How to know what you know

The art of knowing yourself through mirrors

I’m in a business meeting. One of the attendees is talking a lot. He does not have the awareness to realise that most of what he is saying is directed to himself. In other words, he is talking to find out what he thinks about the subject and what he knows. For him, he’s reveling in the experience of hearing his own words and self-stimulation. For me, and perhaps the rest of us, it’s an ugly form of entertainment, observing a man stumble through his own complexity.

I’m in another meeting. This time I am talking a lot. However, I am aware that I am saying things I have not heard myself thinking before. Also, I am aware that there is something about the presence and character of the person listening to me that is enabling me to say what I am saying. I tell him this. I tell him I am aware I am talking a lot, but would it be Ok if I continue, as I am finding it helpful.

In reviewing both situations, I found myself thinking about how I know what I know. I wondered whether I need the presence of another, a mirror, to be able to see myself, to know myself. Perhaps in observing my thoughts transferred through words in the presence of a good listener, I am knowing myself better? Perhaps the presence of the listener is an important element? Perhaps his or her level of awareness, too? And finally, perhaps it’s better to be asking questions rather than coming to conclusions too early?

To once again reformulate what I have said, it’s about finding the right people who can act as mirrors to help you understand yourself and your situation. The cleaner the mirror, the clearer you become.

And that is all I’ll say…for now ;)