There are two simple words that can quietly sabotage your growth, limit your success, and damage your relationships. At first, they seem harmless or even confident. But their impact is significant.
The words are “I know.”
When we say “I know,” whether out loud or in our own minds, we shut down the opportunity to learn. We block ourselves from growth. Even worse, we often send an unspoken message to others that their perspective does not matter. These words quietly erode leadership, communication, and connection.
Why “I Know” Is a Problem
When we rely on these words, two things happen. First, we stop listening. Second, we stop learning. This simple phrase becomes a barrier to growth. It also communicates that we are not open to hearing others, which can harm collaboration and respect.
Let’s consider the big picture. Imagine a large circle representing all the knowledge in the world. Everything that could possibly be known is within that circle. Now imagine how much of that knowledge you personally possess. It would be a tiny sliver.
Even smaller is the portion you know you do not know. For example, you may know that you do not understand open heart surgery or quantum mechanics. But the rest of that giant circle represents something far more dangerous. It represents what you do not know that you do not know. These are the blind spots. And blind spots are what cost leaders the most.
The Power of Blind Spots
Consider communication styles in the workplace. If you are unaware of your own behavior patterns or those of your team, you may be miscommunicating without realizing it. Others may seem disengaged or unmotivated, but the truth is they are simply not receiving your message clearly.
Only about twenty percent of people are auditory learners. That means just two out of ten people process verbal instructions accurately. If you are giving directions without asking for confirmation or follow-up, you are likely creating confusion and inefficiency without even knowing it. That is the danger of blind spots.
What Can You Do About It
You need a guide. Someone who sees what you cannot. Someone who helps you recognize what is holding you back. Because you cannot fix what you are not aware of.
Instead of defaulting to “I know,” choose to stay open. Practice curiosity. The next time you are in a conversation and you feel the urge to dismiss or assume, try saying “That’s interesting.” It keeps the door open. It creates space for dialogue and growth.
Final Thoughts
Great leaders remain curious. They approach conversations and situations with humility and an eagerness to learn. They seek out their blind spots and invite trusted guides to help them see what they cannot.
Drop “I know.”
Choose to stay open.
Lean into the unknown.
That is how real growth happens.
COACH MICHAEL DILL is an Award-Winning Certified Business Coach, global speaker, and published author. He is a proud ActionCOACH Franchise Partner as well as the President of Power & Ice Wealth Creation—a strategic leadership company that works with business owners, leaders, teams, and entrepreneurs to both develop a systematized and structured organization while accelerating their mindset, efficiencies, and effectiveness to grow both personally and professionally to achieve extraordinary results. He brings more than 40 years of business and entrepreneurial experience in his leadership, team training, and mentoring practice.