When we were kids, we happily asked any question that popped into our heads. But as we grew older, we stopped asking questions in order to hide our ignorance. When did we become so fearful of asking silly questions, or wrong questions, or annoying questions?
This avoidance has high costs, particularly when we refuse to ask questions in our personal relationships or even our private thoughts. (Sometimes we avoid asking ourselves questions with answers we fear.) But gaining more knowledge is always a good thing. A great question goes right to the core of a complicated topic. It can broaden your perspective and helps you look beyond your prejudices and emotions.
We never know as much as we think we do! Learning to ask the right questions can improve your decision making, spark your creativity, build your relationships, and improve your leadership skills. Get started with our Instaread on The Book of Beautiful Questions.
