The Power of Public Notes: Sharing Knowledge for the Future

The Power of Public Notes: Sharing Knowledge for the Future

In today's digital age, where information flows freely and knowledge is abundant, the act of sharing ideas and insights has become more important than ever. Platforms like Medium have emerged as spaces for individuals to express themselves and contribute to the collective knowledge of humanity. As Twitter co-founder Evan Williams once said, "I think more people would be in a better place if more people shared their ideas." This sentiment reflects the belief that when we share our knowledge, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the growth and development of others.

One of the benefits of public note-taking is the future value it holds for both the creator and others. Leaving notes with context helps us remember the information in the future, and it also allows others to search and connect the dots later. By making our notes default-public, we turn our knowledge into an asset that can attract traffic, earn passive income, and serve as a resource for us in the decades to come. As much as investors are wealthy "on paper" because they own stocks, we are wealthy "in brain" because of our skills and knowledge. Sharing what we learn not only helps us remember it but also ensures that critical subtleties are not forgotten and can be passed on to future generations.

The concept of "selling your sawdust" perfectly encapsulates the idea that what may seem trivial or insignificant to us can be valuable to others. Just as sawdust, which was once discarded, now has a market, our seemingly mundane notes and insights can be treasures for someone else. The act of sharing our knowledge publicly allows us to leave a lasting impact and create a chain of wisdom that transcends time and generations.

When it comes to learning, many individuals unknowingly focus on what is known as "Snow Cone Knowledge." This type of knowledge is valuable in the present moment but loses its worth over time. On the other hand, "Just In Case Knowledge" refers to learning something that may or may not be used in the future, while "Titanium Knowledge" is durable knowledge that retains its value over decades. To build a note-taking system that serves as an asset for decades, it is crucial to focus on titanium knowledge and prioritize long-term thinking.

While there are various note-taking platforms available today, it is essential to find one that aligns with our goals and requirements. Platforms like Glasp offer the ability to make our notes default-public, ensuring searchability and accessibility. This shift towards learning in public is the future of knowledge sharing, as it encourages us to pay closer attention to what we read and leave better notes for ourselves and others.

Transitioning from private to public notes may present some challenges. Impostor's syndrome, the fear that our notes may not be good enough or valuable to others, can hinder us from sharing our knowledge. Tool lock-in, the reluctance to learn new tools or approaches, can also prevent us from exploring platforms that may better suit our needs. Additionally, the time commitment required to package our notes for public consumption may make us question its worth. However, by recognizing these challenges and addressing them, we can overcome these barriers and unlock the potential of public note-taking.

In conclusion, the power of public notes lies in their ability to create a lasting impact and contribute to the collective knowledge of humanity. By sharing our ideas, insights, and wisdom, we not only benefit ourselves but also leave behind a legacy for future generations. To harness the full potential of public note-taking, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace the mindset of a teacher: Recognize that everyone has knowledge to share, and by teaching others, you become a link in the chain of wisdom.

• 2. Focus on titanium knowledge: Prioritize learning and sharing information that holds long-term value, rather than getting caught up in the transient nature of Snow Cone Knowledge.

• 3. Overcome the challenges: Address impostor's syndrome, embrace new tools and approaches, and allocate time to package your notes for public consumption. Remember that the benefits of sharing your knowledge far outweigh the initial obstacles.

In a world where information is abundant, the act of sharing knowledge becomes an invaluable contribution to society. By making our notes public, we not only enrich our own understanding but also ensure that our insights and wisdom endure for generations to come. Let us embrace the power of public notes and leave a lasting legacy for the future.