The quote “Forget what you’ve been taught so you can remember what you know” suggests a distinction between external learning—often shaped by societal norms, education systems, and cultural expectations—and innate understanding or intuition. It implies that sometimes the knowledge we acquire from formal education or societal teachings can cloud our natural instincts, creativity, and genuine insights.
### Explanation of the Quote
1. **Unlearning**: The first part of the quote encourages us to “forget” what we’ve been taught. This doesn’t mean dismissing all educational experiences but rather recognizing that some lessons may limit our thinking. For instance, rigid rules in traditional learning environments can stifle creativity and critical thinking.
2. **Innate Knowledge**: The latter part reminds us to reconnect with our intrinsic understanding or wisdom—a kind of knowledge that comes from personal experience, intuition, and self-reflection. This is often where innovative ideas and authentic perspectives emerge.
3. **Barrier to Growth**: Sometimes conventional teachings impose boundaries that prevent us from exploring new possibilities or challenging existing norms. By releasing these constraints, we create space for deeper insights and personal truths.
### Application in Today’s World
1. **Personal Development**: In the realm of personal growth, this idea encourages individuals to question established beliefs about success or happiness instilled by society (like pursuing certain careers). Instead of following a prescribed path based on external validation—such as wealth or status—individuals are urged to explore their passions and define success on their own terms.
2. **Creativity in Innovation**: In business settings today—especially within startups—the mantra often emphasizes “disruption.” Companies seek employees who think outside conventional frameworks rather than adhering strictly to industry standards learned through traditional means. Encouraging teams to break away from standard practices can lead to groundbreaking innovations.
3. **Mental Health & Well-Being**: On a psychological level, this concept also resonates with mental health practices emphasizing mindfulness and self-awareness over dogmatic beliefs about oneself or one’s capabilities instilled through upbringing or societal pressures.
4. **Education Reform**: In education itself, there’s a growing movement toward experiential learning where students engage actively rather than passively absorbing information—which aligns perfectly with remembering one’s inherent knowledge instead of just regurgitating facts taught by authority figures.
5. **Self-Discovery Journeys**: For those on journeys of self-discovery (such as during mid-life crises), letting go of previously accepted narratives allows individuals not only to reassess their lives but also tap into deeper desires they might have suppressed due to fear of judgment or failure based on learned beliefs about life pathways.
In conclusion, “forgetting what you’ve been taught” serves as an invitation for introspection; it challenges individuals across various contexts—from personal development choices to professional endeavors—to seek authenticity beyond externally imposed frameworks while cherishing the wisdom earned through lived experience.
