Don’t give the impression you want an answer

Revealing your questions in such a way points to the shape of the knowledge you are seeking.

It’s important to imagine how what we say will be interpreted. Our conversations are able to move to a deeper level once you see how to reveal a question, without giving the impression that you expect an answer.

[It’s a common belief that you can’t take back a question,] and it stems from the same confusion that this essay is addressing—that questions are only for asking.

~ Malcolm Ocean from, https://www.ribbonfarm.com/2017/08/10/questions-are-not-just-for-asking/

Just including a simple phrase, such as “I’m wondering…”, as a preface to a question can remove the perception that you really want an answer. Revealing your questions in such a way points to the shape of the knowledge you are seeking.

The next time you have a question, in your mind try taking it back before you say it. Can you—instead of asking it—imagine how to reveal it?

ɕ