Breaking Routine

I love a dynamic conversation, one that contains surprises, challenges to my thinking, revelations, laughter & emotions. These kind of conversations make you feel alive.

But sometimes the conversations we have with those we see regularly, such as family, workmates, or even our spouse, can become less dynamic because they develop a routine. And this routine doesn’t remind us to ask the dynamic questions.

We talk about what we had for lunch, what we watched on TV last night, the news. It’s routine.

And it’s true, not every conversation will be dynamic with those we see regularly. It would wear you out if it did.

But take opportunities to break the routine.

Ask questions that look at the bigger picture, or cause self-reflection, or that add a curve-ball to the situation.

“There is no time like the present to ask curious questions. A surprising question doesn’t need a reason.”

Once you’ve done how-are-yous, ask them how they are really feeling. What are they struggling with, what are they hoping for, what’s on their mind?

There is a question you will often get in response when you break routine – “What made you ask that?” Just because a question is surprising, doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be asked.

There is no time like the present to ask curious questions. A surprising question doesn’t need a reason.

And new questions spark new conversations. And new conversations lead to new ideas, new epiphanies, new discoveries, new decisions.

Or they may simply be a fun conversation that you have never had before.

These kinds of conversations make you feel alive. They make your relationships come to life.

Get into the habit of breaking routine.

Let’s talk.