In the last two weeks I’ve given leadership workshops to professional groups around the Midwest. One thing I keep emphasizing: write down what you don’t know.

Take notes about problems you are trying to solve, about things that cause you to wonder.

The act of writing them down is a helpful step in solving the problems and unraveling the mysteries.

More importantly, it is a shift in mindset from being a leader who knows a few things to being a leader who is still and constantly learning.

The example of leading by thoughtful and sustained curiosity will be more helpful to young colleagues than if they try to imitate your confidence.