I’ve recently started a new business venture and have come to the realization that there were questions I wish I would have asked earlier in the process–like before I signed on the dotted line…

The problem wasn’t that I didn’t want to ask the right questions because I definitely did. The problem was I didn’t know enough to ask all the questions I should have asked. I was in learning mode and in that mode information is attacking right and left. The challenge is to survive the attack, regroup, and ultimately digest enough to understand some of it.

During times such as starting a new business, new job, new relationship, or pretty much anything new there is always a learning curve. In the beginning we retain bits and pieces of what we need to know but don’t fully grasp the big picture. We want to feel like we can step into any situation, make a quick assessment and then “just know” exactly how to react or respond.

It would be nice if life worked like that but it doesn’t. We can’t just know what to do. It takes exposure practice and time in order to meet with enough experiences within the new situation to understand what is needed. The primary means to get the information we need is to ask questions, lots of them.

By asking questions, getting answers, and asking more questions we eventually get to a point where we can fill in the blanks as they come up. Details  begin to surface and those details often lead us to the RIGHT questions.

If you’re standing at the edge of a cliff and your friend tells you to jump you’re not likely to do so unless you’re certain you’ll survive.

Real life situations are not always that black and white but rather shades of gray. The questions we don’t ask can cost us; the questions we do ask can save us.

If you don’t understand everything you need to know in a new situation maintain a steady demeanor. Ask questions even those you might think are ridiculous or not worth asking–those are the very questions you should ask.

No matter where you are or what you’re dealing with in your life right now I’d be willing to bet you’ve got questions–questions that are lingering right beneath the surface–you may not even be aware a question exists but it’s there.

Don’t keep questions to yourself. If in the instant you think of a question pertaining to a particular situation but can’t ask it write it down. Add to a list of questions as they come to mind.

If you’re in a new work situation and you don’t feel comfortable asking a question of an immediate supervisor ask a lead worker, assistant, or knowledgeable co-worker. If you don’t think the questions you have are leading to the right information just keep asking. Those early questions will lead to others as you gain more information.

If in a new relationship and things don’t add up or something is bothersome but you can’t put your finger on it ask questions. As you get to know the person better your questions will lead to those that give you more clarity. If you’re not comfortable enough to ask questions decide if the relationship is the best one for you.