As a Mindset Expert working with entrepreneurs for over 6 years, I’ve discovered that the most powerful breakthrough moments often start with a single question. Not long ago, I received an email from a mentor that underscored this truth. The subject line was simple yet deeply thought-provoking:
“The job of a great coach isn’t to answer their client’s questions. It’s to give them more powerful questions to unearth insights within themselves.”
My mentor went on to suggest something that, at first, felt unsettling: what if we all pretended not to know what’s holding us back from greatness? This idea intrigued me. It prompted me to think about how often we operate in ways that contradict our goals because we’re either too focused on surface-level issues or sidestep the uncomfortable truths lurking beneath.
With this in mind, let’s explore what it means to welcome deeper questions. How can this shift in approach help us achieve not only our business goals but also build sustainable, fulfilling success?
The Power of Transformative Questions
This idea of questioning deeper isn’t new, yet it’s powerful. Over the years, I’ve worked with hundreds of clients and found that asking the right questions from the start is like flipping a switch. It can reveal a path to increased profitability, personal clarity and fulfillment, and sustainable growth—often surprisingly simple ways once uncovered.
The journey often begins with two questions: *What do you want, and why do you want it?* Let’s imagine that, like most entrepreneurs, you’ve hit a revenue plateau. You’re below the $1M mark, and can’t seem to push past it. Your quick answer might be, “I want to break the $1M barrier.” And when you think about your “why,” you might respond, “I’m working too hard for limited results, and I’m frustrated.”
From here, it’s tempting to jump straight into solutions focused on sales—after all, it’s a clear, specific goal. But here’s the catch: without probing deeper, you’re only addressing symptoms, not the cause. Often, the real issues emerge when we dig into the underlying why. Maybe the core issue is burnout, a lack of direction, or even fear of failure. When we go there, we start to uncover the real roadblocks—things that can’t be solved by sales tactics alone but instead call for a holistic approach that aligns your business goals with your personal aspirations.
In my experience, I see clients breathe a sigh of relief when they finally identify the deeper struggles they’ve been sidestepping. Suddenly, their goals feel achievable, and they’re ready to address what’s been holding them back for years.
Breaking Through Hidden Barriers; Addressing What We “Pretend Not to Know”
There’s another pivotal question that my mentor suggested:
What are you pretending not to know?
While it sounds unusual, this question often uncovers hidden beliefs that subtly shape our decisions and goals.
Consider this: many of us avoid recognizing what’s holding us back to avoid discomfort. Maybe it’s a skill gap, a need for structure, or areas of self-doubt that feel too overwhelming to address. Staying in denial can seem like an easier path, especially when tackling these issues means risking vulnerability or even potential failure. But often, this “not knowing” is a mask for something we fear.
Past experiences contribute here, too. Perhaps you’ve been labeled the know-it-all,” the “go-getter,” or the “nerd.” To avoid standing out or being dismissed, you downplay your abilities or ideas. But to fully step into who you are—and get the results you want—this is exactly what needs to be faced. As Brené Brown* reminds us,
“Where there is shame, there is no growth”
True growth comes from putting ourselves in situations that stretch and challenge us. When we cling to outdated beliefs, we limit our own growth and miss out on reaching our true potential.
Moving Forward: Accelerating Growth Through Strategic Questioning
I’ve had the privilege of helping countless entrepreneurs and leaders recognize and address their blind spots, unearthing insights that open doors to new opportunities. In my work, I’ve seen the power of asking questions that challenge our perceived limits. These profound reflections consistently propel my clients to uncover solutions that inspire, challenge, and motivate them. They understand that the path to sustainable transformation requires asking the right questions at the right time and thriving through outside perspectives, trusted support, and the strength to face hidden limitations. As an African proverb wisely says,
“If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”
If you’re ready to stop pretending not to know what’s holding you back, I invite you to take the first step. Book a call with me, and let’s see how we can work together to accelerate your journey and unlock your full potential.
Here’s to making the changes that lead to the success you truly desire.
*Quote from “Atlas of the Heart” by Brené Brown
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