Judging Questions vs. Learning Questions: Shifting Your Mindset for Success

“Your brain is like Google—ask it different questions, and you’ll get different results.” – Some unknown genius 🧑🏼‍🏫

As an entrepreneur, financial uncertainty is one of the most consistent challenges I face. Sure, there’s freedom and creativity in running my own business, but it comes with its share of sleepless nights and second-guessing. This is a totally normal fear—many of us feel it. Still, I’ve caught myself spiraling into an unproductive loop at least once a day. Maybe you can relate?

That spinning usually begins with Judging Questions—the kind that feel accusatory and keep you stuck in frustration. Thoughts like:
💭 “When will I make as much as I did in my 9-to-5 job?”
💭 “Why can’t I find my next client faster?”

These questions aren't just frustrating—they keep you stuck in the problem rather than moving toward a solution. So what if we flipped the script and instead asked Learning Questions? These questions open up curiosity and possibility, leading your brain to focus on growth and action. Consider asking yourself:
💡 “What are a few things I can do today to move toward success?”
💡 “If I could time-travel five years into the future, what advice would future-me give to current-me?”
💡 “What are meaningful ways I can connect with others to grow my business and impact?”

Our brains love to chew on ideas. Why not give them something more nourishing? The way we frame our internal questions can mean the difference between staying stuck in the problem or making strides toward growth.

The next time you catch yourself spiraling in a loop of self-criticism, remember: it’s time to reframe the question.