This post is part of the đź“– The Coaching Habit series.
Today, I am reading a new chapter The AWE Question from the book The Coaching Habit written by Author, Michael Bungay Stanier.
Yesterday, I read some sections of Question Masterclass Part 2 from the book.
Tomorrow, I will be reading a new chapter Going Too Far: The Paradox of Choice. Look out for tomorrow’s article.
The AWE Question
In this section in which the Best Coaching Question in the World is revealed, and you marvel at the power of three short words.
The AWE Question: “And What Else?”
Three little words. But “And What Else?"—the AWE Question—has magical properties. With seemingly no effort, it creates more—more wisdom, more insights, more self-awareness, more possibilities—out of thin air.
Three reasons why these three words have a significant impact:
- more options can lead to better decisions;
- you rein yourself in;
- and you buy yourself time
“When you use “And what else?” you’ll get more options and often better options. Better options lead to better decisions. Better decisions lead to greater success.” - Michael Bungay
You Tame the Advice Monster
If this were a haiku rather than a book, it would read: Tell less and ask more. Your advice is not as good As you think it is.
In short, even though we don’t really know what the issue is, or what’s going on for the person, we’re quite sure we’ve got the answer she needs.
You Buy Yourself Some Time
When you’re not entirely sure what’s going on, and you need just a moment or two to figure things out, asking “And what else?” buys you a little extra time.
Four Practical Tips for Asking “And What Else?
- Stay Curious, Stay Genuine
- Ask It One More Time
- Recognize Success
- Move On When It’s time
Do you know you can listen to this book on Amazon Audible for FREE?
If you are not into reading like me, then you can listen to this book for FREE on Amazon Audible
Don't Read. Just 🎧Key Takeaways
At the time of decision making, having at least one more option lowered the failure rate by almost half, down to about 30 per cent.
Summary
“And what else?” is a question that breaks the cycle. When asking it becomes a habit, it’s often the simplest way to stay lazy and stay curious. It’s a self-management tool to keep your Advice Monster under restraints.
Author(s): Michael Bungay Stanier
Part 6 of 21 in the đź“– The Coaching Habit book series.
Series Start | The Coaching Habit - Day 5 | The Coaching Habit - Day 7