Better Questions, Better Results

How Do You Know When Something’s Funny? The Subtle Science of Laughter, Timing, and Connection Humor is universal — but what’s funny isn’t the same for everyone, everywhere, every time. So  how do you know when something’s funny ? This question opens a surprising window into psychology, timing, social signals, and even evolution. If you’ve ever told a joke that bombed (or laughed so hard you cried), you’ve felt just how complex this can be. In this guide, we’ll unpack how your brain detects humor, why context is everything, and how you can read the room to know if something’s truly funny.  (This helps you avoid awkward silences — and spark better connections.) The Surprise at the Heart of Humor At its core, humor comes from the brain spotting something  unexpected but safe . Researchers call this  incongruity theory : your mind predicts a pattern, then something flips it upside down — and your reward is a laugh. A simple pun works this way: your brain follows a sente...

When Is the Best Time to Ask Specific Types of Questions? February 18, 2025 | Communication, Critical Thinking, Emotional Intelligence, Feedback, Mental Models, Personal Development, Timing Question a Day   Unlock the Power of Perfect Timing to Get the Answers You Need Timing, as they say, is everything—even when it comes to asking questions. Whether you’re trying to land a job, spark a thought-provoking conversation, or avoid being ignored in a crowded Slack channel,  when  you ask a question can greatly influence the kind of answer you receive. In fact, research shows that human productivity, focus, and even willingness to help others fluctuate throughout the day. By aligning your questions with these natural rhythms, you can increase your chances of getting useful, timely, and thoughtful responses. Here’s a data-backed deep dive into the best times to ask different types of questions—so you never have to hear, “Can we circle back to this later?” again. 1. Professional ...

How can you effectively give feedback in the workplace? 21 January 2025 | Active Listening, Authenticity, Career Growth, Communication, Emotional Intelligence, Leadership, Question a Day, Timing Question a Day How to Give Feedback Effectively in the Workplace Feedback is essential for professional growth and team success, but it’s not just what you say—it’s how you say it. Mastering the art of giving feedback effectively can strengthen relationships, improve performance, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Why Effective Feedback Matters Effective feedback benefits everyone: Promotes Growth : Helps individuals identify strengths and areas for improvement. Builds Trust : Demonstrates care for colleagues' success and fosters open communication. Drives Performance : Encourages problem-solving and team alignment on goals. Strategies for Giving Feedback Effectively 1.  Choose the Right Time and Place Private Conversations for Critique : Feedback addressing areas for improveme...

What does a truly groundbreaking idea look like? January 3, 2025 | Creativity, Curiosity, Innovation, Perception, Question a Day, Timing, Vision Question a Day What Does a Truly Groundbreaking Idea Look Like? Groundbreaking ideas are more than innovative—they’re transformative. They challenge assumptions, reshape industries, and redefine what’s possible. From the invention of the printing press to the rise of artificial intelligence, these ideas don't just address problems; they create entirely new paradigms. So, what makes an idea truly groundbreaking? Let’s explore the anatomy of innovation and how you can recognize, develop, and harness transformative concepts. Defining Groundbreaking Ideas A groundbreaking idea: Challenges Conventional Wisdom : It confronts long-held beliefs or established systems. Solves Universal Problems : The best ideas resonate widely, addressing needs or desires across cultures and demographics. Leaves a Lasting Impact : They don't fade away; instead,...