Boost the Power of your Resolutions
When it comes to behavior change, did you know that asking questions could be more influential than making statements? Did you know that posing questions in a way that invites a “Yes” or “No” response can more effectively encourage the desired behavior than a declarative statement?
The results of a 40-year research study conducted by several universities, including the University of California, Irvine, found asking is more powerful than telling. They suggest the principle – asking a question to which the response is “Yes” or “No” – applies to interactions with others and with self.
So, if you want to boost the power of your new year’s resolution, don’t declare, “I will…” Instead, ask yourself, “Will I … [fill in the desired behavior – exercise regularly, save more, go for that promotion, improve my relationships.]” Good questions can be a powerful stimulus for lasting behavior change.