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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Ask summary
Jeff Wetzler
Tap Into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You for Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life
19 mins
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Ask
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Revealing unspoken truths in communication
Have you ever been the last to know something critical that others around you knew but didn’t share? This frustrating scenario often arises because people withhold essential information. In many interactions, individuals keep their true thoughts and feelings hidden, creating what organizational expert Chris Argyris calls the “left-hand column.” Argyris, a professor at Harvard, developed this concept to help uncover the gap between what is said and what is truly felt. The “left-hand column” method involves writing down unspoken thoughts alongside actual spoken dialogue, revealing hidden insights that can include struggles and the help needed, genuine opinions on issues, honest feedback, and bold ideas that might seem impractical.
Jeff Wetzler, the author, once faced a crisis with a training program just before it began. Despite regular updates from the team, significant problems weren’t communicated until it was almost too late. The program was saved by a dedicated team member who stepped up, highlighting how essential information was withheld until a crisis emerged. This situation illustrates a common issue: important information is often not shared openly. The “left-hand column” method helps address this problem, often revealing the gap between what’s said and what’s truly felt, uncovering hidden insights that can lead to better understanding and problem-solving.
Consider the example of a manager who hired an experienced project manager. Initially, the new hire performed well, but soon began missing deadlines. In a meeting, the manager addressed these issues, but the new hire’s unspoken thoughts revealed deeper problems within the organization, such as inefficiencies and overwhelming workloads. The manager, unaware of these underlying issues, believed the conversation resolved the problem, while the new hire felt misunderstood and overwhelmed.
These communication gaps aren’t limited to workplaces; they occur in all types of relationships. People often withhold critical information due to fear, power dynamics, or reluctance to confront difficult truths. Encouraging open dialogue can transform interactions, leading to better outcomes and stronger connections.
By fostering an environment where people feel safe to share their true thoughts, you can uncover valuable insights that enhance decisions, solutions, relationships, and overall effectiveness.
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What is Ask about?
Ask (2024) equips you with a practical method for uncovering others’ genuine thoughts and emotions, fostering smarter decisions and deeper connections. By addressing common communication barriers and providing essential questioning techniques, it empowers you to tap into people’s authentic perspectives effectively.
Ask Review
Ask by Jeff Wetzler (2021) is a guide to unlocking our potential through the power of asking insightful questions. Here's why this book is a valuable read:
- Featuring practical exercises and strategies, it equips us to navigate personal and professional challenges more effectively.
- The book explores the impact of curiosity on our relationships, careers, and personal growth, inspiring us to ask better questions.
- With its engaging anecdotes and research-backed insights, the book offers a fresh perspective on communication and problem-solving, ensuring a stimulating read.
Who should read Ask?
- Professionals who want to hone their communication skills
- Individuals craving deeper interpersonal connection
- Those intrigued by communication psychology
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Ask FAQs
What is the main message of Ask?
The main message of Ask is the power of asking questions to unlock insights and drive change.
How long does it take to read Ask?
Reading Ask takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is Ask a good book? Is it worth reading?
Ask is worth reading as it reveals how questions can transform relationships and foster innovation.
Who is the author of Ask?
Jeff Wetzler is the author of Ask.
What to read after Ask?
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