"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence." - Albert Einstein
As co:grow launched our first POWER series, we pondered on what drives our deep-rooted approach on learning and consulting. With our HR learners and business leaders, we guide the partners on shifting their focus from just finding answers to something even more transformative: learning how to ask powerful questions.
co:grow is built on growth mindset activation and practice - but why?
In most of our professional lives, we love being perceived as someone who has the answers. It translates to expertise and experience, bringing credibility when we quote best practices.
In organisational transformation practices, best practices are often derived through systematic and careful reflection on successful practical experience. Many rely on singular case studies or anecdotal stories to support the best-case assertions. We often like to focus on best practices as a collection of processes and procedures to be followed whenever a specific challenge arises.
best practices seek to provide the answer without digging deeper into the root of the problem or desired impact. - “The Death of Best Practices”
What is needed is for us to tap into our curiosity and build growth practices. The foundation of curiosity lies in the power of asking questions. Questions are not just simple inquiries; they are the keys that unlock the door to deeper understanding, innovation, and transformation.
Studies published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students who regularly asked questions in the classroom had a more profound understanding of the subject matter, increased motivation, and enhanced problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, these students displayed a greater ability to apply their knowledge to real-life situations, highlighting the long-term benefits of questioning.
In a workplace setting, a survey conducted by Harvard Business Review in 2020 on diversity of thoughts revealed that organisations with a strong culture of questioning and psychological safety – where employees felt comfortable asking questions – were more likely to have diverse and inclusive teams. This inclusivity, in turn, led to increased creativity, greater innovation, and higher levels of employee satisfaction.
Ways to unleash the potential of questions in our lives:
1. Cultivate a Curious Mindset: Embrace your inner child and maintain an inquisitive approach to the world. Allow your mind to wander and explore.
2. Embrace Failure: Recognize that not all questions lead to immediate answers or successful outcomes. Failure is an integral part of the learning process.
3. Encourage Questioning: Whether in classrooms, workplaces, or social circles, create an atmosphere where questions are welcomed and valued.
4. Pursue Answers: Don't stop at merely asking questions. Seek out answers through research, experimentation, and conversation.
5. Be Open to New Perspectives: Sometimes, asking questions may challenge your beliefs. Embrace the opportunity to broaden your horizons and evolve intellectually.
The power of asking questions cannot be overstated. From driving personal growth and innovation to fostering inclusivity and understanding, questions are the fuel that propels humanity forward.
Embrace your curiosity, dare to ask the difficult questions, and unlock the door to a world of endless possibilities.
"The key to growth is not in the ability collecting facts; it is in the ability to question everything."