Once in a while, it’s very healthy to step into a room where you’re definitely not (!) the smartest person.
Especially when your day job -or your parenting life – involves guiding others, providing answers, and occasionally being seen as a bit of a know-it-all, it’s crucial to be reminded of what it feels like not to know.
To be the beginner.
The slightly awkward and uncertain one.
The learner.
Why Putting Yourself in the “Beginner’s Seat” Matters
It’s humbling.
It can be nerve-wracking.
Often a bit uncomfortable.
It requires effort and intention.
A deep breath. Or five.
(And, in my case, a fair bit of coffee.)
But as the slightly older, and hopefully a bit wiser (if slower-learning), version of myself has come to realize: it’s also incredibly inspiring. It wakes you up. It stirs new energy. And if you stick with it, it can even become fun.
Learning Alongside Brilliant Minds
I recently had the privilege of attending my first academic tutorial in nearly two decades.
There I was, surrounded by brilliant minds: medical doctors, psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists… People whose expertise comes from years of training and practice in different domains than mine.
Let’s just say I took a lot of notes.
And as the tutorial went on, I realized I’d need to put in real effort to keep up, not just mentally, but energetically. My learning muscles were a bit rusty, and the energy reserves? Well, let’s just say they were being tested 😹🙄.
But here’s the beautiful part: despite the discomfort, I left the room feeling alive. Curious. Motivated. A little shaken, in the best way. Because when you let yourself be the learner again, you open the door to fresh perspectives, deeper empathy, and the kind of growth that’s hard to come by when you’re always in “expert” mode.
Why Surrounding Yourself with Brilliance is a Gift
Stephen R. Covey once said:
“Always surround yourself with people who are even more talented and competent than you.”
— Stephen R. Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (source)
I couldn’t agree more.
It’s not about comparison. It’s about learning, stretching, and recognizing that your own development often accelerates when you’re not the one leading the room—but listening in it.
Embracing the Shift: From Expert to Explorer
So here’s to midlife reinvention and growth.
To humility as a teacher.
To letting go of certainty and welcoming the unknown.
I’m excited about this next chapter of learning and curious to hear from others on similar journeys.
What’s your experience of shifting from “knower” to learner in your current season of life?
Have you recently stepped into unfamiliar territory?
How did it feel?
Drop your thoughts in the comments – I’d love to hear your story.
