Review 2025.03.004
Reviewers Note: It is the beginning of 2025 and one of the skills I desire to grow in is that of writing book reviews (having never done this before). I am doing this so I can better hone my writing (and reading) skills as I seek to think more critically about the books I am reading. I am sharing on Goodreads for my own personal development. I know this will be something I am always growing in so if you actually read these, please be patient with me as I develop this skill. I will also receive constructive criticism if you desire to help me become a better writer (and reader). I plan to use this disclaimer for the entire 2025 year.
Change Your Questions, Change Your Life by Marilee Adams
216 Pages
Most of the business and leadership books I read are books with stories but this book was a story that taught the lesson instead. If you have read books by Mark Miller, this is a very similar style to many of his books. In Mark Miller’s books, you walk alongside the protagonist as he or she uses the skills learned to solve their problems in the work place. This book was mostly from the perspective of the protagonist (Ben) as he worked through the problems with the coach and not in the situation directly (mostly).
The book was very engaging. Honestly I was over halfway through the book before I noticed Ben had only worked out the problems “off screen” but it did not detract from the purpose of the book. These types of books are easier to read and in some ways more helpful in leading you to integrating the ideas into your life because of the example they provide.
What is the lesson? It is all about QT (Question Thinking). I have “always” loved a good question. Asking questions helps you get to know people and it gets everyone thinking. This has been the way I engage the world for many years. I’m not sure why you would want to engage the world in another way but I know we were all created differently.
Now that I’m sitting here writing this, it reminds me of “How To Know A Person” by David Brooks. The comparison is in the desire to be inquisitive, to ask questions. Where David Brooks is using it to get to know people, Marilee Adams is using it to lead people.
It was a quick read and definitely worth the time I spent reading it. I recommend this for people interested in growing in their leadership skills.