In our last post, The Power of Saying “I Don’t Know” in Construction, we delved into how to use “I don’t know” to your advantage. Now, we’re taking it one step further. Asking Stupid Questions is the smart way to move ahead.
If you’ve taken a class, attended a seminar, or met for a pre-project discussion, you’ve probably heard, “There is no such thing as a stupid question.” Because you’re a construction contractor who leads others, you may have even given voice to that sentiment yourself. Do you believe it?
Of course, you and I know there are some stupid questions. And there are nuances in who asks them and under what circumstances they’re asked. But in the overall scheme of things, “The only stupid question is the one you don’t ask.”
These Are Not Stupid Questions
There is no shortage of parents or teachers willing to share the funny things that fall from children’s mouths. Here are a few that I found during a quick search on the internet.
“Why do mashed potatoes taste like the inside of a french fry?”
“Why is the Statue of Liberty holding an ice cream cone?”
“Does it rain over the Specific Ocean?”
“Why don’t you ever teach us anything; you just spend the whole time explaining stuff.”
“How do babies get in mommy’s tummies? Is it science or magic? (By the way, the answer is Yes!)
These little truth seekers ask important (and intelligent) questions to enable them to navigate a world filled with fascinating, intriguing, and sometimes scary things.
These Are Stupid Questions
While children ask the smart questions, their parents seem intent on asking some pretty stupid questions. Things like:
Do you want to be disciplined? (What the kid is thinking - “Why yes, that is what I’ve been longing for.”)
Do you think I’m stupid? (What goes on in the kid’s head - “Oh please, don’t make me answer that out loud.”)
Well, where did you lose it? (Trying hard not to roll eyes, the kid thinks - “You’re kidding, right?”)
Why did you do that? What were you thinking? (The answer is - “I don’t know.”)
Don’t Waste Time, Ask Stupid Questions
Not getting clarification can have repercussions. Rework that slows progress can waste time (and materials.) Not asking questions is like painting over mildew – it only gets worse. Prioritize the job at hand, not your desire to avoid embarrassment. Often, it takes bravery to speak up. Being humble enough to admit there is something you don’t know is a better path to speedy resolution.
“True humility assumes the dignity or strength of the one possessing the virtue, which is why it should not be confused with having low self-esteem or being a doormat for others. In fact, I would go so far as to say that it is impossible to be humble in the real sense without a healthy sense of your own worth and abilities.” – John Dickson (emphasis added)
Even in those times when you say “Ireallyshouldknowthisbut” you have the added advantage of showcasing your strength, tenacity, and courage.
The folks at Struoud International tell us Why Asking Stupid Questions Is The Smartest Thing To Do. Click on the article for three real-world examples of the positive outcomes achieved by asking stupid questions. Look for these subtitles:
“Stupid Questions” Help you to learn faster
“Stupid Questions” Allow you to discover what is known and unknown
“Stupid Questions” Provide a new perspective on hard problems
Asking Stupid Questions Can:
Open doors for learning more from others.
Make more things make more sense.
Bolster your peace of mind quotient.
Inspire others around you to achieve their full potential.
Foster harmony.
Reflection: How will you use the powers of I Don’t Know and Asking Stupid Questions in your construction business?
Ambitious Construction Contractors look to The Profit Constructors to provide advocacy in dealing with:
Clients and customers
Employees and subcontractors
Vendors and service providers
Governmental entities
Working with The Profit Constructors gives Construction Contractors the means to organize their operations in ways that help them:
Remain informed
Avoid hassles
Reduce risks
Be future-ready
Ready for action? Or want to know more? Get in touch today to schedule a complimentary discovery call. 866-629-7735
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