I’m obsessed with questions.
I remember reading Tony Robbins years ago and having a moment.
“The quality of one’s life is directly related to the quality of questions one asks oneself.”
In other words, successful people ask better questions, and as a result get better answers.
Mind blown.
There are two types of questions: ones you ask yourself, and ones you ask others. Every morning, I open my journal and ask myself 7 questions.
An evolving collection I’ve stolen over the years. Each designed to provoke my thinking and inspire action.
I hope they provoke and inspire you too.
Feel free to steal, adapt or create your own.
#1: Who can I serve today?
Sometimes, I wake up and I’m in my own head. So this first question shifts my attention towards service. It helps me prioritise my energy and focus.
It also serves as a daily reminder why I chose this profession – to serve others and make a meaningful impact.
If you suffer from procrastination, it’s an invitation to take the initiative. Rather than waiting for opportunities to arrive.
#2: Who would I need to BE to be a more confident coach?
Confidence is magnetic. The more confident you are, the more likely you are to attract clients, partnerships, and other opportunities.
Building your confidence:
- Boosts credibility
- Enhances decision-making
- Improves communication
- Increases resilience
- Attracts better opportunities
Self-reflection is powerful.
Exploring new ways to be a more confident coach is fun.
There was a time when I would look outside. Now, this question encourages me to look internally.
How can I align my thoughts, feelings and actions to be more confident?
#3: Who can I surprise with a moment of random kindness?
I love this question.
Not only does it enrich my day, it also brings a touch of magic to those around me.
Last week, I sent my friend in Luxembourg Rick Rubin’s “The Creative Act. A Way of Being.”
“I hope you enjoy it.” I said, “I have it myself and instantly thought of you.”
He wanted to reciprocate but I replied, “No need to gift me anything. It’s my pleasure to send this to you. I just thought you’d enjoy it”
“And I will,” he said, “Thank you for being you.”
Whether it’s your friend, client, team member or a stranger, your act of kindness can uplift someone’s spirits. Especially impactful in challenging times.
Let’s create positive social change. One random act of kindness at a time.
Who will you surprise today?
#4: What’s the one thing I can do today that makes everything else easier or unnecessary?
If you’ve ever read “The ONE Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, you’ll know I’ve shamelessly stolen their question.
This is an extraordinary question that helps me:
- Cut to the chase
- Cut through the clutter
- Cut down on overwhelm
By identifying the most impactful action that will make everything else easier or unnecessary, it creates a domino effect.
- Smarter choices to allocate time and resources
- Avoids spreading yourself too thin
- Aligns actions with long term goals
- Simplifies decision making
If you’re able to successfully identify and complete your “one thing” it does wonders for your self-confidence. Reinforcing your self belief to make meaningful progress.
#5: What am I grateful for right now?
This next question has so many layers.
It encourages you to be present and appreciate the here and now.
If you’re feeling out of sorts, ask this one question.
You’ll probably notice your attention shift to what you have, rather than what you lack.
Notice how starting the day with gratitude sets you up for a more uplifting day.
Recognising what you’re grateful for includes acknowledging your own achievements and qualities.
Remember, if you want greater happiness and well-being, practice gratitude.
#6: What scares me? What would I do today if I was to do it anyway?
Whilst I value feeling safe and secure, I also want to face my fears.
I want to know any self-imposed limitations that may be hindering my growth.
Because stepping out of my comfort zone is where real growth happens.
This question encourages me to do just that.
#7: How will I celebrate my wins today, no matter how tiny?
The more high achievers I know, the less they celebrate daily wins.
Kinda weird.
My goal is to feel joy and fulfilment in my day.
Whether that’s enjoying a coffee and 5 minutes of me time, or turning an ordinary conversation into an extraordinary one.
The act of celebrating daily wins encourages mindfulness and a greater appreciation for the journey.
Conclusion.
This 7 question morning ritual has become a priceless practice in my journey as a professional coach.
I used to practice something similar as an entrepreneur. But all too often got tangled up in “to do lists” and putting out fires than sitting with intention.
It’s more than asking 7 questions; it’s a roadmap for how I want my day to feel and look like.
Making sure I’m aligned with my values, goals and purpose.
Perhaps it can also help you?
Putting things into perspective and providing a grounding, practical framework from which to think, feel and act.
Give them a go.
See what answers you get.
Perhaps some resonate better than others. Or maybe you have your own kick-ass set.
If so drop me a line either way.
I’d love to hear from you.
Today’s Action
Ask yourself 7 questions and write down your answers. Create a bias for action. One question at a time.
TL;DR
- Who can I serve today?
- Who would I need to BE, to be a more confident coach?
- Who can I surprise with a moment of random kindness?
- What’s the one thing I can do today that makes everything else easier or unnecessary?
- What am I grateful for right now?
- What scares me? What would I do today if I was to do it anyway?
- How will I celebrate my wins today, no matter how tiny?
