When it comes to getting rich, some people talk about two kinds of knowledge: general knowledge and specialized expertise. General knowledge is like the basics, and specialized knowledge is when you really know a lot about one thing. To get rich, it’s the specialized knowledge that matters most. Let me explain with an example: Have you ever wondered why some professors at universities don’t make as much money as super-rich people? It’s because just knowing a little about a lot of things (general knowledge) doesn’t make you rich. Being really good at something specific and using that skill to make money (specialized knowledge) is what works.
Here’s a story about Henry Ford that shows this idea. In a court case, Ford was accused of not knowing a lot of general stuff. He was asked a lot of questions trying to prove he didn’t know much about many things. But Ford had a great response. He asked, “Why should I fill my head with general knowledge when I have smart people around me who can give me the information I need?” This made a lot of sense, and even the lawyer asking the questions was amazed.
The important thing to remember is that you don’t have to be an expert in everything, but you should have smart people around you who are experts in what you need. For example, Andrew Carnegie didn’t know everything about his business, but he had a group of smart people (his Mastermind Group) who did. Henry Ford, who didn’t finish much school, became really rich by using the knowledge of the people he had around him.
So, how do you determine the specific expertise you need to reach your goals? Here are some reliable sources of knowledge to consider:
1. Personal Experience and Education: Your own experiences and self-education are invaluable sources of knowledge.
2. Collaborative Learning: Collaborating with others can provide you with insights and expertise you might lack.
3. Higher Education: Traditional institutions like colleges and universities offer structured knowledge and expertise.
4. Public Libraries: Don’t underestimate the wealth of information available in public libraries.
5. Specialized Learning Opportunities: Consider investing in courses or workshops that provide specialized knowledge. Sometimes, spending money on education can be a powerful motivator to learn effectively.
6. Online Resources: Utilize online platforms such as podcasts and YouTube for a wide range of educational content.
It’s worth emphasizing that investing in knowledge, even if it comes at a cost, is a commitment that can lead to significant returns. When you have a financial stake in your education, you’re more likely to fully engage and absorb the information.
To sum it up, when we talk about people achieving amazing success, it’s usually because they’re really good at something and they’re also creative. As individuals, we can use what we’re really good at (our expertise) and our imagination to come up with new ideas and make things better. If you want to get a job, it’s important to explain in your application why your expertise can help the company succeed.
Remember, whether you succeed or fail often depends on being good at what you do, being creative, and working hard all the time. So, embrace the power of being really good at something (specialized knowledge), and let it be a big part of your journey to becoming successful and achieving your goals.
