In a recent interview with Patrick Thean, we discussed a simple idea that can completely change how you lead: True leadership begins with asking questions, not providing answers. When leaders approach challenges with genuine curiosity, they uncover blind spots, build trust with their teams, and gain fresh perspectives. This approach requires staying open, even when you believe you already know the answers.

The Power of Curiosity in Leadership

Knowledge and experience can actually diminish curiosity. Many seasoned leaders fall into the trap of relying too heavily on past successes, missing opportunities to learn and grow. The most effective leaders consistently ask themselves, "What don't I know about this situation?"

Curiosity helps leaders:

• Uncover blind spots in their thinking
• Build deeper connections with team members
• See challenges from multiple angles
• Make better decisions with more complete information

Experienced leaders maintain their effectiveness by approaching each session with fresh curiosity, even with those they've worked with for decades. This practice prevents stagnation and keeps relationships vibrant.

Action step: Start your next team meeting by asking questions rather than immediately providing solutions. Listen carefully to responses before sharing your thoughts.

The "Think, Plan, Do" Methodology

Many businesses struggle not because of poor strategy but because of poor execution. The "Think, Plan, Do" methodology addresses this common challenge:

Think: Take time to pause and focus on what truly matters. Instead of reacting to every crisis, ask yourself, "What's the best approach to this situation?"

Plan: Bring your team together to align on priorities and map out actionable steps. This ensures everyone works toward the same goal with clarity.

Do: Execute with precision, staying focused on what drives results while avoiding distractions.

Taking time to think first might feel counterintuitive when facing urgent demands, but this deliberate pause helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Patrick shared how his young daughter reminded him of his own methodology during a stressful situation. She simply said, "Dad, it's simple. Think, plan, do." This reminder helped him step back, consider multiple solutions, and make a better decision.

Action step: When facing your next crisis, resist the urge to react immediately. Take 15 minutes to consider at least three possible solutions before deciding.

Prioritization - The Key to Effective Execution

"When you say yes to something, you've inadvertently said no to other things."

Many leaders struggle with prioritization, claiming to have multiple "number one" priorities. This approach spreads resources too thin and leads to poor execution across all initiatives.

Leaders must set priorities, or circumstances will dictate them. Without clear prioritization:

• Teams switch between tasks, reducing efficiency
• Important work gets delayed for urgent but less important matters
• Resources get allocated to the wrong initiatives
• Teams become frustrated with changing directions

Action step: Create a "not doing" list alongside your priority list. Explicitly document what you're choosing not to focus on this quarter to ensure alignment across your team.

The Destination Postcard Exercise

The Destination Postcard is a powerful visualization technique that helps teams align around a shared vision of success.

How it works:

1. Fast-forward to the end of your planning period (quarter, year)
2. Describe your success in past tense, as if it has already happened
3. Be specific about what made the period successful
4. Use the Red-Yellow-Green approach to define what success looks like

For example: "We achieved our revenue goals by focusing on our top three priorities. Our customer satisfaction scores reached record levels, and team morale is at an all-time high."

This exercise helps teams:

• Create a vivid mental picture of success
• Identify key milestones needed to reach that vision
• Anticipate potential obstacles before they arise
• Stay focused on what matters most

Action step: Create a Destination Postcard with your team for your current quarter or year. Revisit it regularly to stay aligned and focused.

The Fish Rots from the Head Down

Leadership accountability starts at the top. When something isn't working in your business, the first place to look is in the mirror.

Many leaders let their egos block progress by thinking they need to have all the answers. True leadership isn't about having answers—it's about asking the right questions and setting the tone for your team.

Leaders who admit they don't have all the answers create an environment of trust and open communication. This vulnerability encourages team members to share ideas and take appropriate risks.

Action step: Start your leadership journey by looking in the mirror, not at your team. Ask yourself: "How might I be contributing to this problem?" before addressing issues with others.

Embracing Change and Innovation

When facing technological change like AI, many leaders fall into one of two camps: embracing it enthusiastically or dismissing it entirely. Both approaches can be problematic if not balanced with curiosity.

Replace fear with curiosity by asking: "What don't I know about this change?" This question helps you develop a more balanced understanding of new technologies and their potential impact on your business.

Dismissing new technologies without understanding them can leave your business vulnerable to disruption. Many companies that dismissed cloud computing, digital music, or other innovations found themselves struggling to catch up later.

Approach innovation as a thinking partner, not just as automation. Ask how new technologies can help you make better decisions, not just perform routine tasks more efficiently.

Action step: When encountering a new technology or trend, ask yourself: "What don't I know about this change?" before deciding how to respond.

Moving Forward with Curiosity

Leadership starts with humility and curiosity—asking questions rather than always providing answers. By applying the principles of curiosity, thoughtful execution, prioritization, and visualization, you can lead your team to greater success.

Remember that if you're not willing to grow yourself, you can't expect your team to grow. Start by asking yourself: "What don't I know?"