Questions are a sentence worded or expressed to elicit information.

To understand why a question is such a powerful tool, we must understand how it affects our brain. When asked a question, our brains can only think about the question, and this is because our brains can only think about one idea at a time. If you were asked more than one question at a time, you would focus on the last question asked unless you made a deliberate choice to answer the first question.

When asked a question, a chemical reaction occurs in our brains. First, serotonin is released, and our brain relaxes, putting it in a perfect state to find an answer to the question. Serotonin was discovered by Dr. Vittorio Erspamer in 1935. Once our brain relaxes, there is a release of dopamine which encourages creativity and motivation to find a solution to the question. Dopamin was discovered in 1910 by George Barger and James Ewens at Wellcome Laboratories in London, England.

Another alternative to creativity is the fear that we might answer incorrectly, which can cause us to freeze up, making it harder to think. I find this happens to me. If I’m not relaxed or in the right frame of mind (present)to answer questions, my mind will go blank. This is likely why serotonin is released first, to help our brain relax and prevent fear from moving in.

Since questions demand our full attention, what are some gifts that come from asking and answering questions?

The person asking the question gains a better understanding of the person answering it and their situation. A better understanding can remove any pre-existing ideas or prejudices, leading to trust and improving the overall relationship and interaction. Questions tend to get to the point, saving time and enhancing clarity in a situation. Another great side benefit for the person asking the questions is that they become likable. When you ask questions, you are showing interest in the other person.

The person answering a question, if they are open, can receive so many beautiful gifts. They can experience what is referred to as an aha moment or deep awareness and learning. This type of experience can transform a person’s life. Questions bring about clarity, allowing for better decision making bringing greater self-confidence. Questions also broaden your thinking, allowing for creativity, more possibilities, options, and solutions. With these great benefits, they will find themselves open to learning, growth, and positive change. Soon they will be living the life they desire as the