Have you ever had to research something? Sometimes you can be misled. That sucks, so here are some notes that may help.
I am learning to read what matters at the time, if it’s a self-help or learning book. That is easier said than done. Skimming helps you focus on what you need to know and forget all the crap. If you have time, look over the document or book for what matters to you at that time.
I also read a lot of articles and reports. Unfortunately, you have to look at who sponsored the report, it turns out most white papers, reports, even articles have a sponsor or company backing them so the information might be misleading or pointing you to a specific solution. My complaint is that while the information may be correct, it can be one-sided.
The other thing you may find is that you think you know what the information means when you may be assuming or jumping to a conclusion. I do this way too often.
I try to remember what Peter Drucker once said. “Most people think they know what they’re good at. They are usually wrong. Most people know what they are not good at more often – and even there people are more often wrong than right.”
It really helps if we know our own strengths and weaknesses so that we don’t overlook what matters. It’s not just about confidence, but about trying to get to the truth. I also have to admit that I’m wrong sometimes, mainly because garbage in equals garbage out.
So all I am saying, look at the source! Be smart about learning the truth, if that matters to you.