The Small Question is an integral part of my coaching. It is also one of the main pillars of Kaizen, a philosophy described in the book, One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way, by Dr. Robert Maurer, Ph.D. Ap
plying the Kaizen principle to a simple question becomes an art and a skill that, when acquired, will begin to serve all parts of your life.
There are several important points to consider when practicing the art of asking and responding to a small question.
A SMALL QUESTION BEGETS MORE SMALL QUESTIONS
A small question may produce another question. Like a stone sends ripples out to the edges of a pond, a question ripples deep into your consciousness. Each question brings more clarity to the essence of what you are seeking. A percolation starts and ideas and possibilities you might not have originally considered begin to pop.
IT DOESN’T NEED AN IMMEDIATE ANSWER
It is spacious and gracious and allows you to continue with you day while it works in the background. Forcing or expecting a quick response can dilute the results. However, sometimes the first unbidden response is the best one. Don’t toss it out, but, at the same time, be open to what comes up next.
LET THE QUESTION BE FOLLOWED BY ENHANCED AWARENESS
While an immediate response is not always forthcoming, it is necessary to, as a former business associate used to say, put your radar on and antenna up. This is a time of observation and curiosity around what shows up. People, quotes, emails, articles, music, books – all these things will suddenly become more visible in a way that supports the answers to your question. Stay tuned in for the synchronicities.
THERE IS A WAY TO ASK AND A WAY NOT TO ASK
Your brain loves a question and will immediately begin to formulate possible answers. This is the case whether you ask in a positive or negative way. Whether you ask gently or with a bludgeon. If you say “why can’t I…” it will provide answers. If you say “how can I…” it will also provide answers. Which answer will be more satisfying?
How might you start using a small question right now?