Monday, May 11, 2026

I Know, But . . .

Sometimes growth asks us to push through fear. Sometimes it asks us to pay attention and pause. Wisdom is knowing the difference.

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By Quentin Steen, Representative

I recently watched an NFL segment called “I Know, But . . .” where a panel debated most valuable player (MVP) picks. The commentators acknowledged the logic behind each choice, then countered it with alternatives. It was fascinating to watch them balance agreement with constructive disagreement.

As I watched, I realized that “I know, but . . .” is more than a way to debate MVPs—it is also a metaphor for how I approach many moments in life.

How often do I catch myself thinking:

I know this could be a great opportunity, but . . . I’m not ready.
I know this relationship could work, but . . . what if it doesn’t?
I know I have what it takes, but . . . what if I fail?

That inner dialogue can be familiar: one part of us recognizes possibility, while another raises caution.

Sometimes that caution reflects fear, self-doubt, or the urge to stay comfortable.

Yet not every “but” is a problem to overcome. Hesitation can be thoughtful and adaptive. It may help us assess risk, recognize uncertainty, notice when something does not align with our values, or acknowledge that we need more support, time, or clarity.

The same is true of fear. Fear can hold us back, but it can also be informative. It may point to past harm, limited resources, real vulnerability, or concerns that deserve attention rather than dismissal.

So, the goal is not to silence the “but.” Instead, the goal is to understand it.

Ask yourself, is this hesitation protecting me in a helpful way? Or is it keeping me from something I am ready to pursue?

And what about the “I know” aspect of the hesitation? Is it grounded in experience, preparation, values, and wise counsel? Or is it impulse and assumption dressed as certainty?

There are times when pushing past doubt leads to growth, and there are times when ignoring doubt is not brave, but reckless.

Life is full of uncertainty. There is rarely a guaranteed right choice. But growth may depend on learning the difference between fear that limits us, and hesitation that guides us.

So, the next time I catch myself saying, “I know, but . . .” I want to pause and listen carefully. Not to automatically follow the doubt, and not to dismiss it either. I want to ask what it is telling me—and what the next right step might be.

Sometimes growth asks us to push through fear. Sometimes it asks us to pay attention and pause. Wisdom is knowing the difference.

Quentin Steen is a certified mental health first aid instructor for the Mental Health Commission of Canada. This piece is intended as a personal reflection, not professional advice.

I Know, But . . .

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