People say they want you to give them the answer.
But often, what they really want is the chance to find the answer themselves.
Because when that happens, two things click:
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They feel smart โ because they are, and they like you for witnessing it.
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They take ownership โ because it was their brain that solved the puzzle.
The problem is, we often get in the way.
We default to answer-mode because:
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It makes us feel smart.
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We think thatโs what people value.
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It takes less time.
But thereโs a hidden trade-off.
You can either spend the time upfront guiding them to the answer, or spend way more time later trying to convince them to use it!
If you want better outcomes at work, donโt default to handing over answers. Ask better questions, instead.
๐ If you found this interesting, let me know! Buy me a virtual coffee โ or forward this email โ๏ธ to someone who also might like it. Your occasional support means I can keep sharing ideas about behavioural science for free.
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