This book gave me a new insight into the power of a question. I am trying to implement the techniques mentioned in this book and I have already seen some positive results. I will give a brief summary of what I learned from this book.
Questions drive results.
They virtually program how we behave and what kinds of outcomes are possible. We need to change our questions to solve our problems. Question thinking is a system of tools for transforming thinking, action, and results through skillful question asking — questions we ask ourselves as well as those we ask others.
The 10 tools of Question Thinking
- Empower your observer.
When you encounter something complicated or feel overwhelmed, stand outside yourself and nonjudgmentally witness your thoughts, feelings, and actions. From the observer self, we are in an ideal position to recognize the kinds of questions we are asking. The sooner we recognize what we are asking, the better. That way we have more options.
- Do meditation.
- Take a few minutes to be alone. Simply watch, and promise yourself that this is not yet a time for action. When you take action, you will be more thoughtful, strategic, and mindful.
- Self-Q: What’s present now?
2. Use the Choice Map as a guide.
There are 2 paths, Learner and Judger.
No one can help anyone else from a Judger place. When you are in a Judger, you usually blame someone and see things through negative eyes. Blame keeps us stuck in the past. Responsibility paves the path for a better future.
By asking Learner questions at any moment, you will get the best results.
- Share the map with others.
3. Put the power of questions to work.
- Increase the quantity and quality of your internal and interpersonal questions
- The most effective communication is usually more about asking and less about telling.
4. Distinguish Learner and Judger mindsets and questions.
- Explore how one or the other mindset impacts how you interact with the people around you. How does Judger mindset — yours or theirs — affect communications.
5. Make friends with Judger.
We’re all recovering Judgers.
You can free yourself from Judger by simply accepting that part of yourself.
6. Question assumptions.
Don’t believe that something is true without facts. Faulty assumptions make it impossible to build or maintain satisfying relationships.
- Do I have all the facts? What’s happening here?
7. Switching questions.
When you find yourself on the Judger path, you can switch to Learner by asking the Switching questions.
- Am I in a Judger?
- Is this what I want to feel/be doing?
- What’s my choice?
8. Create learner teams.
9. Q-Storming.
Like brainstorming, try to come up with as many questions as possible. The goal is to open new doors in our minds. Every new question expands our range of possibilities. A question not asked is a door not opened.
10. Twelve questions for success.
- What assumptions am I making?
- What am I responsible for?
- How else can I think about this?
- What is the other person thinking, feeling, and wanting?
- How can I turn this into a win-win?
- What am I missing or avoiding?
- What can I learn?
- What do I want?
- What are my choices?
- What action steps make the most sense?
- What questions should I ask?
- What’s possible?
