"I'm smart enough to be dumb." - John Brady
If you know my dad, you might snicker because it sounds like my dad. But if you know me, you know that I find that idea profound.
There's a Japanese concept called sho shin - the beginner's mind. It means to adopt the posture of a beginner, novice, or child. Put yourself into a state of intense curiosity - play dumb and ask fundamental questions. Steve Jobs, along with other tech execs, got real into it during the dot com boom. I am into it.
All beginners are curious. How does this game work? How do I play this song?* How do things get done around here? The beginner drives their curiosity towards first principles. From that position, the beginner can build their understanding on a strong foundation.
People who practice sho shin ask smart questions, hold off on forming opinions too early, and become valuable contributors.
"I am repelled by people dumb enough to act smart." - Me.
I am my father's child.