Questioning

Following along a similar line to the previous post on reflection and the reader comment made me think of the book by Peter Block, The Answer to How is Yes.In it, Block writes that we tend to ask ourselves the wrong questions. These questions take the form of "How?" questions and tend to "(express) our bias for what is practical, concrete, and immediately useful, often at the expense of our values and idealism." 

Asking what Block calls Yes questions enables an individual or organization to focus on deeper concepts like values and purpose. Again, going back to the piece on reflection and the questions in the comments, this process is not always easy, nor should it be. However, when we do not look at bigger questions and concepts, we tend to get mired in the quick and easy answer, something that can lead us further from that which is important and worthwhile. 

For instance, one of the questions often asked is "How much does it cost?" Instead, Block suggests we ask ourselves, "What price are we willing to pay?" This price is not necessarily monetary. A bigger price can sometimes be paid when we take a risk and fail. The conversation though may lead to commitment to a path that leads to bigger things. As organizations and individuals, we must be willing to ask ourselves difficult questions and be prepared for the work that ensues as we look for answers that lead toward growth.