ST. LOUIS — You do not have to arrive at every conversation with the answer. Sometimes the most useful thing you can bring is a sincere question.
An unanswered message, a changed plan or a difficult conversation can leave room for a story that exists mostly in your head. Before deciding what someone meant, pause long enough to separate what you know from what you are assuming.
Curiosity does not require ignoring a problem or giving up your judgment. It means letting the facts have a turn before your first impression becomes your final conclusion.
Try one small practice today: When something frustrates you, ask a question that could genuinely change your understanding. What information is missing? Has something changed? What would help you understand the other person’s concern? Then make room to hear the answer.
You can be direct about your needs while remaining open to new information. You can also say that you need time to think instead of supplying an instant response. Neither choice makes your voice less valuable.
Let today’s goal be understanding one thing more clearly than you did yesterday. You do not need to solve every disagreement. Begin by replacing one assumption with one honest question, and let what you learn guide the next step.
