Start by asking openended questions from "summary" of The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier
When you're trying to help somebody, you're likely tempted to jump right in with advice. It's a natural impulse. You want to be helpful, to solve the problem, to make things better. But here's the thing: the advice you offer might not actually be what the other person needs. It might not be the right solution for their unique situation. That's why it's important to resist the urge to immediately give advice. Instead, start by asking open-ended questions. This allows the other person to share their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives. It gives them the space to explore their own understanding of the issue at hand. By asking open-ended questions, you can help the other person gain clarity, insights, and new perspectives.
Open-ended questions are powerful tools for deepening the conversation and fostering meaningful dialogue. They encourage the other person to reflect, to think critically, and to articulate their thoughts more clearly. Open-ended questions can uncover underlying issues, uncover hidden assumptions, and reveal new possibilities. They can spark creativity, innovation, and growth.
By starting with open-ended questions, you demonstrate empathy, curiosity, and respect for the other person's experience. You show that you're willing to listen, to learn, and to engage in a collaborative problem-solving process. Open-ended questions create a safe and supportive environment for the other person to explore their challenges and discover their own solutions.
So, the next time you find yourself in a position to offer advice, take a step back and begin by asking open-ended questions. Let the other person lead the way, and trust that they have the wisdom and insight to find the answers they seek. By asking open-ended questions, you can empower others to take ownership of their problems, to find their own solutions, and to grow in their own unique way.
