Why Asking 'What Should We Do?' Might Be Holding Your Team Back
Avoiding Aggressive Questioning in Leadership
Directly asking, "What should we do?" in response to a problem may seem efficient but can inadvertently pressure team members, leading to stress and reduced cognitive function. Instead, adopting a structured approach that transitions from present observations to past contexts and then to future actions fosters a more supportive and productive environment.
Why Immediate Solution-Seeking Can Be Counterproductive:
Triggers Stress Responses: Unsolicited feedback or abrupt questioning can activate the brain's "fight or flight" response, hindering learning and critical thinking.
Limits Cognitive Function: Stress narrows our ability to think critically, making it challenging to process information effectively during high-pressure situations.
A Structured Approach to Problem-Solving Discussions:
Present – "What are you observing?"
Encourage team members to share their current observations about the issue, establishing a factual foundation.
Past – "What has occurred leading up to this?"
Explore the context and history related to the problem to understand contributing factors. Finding patterns is one of the most powerful ways to solve problems or situations.
Future – "What steps might we consider moving forward?"
After understanding the present and past, collaboratively discuss potential solutions and actions.
This progression aligns with the brain's natural processing abilities, reducing stress and promoting clearer thinking.
Bottom Lines
By shifting from immediate solution-seeking to a structured, three-step approach—Present, Past, Future—you create a supportive environment where team members feel empowered to think clearly and contribute effectively. This method not only reduces stress but also enhances problem-solving by aligning with how the brain naturally processes information.
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Resources:
David Marquet – Leadership expert and author of Turn the Ship Around!
David Rock – Neuroscientist and author of Your Brain at Work
Non Violent Communication - template and resources