Lead with Curiosity

We are all, myself included, quick to jump to conclusions before we have all of the information. We decide, without enough details, what a person's intention is, as well as judge them for it. We may even think that we know better than them (Who me???? I never think that ;)). All of these knee-jerk responses are barriers to curiosity. Having all of the answers does not lead to trust, collaboration, empowerment, or motivation. Asking questions, and getting curious add so much more value to an interaction, both with your athletes and your leadership team.

Consider coming into your next interaction while leading with curiosity. What can that look like in your program?

Remember, these concepts are universal and applicable to everyone.

Let's create a positive impact together!

How can we lead with curiosity with our staff members and leaders of our organizations?

We have all had these moments. Someone on our team brings a problem to us, whether it is about a co-worker, a child, or a parent. While they are talking, we cut them off and immediately TELL them what to do or how to handle it. Let's face it, sometimes it is faster to just solve the problem for them......and then judge them for it.

But, how does this serve you in the long-term? Guess who is going to end up back in front of you, unable to solve their own problems or trust themselves?

To foster their growth and self-trust, try to stay in the question period longer than you normally would.

• The following questions can help you linger in this moment:

  • What else?

  • Say more.

  • How do you feel about this?

  • What has worked for you in the past when this happened?

  • What is your dream for that situation?

    
    

I encourage you, this week, to pause in this situation and challenge yourself to ask 2 questions before you respond to a situation. The more you practice, the easier it will become.

How can we lead with curiosity with our athletes/children?

So many coaches use lecturing as the main tool of communication. And, I don't know about you, but the last thing that motivates me is a long-winded lecture. Lectures can make kids feel resentful, disengaged and ultimately, stop listening. They can exasperate kids instead of inspiring them.

So, how can we use curiosity to get the best out of our athletes?

• Avoid commands - especially with our more challenging kids - and instead invite curiosity.

• Ask more questions that invite kids to search for their own answer.

  
  

  Here are a few examples to use at the beginning of practice or a game/competition:

  • What do you hope to get out of today?

  • What are you planning to focus on today during practice/game/meet?

  • What will help you stay focused on your goal today?

And, when things go awry, and you need to "coach" them through a moment or a conflict, try questions like:

• What happened?

• What do you think caused it to go this way?

• What else could you do?

• What would be encouraging to you right now?

• How can I help you?