Curiosity is an antidote to narrow-mindedness, over-confidence, and uninformed judgment. 

Good questions, asked with an intention of interest and learning, are the best tool to use to broaden your awareness and deepen connection with others.

As a coach, we aim to start most of questions with How or What.

Why not Why?  Do you recall the last time someone asked you “why did you do that?”  How did you feel?  Probably a bit defensive and guarded.  Probably not ready to reveal much more information about yourself.  Just guessing.

So, How and What questions help evoke forward thinking and movement to a new solution.  For example, “What was the outcome that you were seeking?” or “How did it all turn out?”

The sad reality is that none of us has all of the answers.  Sorry to burst your bubble.

That involves asking questions. 

Peter Drucker said “The important and difficult job is never to find the right answers.  It is to find the right question.”

When someone disagrees with you, engaging in inquiry and reaching for understanding may help you and your partner to find a mutually agreeable solution. 

We’re familiar with Stephen Covey’s 5th Habit – “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”  Maintain an open mind, allow yourself to “see” things and ideas outside of your day-to-day perspective.  You may be surprised at what you see and learn.  

Using inquiry and curiosity can help unlock the brilliance of the people around you.  

Maintain an open mind, allow yourself to “see” things and ideas outside of your day-to-day perspective.  You may be surprised at what you see and learn.