Learning by talking to people

Feeling fear about the future with a lot of curiosity in mind is a really stressful situation, but also an amazing thing that we should always embrace. We're going to try a lot, taking many actions—no matter good or bad—and pushing ourselves out there to grow in unimaginable ways. There are so many paths we can take to answer our own curiosity, and I'm finding that talking to people might be the most human and effective one.

But it’s not about becoming the most intelligent person on the planet by discussing everything with everyone. That's not curiosity; it's a lack of direction. I'm learning that true growth comes from knowing what you want to understand, doing what's necessary to learn it, and engaging with people who have walked the path before you.

There's a certain magic in hearing someone's story directly. You have to do so many things at one; you listen, think, ask questions and present your true thoughts. It makes us think about real-world context, focus on the thing that we want to know that is more memorable than anything a textbook could teach.

Interestingly, when we talk with people, sometimes the value is coming from the process of looking inward and ask questions to our own self. It’s like a mirror, seeking answers from others would also means understanding how we think about it and how deep we understand a problem. It brings a fuzzy goal into a sharp focus.

When I do get the chance to speak with someone, I try to remember it's a gift of their time. The best way to honor that gift is not by trying to impress them, but by being genuinely present. Leading with curiosity, listening more than I speak, and focusing on their story makes the exchange feel less like an interview and more like a connection. It's about being a student of their experience, not a collector of their contacts. Starting with a learning attitude opens so many door for us to enter in.

Ultimately, these conversations are more than just a way to learn; they are a way to grow. Each one is a small step away from fear and a step toward clarity. It's a reminder that we don't have to have all the answers ourselves—we just have to be curious and brave enough to ask.