The Disney-Pixar movie “Finding Nemo” is the story of the search of a fish-father, Marlin, for his son, little fish “Nemo”. At the end, as you might suspect, if you didn’t see or remember the movie, the father-son reunion happens. And it is through curiosity, and investigative inquiry, that Marlin is able to identify the place where his son was kept captive, the best route to get there and the sea-people that may help him. Not bad for a cartoon-fish, right? Imagine what humans can do by asking questions!
However, what does prevent people to ask questions? Most of the times, it is fear. Even when asked why, most people are unable to identify the cause. Because fear is elusive, or people believe that it is a ‘unconfessable’ feeling. However, the reality is that fear is human; there are different levels of fear and kind of situations, where it is easier to overcome.
I will dedicate an upcoming post about fear. However, for the purpose of the current article, let´s concentrate on the fear of asking questions, and how to deal with it.
There are a lot of misconceptions around people that ask questions. They are called nosy, snoop or too inquisitive. “Too much” for whom? Not for the one looking for answers, especially if the matter it’s of importance for his or her wellness.
Therefore, unless personal questioning that invades others privacy, don’t be afraid of asking questions. Here are a few reasons why:
- Gives you peace of mind: take a few minutes to prepare your list of questions, based on the information you require. This act serves as a meditation, an encounter with yourself, the thoughts and feelings you have around the subject at hand. Listing your questions prepares you for the actual situation of asking them; even anticipate potential reactions of the person you are asking. You can start by listing questions in writing. With practice, you will list them in your mind easily.
- Provide you with a list of options, no surprises: by asking questions you will be able to identify routes, course of actions to choose the best, and prepare accordingly.
- Helps you discover new, useful facts: at the start of a new situation, or even dealing with an old one, our own perspective could be limited. By incorporating the answers and comments of others, we expand our perspective, learn new useful information and discard or avoid erroneous actions
- Demonstrates your interest / passion for the subject: not only in academic or work related situations, but also around relationships, health or any other personal matter, by asking questions you make aware the other party of your commitment to success.
- Makes you memorable: in this case, you should be careful, since you would like to avoid be remembered by the wrong reasons. The good news is that if you overcome your initial fear, have prepared your list of questions and ask them with honesty and passion, you will be remembered for the right reasons.
