Apply knowledge into action

The other day the debate was around the same question:

What is the difference between knowing something and applying that knowledge in life?

After a friend of mine said what he always did —

‘I know all this. The problem is that these things cannot be applied to life.’

I get hit hard every time these things come up. It makes me wonder if all philosophical and literary pursuits are indeed vague and unimportant. I wonder if they are mere luxuries of impractical and privileged people: Fanciful playthings for people who cannot get along with reality.

But I had to answer my friend. I had to answer him because for most of the time, I see the importance. On top of that, I had to answer him to prove to myself that I was capable of interpreting almost any thought in words. But more importantly, the solution was lurking not too deep inside my consciousness. I had to bring it out.

‘Thoughts drift. Thoughts are not under our control easily. Applying something you know is just about successfully leashing certain thoughts. After that, it is about maneuvering them in any direction you want!’ I said.

I was relieved. The friend remained silent. Awkwardness reigned for a few minutes.

P.S. That friend exists inside my own head.

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