We, humans, are greatly influenced by the people around us. Our social networks affect our behavior and emotions. They can be a source of support buoying us up. But what happens wh...

At any given time a lot goes on in systems. But how we observe systems makes a huge difference in the way we interact with them and ultimately in the value we can provide for clien...

Another question we are asked a lot is “How do you get past resistance to change?” The answer might surprise you. The first thing to change is your own response and mindset. (What?...

People often ask us, “How do you coach a team that doesn’t want coaching?”  The obvious--and not very satisfying answer--is “You don’t.” But there are actions you can take that may...

As consultants we both enter new systems on a regular basis. But even if you are working in a company, any time you interact with a new group, you are entering that system, and you...

Our third and final episode (for now) about asking better questions is finally out! In it we talk about the assumptions embedded in questions. We all make assumptions, based on our...

For the most part, we've learned how to ask questions from the way people have asked us questions, but also through observing and imitating our parents, teachers, and other people ...

The questions we ask determine the answers we get--obviously. Being aware of sort of answers your questions are likely to illicit (which we call intentions) increase your ability t...

Adding and removing constraints impacts patterns and performance. Too many constraints limit people from taking action and collaborating which is usually the opposite of what organ...