How to Overcome the "I Don’t Know" Moments

Have you ever found yourself in those ‘I don’t know’ moments? I sure have, and I’ve experienced all the awkwardness the words created. Not once, but more. The first time, was when I was in school, and the second time, I was in a business meeting. There was more such a moment, but those two are what I can remember clearly since the awkwardness is superb!

I won’t go on telling the true story of my moments, but I can give you a fictional one.

Picture this: You’re in a business meeting, and the conversation is buzzing with a whole lot of ideas and opinions. Some are even so fascinating, with the innovation of smart gadgets and robotic development! Then, in the middle of the joyful experience, someone suddenly turns to you and asks, “What do you think? What if we integrate AI into cars?”

And in shock, you replied, “I don’t know.”

All of a sudden, the room fell silent. Surprise was written all over everyone’s faces. It was so awkward as if you had committed a cultural taboo, simply because you’re admitting you don’t know the answer to the question the guy asked. By answering “I don’t know”, you’re just like confessing to a cardinal sin.

What could be the reason?

Maybe you can relate this to your school days when the teacher called your name, and you had to stand up, innocently replying ” I don’t know”. It was an honest response since you really didn’t know the answer. However, in one second, the entire class’s eyes fixed on you, their curious gazes stripping away your confidence. That moment signified us to not ever say those three words again. Never in school, not in a work, and not in any business environment, including a casual one. Simply put, not in any circumstances.

“I don’t know” tends to indicate a negative connotation. It carries labels of irresponsibility, laziness, and a hint of intellectual inadequacy. It’s like a strike to our egos.

How to handle the “I don’t know” moments?

But come to think of it, it actually doesn’t have to be this way. I have learned, that it’s perfectly okay to say “I don’t know”. Besides, what really matters is what comes after those three little words.

When you’re being asked about anything, and you don’t have the answer, try replying with, “I don’t know”, followed by some words, like these:

“I don’t know, but I’m curious to find out!”
“I don’t know, tell me about it.”
“I don’t know, but what are your thoughts on this topic?”

I’m no longer in school, and so are you. Our classmates don’t hold power over us anymore. Not just that, I’ve grown to realize that admitting “I don’t know” can actually be empowering.

It could work as an invitation for knowledge sharing and collaboration. When you embrace your ‘I don’t know’ moments, you actually open the door to new insights, fresh perspectives, and a wealth of learning opportunities.

So, don’t be afraid to say those magic words: “I don’t know.” Embrace them, and watch as they become your allies on your journey of continuous growth and self-improvement.

What do you think?