I Don’t Know Everything
I'm constantly learning on my own dime, time, and brain capacity. Not because I have to, but because I genuinely love figuring things out.
When a potential client asks, "Do you know how to integrate XYZ platform with ABC software?"
Often I do know how. Sometimes I know there’s a way I’m not entirely familiar with. Then there are the times I have absolutely no idea, but that’s where I excel. Learning new software and integrations is like a hobby for me, and the challenge is what fuels me!
Here’s my approach: "I haven't done that specific integration yet, but here's how I'd approach it, and I'm willing to learn exactly what's needed for your situation."
This honesty might seem counterintuitive in a world where everyone's positioning themselves as the ultimate expert, but it's actually my superpower. Because when I say I'll figure something out for you, I absolutely will.
My Learning Laboratory
My office is essentially a tech testing ground. Here's a glimpse into what I've learned "on my own dime" recently:
Taught myself Power Automate to create custom workflows (by building one that reminds me to water my plants!)
Set up three different CRMs just to compare their functionality and decide which one I would ultimately use for myself
Integrated my calendar with task management systems in ways that save me hours each month
Learned Theo (my canine integration officer) can detect with 100% accuracy when I'm on an important Zoom call and choose that exact moment to arrive at the office party
Why This Matters For You
When you work with someone who's comfortable saying "I don't know—yet," you get:
Honesty — No smoke and mirrors, just transparent communication
Customization — Solutions built for your specific needs, not cookie-cutter approaches
Fresh perspectives — I'm not stuck in "we've always done it this way" thinking
Value beyond the obvious — I often discover better solutions because I'm actively exploring options rather than defaulting to the familiar
The Difference Between "I Don't Know" and "I Can't"
There's a world of difference between these phrases:
"I don't know" = "Give me a minute, I'll figure it out" "I can't" = "It's impossible"
It pains me to say the second one.
My Recent Learning Adventures
Last month, a client needed help with a Facebook invite link for a private group. While this seemed pretty straightforward, the first test didn’t function as we had hoped. Instead of giving up and saying “It isn’t possible.” this is what I did:
Researched the syntax required to invite members to a private group
Tested with friends and family
It didn’t function on mobile and desktop Facebook versions
Researched some more.
Tried more variations.
What is expected to work, does not.
Developed a workaround (eventually)
Documented everything I learned
After the fact, continue to try to get a mobile/desktop solution that can be used down the road
Did I bill them for my hours of learning? Nope. That was on my dime. What I did bill them for was the streamlined, tested solution. The learning is a bonus for me because I will know for the next client.
The Joy of Not Knowing
There's something incredibly freeing about embracing the "I'm always learning" mindset. It keeps me curious, excited, and genuinely engaged with each new project.
Like practicing anything (music, yoga) I love the practice—the figuring-out, the problem-solving, the "aha!" moments—not just the finished product.
Your Turn
So here's my question for you: What are you learning on your own dime? What skills are you developing not because you have to, but because they light you up?
Drop me a comment below or connect with me on LinkedIn. I'd love to hear about your learning adventures!
And if you're looking for someone who approaches tech challenges with curiosity, honesty, and a genuine love for learning, let's chat. Together, we'll create digital ecosystems that flow naturally—even if it means I need to learn something new along the way.
Donna Boisvert is the founder of Executive Edge, where she helps business leaders create integrated digital systems that actually make sense. When not geeking out, you might find her practicing violin, doing yoga, or explaining to Theo why sniffing the keyboard during Zoom calls is counterproductive.