on me. [Blind Spot] Last Saturday, I noticed a very thin and disheveled man walking through the parking lot, his appearance suggesting homelessness. The words of Jesus, "Just as you do it to the least of these, you have done it to me," resonated in my mind. After completing my errand, I unexpectedly crossed paths with the same man again. Without hesitation, I reached into my wallet and retrieved some cash. Pulling alongside him, I rolled down my window and spoke to him. He paused, turning his attention to me as I handed him the money, wishing him a blessed day. He quietly pocketed the money without acknowledging me or the gesture before walking away. The encounter took me aback, as it was not the anticipated reaction. Reflecting on this experience, I questioned my own motivations. Did a desire for personal validation drive my act of kindness or enhance my own sense of virtue? Did I secretly hope for something in return, such as a grateful smile or acknowledgment that this was enough to provide a meal? It became clear that this moment had become intertwined with my own emotions and desires. I realized that true kindness extends beyond personal satisfaction. It should be offered freely and without expectation. The focus should shift from anticipating a specific reaction to genuinely offering help. Wow! I know this already. How easy it is to make the world about me and not others. [Blind Spot] As I contemplated the man's perspective, I considered the challenges he might be facing, challenges not immediately visible to me. The power of extending kindness lies in its ability to heal, uplift, and instill hope. With every act of compassion, I extend a helping hand that has the potential to mend wounds and lighten burdens. Ultimately, it's about the impact I can make in the lives of others rather than seeking validation or personal gratification. How about you? Are your gifts of kindness embedded with a hook like mine in this story? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book today. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #communication #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #businesscoaching #positivity #postivevibes #positivemindset #powerofpositivity #powerofthought #successcoach #dailyinspiration #betterme

I have just read Nguyen Dang Kha's book Passage to America. His story is about the horrible treatment the South Vietnamese received after the fall of the Vietnam War in 1975. It has given me a new perspective on fighting Communism in Vietnam. His description of brutality toward South Vietnam's public officers, military men, women, and the general public was unbelievable. Their torture included beatings, killings, imprisonment for as many as ten years, and many other atrocities. Their business standards prevented any from succeeding. The necessity to escape to other countries was their only hope, and the separation of families to escape was truly a gift of freedom at the maximum cost. Children were sent out without their entire family, countless died in their attempt to escape. Even while it was clear that the chances of fleeing the country were unfavorable, the Communists' oppression made the danger worthwhile. Family members were sent out with an unknown fate for their future, yet the future of staying was worse than gambling on their lives. Kha's boat was about 100 feet long and 10 feet wide and carried 350 people. There was little room to sit and none to lie down for seven days. They faced a serious threat from the pirates and thieves who assaulted their boats. Kha's boat was raided twice by pirates. They took all they could find, jewelry, money, and anything of value. These items were the Vietnamese wealth to be used to sustain themselves until they could find a country that would accept them. What a fascinating story of the will to survive and risk giving up their children for the possibility that they would find a better life. I understand Vietnam is a very different country today. I love our country and the freedoms we are allowed. The thought of having to separate my family to ensure some were allowed freedom at the risk of death is a place I cannot imagine. Sure, we are struggling within our country to see the way of others. Sure, there is discord and strife within. Yet through God's grace and blessings, we live in the finest country. Kha's story and many others remind me of how fortunate we are to have been born in such a rich nation. I pray we can hold together in unity. How about you? Are you thankful that we are allowed the freedom we have? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from these blogs, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book today. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #counselingworks #leadershipdevelopment #communication #relationshiptips #letstalk #freedom #freedomofchoice #choicesmatter #choices #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #marriagecounseling #wednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdayvibes #dailyhabits #betterme #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #dailyinspiration

