Recently, I had an interesting debate with a friend. The topic was politics, but I don’t want to delve into the content because that’s irrelevant here.
I enjoy debates and listening to different viewpoints, not only because they sometimes enrich my own perspective (when they make sense to me) but also because they ensure that I expose myself to multiple perspectives and don’t cling stubbornly to my own. After all, no one holds the absolute truth.
Anyway, what made me stop and reflect on the discussion was his conviction of a particular idea just because people he considered “well-read” believed it.
Why, when data (not opinions) show something, do we still trust some people’s opinions just because they are “well-read”?
Of course, there are many logical answers to this.
But let’s look at it from another angle.
My mind instantly went to people I know who devour books and attend dozens of courses, consultants, coaches, and more every year, yet their lives revolve more or less in the same circle.
Just two or three weeks ago, I read a message from a colleague in an entrepreneur group (about 100 entrepreneurs with businesses ranging from a few hundred thousand euros to several tens of millions, all former participants in a mastermind). I couldn’t believe that he was seeking a solution for the same fundamental problem he had been facing for at least three years since I’ve known him. But he continuously educates himself and attends various courses, workshops, etc.
I have many such examples. And I can certainly speak from my past experiences as well.
My mind also wandered to the dozens, literally dozens, of cases I know of entrepreneurs who have been “duped” (I use quotes because I don’t agree and don’t think anyone can truly be duped) by various experts who impressed them with fancy, trendy terms and seemed knowledgeable and competent.
These entrepreneurs, clueless about what the experts were talking about, were dazzled by the elevated or elitist expressions, seeking a magic wand savior. They gave their vote of confidence, only to find out that reality was different.
I also thought about people I met who have been in therapy for years; some even went for specializations and devoured psychology (at least in theory), yet some still try to commit suicide after a while, others are still depressed, and others… their specializations were in vain.
Isn’t it interesting that we easily give our vote of confidence just because someone has read and studied a lot?
Or because they have many diplomas? Or other such elements that apparently give them authority?
Hm.
But what can be seen in their life as a result of what they’ve read or studied? Isn’t that relevant?
Now, sure, if I look at business, a few also apply what they learn. And you can see some results there. But I’m not referring just to a few specific actions that you take and immediately see an outcome.
I’m talking about deeper changes, like transformations.
For example, to me, there’s a big difference between being “well-read” and being conscious.
Just as there’s a big difference between being overweight with information and being fit from applying it.
But I stick with conscious because, in my opinion, it encompasses almost everything.
And when I say conscious, I refer to the Pyramid of Consciousness according to David R. Hawkins’ theory.
I use this example because Hawkins’ way of presenting it seems very clear to me, with a simple and easy-to-understand structure.
Even though (in different forms) this has been discussed for much longer. From Maslow, Jung (who, although didn’t use specific terms of energetic consciousness, is known for his theories on archetypes, the collective unconscious, or synchronicity), to George Gurdjieff or Ken Wilber.
And it is much, much more relevant to be conscious.
What’s the use of reading Carol S. Dweck’s research or books if your mindset doesn’t transform and you keep the same patterns?
What’s the use of reading a thousand self-help books if you still live in envy, victimization, hatred, pride, or judgment? Or if you are still showing off your financial level on social media just? For the world to SEE you.
What have you understood about yourself from all the knowledge you’ve accumulated?
What’s the use of undergoing numerous training programs in all possible forms of therapy if you still see yourself as superior to others? Because there’s a HUGE, HUGE difference between SEEING from a higher perspective and believing you ARE above another human being.
What’s the use of years of therapy if every day still seems like a struggle?
Do you know what else is interesting in a world with billions of dollars in the personal development industry?
According to Hawkins’ theory, about 85% of people live at a consciousness level below 200.
But what does that mean, exactly?
Consciousness levels below 200, according to David R. Hawkins, are dominated by low-energy states such as fear, anger, guilt, apathy, or pride. These states of consciousness have a profound impact on daily life and influence how we interact with the world around us.
For example, think about someone who constantly struggles with fear. This person may avoid making important decisions out of fear of failure. Even when opportunities for personal or professional growth arise, fear paralyzes them and prevents them from taking action. Thus, they remain stuck in a vicious cycle of inaction and regrets.
Another example is pride. People who predominantly live in this state of consciousness tend to feel superior to others and are often unable to accept feedback or learn from mistakes. This mental and emotional rigidity can lead to strained relationships and a lack of real progress, even if they appear successful on the surface.
Guilt and shame are other states of consciousness below 200 that can erode self-confidence and create a persistent feeling of “I don’t deserve it.” A person who feels guilty about past mistakes may inadvertently sabotage any chance of happiness or success, believing they don’t deserve these things.
It’s essential to understand that consciousness levels are not just theoretical; they manifest in very real and tangible ways in our lives.
So, when we talk about being conscious, it’s not just about reading and learning, but about transcending these low-energy states and rising to higher levels of consciousness. And of course, it’s not an easy or quick process.
Now, whether we take Hawkins’ percentage into account or not, if we look around a bit, it doesn’t take much science to realize where we are mostly.
So, my question remains:
What is more important: to be “well-read” or to be conscious?
David
PS: I want to clarify that I am pro-knowledge; it is important, without a doubt. But I don’t believe it’s sufficient. This is to avoid misinterpretation, although I’m sure you got the idea from this article.
