I consider myself a builder. To do this, one of the keys is realizing I don’t always have all the answers. Rather, I rely heavily on asking one very simple question: Why? It’s likely the single most important word in my vocabulary.
Often in business — and in life — people are not comfortable challenging others (and sometimes even themselves). Asking questions about why something is the way it is or why it’s done a certain way can come off as judgmental and antagonistic. It’s also possible that whoever you’re directing the questions to may feel defensive or insecure.
I suggest that asking why should be seen as quite the opposite.
WHY 'WHY?' IS SO IMPORTANT
When we start asking questions, we are seeking to learn. We are looking for the true reasons behind something, which allows us to gain knowledge before we attempt to offer new ideas. Rather than be seen as a form of disagreement, it can be an exceptionally powerful and productive method for evolving an idea.
Why is this so important? Change is necessary for evolution. When we start asking why, we’re able to determine if we’re on the right track or we’re able to push the boundaries further and explore more deeply before we make decisions.
It also allows us to think more analytically. Have you even invested in an idea or process and supported that investment with time, effort, and money? We often keep moving forward and don’t stop along the way to invite others to evolve our thinking or approach — even when we might need an outside perspective or have been stuck on the same problem for an extended period of time. When people are involved and start asking why, it allows us to pause and reflect on whether we are creating the best possible solution.
In my role, I am constantly in the position of creating and finding solutions to new problems. I might have a decent initial idea about how to solve something, but I invite others — early and often — to provide me feedback and challenge my thinking. While I don’t always agree with everything that surfaces, the why questions and collaboration that follow never fail to push the results to a better place than if I had gone it alone.
Have you ever been in a meeting where you’re sitting and listen passively to someone droning on about XYZ, and feel uncomfortable asking why? Maybe you fear looking foolish, because you think you should know the answer. Or maybe you are concerned you will offend someone. Or even still, maybe you just don’t think it’s worth the effort.
I challenge you to rethink your silence.
HOW TO START ASKING WHY
By asking questions, you fill in the gaps of your own understanding and potentially others in the room who face the same dilemma. Rather than assuming you understand the intent and potentially creating gaps in alignment, you fill in the missing pieces with the right information. Once you get to the core of the issue, you can focus on the right problem.
Aren’t sure if you are ready to raise your hand publicly and start asking this powerful word? Try this simple exercise by yourself today:
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Pick a problem you are facing — any problem.
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Ask yourself why it’s happening.
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Ponder the answer. Then ask why again.
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Rinse and repeat at least three times.
If you are really seeking true understanding, you’ll likely come up with an entirely different answer than you originally anticipated by participating in this exercise. You’ll find yourself with a fresh perspective and a new path to innovation. Give it a try. Then go bigger and attempt it with others.
Want to instantly feel more empowered and innovative? Rather than being intimidated by the notion of why as a form of disagreement or challenge, embrace it as a power word. You might just find yourself — and your team — with a far better outcome.
Christina Luconi is Chief People Officer for Rapid7. Follow her on Twitter: @peopleinnovator.
Image via Unsplash