When I was a child, I once hid a chick, thinking I was helping it grow into a hen. My ignorance blinded me to its needs, and in my childish expectations, I didn’t realize that the chick required food and care to thrive. Days later, I returned to find the chick dead. That moment taught me a profound lesson: ignorance destroys not just the individual but also their environment.
As leaders, we often have the knowledge to start a task or take on a responsibility. However, knowledge alone is not enough. True leadership requires understanding—knowing how to nurture and sustain what we initiate. Without understanding, even the best intentions can lead to failure, much like my childhood desire to help the chick ultimately caused its demise.
Leadership is about more than just action; it is about thoughtful action. By growing in understanding, we can ensure our decisions and efforts bring growth and not destruction. As the saying goes, “By knowledge, a house is built, but by understanding, it is sustained.”
This story serves as a reminder to leaders: Equip yourself not only with knowledge but also with the wisdom to apply it effectively. Ignorance limits potential, but knowledge paired with understanding elevates and sustains success.
What lessons have shaped your understanding of leadership? Share your thoughts below!
About Mide Gabriel:
Mide Gabriel, popularly known as Mide Talk, is a skilled public speaker, relationship coach, software engineer, and writer. Passionate about inspiring growth and fostering connections, he delivers impactful talks, empowers relationships, creates innovative software solutions, and crafts transformative content, all aimed at driving personal and professional success.