Better Questions, Better Results

  What It’s Really Like to Be in the Top 1% of Anything: Beyond the Glamor Oscar Wilde once said, “There are only two tragedies in life: one is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.” This sums up life in the top 1%—a paradox of incredible highs and unexpected challenges. Being among the best in the world is exhilarating, but it’s not all golden accolades and smooth sailing. Let’s take an honest look at what it really feels like to reach and stay at the pinnacle of human performance. The Rewards of Being in the Top 1% 1. Recognition and Prestige Global or Local Fame : Whether you’re a Grammy-winning artist or a regional chess champion, your name carries weight. People recognize your skill and often admire you for it. Exclusive Opportunities : At the top, the world seems to roll out a red carpet. From exclusive events to elite collaborations, being exceptional opens doors. Validation : Knowing you’re among the best in the world offers immense personal satisfaction—a ha

  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. For

  How does using an analogy enhance the introduction of a concept? 20 November 2024 | Communication, Perception, Problem Solving, Question a Day, Storytelling Question a Day How Does Using an Analogy Enhance the Introduction of a Concept? When we encounter new or complex ideas, our minds often search for something familiar to anchor them. Analogies serve as that anchor, transforming the abstract into the accessible. They’re more than rhetorical flourishes—they’re cognitive tools that help us navigate unfamiliar terrain. Let’s explore the deeper ways analogies enhance understanding and why they’re invaluable in introducing new concepts. 1. Bridges the Gap Between the Unknown and the Familiar At its core, an analogy connects what your audience doesn’t know to something they already understand. This cognitive shortcut reduces the mental effort required to grasp a new idea. Example : Imagine explaining electricity. Instead of diving into the physics of electron flow, you say: “Electricity

  Why Does It Matter Who Asked the Question? 19 November 2024 | Bias, Communication, Employee Engagement, Feedback, Perception, Question a Day, Storytelling, Talent, Trust Question a Day   Why Does  Who  Asked the Question Matter? A question isn’t just a collection of words ending with a question mark. It’s a reflection of the asker—their intentions, expertise, power dynamics, and perspective. Understanding  who  asked the question adds layers of meaning to the inquiry and helps shape a more effective and appropriate response. Let’s break this down with greater nuance. 1.  Intent Behind the Question The person asking a question often holds the key to understanding its purpose. Without knowing the asker, it’s easy to misinterpret their intent. Curiosity vs. Challenge : A curious student asking “How does AI work?” is likely looking for a clear and engaging explanation. A skeptical journalist asking the same question might be digging for potential flaws or ethical concerns. Genuine Intere

  How can you incorporate mindfulness at work? 18 November 2024 | Best Practice, Continuous Improvement, Emotional Intelligence, Flow State, Mindfulness, Personal Development, Productivity, Question a Day, Self-Reflection, Work-Life Balance, Workplace Culture Question a Day   How to Bring Mindfulness into the Workplace: A Practical Guide In today’s fast-paced, always-online work culture, mindfulness often feels like the antidote we desperately need but rarely make time for. The good news? Incorporating mindfulness at work doesn’t require massive lifestyle changes or hours of meditation. Instead, it’s about simple, intentional practices that help you focus, manage stress, and connect with your work on a deeper level. This guide explores how mindfulness can transform not just your workday, but your entire approach to professional life. The Case for Mindfulness at Work Mindfulness has its roots in ancient practices, but its benefits are highly relevant to modern workplaces. Studies show t