“Asking follow-up questions is a lifechanging act of service.”
~Kelly Corrigan
In the coming weeks, I plan to highlight insights that have stayed with me from the Aspen Ideas Festival that kicked off my summer.
Kelly Corrigan’s comment shown here was delivered with passion, and it hit me from two angles:
- As a facilitator, I understand the power of a well-worded, well-timed question. As a speaker, I frequently talk about the importance of leading with curiosity, and specifically how difficult it is to ask questions about something we think we already understand.
- As a transitions coach and someone who works primarily with voluntary organizations, I am familiar with the health benefits of serving others. Having an outward orientation and a commitment to a cause bigger than yourself improves your wellbeing and prolongs your health span.
But I had never connected those dots.
Seeing a thoughtful second question as an act of service to the other person was a revelation to me. It demonstrates we are willing to stay curious and attentive to them long enough to engage more deeply. When you think of a time you’ve been on the receiving end of that gift, you know Kelly is right.
Want to serve but aren’t interested in adding another volunteer commitment to your calendar? Ask a second question.
