Transform Your Coaching: The Power of Questions

In our fast-paced world, the questions we ask can make all the difference. Recently, I delved into Change Your Questions, Change Your Life by Marilee G. Adams and Marshall Goldsmith, a book that offers transformative insights into how our questioning techniques shape our thinking and, ultimately, our results.

Why Questions Matter

Questions are not just tools for gathering information; they shape our mindset and influence our relationships. The authors emphasize that by shifting from a "Judger" mindset—one focused on criticism and blame—to a "Learner" mindset—one rooted in curiosity and understanding—we can unlock new possibilities for growth. This shift can be particularly powerful in agile coaching, where fostering collaboration and open dialogue is essential.

Key Takeaways

Here are a few insights that resonated with me:

1. Embrace a Learner Mindset: Curiosity leads to deeper insights. When faced with challenges, ask yourself, "What can I learn from this?" This simple reframe can open up avenues for growth and innovation.
2. Utilize the Choice Map: This visual tool helps identify when we’re in a Judger mindset and how to transition to a Learner mindset. It’s an excellent resource for guiding teams through difficult conversations.
3. Implement Question Storming: Instead of focusing on solutions, generate as many questions as possible. This technique not only fosters creativity but also encourages a collaborative spirit within teams.

Three Quotes from the Book:

1. “Our questions shape our thinking; our thinking shapes our actions.”
2. “Switch from a Judger mindset to a Learner mindset to open doors to creative solutions.”
3. “Empathy begins when we stop judging and start listening.”

Three Tips from the Book:

1. Adopt a Learner mindset: Focus on curiosity, especially when faced with challenges, to uncover valuable insights.
2. Ask open-ended questions: Encourage conversations that help others reflect, rather than closing down with yes/no questions.
3. Reflect on your internal dialogue: Regularly tune into your self-talk to catch and reframe unhelpful thoughts.

Practical Tools for Implementation

Change Your Questions, Change Your Life introduces several practical tools to enhance our questioning approach:

• Question Thinking (QT) Method: A framework for transforming habitual questions into constructive inquiries that lead to better outcomes.
• Choice Map: A tool to visualize and navigate our thought processes, facilitating the shift from judgment to learning.
• Question Storming: A brainstorming technique focused on generating questions that deepen understanding and encourage innovative solutions.

Call to Action

It is a very easy read, in fact, I could not put it down once I started reading it. You will know what I mean if you have read?The Phoenix Project ?:-)

I strongly encourage you to read Change Your Questions, Change Your Life and explore how these insights can be woven into your agile coaching practice. You can get your copy here .

What questions do you typically ask yourself when faced with a challenge?

How could reframing those questions help you or your team?

I would love to hear your thoughts and insights!

Together, let’s embrace the power of questions and transform our coaching journeys.

Best regards,

Nimesh Soni

www.nimeshSoni.com

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• Our YouTube Channel:?Agile Coaching Toolbox ?– Filled with tips, tools, and real-world Agile advice you can apply right away.
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