The Difference Between Knowledge And Wisdom

As times evolve, so too must we update our mental models. For many years of human history acquiring knowledge has been an incredibly valuable pursuit. Those who could read had access to information that developed a more robust perspective and understanding for how things work. That knowledge could then be applied to create, innovate, and advance in society.

But knowledge is no longer the moat to prospering. With the internet and AI, just about anyone can access the information they need to succeed. New ideas, best practices, step-by-step processes, and so much else is available at our fingertips. In fact there’s so much information that it’s hard to know what’s most helpful and even what’s true.

Given the unique time we’re in, I want to outline the difference between knowledge and wisdom. Knowledge is what you know or have learned, wisdom is what you’ve learned through experience. Wisdom carries a much more prestigious connotation and rightfully so - it is earned and validated through your own stories, trials, and errors.

Knowledge is theory and wisdom is practice.

I think a lot about this distinction because it’s the problem I’ve dedicated my life to: Why do people know what they need to do but they still don’t do it? Helping people follow through on their best ideas and intentions, to change their life and change the world, is my personal mission. Bob Proctor called this the “Knowing Doing Gap”. I’m obsessed with understanding all the factors that play a part in translating intention into action, and filling that gap.

Who are you more likely to take advice from… The person that read the book or the person that wrote the book? 

Who do you think has a better understanding for how things work… The person that heard someone talk about it or the person who lived through it? 

Knowing used to be enough to stand out from the crowd but that’s no longer the case any more. If you want to be successful, impactful, and contribute something truly meaningful to the world, knowledge isn’t enough. You need to go out and do it.

If there’s something you know you should be doing but you can’t bring yourself to doing it - Whether it’s because you’re scared to fail or look stupid, you don’t feel ready, you’re not motivated, or you’re telling yourself you’re too busy… Check out this video that explains what’s holding you back and what to do about it.

If not now, then when? And if not you, then who? We’re counting on you to be at your very best. And I’m proud of you for being on the path.

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