"الناس لا يهتمون بما تعرفه حتى يعرفوا كم تهتم"

The essence of this quote is that people are more likely to value and trust your knowledge if they first perceive that you genuinely care about them. It's not about flaunting your expertise right off the bat; it's about showing empathy and building a connection. Only then do people become receptive to what you have to say.

This idea has been relevant throughout history. Think about influential leaders, teachers, or mentors. Why do we remember them fondly? It’s often because they made us feel seen and heard. They didn't just bombard us with information. They took the time to understand us, our fears, and our aspirations. This approach has always been effective in building trust and rapport.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture a doctor – Dr. Smith – who’s exceptionally knowledgeable in her field. Now, she’s got a new patient, Emily, who's nervous about an upcoming surgery. Dr. Smith can start by rattling off medical jargon about the procedure, but does that help Emily feel at ease? Probably not. Instead, Dr. Smith sits down, looks Emily in the eye, and says, “I can see you’re worried. Let’s talk about what’s on your mind and find a way to make this as comfortable as possible for you.” Only after addressing Emily’s concerns does Dr. Smith explain the procedure in terms Emily can understand. Emily feels cared for; she trusts Dr. Smith not just because of her expertise but because she genuinely seemed to care.

So how can you apply this idea in your own life? Start by actively listening to others. When someone’s speaking, don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Really hear them out. Show empathy. Acknowledge their feelings. This applies whether you’re a manager at work, a friend lending an ear, or a parent guiding your child. When people feel understood and valued, they’re much more likely to respect and heed what you have to say.

Imagine this scenario: You’re a team leader working on a big project. Your team’s stressed, and deadlines are looming. You could just push harder, remind them of their tasks, or maybe throw in a motivational speech. But instead, you take a moment to check in with each team member. You ask how they’re coping and if there’s anything you can do to help. You listen to their concerns and offer support. Suddenly, the dynamic shifts. Your team feels appreciated and supported. They’re more motivated and willing to go the extra mile — not because you demanded it, but because they know you care.

In essence, this wisdom is all about genuine human connection. It’s about prioritizing empathy over ego. When you make the effort to show you care, the knowledge you share resonates more deeply. So next time you’re in a position to influence or guide someone, remember: start with care. The rest will follow.