Always Ask Questions When You're Not Sure!
One of the ways you can gauge if a person is listening or engaging with you are the questions they ask. If a person is not listening, or listening so they can talk, then they will probably not have any questions. They may also not ask a question if they feel they would look stupid asking the question.
"It is better to listen than to speak", said various people, and that is true. By listening to the other person we can engage with them, and listen to what they have to say. By asking questions, we engage more with the speaker, and are able to get more of the value that they have to offer.
If a millionaire gave you 30 minutes of their time to tell you what you have to do to become a millionaire, then you would listen and ask questions. This WA community works because people listen to one another and ask questions of one another.
I tell my students to ALWAYS ask questions, even if they seem stupid, because you may be asking a question that helps someone less courageous. That question you ask may help clarrify something for someone, and release them to a better situation.
Some people may say "why are you asking such a question?". And you boldly say " because I need to learn, because I need to understand."
The ancient Hebrew Scriptures say " Get wisdom, get understanding, for it is more precious than gold and silver"
The Gold is in the questions you ask!
Peace!
Recent Comments
14
To understand something, your new acquired knowledge has to fit on your old ones. If it doesn't fit you have to fill the gap by asking, seeking and knocking.
This is a good post Colin.....
Although I am not a shy person by any means, at times, and especially since being within the WA community, I have hesitated from asking questions. A part of me feels as if I should be able to just figure it out, and the other part feels as if I may be wasting someone's time. Although I am a big believer in making every effort to seek answers on your own, I also believe in the power of asking questions. In asking for someone's help, not only am I getting help, but I'm giving someone an opportunity to serve, to share their knowledge or talent. It really is a beautiful thing!
...and Im glad you think so Veronica. I have often been in a group where a question would answer many of the question of that group. Asking the question on behalf of others releases them to come to the answer. You are right, there is an element of service there and it is a beautiful thing!
Bless you
To ask a question is but a moment of ignorance. Not to ask is a life time. This is a quote by Confusius.
Thanks Colin, the other I constantly tell my karate students is there no stupid questions. Lol, I am still practicing a style called Chito Ryu, created by a Dr. Chitose, an Okinawan.
See more comments
Sound advice Colin.