What's Worse Than Ignorance?

Inaction destroys far more lives than ignorance. Sure, there are plenty of things you do not know. There are myriad useful information that I am not aware of or do not have access to as well. However, there is also an abundance of valuable knowledge we both have that we simply do not employ and leverage to improve our lives.

It is easy to blame ignorance. “I just did not know any better,” we explain to others when things go wrong. We also try to sell ourselves that little line. And sometimes it is true. And maybe even most of the time it is narrowly correct. But it misses the bigger issue: How much of the knowledge that we do have do we reliably act on?

No, you may not understand how to compare mutual funds or real estate investments, but you do know you need to save for the future. Are you consistently paying your future self?

No, you may not know whether kale or broccoli is better for your health and longevity, but either is a much better choice than the McDonald’s breakfast or the donut you just started your day with.

No, you may not be a sleep scientist and be able to grasp all the nuances of a restful night’s sleep, but you can probably guess that binge-watching Netflix until 1am is not the best choice to kick off tomorrow’s day.

No, you may not be able to decipher between all the parenting advice that is out there these days, but are you intentionally investing in your kids and pouring your energy into them? How about your spouse? The other important relationships in your life?

There is a lot we do not know. But there is a great deal we do know that we just do not do anything about. Yes, ignorance is an issue, but inaction is a far more destructive culprit in our lives.

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