What’s in this issue:
💭 Thought: When in doubt, ask
😆 Today’s Laugh
💭 Today’s Thought
When in doubt, ask.
This phrase has become a bit of a mantra for me, and a reminder about one of our most essential tasks as leaders: the task of making what’s implicit, explicit — of taking what’s in our minds, in others’ minds, what we sense going on in a group and instead of leaving it unnamed and undiscussed, to have the courage to name it, invite it in to the space, and work with it.
Every day, I hear questions like the below from my clients and leaders I work with (and I also regularly ask these myself):
What does this person think and feel about this change initiative?
When and how should I involve this person in my project?
How can I confidently make decisions on this project without stepping on another person’s toes?
How do I effectively bring a problem or situation to my manager?
How do I motivate my team members towards a new goal or idea?
There are two paths to take when pondering questions like these that involve another human being…
The first is to make an assumption about the answer, and take action based on that assumption. A form of trial and error, if you will.
The second is to ask a question that will get you more explicit insight into the person on the other end or the challenge you’re facing.
In my experience — and I’m constantly learning this every day — the latter, while it might take a bit longer, also brings with it peace of mind, confidence, and a more trusting relationship with the other individual(s) involved.
Mental guesswork is exhausting. Once you ask the question and get an answer, things become clear and there’s an opportunity for connection and alignment.
When you find yourself wondering about what’s going on for someone else, or facing a challenge you have no clue how to solve, instead of thinking, What solution can I try? think, What question could I ask, and to whom?
🖊️ Today’s Reflection
If you’re new to journaling, I highly encourage you to read Nancy Adler’s article: Want to be an outstanding leader? Keep a journal.
This week, find a quiet place and gift yourself 10 minutes to reflect on any of these prompts (or invent your own!):
Make a list of questions you’re grappling with, or assumptions you find yourself making about someone else (personally or professionally).
For each question in the prompt above, write down one question you could ask to bring clarity and a name of someone you could ask it to.
Lastly: pick one of those questions to ask tomorrow. :)
📚 Today’s Read
Amy Webb Launches 2024 Emerging Tech Trend Report
OK, this is super long, but Amy Webb’s talk at SXSW gives a fascinating look into the future of tech and AI — and how virtually every industry will look dramatically different when our current tech cycle is over.
See you next week!
xo,
Anne