What a marvelous gift age is. Transcending from infants to children, adolescents, young adulthood to joining the fourth quarter or ninth inning group, is a journey. I began my path fighting today's battles early on. This has kept me from being strategic and intentional about how I show up for the future. As I ponder the rest of my life, I ask, “What is next?” During my early years as a dad, I focused on earning and providing. After all there is a great importance in taking care of my family. It is fascinating to see how life cycles. As an infant, we are totally dependent on our family to care for us. As teens we develop a sense of independence and as an adult, we begin the cycle over. We begin to take the place of our parents as our kids mature. When they establish their own families, we get to take on life as grandparents. I find it intriguing to watch this transition. Our roles and responsibilities follow a predictable pattern. One interesting perspective that has changed for me is shifting the responsibility of amassing wealth and things, to becoming more generous. It certainly helps to have enough to live comfortably. This has been due to hard work and God’s blessings. I stumbled on this phrase, and it certainly has meaning to me,“When a man dies, all he has is what he has given away.” What a powerful thought. For me, the gift of wealth today is not the accumulation of material possessions, but rather the infinite wealth that comes from the act of giving. It provides unparalleled feelings of joy, fulfillment, and purpose, particularly when the receiver is unaware of the source of their newfound blessings. There is transformative power in giving without expecting anything in return, it touches hearts, change lives, and creates a lasting legacy. When I give, I not only impact the lives of others but also nourish my own soul. The act of sharing resources, time, and talents can bring about a sense of profound connection with fellow human beings. “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25 I am not speaking just of material wealth. We can give a smile, a prayer, open the door, call an old friend, a listening ear, offer compliments, volunteer time, pay it forward, random acts of kindness, donate, the list goes on and on. I see giving is a gift that pays high returns. The joy that arises from seeing the happiness and gratitude on the faces of those we help is a testament to the inherent goodness within each of us. Giving anonymously liberates me from the shackles of ego and self-importance. I notice the smallest acts of kindness can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond my imagination. “The true measure of a man's wealth lies not in what he has acquired, but in what he has given away.” What does that phrase evoke for you? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book today. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindsetiseverything #bayharbourumc #counseling #successcoaching #authorsofinstagram #relationships #work #communication #bettertogether #wisdom #bebetter #givingback #giving #payitforward #RandomActsOfKindness

Today I find it easier to point out the flaws and mistakes of others rather than looking for their accomplishments. Social media and online platforms often breed criticism and negativity. [Blind Spot] Renowned author and leadership expert Robin Sharma reminds us of the importance of shifting this perspective and recognizing the significance of acknowledging when others do things right. In his writings, Sharma emphasizes the power of positivity and the impact of genuine praise. He highlights that offering sincere recognition and appreciation to others for their accomplishments and efforts can profoundly affect their motivation and self-esteem. When I take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of those around me, I create an atmosphere of encouragement and support, fostering a culture of growth and success. Pointing out what is wrong might be necessary, but it does little to inspire or uplift anyone. On the contrary, it often creates a sense of defensiveness and discouragement. I overlook the potential for positive change and growth by focusing solely on the negatives. [Blind Spot] Sharma urges us to recognize and celebrate the "wins" in others' lives. Whether a small triumph or a significant accomplishment, offering genuine praise and appreciation strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of camaraderie. It creates an environment where people feel valued and motivated to strive for excellence. Moreover, practicing positive reinforcement doesn't just benefit others; it also transforms my mindset and outlook on life. As I shift my attention to what's going right and the good in others, I become more optimistic and compassionate. This optimistic outlook spreads across my encounters, fostering richer connections and a more satisfying life. Incorporating this principle into my daily life is a simple yet powerful way to make a meaningful difference. Whether in the workplace, within my family, or in my community, taking the time to acknowledge and praise the positive actions and achievements of others creates a ripple effect of positivity. By practicing genuine praise and appreciation, I uplift those around me, cultivate a culture of encouragement, and foster personal growth. How about you? Can you strive to balance your positive and negative comments, leaning toward the positive side? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book today. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #communication #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #businesscoaching #robinsharma #positivity #postivevibes #positivemindset #negativethoughts #negativity #rippleeffect #powerofpositivity #powerofthought #successcoach #dailyinspiration

