Estimated reading time: 5 minutes, 1 second
Looking the part is easy, but doing the work is what matters.
Instead of being one of the many voices claiming to have the answers, focus on doing the work and growing in experience and wisdom.
Here’s a visual I doodled up recently:
There are too many voices claiming to be knowledgeable. They stand tall and they stand out.
But many of these same voices are inexperienced, or lack the experience that we do ourselves.
You can’t control what they claim to be, but you can control what work you do.
One of the individuals that I most look to for wisdom is Jesus.
Here’s what he had to say on the topic:
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognise them by their fruits.
Talk is cheap.
Outfits and credentials can mislead.
But fruit - real, tangible results - never lies.
If someone’s work doesn’t match their image, believe their fruit, not their flair.
We live in a world that rewards looking the part - curated profiles, polished branding, confident soundbites. It’s tempting to assume someone is worth following because they seem sharp, articulate, or popular.
But looking impressive is easy. Doing meaningful work is hard!
True value comes from the real stuff - from showing up, doing the work, failing, learning, growing.
Like the worn pencil, wisdom leaves marks: lessons learned, people helped, things built, hours logged.
Here are 3 ways to spot substance over show:
Look for wear.
Don’t just ask, “Do they sound smart?” Ask, “What have they actually done?”
Scars, setbacks, and sweat often reveal more than polish ever will.
Ask for stories, not slogans.
Anyone can repeat a quote.
But can they share a personal story of trying, failing, adapting, and succeeding?
Experience speaks more than catchphrases.
Value depth over display.
Substance often whispers.
Pay attention to the quiet consistency of people who do the work - even when no one’s watching.
Let’s dive deeper into today’s wisdom with these 3 journal prompts:
Who do I admire and why? Is it based on substance or image?
Am I chasing looking sharp or becoming wise through effort?
How can I value experience - in others and in myself - even when it’s not flashy?
Today’s resource is a little different!
Instead of sharing a resource that complements today’s principle of wisdom, I want to share a TV show recommendation that portrays what can happen when you try to look the part without actually doing the work.
The Dropout shares the dramatised representation of the true story of Elizabeth Holmes, and it is one of Amanda Seyfried’s best performances yet.
Learn where to watch it in your region with this link:
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Thanks,
Michael