Where do you want their mind to go?

Lead them there, not by telling, but by…

A question.

Questions Work Like Mental Hijacks

When you ask someone a question, something happens in their brain. It is wired in such a way that makes it impossible to think of anything else when a question is posed to them. Neurologically, this is called the “instinctive elaboration” response, and it is an automatic reflex, beyond their control. In that moment, you’ve taken control of their mental spotlight.

It Goes Deeper: Questions Create Connection

According to research, asking someone a question and especially listening for their answer - triggers their brain's reward center. Why? Because it feels good to be seen. It builds trust, signals respect and curiosity.

So while statements position you as the expert, questions position the other person as a co-creator - and that makes your message more memorable, more meaningful, more shared. A well-placed question shifts the room.

And remember, people disclose information in layers. Keep your questions honest and kind.

The next time you want to persuade, inspire, or lead - Start with: What do I want them to think? And then: What question would take them there?

Inspirations:

“Change their mind”