In pursuing success and personal achievement, it is common to wonder, "Where is my goal line?" This question reflects the desire to know the endpoint of our journey when we can finally declare victory. Renowned author Darren Hardy emphasizes that finding our goal line requires more than a fixed destination; it involves continuous growth and refinement. Hardy encourages us to shift our focus from fixating on the end to embracing the journey. Rather than seeking a definitive goal line, he suggests setting "ever-evolving finish lines." This allows us to celebrate our progress and accomplishments along the way while motivating us to keep striving for higher levels of success. Life is dynamic, and circumstances evolve, so my target should be flexible enough to adapt. Instead of asking, "Where is my end?" I should ask, "What can I achieve today that aligns with my vision for the future?" Hardy reminds us that setting and pursuing challenging goals is essential for personal growth. The process of striving for my goals pushes me to develop new skills, overcome obstacles, and build a better me. While my understanding of the finish line might change as I progress, I might also find new, more worthwhile goals to work toward. Remember, long-term goals and aspirations are essential, but I must pay attention to the power of daily habits and consistent action. Achieving big goals results from accumulating small, disciplined actions performed day in and day out. So, instead of fixating on the elusive "goal line," I now embrace the journey of growth and progress by setting ambitious yet flexible goals and celebrating every milestone achieved along the way. To sum it up, the pursuit of success is more than just crossing a static goal line. It's about setting ever-evolving finish lines, focusing on daily habits, and enjoying the growth journey. I choose to challenge myself, celebrate my progress, and push beyond my perceived limitations as I discover that true fulfillment lies in becoming the best version of myself. How about you? Do you have your end goal in mind, and are you celebrating the journey? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #counselingworks #leadershipdevelopment #communication #relationshiptips #letstalk #marriageandfamilytherapy #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #marriagecounseling #wednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdayvibes #goals #goals2023 #finishline #dailyhabits #biggoals #focusedonmygoals #DarrenHardy #betterme #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #dailyinspiration

I often find myself hanging out in what is familiar rather than what is good for me. Choosing to hang out in these environments that are either beneficial or detrimental can breed familiarity over time. [Blind Spot] Often, I develop routines and habits that align with what I consider good for me, such as spending time with supportive friends, engaging in healthy activities, or pursuing personal growth. On the other hand, I might also fall into patterns that are not conducive to my well-being, such as being in toxic relationships, indulging in harmful behaviors, or engaging in self-sabotaging tendencies. Whether it helps me or hurts me, this familiarity can eventually make me feel at ease, because it’s comforting, and provides a sense of predictability and stability. However, it is critical to recognize that familiarity doesn't equate to what is truly good for me. [Blind Spot] Recognizing this contradiction is crucial for my personal development and well-being. It prompts me to assess my choices and discern whether they align with my values and aspirations. If I find myself stuck in negative patterns, it may require courage and self-awareness to break away from the comfort of familiarity and seek healthier alternatives. Jim Rohn believed that to achieve greatness and success in life; we must break free from the confines of our comfort zones and explore new horizons. Rohn famously said, "Your life does not get better by chance; it gets better by change." Embracing what is genuinely good for me might involve: Stepping into the unknown. Trying new experiences. Surrounding myself with people who inspire and support my growth. Additionally, being mindful of these familiar traps leading to adverse outcomes enables me to make conscious decisions to break free from such cycles. While it’s challenging to let go of familiarity in these situations, doing so leads to personal transformation and a healthier, more fulfilling life. Familiarity can either serve me well or hold me back. Discerning between what is genuinely good for me and what feels familiar, empowers me to make positive changes. Embracing the good may require stepping into the unknown, while breaking away from negative patterns demands courage. Through these choices, I set out on a path of personal development and build a life that is consistent with my true values and objectives. How about you? Are your familiar choices good or bad for you? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindsetiseverything #bayharbourumc #counseling #successcoach #goodorbad #authorsofinstagram #relationships #work #communication #familiarity #bettertogether #wisdom #bebetter

