i don't think i'm smart👨🏽🍳
the willingness to look foolish is probably the most overlooked skill of mankind.
I find that in most interactions with people, I tend to stay quiet & listen. Especially when I identify someone passionate and energetic about a topic. I’ll ask them questions to help them land on their peak zone of genius.
I’m more confident in being an idiot. I’m always blessed to have friends around me who are smart. A prerequisite for connection with people is: How many questions can I ask this person?
I have friends who know about games, business, tech, startups, sports, politics, and history.
They’re smart, in my opinion.
Unlike me, who’s interested in talking about writing and matters of the heart that almost no one in my space understands.
Some folks will tell me what the streets in Germany looked like in the days of Hitler. I can tell you for free that I was present while World War 2 happened. I came back unhurt, as you can imagine. But having such experiences that take me to places and events where my passport could never, make me feel like I’m cheating life.
Seeing that fire light up in people’s eyes when I ask them a question gives me unspeakable joy.
I’m proud to say I’m an idiot!
Whenever I choose to remove the mask of feeling smart, I wear a new one. The mask of a curious cat, holding space and enjoying asking questions. Through all my work as a writer, I’m always asking questions, questioning asks, and questioning things.
I think;
Questions hold up a mirror for people. And the more we look in the mirror, the more we redefine the man in the mirror.
For as long as I have breath, I’ll keep asking!
On the side:
Something I’ve found joy in doing recently is prepping this Jollof-Write on paper before transferring them to the screen. I wrote so much on paper this past week than I’ve ever written in the last 7 years. The JOYYYY!!!
if i ever stop writing on paper, hold responsible for this cyberbullying:
I can attest to the fact that you are THE QUESTION guy💯
Keep asking my brother.
Just by the way if you've ever asked in your mind or you're going to ask me someday, here's my answer:
Yes, Ghana jollof is better than Nigeria jollof.😊
This is like a mantra for me, Tobi. And I think you have said it beautifully.
Be interested not interesting. And as great as this is a valuable interpersonal skill, it is key for any thriving leadership.