Question Behind Question QBQ

This is a book I highly recommend: The Question Behind the Question by John G. Miller. It is a quick read and has a powerful message that we should present to ourselves on a regular basis. I first read the book last spring when Glen lent it to me. One of my classes (professional development 4) is now reading it for a class assignment. I brought it with me to the Y tonight and re-read the first 8 chapters and BAM! the message hit straight home again.

What is the message you ask?

It is quite simple. Practice personal accountability.

Here is an exerpt:

" Ever heard these questions?

'Why don't others work harder?'
'Why is this happening to me?'
'Why do they make it so difficult for me to do my job?'

Say them aloud. How do they make you feel? When I say them, I feel powerless, like a victim. Questions with a 'Why me?' tone to them say, 'I'm a victim of the environment and the people around me.' Not a very productive thought is it? But we ask them all the time!

....

The first QBQ guideline says all QBQ's begin with What or How, not Why, When, or Who. Rather than asking the questions above, how about:

'How can I do my job better today?'
'What can I do to improve the situation?'
'How can I support others?' "

I think you get the picture. The whole book is an excellent eye opener. I am ashamed to look back over the last week and see how many places I could have approached issues in a much more proactive and productive manner.

Go get a copy today!