Dare to courageously ask yourself the right questions. It’s one of the most powerful keys to self-discovery. The best questions often arise from pain, frustration, confusion and indecision. If you’re on the precipice of a work life transition, take this opportunity to explore your passions, capabilities and choices. Be open to creative solutions. As Albert Einstein observed, “The important thing is not to stop questioning.”

Why ask the tough questions?

It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted. But working with passion and using your talents are such deep-rooted desires. They motivate you to keep going and growing - sometimes haunting you - not letting you go. Discovering your passion is the first step to exploring and actualizing it.

Dare to ask the questions that have no easy answers

Where do you start? Perhaps the questions below will spark some thought. Think about essential questions you would like to ask now.

1. What should I do with my life? A question posed by Po Bronson in his book of social documentary, What Should I Do With My Life? He calls it, “Asking The Question.” A good read.

2. What would it be like to truly love what you do? A question posed by Barbara Chan, Barbara Chan Consulting, confidential thought partner - developing legacy leaders and organizations.

3. What is the “more” I’m seeking in my work life? Is it meaning, value, fulfillment, connection, opportunity, challenge? What’s missing right now?

4. What do I really want? What am I excited about? What engages me?

5. What if……? Why not…? Imagine. Entertain possibilities in your mind. Ask the open-ended questions.

Learn to live with the uncomfortable questions

Listen to the quiet, inner guidance. Follow up by exploring the countless external resources available to you. Ask for the support of loved ones, colleagues and professionals. Be patient. As James Thurber, U.S. author and humorist, wrote, “It is better to know some of the questions than all of the answers.”

For more on the nature of passion, please see our post, “Passion for Your Work is a Double-edged Sword.”

Today’s question

Do you think there are consequences for not asking?