This is a really good point, without understanding it's very easy to do the wrong action. Being able to understand difficult concepts and find true knowledge relies on having the internal fundamentals solid.

There's that saying, before pointing out the splinter in someone's eye take care of the log in your own. Though it has biblical origins, there's a kernel of truth there.

That said, we always have something about ourselves to improve. So someone else can always try to shut you down on those grounds. It's important to take that kind of stance in moderation and not be paralysed from any action just because you have work to do. Humility here is probably the key.