I’ve learned many lessons from author Eckhart Tolle over the years.  Last night, during my Intro to Jazz Singing class, one of the students reminded me of such a lesson.

“I don’t know” is a legit answer.

Many people think “I don’t know” is state of confusion. Let’s get this cleared up – confusion is when you think you should know and you don’t.

“I don’t know” is honest and simple.  The very toxic “I don’t know, but I should know” thought adds extra layers of stress to an otherwise neutral fact.  Why muck up such a simple thing as “I don’t know” with heaps of misery?

As a teacher, being able to say “I don’t know,” when you truly don’t know, is powerful.  It can feel scary in the moment, but students appreciate it more than being lied to.

The honesty route forges stronger relationships, and promotes curiosity.

Yes, more of that, please.