Better Questions, Better Results

How Do Societal Norms Shape the Questions We Ask? April 16, 2025 | Challenge Assumptions, Critical Thinking, Curiosity, Emotional Intelligence, Leadership, Mental Models, Organizational Culture, Perspective, Psychology, Question a Day, Relationships, Tradition Question a Day   🔍 Dare to Stand Out: The Power of Questioning the Norms That Shape Us Have you ever stopped to wonder why you ask certain questions—but not others? The way we frame curiosity isn’t just personal—it’s deeply shaped by societal norms, cultural expectations, and historical context. From childhood, we absorb unspoken rules about what’s appropriate to ask, what’s off-limits, and even what’s worth questioning at all. These invisible boundaries shape how we think, how we innovate, and how we challenge (or reinforce) the status quo. So how exactly do societal norms influence the questions we ask—and what happens when we break those rules? Let’s dig in. 1. The “Acceptable” vs. “Unacceptable” Question Divide 🚨 Why It...

  Why do people only think things they've seen before are normal? 21 November 2024 | Communication, Diversity, Innovation, Question a Day, Uncertainty Question a Day   Why Do People Only Think Things They've Seen Before Are Normal? Have you ever wondered why some behaviors, traditions, or even foods feel “normal,” while others seem downright strange? It’s not a coincidence—it’s the result of psychology, evolution, and cultural influence. Understanding this tendency can help us challenge assumptions and embrace diversity. Let’s dive into why familiarity feels normal and explore how to break out of this mindset. The Psychology of Familiarity: Why the Known Feels Safe Humans are wired to trust what they recognize. This phenomenon, known as the  mere exposure effect , means that the more we encounter something, the more we like—or at least tolerate—it. The effect explains why people tend to prefer familiar brands, songs they’ve heard before, or even certain cultural practices...