Why you should always look for one valuable quote.
I have a real thirst for knowledge. If you can picture a guy crawling across the desert, in torn clothing, deliriously muttering ‘ Agua’, that’s how thirsty I am for knowledge. But I find that drinking it is a bit like drinking water from the ocean. The more you take in, the more you want. Which means you will never be satisfied. Remember not to drink ocean water for realzies. It will dehydrate and kill you (but at least you get to spend your last days at the ocean).
I’m Learning To Fly
I have always liked learning. But in my adulthood I have realized that the more I know the better I am at my various roles and responsibilities. That’s why I am trying to learn how to be a better husband, parent and friend.
Professional Grade
On my professional journey I have learned how to be a better employee, manager, and leader. But today, as an entrepreneur, there is no end to the knowledge that could benefit me, my business, my team and our clients.
What’s In the Fridge, Perry?
To try to quench my thirst I seek knowledge from many different sources. The list includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Books
- Magazines
- Podcast
- Blogs
- Speeches
- Graffiti
- Sermons (Which are like speeches, but from a person wearing a robe.)
- Documentaries
- Chocolate Milk Meetings (because I don’t drink coffee)
- Informational interviews
- Meetups
- Newsletters
- Webinars
- Coaches
- Headstones
Simplify. Simplify Yourself.
I have learned that my little brain can’t absorb everything I read, see or hear. That’s why I have learned to simplify how I digest all that I devour.
As I read books, listen to podcasts or talk to other humans, I am like a prospector panning for gold nuggets. I don’t need all the gravel. I don’t need the flotsam and jetsam. And I don’t need the pyrite (look at me still remembering terms from my 7th Grade Vermont Resources field trip Mrs. Thompson!)
What I want, what I really really want.
I am simply looking for one great quote. That’s it. I want one great, simple summation of a valuable idea to add to my collection. I want one great mantra. One clear rule. One core philosophy. One great lesson. If I find it then the energy and time I invested in the stimuli were valuable.
Ohhh, Then What? Whatcha Gonna Do?
I add that simple quote to the jukebox* in my brain. I listen to it every time I am in a relevant situation. I play it for those around me when they could use a great quote to encourage or guide them. And I share it in my blog to make it even easier for others to find. *A ginormous iPod.
Key Takeaway
When you thirst for knowledge you don’t have to swallow everything you find. The greatest value comes from the small, nutrient-dense sips. Read and listen for the simple quotes that are dense with value. Right them down or record them on your phone. Revisit them often. Share them with others. Because in those simple quotes lie the directions that enable us to profit the most from a life well lived.
**If you know someone who could benefit from this message, please share it with them.
Originally published at http://theperfectagencyproject.com on September 22, 2019.