In a previous post, I revealed how discovery vs disclosure had an impact in the workplace. This post uses the same concept in relationships. The interplay between discovery and disclosure can profoundly impact the dynamics between two individuals in intimate relationships. This delicate and complex dance involves sharing vulnerabilities and truths, where the fear of upsetting one’s partner can impede the willingness to disclose essential matters. Ralph and Robin were a deeply committed couple, sharing a loving bond built on trust and understanding. However, a few months into their relationship, Robin stumbled upon a revelation about Ralph's past that she found troubling. She was conflicted. Robin chose to keep her discovery to herself, hoping that time would heal her discomfort and that the issue might eventually fade away. Little did she know that withholding the information would prove detrimental. As the months passed, Robin's internal struggle grew, and the distance between her and Ralph widened. The weight of her discovery became unbearable, and it began to manifest in her behavior toward him. Ralph sensed the change but was unaware of its root cause. Finally, during a heated argument about an unrelated matter, Robin's emotions overwhelmed her, and she blurted out her discovery. The room fell silent, and both felt a mix of shock, hurt, and confusion. Ralph was stunned by his error in failure to disclose, while Robin regretted not revealing the information earlier. Ralph's choice not to disclose precipitated this problem. This emotional breaking point served as a wake-up call for both Ralph and Robin and they realized the vital lessons this experience had to offer: While it can be challenging to share sensitive information, honesty is essential for building a foundation of trust and intimacy. It's natural to fear upsetting our partners but withholding important information can have more damaging consequences. While immediate disclosure might not always be possible, addressing sensitive matters at the right time is crucial. When trust is broken, both partners must be willing to engage in open dialogue and work towards rebuilding trust through empathy, forgiveness, and understanding. This underscores the delicate dance between discovery and disclosure in relationships. Fear and reluctance to disclose sensitive matters can have far-reaching consequences, hurting feelings and damaging trust. Emphasizing honesty, vulnerability, and timely communication is essential for navigating upset waters and fostering a stronger, more resilient relationship. Are you forthright in disclosing? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book today. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #communication #disclosure #discovery #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #relationships #help #relationshiptips #businesscoaching

In work environments, the clash between discovery and disclosure can be daunting, especially when fear and reluctance overshadow one's ability to speak up about potential problems. This predicament is often rooted in fear of repercussions, mainly when the individual involved hesitates to approach their boss with concerns that could affect a project or the company. Ralph's fear of his boss obstructs his willingness to communicate a problem, leading to disastrous consequences. Ralph is a dedicated and hardworking employee; while working on a project, he discovered a significant flaw that, if addressed, might have serious consequences for the client. However, the fear of his authoritative and intimidating boss loomed in Ralph's mind, causing hesitation to disclose the problem. Failure to disclose exacerbated as time passed. Ralph's anxiety grew proportionately. Despite the inner turmoil, he kept silent, hoping the issue would somehow resolve or go unnoticed. Unfortunately, the problem snowballed into a full-blown crisis, far worse than it would have been if addressed early on. The boss eventually discovered the oversight, and the consequences were dire—a loss of trust in Ralph's abilities and a negative impact on the company's reputation. The lessons derived from this story are crucial for both employees and employers alike: It is essential to create an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their concerns without fear of retribution. Open communication channels empower employees and lead to early identification and resolution of issues. While it can be intimidating, voicing concerns respectfully and professionally is essential to fostering a healthy work environment. Ralph and his boss are both culpable. Problems rarely resolve themselves without intervention. Encouraging employees to report issues promptly can significantly minimize potential damage and allow timely solutions to be implemented. Recognizing that mistakes happen can lead to a greater focus on learning and growth. Reacting with anger and disappointment discourages open communication and hinders problem-solving efforts. Employees accepting responsibility for their work and being encouraged to take ownership of any challenges is healthy. Conversely, employers should acknowledge and appreciate such accountability. This tale of Ralph illustrates the high cost of silence in the face of discovery vs. disclosure. Fear and reluctance to communicate can lead to disastrous outcomes for individuals and organizations. Emphasizing open communication, overcoming fear of authority, and encouraging accountability are pivotal steps towards building a healthy work environment that thrives on addressing challenges head-on, fostering growth and success for all. How about you, is it difficult to disclose before discovery? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #resetyourmind #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #mindset #bayharbourumc #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #relationshipsuccess #bettereveryday #blindspots #counselingworks #leadershipdevelopment #communication #relationshiptips #discovery #disclosure #letstalk #marriageandfamilytherapy #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #marriagecounseling #wednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdayvibes

