avatarWesley van Peer

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of embracing not knowing something and using it as an opportunity for growth, connection, and authenticity on the platform.

Abstract

The author reflects on the societal trend of individuals positioning themselves as all-knowing self-help gurus, often with the aid of AI. The article argues that it is perfectly acceptable to admit to not knowing something and that this vulnerability can lead to meaningful interactions and learning experiences. It suggests that the desire to be an expert may stem from insecurity and a need for validation, which should be acknowledged and embraced rather than hidden. The author encourages writers to engage with their audience openly, asking questions and inviting dialogue, rather than pretending to have all the answers. The piece also touches on the inappropriateness of using the platform solely for financial gain through AI-generated content, advocating for genuine value and authenticity. The author asserts that true growth and connection come from showing one's true self, including fears and uncertainties, and that this approach is more likely to attract loyal readers and foster valuable relationships within the community.

Opinions

  • It's important to acknowledge and embrace insecurities and the feeling of not knowing, as they are part of the human experience and can lead to personal growth.
  • Writing with an open and questioning approach, rather than presenting oneself as an all-knowing authority, can lead to enriching dialogues and insights.
  • Using the platform solely for making money or as a side hustle without providing real value is discouraged, and such users may be called out

It’s Totally Okay Not to Know Something

Did you know that?

Photo by Evan Dennis on Unsplash

Very recently I came across an article by fellow writer Hopkins in which he talks about how many people today have turned into all-knowing self-help gurus thanks to AI. But hey, newsflash:

It’s okay not to know something.

And I think that the fact that you don’t know something allows you to build wonderful connections here on this platform. Why? Because you can simply make it a topic of discussion. Because you can ask questions and receive feedback from others. Isn’t that simply very human?

I don’t like thinking in labels or categories, but I’m going to do that now anyway. If you fall under the category “AI writing self-help guru”, please do not feel attacked by what I say now, but try to ask yourself something:

What is the real reason that you want to be that type of guru?

Is It an Ego Problem?

What immediately comes to mind is an ego problem. Perhaps you are insecure and seek validation in this way. But did you know that it’s okay to be insecure about something? We’re human after all, damn it. That feeling is just part of our experience.

I think it’s better to embrace that feeling of insecurity so you can learn from it. You grow from doing things outside your comfort zone. Show that you are human. Not just for your audience, but for yourself.

I think it will be very different if you write your article in a questioning and open manner. For example, you can make it clear in your article that you think about something in a certain way, formulate the title as a question, and also ask questions in your article itself.

You then enter into dialogue with your reader and other writers, and who knows what life-changing insights you will gain.

Is This ‘Just’ a Side Hustle for You?

If so, I’m not sure this is the right place for you. Hey, do you see that? I’m unsure about something. How human of me.

Yes, we can make money with our babble. We can even help others and completely change someone’s life. But if you’re here to make a few bucks, I’m convinced you’re wasting your time.

Another fellow writer, James Bellerjeau, recently shared an article with me about how this beautiful platform looks at and treats 100% AI-generated content. Bro, you’re not going to make it.

Also, beware of the AI police. I’m no part of that, but writers (and probably readers as well) here are actively arresting ‘offenders’. Calling ’em out, blocking, and muting too. You simply lose wonderful and loyal readers. I really get the AI police too. Who knows; perhaps someday I’ll join the force.

If you want to make money and treat this as your side hustle, deliver real value. Enough people here are not retarded and use their common sense to detect BS. And hey, did you know that people often don’t follow you because of ‘just’ what you write?

They follow you for who you are, and you cannot show that with 100% AI-generated content.

Not Knowing Is Learning

Why would you be afraid to learn? Or perhaps better said — to show someone else that you want to learn? Are we coming back to your ego again, encouraging you to experience fear?

Mate, it will only be appreciated if you dare to show this. You are the only one limiting yourself. It’s a strange mental game you play with yourself.

You’re allowed to be afraid.

You really don’t show any balls when you pretend to be a mister or miss know-it-all. Show your balls as they are. No need to be ashamed. Instead of being ashamed of what you think you don’t know, perhaps it’s time to embrace valuable connections who you can interact with in order to grow.

And my friend, R C Hammond, thanks for the nudge. You know what I’m talking about.

The message I want to convey is to not be afraid to be you. It’s okay not to know something. This platform is not just for writing. It is a way to learn, grow, and connect with others. After all, it is a community of both readers and writers. And John Pearce inspired me to place this bad boy:

A human, not an AI text generator, wrote this story. (More Info)
Self Improvement
Psychology
Writing
Technology
Personal Development
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