The Art of Enquiry

Do you pride yourself on being a quick problem solver, or would you like to solve problems better?

Many of us pride ourselves on being quick problem-solvers. We see a challenge, jump into solution mode, and work tirelessly to find a resolution. While this mindset can lead to impressive efficiency, it often causes us to miss a crucial step in the process: understanding the problem itself.

This tendency is more common than we realise. It’s ingrained in many of us, especially in high-pressure environments, where time is of the essence, and productivity is often measured by how swiftly solutions can be found. However, rushing into problem-solving mode without a deep understanding of the issue at hand can lead to frustration, missed opportunities, or worse—solving the wrong problem altogether.

This rush to action often manifests as a narrowing of focus. We “zone out” from the broader context, shutting out distractions in pursuit of a solution. While this level of focus may seem like a strength, it can actually be limiting. By concentrating only on finding an answer, we may overlook the underlying dynamics, nuances, and variables that make the problem more complex than it first appears.

The Importance of Asking the Right Question

With rapid technological advancements, such as the development of AI models like ChatGPT, the landscape of problem-solving has dramatically shifted. Access to information is no longer a barrier. We can now retrieve data, answers, and solutions at unprecedented speeds on absolutely any subject or topic. However, having access to answers is no longer the most important skill.

What truly matters is asking the right questions.

This shift is a profound one. The ability to frame the right question is what determines whether we are tackling the correct issue in the first place. If we’re focused on solving the wrong problem, no amount of insight, technology, or expertise will yield the result we desire.

To truly succeed in solving complex challenges, we need to pause and reflect before diving into solution mode. We must cultivate the skill of inquiry—the ability to ask thoughtful, open-ended questions that dig deep into the heart of the matter. This is the foundation of effective problem-solving in today’s world.

To ask the right questions, we must first understand the problem from multiple perspectives. This requires an integrative approach that draws from spiritual, psychological, and neurological practices.

1. [Spiritual] Cultivating Awareness and Perspective

Spiritual practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and contemplation, help us develop a deeper awareness of our inner landscape. When we rush into problem-solving mode, we often become reactive, driven by emotions, stress, or external pressure. Spiritual practices teach us to slow down, centre ourselves, and observe the situation with greater clarity.

By cultivating a state of inner stillness, we gain the ability to step back from the immediate pressure of solving the problem and instead approach it from a place of calm and reflection. This perspective shift can reveal insights that were previously hidden, helping us see the problem in a new light.

Mindfulness encourages us to be fully present, to notice not only the external circumstances but also our internal reactions—our biases, fears, and assumptions. In doing so, we can begin to ask more meaningful questions:

• Why does this issue evoke such a strong reaction in me?
• What assumptions am I making about this situation?
• What is the broader context in which this problem exists?

These questions allow us to dig deeper into the root of the issue, rather than being fixated on a surface-level solution.

2. [Psychological] Understanding Motivations and Cognitive Biases

From a psychological perspective, effective problem-solving requires an understanding of human behaviour, motivations, and cognitive biases. Psychological practices, such as cognitive-behavioural techniques, help us become more aware of the mental patterns that influence how we perceive and approach problems.

One common cognitive bias is confirmation bias, where we unconsciously seek information that supports our preexisting beliefs or assumptions. When we dive into problem-solving without questioning our assumptions, we may inadvertently reinforce faulty thinking. Psychological tools help us step back and ask:

• What assumptions am I making about this problem?
• What alternative explanations might exist?
• How could my own biases be clouding my judgment?

Understanding the motivations and emotions of others involved in the problem is crucial. Many problems, especially in leadership or team environments, are not purely technical—they are deeply relational. Understanding the psychological dynamics at play allows us to ask questions that get to the heart of the issue, such as:

• What are the underlying needs and concerns of the stakeholders involved?
• How are emotions influencing the perception of this problem?

By exploring these psychological layers, we begin to understand the problem on a deeper level, which leads to more effective and relevant solutions.

3. [Neurological] Rewiring the Brain for Adaptive Thinking

Neurological practices, particularly those that focus on neuroplasticity, teach us that our brains are not fixed—they are constantly changing and adapting based on our experiences and behaviours. This insight is crucial when it comes to problem-solving because it shows that we are not limited by old patterns of thinking.

Many of us fall into habitual ways of approaching problems. These neural pathways are well-worn, making it easy for us to default to the same strategies, even if they’re not effective. Neurological practices, such as neurofeedback, help us become aware of these patterns and retrain our brains for more adaptive, flexible thinking.

When faced with a problem, we can engage in practices that promote neuroplasticity, such as:

• Engaging in creative exercises that challenge our habitual thinking.
• Practicing cognitive reframing, which involves looking at a problem from different angles and generating multiple possible solutions.
• Using positive visualisation to imagine successful outcomes, which activates parts of the brain associated with optimism and innovation.

By consciously engaging in these practices, we can rewire our brains to be more open, curious, and adaptive. This makes us better equipped to ask questions that challenge the status quo and lead to innovative solutions.

The Shift from Problem-Solving to Problem-Inquiry

Ultimately, the key to effective problem-solving lies in our ability to shift from a problem-solving mindset to a problem-inquiry . This shift requires us to slow down, reflect, and ask the right questions—questions that reveal the true nature of the issue at hand.

In a world where answers are readily available but the ability to frame the right question is rare, cultivating a practice of inquiry is more valuable than ever. By integrating spiritual, psychological, and neurological practices, we can deepen our understanding of the problems we face and approach them with a sense of curiosity, openness, and adaptability.

When we ask the right questions, we stop chasing quick fixes and start engaging with the real work of problem-solving—finding meaningful, lasting solutions that address the core issues. In doing so, we not only become more effective leaders and decision-makers, but we also cultivate a deeper sense of awareness, growth, and fulfilment in our personal and professional lives.

If you have any questions, please reach out. I love hearing from you and am happy to share my own experiences if it can help you. You can chat to me via substack or email me over on [email protected]

This article was originally published on Substack - subscribe