"The man who asks a question is a fool for a minute, the man who does not ask is a fool for life."
- Confucius
When I first encountered this quote many years ago, it resonated with me deeply. It's intriguing how, as human beings, we often hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance.
Living in a new country, I am surrounded by the beauty of the tropics, with access to an array of tropical fruits and vegetables. It's both gorgeous and intimidating. Recently, I purchased a beautiful avocado. In Colombia, we have various types, and my favorite is the Criollo or common creole avocado. Soft as butter, with some salt and lemon, it's the closest to perfection your meal can be.
Unfortunately, I made the mistake of assuming the avocado was ripe because it felt soft when gently pressed in the middle. Upon cutting it open, I realized it was still hard inside and inedible. Feeling bad about the waste, I decided to seek guidance. Late one evening at the grocery store, I approached a knowledgeable man stocking vegetables. Why not learn from his expertise? I asked him to share his wisdom on determining when an avocado is ripe. He explained that it's not the softness in the middle but at the ends. Gently squeeze each end, and if they are soft, the avocado is ripe. He even helped me choose one ready in two days and another a few days later. Amazing.
Reflecting on this encounter, I couldn't help but think about how often we hesitate to ask for direction at work or seek support when needed. The gentleman at the grocery store enjoyed teaching me and even helped me select other vegetables, sharing insights on the best tomatoes for my huevos rancheros.
We often worry about looking foolish, only to remain foolish if we don't seek answers. While Google can provide responses, asking someone for their wisdom and experience can be more rewarding. The act of asking for help not only saves time in correcting mistakes but also makes the other person feel needed and appreciated.
In an age where many fear being replaced by AI, seeking guidance from knowledgeable colleagues becomes a valuable gift. It fosters camaraderie, builds relationships, and triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, creating a sense of euphoria for both parties.
Remember my experience at the grocery store the next time you hesitate to ask for help. If I can ask a grocer about the ripeness of an avocado without embarrassment, surely you can seek support when needed!
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