Don't Know What You Don't Know

Gaps In Knowledge

As AI evolves programmers are busy teaching computers to come up with better questions as humans aren’t as good as we think at identifying the gaps in our knowledge and tend to ask myopic questions. While there will always be gaps in our knowledge, experience and intentional study brings understanding. Successful entrepreneurs push themselves to learn more about the issues that directly affect them, even if it is just the barebones basics.

So the next time you find yourself saying “I Don’t Know”, you can use this template below to determine if it is something you should learn and then make a plan for learning.

Stage 1: Unconscious Incompetence. This is the starting point where you don’t know what you don’t know. You’re unaware of your incompetence. Many practice owners, like the ones who still do their own bookkeeping, are at this stage without realizing it. This is the toughest stage as you are not aware of this particular knowledge gap. Be aware of the areas of your practice that feel like a struggle. Anything coming to mind?

Stage 2: Conscious Incompetence. With some experience (likely negative), you become aware of what you don’t know. You recognize the areas where you lack knowledge or skills. For instance, realizing that reconciling your own bank accounts isn’t the best use of your time. What area of your practice have you just realized you need to learn more about?

Stage 3: Conscious Competence. At this stage, you know what you need to do and can do it, but it requires effort and focus. You’re aware of effective practices and work to gather an appropriate understanding. It is about setting a goal for the level of competence you desire and working towards that goal. A practice owner may decided that you want a full understanding of accounting and tax law so they take online classes on tax and accounting OR they decide that they just want to understand the basics so they engage with a qualified advisor to take over the accounting function of their practice and work with them to make the best financial decisions. What decision are you making about gap in your knowledge that you just identified?

Stage 4: Unconscious Competence. Finally, after consistent practice, you reach a point where the right actions become automatic. You operate on autopilot, effortlessly doing what needs to be done. This is the pinnacle of learning where good habits are ingrained. As a dentist, you will likely never get to this spot with your accounting knowledge but you should aim to feel this way ever time you step in a treatment room. Is there an area in your skill set as a dentist that you feel uncomfortable with and what do you need to do to get to unconscious competence?

Reflecting on these stages helps you identify where you are and what you need to progress. Focusing on important but not urgent activities, will transform your life. Developing good habits in both your personal and professional life is crucial. What are three learning objective your have today?

Remember, it all starts with recognizing that you don’t know what you don’t know. Embrace the learning journey and strive to reach unconscious competence.