It has been said that knowledge is knowing the facts; wisdom is knowing what to do with them.

Our society has a great emphasis on gaining knowledge be it formally through education or even in viewing the internet to learn things – like how to install a headlight assembly on a 1998 Pontiac by watching a YouTube video.

We have limitless access to information, more so than at any other time in history. Yet, how we use what we know is what’s critical.

Best-selling author and Harvard Professor Arthur C. Brooks said, “Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad”.

It’s a funny quote and it illustrates that while it is valuable to know information, the application of that information is what helps you navigate the important decisions in your life.

You already know how to gain more knowledge. How do we grow in wisdom?

• Experience. I know that’s not what you want to hear, but taking time to reflect on your gains and losses in life leads to increased wisdom
• Daily reflection. This goes along with experience, but this is the micro application of it. A daily inventory is a great teacher
• Give up the need to be right. Deciding to be curious, asking open-ended questions, pausing before responding, thinking the best of others’ intentions and believing you may never know all the reasons and motivations someone has for what they decide will keep the joy from being stolen in your life. Maybe the guy that cuts you off in traffic and weaves in and out of lanes is taking his pregnant wife to the hospital?
• Get a mentor. Have someone in your life that isn’t emotionally invested in the outcomes of your actions to give you unvarnished feedback. Spouses, roommates and siblings often aren’t up to the task. And you can do the same in return for them.
• Read God’s word. Proverbs is the quintessential book on wisdom with lots of practical plain-spoken direction contained in its pages. Even better, keep a journal and write down the verses that connect with you.

Think about how you want to be seen by others. How great would it be to be considered someone with wisdom? It is one of the most admirable traits there is.