The need to be right can arise from a fear of being disrespected. Or it may come out of the fear of being seen as we really are: as flawed human beings who are perfectly imperfect and full of contradictions and confusions.
Julian TreasureRead
We all like to look good. However, this basic human desire can often get in the way of our listening and our speaking. This tendency often evinces itself in two simple words: 'I know.' But if I know everything, what can I learn? Absolutely nothing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The desire to appear knowledgeable can obstruct our ability to listen and learn.
Julian Treasure's quote highlights the conflict between our innate desire to be perceived as knowledgeable and the essential process of listening and learning from others. The phrase 'I know' serves as a barrier to true understanding, suggesting that an attitude of certainty can prevent personal growth and the acquisition of new knowledge. By recognizing this tendency, we can cultivate a more open mindset that encourages active listening and curiosity.
Themes
ListeningLearningKnowledgeHumilityGrowth
In practice
Example use cases
In a team meeting, I might say, 'As Julian Treasure reminds us, saying 'I know' can hinder our ability to learn from each other.'
More from Julian Treasure
All quotes →You can't truly listen to someone and do anything else at the same time.
Julian TreasureRead
The human voice: It's the instrument we all play. It's the most powerful sound in the world, probably. It's the only one that can start a war or say 'I love you.' And yet many people have the experience that when they speak, people don't listen to them.
Julian TreasureRead
Intention is very important in sound, in listening. When I married my wife, I promised her I would listen to her every day as if for the first time. Now that's something I fall short of on a daily basis.
Julian TreasureRead
Just three minutes a day of silence is a wonderful exercise to reset your ears and to recalibrate so that you can hear the quiet again. If you can't get absolute silence, go for quiet; that's absolutely fine.
Julian TreasureRead
People find birdsong relaxing and reassuring because over thousands of years, they have learnt when the birds sing, they are safe; it's when birds stop singing that people need to worry.
Julian TreasureRead
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