Play dumb
It's okay to not always be the smartest person in the room. In fact, sometimes it's even beneficial to play dumb.
When you're in a work environment, for example, it can be easy to get caught up in the competition to be the smartest person in the room. But the truth is, there's a lot of value in being a good listener and not always trying to be the one with the answer. By playing dumb and allowing others to speak, you're giving them the opportunity to share their ideas and thoughts. And who knows, they might come up with something even better than what you had in mind.
But it's not just in the workplace where playing dumb can be beneficial. Sometimes, challenging a coworker or picking a bone with your significant other can lead to unnecessary conflict. By playing dumb and not always trying to be right, you can avoid these conflicts and instead focus on finding a solution that works for everyone.
And let's not forget about those times when playing dumb can actually save someone's life. If you see someone in danger or about to commit a crime, playing dumb can be the best option. It can give you the opportunity to intervene and stop the situation from escalating without putting yourself in danger.
So, next time you're in a situation where you feel the need to be the smartest person in the room, remember that it's okay to play dumb. It can lead to better outcomes and solutions, and give others the opportunity to share their ideas and thoughts. Trust me, the right moment for you to speak your mind and say "see, I told you so" will present itself eventually.