As a performance coach, I’ve had the privilege of working with world-class athletes and successful leaders alike. And if there’s one thing that truly sets high performers apart, it’s this: the quality of the questions they ask themselves.
It’s not just about reflecting on what went well or what didn’t. It’s about how they question their own thinking, their challenges, and their next move. Let’s break this down into three types of questions I recommend using regularly to keep your progress on track.
1. Ask Yourself Open Questions
The quickest way to stall growth is to ask questions that shut the door on possibility.
Questions like “Can I do this?” or “Should I even try?” are closed – they leave little room for exploration.
Instead, ask yourself open-ended questions that invite creativity and critical thinking:
- What is the root cause of this challenge?
- What’s the most important thing I should focus on right now?
- How could I approach this situation differently?
These questions stimulate better thinking and open up new ways forward.
2. Ask Yourself Solution-Driven Questions
We’ve all had those moments: something goes wrong and your mind instantly asks, “Why does this always happen to me?” Problem-focused thinking can quickly spiral into helplessness.
The shift here is simple but powerful. Instead of focusing on what’s gone wrong, ask:
- What are some possible solutions to this?
- How can I turn this challenge into an opportunity?
- What positive outcome could come from taking action here?
These types of questions rewire your brain to look for progress instead of problems.
3. Ask Yourself Questions That Challenge Your Beliefs
Many of us have deeply ingrained beliefs that can hold us back without us even realising it.
You might catch yourself thinking, “Why am I not good at this?” or “Why can’t I be more like them?”
When those thoughts show up, it’s time to push back. Ask instead:
- What assumptions am I making here?
- Could a bias be influencing my judgement?
- How might someone else tackle this differently?
Challenging your assumptions is the first step toward breaking through performance barriers
So what do I recommend?
Start noticing the questions you ask yourself throughout the day. Are they helping you move forward, or holding you back? Just by shifting the way you question your thinking, you’ll uncover fresh insight, better decisions, and a stronger mindset.
The questions you ask determine the results you get. So ask boldly, ask wisely – and keep improving.
Stay sharp, stay curious – and keep asking better questions.
– Alan Heary
Performance Coach | Speaker | Mental Fitness Specialist
At Alan Heary Performance, I help ambitious individuals and teams build confidence, sharpen focus, and perform under pressure, on the bike, in the boardroom, and beyond. With over 30 years’ experience in psychology and performance coaching, I combine science-backed strategies with real-world experience to help you unlock your potential. If you’re ready to train your mind like you train your body, you’re in the right place.
