#23 The Power of Shifting from "Why" to "What"

Welcome back to another edition of "The Growth Compass," your guide to navigating the twists and turns of personal and professional growth!

This week, let's dive into a subtle yet transformative shift in communication that can truly propel your communication i-e: swapping out "why" for "what."

Think about, how many times have you found yourself get defensive when someone asks you "why"? Whether it's a probing question from a superior or a well-meaning inquiry from a colleague, that simple word can trigger multiple emotions (Positive/Negative) taking us back to uncomfortable moments from our past.

But what if I tell you there's a way to reframe those conversations, to turn them from confrontational to collaborative? It's all about the language we use and the mindset we adopt.

Research in psychology and behavioral science has shown that the way we frame questions can profoundly influence the responses we receive. By making a subtle tweak – replacing "why" with "what" – we can create a more open, constructive dialogue that fosters understanding and cooperation.

Let's break it down with some real-world scenarios:

1. Team Decision-Making: Instead of asking "Why did you vote for this strategy?" try "What factors led you to choose the option? " This subtle shift invites discussion rather than defensiveness, paving the way for better collaboration.
2. Not meeting Deadlines: Swap "Why is the project behind schedule?" for "What challenges have led to the delay?" This reframing encourages problem-solving and empowers team members to share obstacles openly.
3. Performance Reviews: Rather than asking "Why haven’t you met your targets?" try "What obstacles have you encountered?" This approach builds trust and invites employees to share challenges without fear of judgment.
4. Customer/Client Relations: Transform "Why are you unhappy?" into "What can we improve?" This change empowers clients to contribute to solutions rather than focusing solely on problems.
5. Conflict Resolution: Instead of asking "Why did you say no?" say "What made you think that way?" This helps us solve the problem without blaming anyone.

By embracing this simple yet powerful shift in language, one can cultivate a culture of collaboration, trust, and continuous improvement in your workplace. So, the next time you find yourself tempted to ask "why," pause for a moment and consider: how could reframing that question as "what" lead to a more productive conversation?

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Wishing you confidence, resilience, and boundless growth on your journey ahead!

Wishing you best this week and until next week,

Much Love

Priyadarshini Barik