by Garry Zancanaro
Asking questions is one of the most basic ways that we all learn
and grow. The questions we ask other people, and even more
importantly, the questions we ask ourselves, can have a dramatic
impact on our self improvement, success and happiness.
There are times when we find ourselves with problems, in
difficult situations, or even in a position where we feel
completely overwhelmed. It can be very easy to say 'what have I
done to deserve this?' or 'why does this always happen to me?'
However, these questions are destructive and only serve to
prepare us for future disappointments. In fact, they can actually
guarantee it! The questions we ask ourselves reflect our state of
mind, reinforce our beliefs and have a huge impact on our
results.
We all need to make a concerted effort to ask ourselves
empowering questions that encourage and promote positive
thoughts, rather than destructive questions that reinforce
negative thought patterns and behaviour.
We all experience events that seem just too much for us to deal
with, but in almost any situation, no matter how bad it may seem,
there is usually something positive that can be found. Actively
looking for positives and asking the right questions can make all
the difference.
Actually asking the question 'what can I learn from this?' is a
great starting point, even if you only learn what not to do in
the future. But you can go much further. It has often been said
that when one door closes another opens; and that in every
setback lies opportunity. Things usually happen for a reason.
When something happens that may seem like the worst possible
outcome, very often it turns out to be just the opposite.
Many people have achieved their greatest successes as a direct
result of events that seemed like disasters at the time. Don't
just stare at the closed door - why not try asking yourself what
opportunities are now available, or what doors have just opened
for you? Try approaching the situation from a completely
different angle and actively look for viewpoints you hadn't
considered. You may be amazed what you come up with. At the very
least, it will improve your state of mind, start you thinking
more positively and creatively, and may just change you life.
"A major stimulant to creative thinking is focused questions.
There is something about a well-worded question that often
penetrates to the heart of the matter and triggers new ideas and
insights." - Brian Tracy
About the Author: Garry Zancanaro is the founder of
http://www.SelfImprovementDirectory.com/ a website dedicated to
all aspects of Personal Development, and to helping people live
more successful and fulfilling lives. Visit to claim a FREE copy
of Napoleon Hill's classic 'Think and Grow Rich'.