Throughout life, I have encountered an array of circumstances, both favorable and challenging. It is easy to allow these situations to define who I am, but the truth lies in how I react or respond to them. My character is unveiled in my responding which showcases the strength of my spirit, resilience, and capacity for growth. Positive or negative circumstances act as a stage upon which I perform. Just as a diamond is formed under pressure, my responses to life's trials transform me into something beautiful, resilient, and unbreakable. The key lies in recognizing I have the power to influence my life through the way I react or respond when faced with difficult situations. I have a unique set of experiences and challenges that shape my journey. I might face financial struggles, health issues, relationship woes, or career setbacks. It is vital to remember circumstances themselves are external factors beyond my control. So, what I can control is my response, my attitude, my determination, and my willingness to grow. My true character emerges when I face adversity head-on, refusing to be defeated by life's hurdles. I can demonstrate a resolute spirit by embracing challenges with patience, courage, and perseverance. I can turn setbacks into stepping stones and opportunities for self-improvement. Moreover, circumstances also reveal my capacity for empathy and compassion. When I encounter others in distress, my responses display my ability to understand and support them. Empathy opens doors to meaningful connections, fostering community and unity in the face of adversity. It's essential to recognize that I am not perfect. I will react in some moments of weakness, doubt, and vulnerability. However, it is precisely during these times that my true character can shine through. By acknowledging imperfections, I can then respond, learn from my mistakes, and emerge more robust than ever before. It’s not the circumstances I encounter that make me who I am but my reactions or responses to them. Life's trials reveal the core of my character, just like that diamond under pressure, an olive after being squeezed, or a teabag, you won't truly know your strength until you find yourself in hot water. By facing adversity with time, patience, and perseverance, I can overcome my circumstances and build a better me. I use the *Serenity Prayer as a powerful resource when facing my circumstances. Who are you when the circumstances of adversity arise? Watch for the blind spots. *Download printable resource: Serenity Prayer I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindsetiseverything #bayharbourumc #counseling #marriagecoach #buildabetteryou #buildabetterfuture #mentalhealth #relationships #work #communication #experience #love #parenting #bettertogether #Reactor #RESPONDER #REACTORRESPOND #characterdevelopment #wisdom #bebetter

Ralph and Robin are going through the rituals of life like so many other couples. The ability to offer their children great things is truly a blessing. However, the busyness of children and their activities, home chores, and work responsibilities can begin to drive a family’s schedule. Life can silently and unknowingly get out of control when the week is based on the schedules of children’s practices and competitions. It is too easy to add this item or that; without knowing it, we are unknowingly being led to chaos. This usually puts the marital relationship on the back burner, which can be dangerous. Without fostering that relationship, the family can begin to erode. A friend of mine offers their children one sport and one fine arts event per school semester or the summer. I appreciate the idea of providing opportunities yet restricting options to realistic schedules. I also like the idea of “calendar night.” At the end of each week, the couple sits down with the calendar and looks at the next week. The known events get posted on their shared calendar. The children’s activities and any anomalies in the adult schedules get posted. This is not ironclad, but a guide for the week. Here is the opportunity to see how they will handle the children’s activities—whether they need to do it separately or together. It is time for them to schedule their weekly date night, whether going out together or just setting aside time to be alone without the distractions of daily life stressors. After the week has been discussed, it is a great time to look six to eight weeks ahead and begin conversations about future holidays, trips, birthdays, anniversaries, or any other event that will require their participation. This helps focus the family's attention on impending events, keep them on track, and ensuring their priorities are met. Ralph and Robin are working on controlling their calendar rather than having their calendar control them. How are you doing with managing your family schedules? Watch for the blind spots. To help with this principle, I have a weekly calendar template you can download and print: https://www.jerrydclark.com/weeklycalendar If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book today. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #communication #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #relationships #help #relationshiptips #businesscoaching #scheduletoday #schedules #calendar #familycalendar #familytime #family

