Everyone Has Questions

In college I had a professor who always opened class with “Remember, there are no stupid questions.”

He was a kindhearted fellow, a gentle soul who extended a lot of grace to his students and everyone adored him.

As you might expect, because of his open demeanor and his desire to help there were always a lot of questions. And yes—in my opinion, some people took advantage of this professor’s good nature. I will say, however, maybe there was a bit of psychology involved on his part.

The ability to ask questions and receive straight answers created a wonderful learning environment. It primed our pump. The more we asked, the more we learned.

Some folks asked the questions I wouldn’t have thought of while still others asked the toughies few of us had the courage to ask.

By contrast, I had another professor—a brilliant man—who lectured with an iron fist. He had a commanding presence and rarely moved away from the podium unless it was to pace.

I believe he enjoyed teaching, but questions were not readily encouraged. As a result, students became bored and disengaged. I used to dread that particular hour and a half, three days a week.

I learned, but it took enormous effort on my part to stay focused.

My point?

Everyone has questions!

We may move at different speeds or learn through varied means, but asking questions is always smart.

Now certainly, there are teaching styles that are more conducive to learning than others. (I prefer the first example I mentioned.)

If  you write, you must learn to ask.

You must set aside pride and ask those questions you think are too dumb.

You don’t have to ask them in a public setting, although sometimes that allows others to learn, too. True professionals will never laugh or condescend. That’s what sets them apart as professionals.

They’ve seen it all and heard it all. They’d rather you ask questions than have you curl up and languish. Or worse—throw in the towel and give up.

As I’ve navigated this path over the years, I’ve asked thousands of questions. Thousands. Some smart, some—well…pretty lame. But it’s how I’ve learned. And I’m thrilled to share with others.

If I don’t know the answer, I’ll tell you. Or I’ll find out and get back to you. Or I may direct you to a better source (like Jamie Chavez).

I know I gush about Jamie a lot, but really, folks—if you’re not following her, you should be. Her blog posts are an absolute gold mine of information. And she’s edited some award-winning books, too. =) You’ll love her tell-it-like-it-is style and her gentle big sister wit. And writers, writing, and books are near and dear to her heart.

Oh—another thing. Somewhat off-topic.

Please, if you notice typos or errors in my blog posts, don’t think my ego is so fragile you’ll hurt my feelings if you say something. I’d really like to know!

I edit my posts, but sometimes things get past.

Last, but not least.

I want you to know I appreciate you and I’m praying for you.

***

Additional thoughts you might enjoy:

Delicate (and some not so delicate) Questions Answered

Got a Problem? Here’s the Solution!

Why Positive People Have More Fun

Please join me on Thursday (10/02/14) on the ACFW blog where I’m guest-posting.

I’m delivering a big ol’ dose of encouragement!

PLEASE SHARE

If you write, you must learn to ask questions! Here’s why:

(Click to Tweet)

Do you struggle with asking questions?

 Can you think of a time when you were glad you asked?

***

Have a super-blessed weekend, friends!

Love ya in Jesus,