- Royale Scuderi
The only
foolish question is the one that was never asked!
When you begin any project, are trying to
make a change in your life, or are faced with a difficult undertaking, the best
way to improve your result is to ask the important questions first. If you are
working as part of a team, some questions may need to be asked of others. When
working towards an individual goal, you will be the one giving the
answers.
Ask, ask, ask — until you're confident
that you have a firm understanding. Don't wait until you're stuck and spinning
your wheels. Ask the questions and find the answers first!
Quality questions create a quality life. Successful people ask better questions, and as a result, they get better answers. – Anthony Robbins
Questions
Why am I doing this?
It's important to understand the reason
behind anything you undertake. Whether it's a goal, task, habit, or project,
"why am I doing this?" should be the first question you ask yourself.
Understanding the reason behind the actions can be a tremendous
motivator.
What is the desired
outcome?
Without being clear about the desired
result, you can't plan how to get there. Identify what you're trying to
accomplish and exactly what that will look like. Clarity is key. Vague targets are rarely attained. Defined and
tangible objectives have much greater success.
When is the deadline and are there
periodic checkpoints?
Know when the action or project needs to
be complete. Be aware of any phases or interim deadlines along the way. If you
know how much time you have to work with, you can better plan backwards and set
aside the necessary amount of time.
What is my role?
Understanding your role is crucial. Are
you the leader or a worker bee? Are you a researcher or a communicator? Are you
a team coordinator or planner? It's important to know which role you play so you
can align your actions. If it is an individual undertaking, then you are most
likely all of the above.
Who is responsible or accountable for
which tasks or projects?
This is related your role, but in a more
specific and tangible way. Determine which specific tasks you are personally
responsible for. Know who maintains accountability. Perhaps you are the one whom
others are accountable. Define your responsibilities.
Do I have metrics or some form of
measurement?
Establish a measurement of success, so
that progress can be determined. If metrics are set by someone else, know what
they are and if there is any flexibility.
What are the possible roadblocks or
obstacles?
We almost always encounter snags along
the way to completion. However, difficulties can more easily be overcome if we
can prepare for them. It's not always possible to prepare, complications by
their very nature, are frequently unforeseen, but if you at least try
to anticipate potential
setbacks, they can often
be resolved quickly.
What are the available
resources?
Be aware of what resources are available.
Be cognizant of the number of people involved or accessible to you and their
skills. Be honest about the amount of time that can be committed. Also,
understand if there are financial constraints.
How important is this project or
task?
The importance of any goal or project
determines how much attention and effort it deserves. Higher priority items get
moved to the top of the list, while less crucial tasks can often be pushed back.
If a project affects the profitability of a business or the health and
well-being of an individual, it usually gets top priority.
What can I do to be more
effective?
Develop
strategies to help you
be more efficient and productive. Improve the quality of your work by utilizing
useful and effective tools. Better organizational skills greatly enhance
effectiveness. Learn to be resourceful.
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