There are things you want which are on the other side of asking a direct question.
“Could I be a guest on your podcast?”
“Is there a speaking slot available for me?”
“What do you think about working more in partnership?”
“Are you ready to start?”
We often take the side road, the hint, the vague conversation. “I was thinking maybe…” “I wondered about…” “Yeah maybe something like that could work…”
Really what we want to know is the answer to our question – yes, or no? In, or out? Go, or stay?
There is value in judging the timing, the relationship, the opportunity. Yet more often than not, the opportunity is right there if we take it. At least to get an answer, one way or the other.
Receiving a no isn’t entirely pleasant… but it’s actually one of the least likely outcomes.
More likely you’ll get a vague response in return, if the answer isn’t an enthusiastic yes. “Sure, we could think about something like that.” “Send me your thoughts, I’ll look it over.” “Maybe, I’m not quite sure yet.”
The ideal is to ask a direct question and get a direct answer, but life and business don’t work that way. And many people don’t, either.
So when you take your hour of creative headspace this week, whatever that looks like for you, use it to think about what your direct question would be.
What is something you really want, but have been a little nervous to ask?
How could you just… ask it?
I’d love to hear back – drop me a reply and let me know how you get on!
Or better yet, ask ME something you’ve been thinking on but haven’t asked directly yet!
