Embracing the Wisdom of Knowing Nothing: A Journey of Continuous Learning and Leadership — Darryl Hawkins
The adage “A wise man knows he knows nothing” encapsulates a profound truth about humility and the pursuit of knowledge. This principle has deeply influenced my approach to people, culture, and leadership. My experiences as a professor, a Marine, and a leader in various organizations have reinforced the importance of being a perpetual learner. I strive to learn not only from my students, children, and peers but also from every situation and challenge I encounter. This mindset has shaped my work ethic, leadership style, and approach to strategic thinking and decision-making.
As a professor, I have found that teaching is a two-way street. While I impart knowledge to my students, I also learn from their perspectives, questions, and experiences. This dynamic interaction enriches my understanding and keeps me grounded in the realization that there is always more to learn. My children, too, provide daily lessons in curiosity, resilience, and the joy of discovery. My peers challenge me to think critically and expand my horizons. Embracing this continuous learning mindset has allowed me to stay adaptable and open-minded, essential traits for effective leadership.
My time in the Marine Corps instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for discipline, honor, and commitment. These values have been instrumental in shaping my servant leadership style. In the Marines, we learned that leadership is about serving others, empowering them to perform at their best, and working collaboratively to achieve common goals. This philosophy has carried over into my professional life, where I strive to work with my people, empowering them to excel in their roles. By doing so, I create an environment where strategic thinking and decision-making are collaborative efforts, leveraging the collective wisdom and expertise of the team.
At Verizon, I had the opportunity to experience firsthand the importance of empowering employees and fostering a culture of partnership. Starting as a front-line employee in a unionized environment, I spent ten years understanding the challenges and aspirations of my colleagues. This experience gave me a unique perspective when I transitioned into leadership roles, where I was responsible for bargaining contracts with the unions. My goal was to create agreements that not only supported the company’s growth but also honored the contributions of the employees. This collaborative approach helped to build a strong, mutually beneficial partnership that drove organizational success.
Holding myself and others to the highest standards has been a cornerstone of my leadership philosophy. Accountability is crucial for maintaining integrity and achieving excellence. I constantly seek ways to hold myself accountable, whether through self-reflection, feedback from others, or setting clear and measurable goals. This practice extends to my team, where I emphasize the importance of accountability and encourage everyone to strive for their best. By fostering a culture of high standards, we ensure that we are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible and continuously improving.
Incorporating the wisdom of knowing nothing into my leadership style means recognizing that there is always room for growth and improvement. It means staying curious, asking questions, and being open to new ideas and perspectives. It involves empowering others, leveraging their strengths, and creating an environment where everyone can contribute to strategic thinking and decision-making. It requires a commitment to continuous learning and a willingness to embrace change.
The wisdom of knowing nothing is a guiding principle that has profoundly influenced my journey as a leader, educator, and lifelong learner. My experiences in the Marine Corps, at global communication companies, and in academia have reinforced the importance of humility, continuous learning, and servant leadership. By working with my people, empowering them, and holding ourselves to the highest standards, we can achieve remarkable success and growth. This approach not only drives organizational success but also creates a culture of innovation, resilience, and excellence.
You can connect with Darryl Hawkins on LinkedIn
