When questions are processed intuitively, they generate energy; when processed analytically, they deplete energy. This instant feedback can serve as a useful guide when learning to ask right questions.

Because the analytical mind reasons deductively, it has a natural affinity for processing "What's wrong?" questions and is poorly equipped to process "What's right?" questions. Questions that cause us to think, classify, separate and judge will normally process analytically and make us tired.

To be sure our questions will generate energy, the trick is learning to frame them so they CANNOT be processed analytically. Questions that invite us to feel, recognize patterns and discern wholeness will normally process intuitively and leave us feeling energized.

Our core definition of a right question is: "any question that allows the other person to feel valued while searching for new value hidden in their innermost feelings." In short, "value-finding."

Sample Questions

• What was the best thing that happened to you today?
  (After they have responded) What did you appreciate most about that?
  Be prepared to explain openly and honestly why you are asking.)
• What was the highlight of your _______ (day, week, trip, etc.)?
• What is the principal value you are getting from this discussion?
• What two things did you like best or appreciate most about ______?
• What was the best, most meaningful or useful part of your meeting, etc.?
• What would you do more of or less of another time?
• What feelings are you having right now about the decision or project you are considering?
• With what aspects of it are you feeling most comfortable? Least comfortable?
• What is the message or insight for you in these feelings?
• What would it take for you to feel more comfortable?
• What are your uncomfortable feelings telling you? Can you see any unique patterns in these uncomfortable feelings?
• In what ways could I be most helpful to you right now?
• Talk to me about what you are feeling or thinking right now.
• What are you learning from listening to your feelings right now?
• What other question could I ask right now that might be helpful?

© Kurt Wright, Clear Purpose Management, Inc. 2003

Kurt Wright is the author of the leading-edge book Breaking The Rules and is Founder and Chairman of Clear Purpose Management, Inc., which he operates with his wife and partner, Patricia, from Lone Tree, Colorado. The mission of Clear Purpose is:

To develop the world's leading expertise on the causes of commitment- in its healthiest, least stressful and most highly productive form - and to make this expertise available to business leaders so they can use it to improve the performance and profitability of their organizations and make the world a better place to live and work.

You can contact Kurt Wright at:

http://www.clearpurpose.com
Email: kwright[at]clearpurpose.com
Telephone: (303) 736-6666
Toll-free: (800) 726-5880