Don't Share Everything You Know
Use Understand or Transform Instead.
I used to think I needed to be an expert before I could share anything. This wasn't true and it held me back.
I’ve learned that I only need one of two things. Either I’ve had transformation, or I’ve gained understanding.
Transformation is the goal. Understanding is the standard.
Understanding comes through study. Transformation is even more powerful.
When I share from transformation, I don’t need notes. I can connect it to countless ideas. I can apply it in real time. I don’t have to rehearse it because it’s already inside of me.
But sometimes I haven’t had the full transformation yet. I’m still working it out. In those moments, I rely on my standard for understanding.
I know I understand something when I can do four things (DEMP):
Describe it using a technical definition.
Explain how it works.
Share a Metaphor.
Tell a Personal story about it.
I uncovered these four things during a coaching session a few years ago. Before I share, I ask: Do I have transformation, or do I at least have understanding?
This helped me but it’s still not easy. My biggest wrestle is with the personal story.
But what I do know now is that I don’t need to be perfect before I can serve.
I just need one of those two.
What about you? Do you share when you have heard something good?
Do you wait for transformation, or do you share once you’ve crossed the line into understanding?