Knowing vs Doing: Why the Difference Matters More Than You Think

Consider this blog a quick coaching session from me to you.

Fair warning: This message might sting a little. But if it does, that means you needed to hear it—and it’s coming from a place of support.

A few weeks ago, I shared some book recommendations. This message is a follow-up to that post, but it goes even deeper. Because this lesson applies to more than just books.

Let’s talk about knowing vs doing. I often discuss the value of learning—whether it’s through reading, attending live events, joining training sessions, or talking with peers. These are all ways to grow your business and improve your skills.

But what happens when that knowledge stays in your head?

What’s So Important About Knowing vs Doing?

“Knowing or doing” highlights a critical gap between learning something and applying it. Learning without taking action does not move you forward. You can gather inspiration from books, events, or coaching sessions, but if you never act on that knowledge, you will stay stuck. Success happens when you turn what you know into action. That is where real transformation begins.

The Real Lesson: Knowing Is Not Enough

Learning is a powerful first step. But learning alone is not enough.

If you do not act on what you learn, the knowledge fades. You might feel accomplished after reading a book or attending an event, but unless you use what you’ve learned, nothing changes.

Knowing feels safe. Doing takes courage.

Doing is what activates progress.
Doing is what turns ideas into goals.
Doing is how you build the life and business you want.

So here’s the core reminder:
Never confuse knowing for doing.
Your success depends on what you implement, not just what you learn.

How to Turn Knowledge Into Action

If you feel stuck between knowing and doing, one thing will help: accountability.

One of the easiest tools for this is a checklist. It keeps your ideas organized, your tasks visible, and your motivation strong. If you’re working on a goal or a big idea, a list can help you take action consistently. (For more, check out this post on boosting motivation through action.)

Let me share a great example.

A Real Strategy From Our Coaching Community

Jennifer Thompson, a coaching member from Ottawa, ON, shared a simple method in our private group. She used two notebooks at one of our events—one for inspiration, the other for action.

“I had two separate coursebooks going. In one, I wrote notes and all the inspiration Tom shared. In the other, I kept a ‘good idea’ list. Because they were separate, I came home with a clear to-do list and got started right away. I then organized that list into five categories. This has been ideal for me to get cracking.”

Her five categories were:

  • Quick and Easy
  • Important and Easy to Implement
  • Important and Time Consuming
  • Things to Research or Buy
  • Books to Read

This simple method helped her move from knowing to doing with clarity and speed.

Final Thoughts

If you struggle to implement ideas and checklists have not helped, it may be time to get additional support. A Free Coaching Consultation can help you identify exactly what’s holding you back—and give you a clear plan to move forward.

And if you already have a favorite way to move from knowing to doing, share it in the comments below. We all grow faster when we learn from each other.