Knowing Versus Doing

‘Rinku studies only for marks bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘I feel bookish knowledge is only to please others. What’s useful is practical knowledge. ‘

‘Good marks clearly indicate better understanding,’ argued Rinku. ‘How can you practice anything without any knowledge? This talk of practical knowledge versus bookish knowledge is an excuse to not work hard bhaiyya.’

‘What’s the use of topping if one can’t cross the road or deal with vegetable vendors?’ poked Rahul.

‘Thinking about our actions and consequences is scientific dude,’ said Rinku. ‘And crossing roads and buying vegetables won’t change the world.’

‘Whoa,’ said Rakesh. ‘Interesting, age-old debate.’

‘Bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘Who’s right?’

‘Partial truth in both arguments,’ said Rakesh. ‘Full truth is - you need both. And you’re both using your arguments to limit yourselves - by 50%.’

‘How bhaiyya?’ asked Rinku.

‘Those who justify lack of practical application of their knowledge argue that topping class is proof of their expertise,’ said Rakesh. ‘They memorise without understanding, score high marks in exams ; but are clueless when it comes to basic application. As we’re aware, there’s a sea of a difference between ‘knowing’ and ‘doing’. It’s only by ‘doing’, do you realise how much you ‘know’. True knowledge should empower, make you fearless. Not hold you back from action.’

‘He he,’ smirked Rahul. Rinku made a face.

‘On the other hand, Rahul,’ said Rakesh with a smile. ‘Champions of practical knowledge use their argument to stop acquiring and growing their knowledge. They’re happy changing light bulbs or car tyres without knowing the principles behind them. So we have gold medalists in mechanical engineering who cannot change a car tyre and mechanics who can repair the car but don’t know the science behind it.’

‘So what’re you saying bhaiyya?’ asked Rinku.

‘Make learning your only goal,’ said Rakesh. ‘Acquire knowledge and apply it on a daily basis. That’s when knowledge transforms into a marketable skill. Skill, my friends, is knowledge in action. Our daily life’s full of such applications and when you match knowledge to application, magic happens.’

‘What magic bhaiyya?’ asked Rahul.

‘You top the class, can solve complex problems and can demonstrate the practice too,’ said Rakesh. ‘You’re on your way to master the subject. That’s when you not only get million dollar ideas, but also act on them.’

‘Wow,’ said Rinku. ‘So what should we do bhaiyya?’

‘Instead of choosing between what’s comfortable to you – ‘thinking’ or ‘action’ – choose both,’ said Rakesh. ‘Transform knowledge into skills at every opportunity and acquire and grow people skills, technical skills, leadership skills and other skills. Use your knowledge to make the world a better, more efficient place. Your knowledge should always be in action. So, act, right now. You may fail, but you’ll learn.’

‘Thanks bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘I’m now going to act on finding the most efficient way to make chai.’

Pro Tip: True knowledge includes ‘knowing’ and ‘applying’ the knowledge in your life. When you apply what you know, you gain valuable skills.

 

Exercise: Pick something that is ‘known’ to you from your subject. See how many ‘apply’ it. Share the difference between ‘knowing’ and ‘applying’ and figure what’s the best way to learn.