At one time, I considered myself an expert on almost everything. (Ridiculous, I know.) I believed that my knowledge and understanding was vast and infallible. It was a mindset rooted in arrogance and pride, uninformed of the breadth and depth of human intellect. I recall meeting an intriguing individual who challenged my self-proclaimed wisdom. He gently questioned my knowledge, prompting me to explore the depths of my understanding. Instead of brushing off his inquiries with defensiveness, I decided to embrace a new perspective—one that acknowledged my limitations and nurtured a sense of curiosity. With each interaction, I began to incorporate gently curious questions into my conversations. When someone shared their thoughts or insights, I would respond with gentle curiosity, "What else can you tell me about this?" This simple question unlocked a wealth of information that I had never considered. It led me down uncharted paths of knowledge, revealing ideas I had been blind to before. I discovered that questioning others about their thought patterns, such as, "How long have you been thinking that way?" deepened my understanding of their perspectives. It allowed me to grasp the evolution of their thinking, uncovering the experiences and insights that shaped their worldview. This not only broadened my own knowledge but also fostered empathy and connection with those around me. As my curiosity grew, so did my hunger for understanding. I asked, "Help me understand more of that thinking." This question encouraged others to share their reasoning, allowing me to see the ideas that had molded their thinking. It humbled me to realize that my initial assumptions were often oversimplified or incomplete. One question, in particular, remained close to my heart: "Where do you get all this knowledge?" This question acknowledged that wisdom is not a solitary pursuit but a collective endeavor. I discovered that people drew from many sources—books, experiences, conversations, and even their mistakes. The more I understood this, the more I appreciated the diversity of knowledge and the beauty of lifelong learning. In this journey of embracing humility, I give up my illusion and recognize, I don’t know it all. I embraced the power of gently curious questions, realizing that true wisdom is found in accepting the unknown rather than asserting one's expertise. I discovered that the more I acknowledged my limitations, the more I grew. Today, I continue to ask these gentle questions, eager to explore the vast expanse of knowledge and understanding. By acknowledging my ignorance and engaging with the insights of others, I have become a lifelong learner—a student of life's endless teachings, forever humbled by the vastness of the world and the wisdom of those around me. How about you, would gently curious questions help your knowledge? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #resetyourmind #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #mindset #bayharbourumc #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #relationshipsuccess #bettereveryday #blindspots #counselingworks #leadershipdevelopment #communication #relationshiptips #marriageandfamilytherapy #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #marriagecounseling #wednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdayvibes #communicationiskey #communicationmatters #KnowItAll #iknow #knowledgeispower

Early in my life, I could be accused of being "a know it all." What a ludicrous and prideful experience to exhibit so that others would come to that conclusion. Indeed, I have areas of expertise, but now I realize how much I am limiting myself by not being open to learning new things. Looking back, I clearly see how my thoughts of being very knowledgeable have clouded my judgement. It is easy to form opinions based on available information. However, by acknowledging I am not "a know it all," I can open myself up to the possibility of new insights and deeper understanding. If I believe I have all the answers, I am susceptible to confirmation bias—the tendency to interpret information in a way that supports my preconceived notions. This can prevent me from considering alternative viewpoints or exploring fresh perspectives. I allow myself to be open to different viewpoints, which promotes growth and leads to better decision-making. Embracing uncertainty can be a powerful catalyst for personal and intellectual growth. It allows me to question my assumptions, challenge established norms, and seek more profound insights. When I recognize the limitations of my knowledge, I become more open-minded, curious, and receptive. When I acknowledge that I don't have all the answers, I invite collaboration and collective wisdom. Engaging in dialogue and seeking out diverse perspectives enables me to broaden my understanding and discover new possibilities. True clarity emerges when I am willing to explore different angles and remain receptive to evolving ideas. Recognizing the limits of my knowledge foster humility—an essential virtue for personal growth and harmonious relationships. When I accept that there is always more to learn, I approach conversations and challenges with an open mind, respecting the perspectives of others. Humility paves the way for genuine connections and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Although at one time, it was reassuring to believe that I know everything, it is crucial to recognize the power of uncertainty and allow it to lead me to a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of life. I will have more interesting conversations and explore learning opportunities that may have previously been off-limits by being humble, remaining teachable, and asking gently curious questions. (I will give some examples of this in my next post.) Today I recognize, “the more I know, the more I realize what I don't know.” How about you? Could too much knowledge be a limiting factor in building a better you? Watch for the blind spots. If you know someone that could benefit from discovering blind spots, like, share or comment on this post. I appreciate your feedback and getting the message out. If you want to find out more about discovering your blind spots get your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindsetiseverything #bayharbourumc #counseling #marriagecoach #buildabetteryou #buildabetterfuture #mentalhealth #relationships #work #communication #experience #love #parenting #bettertogether #communicationiskey #communicationmatters #KnowItAll #iknow #knowledgeispower