Jocko Podcast - Standard Directive 013: If You HAVE To Say Something, Ask an Earnest Question

Episode Date: October 18, 2023

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I often recommend that you talk less, that you think before you open your mouth. But let's face it, there's going to be times when you really feel the need to say something. You want to make a point, or you want people to hear your side of things. And when that happens and you feel like you really have to say something, let me make another recommendation.

So think first, but if you really feel like you need to make a statement that you know has some value. Instead of making a statement, instead, try asking a question. Try asking an earnest question. Instead of saying, I don't think this plan will work, ask something like, hey, what is the exact outcome

that we're looking for? Right? You ask an earnest question. Instead of saying, that doesn't make any sense. Ask something like, I'm not sure I'm following this correctly. Can you explain it again? Instead of making the statement, this is dumb, try asking, are you sure this is really the best way to move forward?

So you're asking questions, earnest questions. And I know a bunch of you right now are sitting there saying, that doesn't make any sense, right? Why would I ask a bunch of questions? I'm a direct person. and people just need to deal with that. And that's the most effective way to let people know what you're thinking

is just to tell them. Well, unfortunately, people, most people, they don't like confrontation. And when they get hit with confrontation, they get defensive and they stop listening. And we don't move forward. So don't do that. Instead, ask an earnest question.

An earnest means that you mean the question. You're actually asking what the outcome is. is that we're looking for. You're actually asking for something to be explained again because you aren't following it. You're actually really wondering if this is the best way to move something forward.

If you're not asking an earnest question, if you don't really mean the question, you'll sound like you're accusing people or you're asking leading questions. And accusing people or asking leading questions also makes people defensive. So be careful, don't attack people. be offensive don't criticize people with your tone instead ask earnest questions

and this will lead you to solutions