“Ask More by Frank Sesno (A quick summary)

Ask More

The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions and Spark Change

Wow! Talk About Unleashing the Power of Questions.

SUMMARY:

In "Ask More: The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions, and Spark Change," author Frank Sesno explores the transformative potential of asking the right questions. Sesno, an Emmy Award-winning journalist, draws from decades of experience interviewing global leaders and everyday individuals to illustrate the art of inquiry through 11 categories of questions. This summary delves into the central themes and insights from the book, highlighting the importance of strategic questions, empathy questions, bridging questions, confrontational questions, creativity questions, mission questions, scientific questions, and interview questions. Through these categories, Sesno demonstrates how questions can define missions, diagnose problems, build empathy, hold people accountable, foster creativity, unite communities, drive scientific inquiry, and optimize interviews.

1. The Power of Asking Questions

Successful people in various fields share a common skill—the ability to ask the right questions at the right time. Questions break down barriers, identify solutions, and foster innovation. Unfortunately, we often assert more than we inquire and talk more than we listen. Sesno suggests that by shifting this balance, we can become more effective in our personal and professional lives.

2. Diagnostic Questions

Diagnostic questions are crucial for identifying and understanding problems that may not be immediately apparent. Sesno highlights the importance of probing for specifics, asking direct questions, studying history, and challenging experts when seeking solutions.

3. Strategic Questions

Strategic questions focus on big-picture thinking and long-term goals. Sesno emphasizes that these questions are essential for making complex decisions in uncertain situations. He illustrates the significance of strategic questioning through the examples of Colin Powell's approach to decision-making during the Iraq wars.

4. Empathy Questions

Empathy questions help us connect with others on a deeper level. They demonstrate genuine interest and encourage reflection. Sesno shares insights from experts like Helen Riess, who teaches doctors to incorporate empathy into their patient interactions.

5. Bridging Questions

Bridging questions are designed to coax information from reluctant individuals. Sesno explains the psychological principles behind these questions and provides strategies for encouraging open conversation.

6. Confrontational Questions

Confrontational questions demand accountability and put critical issues on the table. They are essential for holding powerful figures responsible. Sesno offers guidance on how to approach confrontational questioning effectively.

7. Creativity Questions

Creativity questions invite people to imagine new possibilities and explore unconventional ideas. Sesno showcases examples where creative questioning led to innovative solutions, emphasizing the value of thinking outside the box.

8. Mission Questions

Mission questions engage people in meaningful conversations about shared goals and values. Sesno highlights how these questions can create a sense of purpose and drive action, citing the work of philanthropic consultant Karen Osborne and humanitarian Rick Leach.

9. Scientific Questions

Scientific questioning involves a methodical approach to data, experimentation, and measurable facts. Sesno explains how this discipline encourages better decision-making and inquiry, despite our natural inclination for quick answers.

10. Interview Questions

Effective interview questions are essential for job seekers and employers alike. Sesno provides tips for both parties on how to prepare and engage in meaningful interviews.

11. Legacy Questions

Legacy questions prompt reflection on one's life, achievements, and the impact on others. Sesno emphasizes the importance of asking these questions throughout life, not just in its final stages.

Through the art of asking questions, Sesno encourages us to connect more deeply with others, foster innovation, navigate challenges, and leave a meaningful legacy. By incorporating the principles of effective questioning into our lives, we can become better friends, colleagues, innovators, citizens, leaders, and family members.

"Ask More" is not just a book; it's a guide to transforming the way we interact with the world and the people in it. It reminds us that inquiry, not imitation, is the sincerest form of flattery. By asking more and asking better, we can shape our futures and connect with others on a profound level.

So, the next time you find yourself in a conversation or faced with a challenge, remember the power of asking questions—because you can't ask for more than that. 💪

SIDENOTE:

If this summary is intriguing or interesting, I think you’ll like the book. Jana and I have really embraced reading and it has changed our lives.
As coaches and speakers, we have learned that every answer you are looking for is just waiting on the right question to be asked.
In my journey, gratitude unlocked the world’s abundance and opportunities, and questions have lead me to the right doors.
Here are 4 questions for you to sleep on from us at Living Lucky:

1. What do you really want in life?
2. Why do you want it and what will it change for you?
3. What do you need to do in order to achieve it?
4. Who do you need to become to receive it, have it, and sustain it?

☀️🤩If you’re looking for an amazing community of excited people on a journey to a better tomorrow through personal development and growth, our door is always open.☀️🤩 Living Lucky Community Group