"لكي يتعلم المرء يجب أن يكون متواضعًا ولكن لكي يعلم يجب أن يكون عظيمًا"

Being open to learning demands humility. You’ve got to admit there’s more out there than what you already know, and sometimes, that’s a tough pill to swallow. When you’re learning, you’re not the master of the universe—far from it. You’re a student, absorbing, asking questions, even making a fool of yourself sometimes. That requires a certain modesty. On the flip side, teaching requires you to step up and own your knowledge with confidence and a big heart. You’re the guide, the mentor, the one who’s been down the road and can light the way. You need to be ‘huge’ in your presence, generosity, and the clarity with which you share what you know.

Think about the time when you were starting a new job. Maybe it was your first gig out of college, and you thought you knew a lot. Day one, and you’re hit with the reality that there’s so much you don’t understand. That’s humbling. But then there’s that one senior colleague who takes you under their wing. They explain things without making you feel dumb, share tips, and tell stories of their own early blunders. They’re not just teaching you the ropes—they’re giving you confidence that you can learn them.

Let’s bring in a real-life example. Picture a master carpenter and an apprentice. The apprentice, wide-eyed and eager but green, needs to be humble, willing to learn from mistakes and take advice. The master, on the other hand, needs to be expansive—not just in skills, but in spirit. They need to explain the ‘why’ behind every cut, share their love for the craft, and show patience when the apprentice inevitably fumbles a piece of wood. This dynamic creates a space where true learning can happen.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, when you’re learning something new, check your ego at the door. Embrace the fact that you’re a beginner. This makes you more receptive and less defensive. And don’t be afraid to fail; each mistake is a step closer to mastery. When you’re teaching, think big. It’s not just about relaying information. Share your passion, your experiences, and most importantly, your belief in your student’s potential. Be approachable yet authoritative, and always generous with your knowledge.

Imagine you’re a parent teaching your kid to ride a bike. The kid, wobbling and wide-eyed, has to be humble enough to keep trying despite the falls. You, on the other end, need to be huge—cheering them on, running beside them, giving that final push while letting go. Your presence and encouragement are what make them believe they can finally do it.

In essence, the journey of learning and teaching is a dance. One side must lean in with humility, ready to absorb and grow. The other side must be larger-than-life, ready to guide, inspire, and empower. When both roles are played well, it’s a beautiful, transformative process for everyone involved.

So next time you’re in either position, remember: your attitude shapes the outcome. Be ready to shrink yourself to learn—and to expand yourself to teach. Simple as that.