From Knowledge to Impact

Many people believe that knowledge is very important. A typical person will spend the first 22 years of his life learning and acquiring knowledge through a formal education process. However, what many do not realize is purpose of acquiring knowledge, and furthermore, how they can use the knowledge to accomplish things other than getting a good grade on an exam. Knowledge is typically applied to solve a certain problem, thus creating impact or contributions to others. This entire process can be split up into three parts:

1. Acquiring Knowledge
2. Applying Knowledge
3. Creating Impact with Knowledge

1. Acquiring Knowledge
This part is what most people around my age are doing, as a consequence of the "lack of knowledge" or "insufficient knowledge" regarding a certain area or studies. Some believe that undergraduate studies isn't enough, thereby entering graduate school to continue the process of acquiring knowledge. Knowledge can be acquired through formal education, books, internet, socialization, experience, etc.

2. Applying Knowledge
Once knowledge is acquired, it must be applied to solve problems or create new things. This is where many people, including myself, struggle. After taking in a lot of insightful information, it is difficult to remember every single detail, therefore it's hard to know when to use what concept or theory previously learned. One must often refer back to notes or the original text to recall the information learned and then apply it to a real life situation. Knowledge is easily applied when it is acquired from experience, contrary to something you read on the internet or in a book.

3. Creating Impact with Knowledge
After successfully applying your knowledge, it would be pretty useless if it had no impact on a problem. As a result, the knowledge you used to solve a problem also needs to be "customized" and effective enough to actually solve the problem and result in an outcome. I would say this is the most important part of the entire process, because your ability to create impact is what distinguishes you from others and demonstrates why you are valuable.

Knowledge isn't merely something you're forced to acquire for an exam and forgotten afterwards. It is a valuable tool to create impact and deliver value to others. I think it is important for everyone to understand this three step process in order to leverage your knowledge for creating valuable impact and contribution, thus demonstrating your value to others and to organizations.