The only smart people in the world that know anything have a college degree to back it up. Yes, you heard me. Any beer guzzling, keg-standing loser can become a bonefied expert. But I’ll bet you’ve been through a lot, learned a lot, and solved lots of problems. So could it be possible, maybe, if you will, that you’re an expert, too?

One thing I’ve learned as an editor is that there are a lot of experts in the world that are afraid to be the expert. Instead, they’re silent experts. I’ve been one of them myself. I’ve accepted an article and avoided the messy, “This story really sucks,” talk. And who looked bad in the end?

Maybe you’re one of the silent experts of life. You might be one if:

-         You’re constantly seeking the approval of others. Do you say, “Well, what do you think?” rather than taking action?

-         You start sentences with, “This is probably a stupid
idea ….”

-         You have a hard time telling people what you really think (i.e. their idea won’t work, blue is a more flattering color than orange, their kid would benefit from more guidance or maybe a muzzle, etc.)

So what’s so wrong with being a silent expert? Well, a lot. When experts are silent, here is what happens:

-         Less good stuff gets done.

-         Fantastic ideas go unsaid.

-         People become slugs with zero confidence, shuffling silently through life.

Maybe you’re thinking, “Well I’m not really an expert. I don’t have a fancy job, I’ve never been an editor, and by the way, where can I buy my kids a muzzle?”

But everyone is good at something. Whatever your passion is, you’re probably a natural expert of that.

Here are some ways you can bless the world with your expertise.

-         Become self-reliant. Solve simple yet seemingly dumbfounding problems like changing out printer toner. If you find your children (or husband or colleagues) coming to you for constant guidance, try something bold like, “What would you do if I wasn’t here?” Teach self-reliance early and be an example of it.

-         Give your opinion, frequently. I’m not saying to act like a know-it-all, because no one likes that. But when there is a chance to share a good idea, speak up. Raise your hand. Send in your tip.

-         Own your ideas. Eliminate the phrase, “This might be a stupid idea,” for good. Do you think your idea is stupid? Then don’t say it. Otherwise, present it to others with passion and confidence.

-         Share solutions. Always present a problem with a solution, even if it’s not a perfect one. Don’t say, “I can’t find any decorating books to feature.” How about, “I’m having trouble finding decorating books for that article; could I switch to coffee table books instead?”

Well experts, any words of advice?

P.S. Check out my updated dinner menu for the week.