I was first introduced to QBQ: The Question Behind the Question when Dave Ramsey recommended it as a must-read for his organization. This week, I finally got to meet the author, John Miller, and it reminded me why this book has had such a lasting impact.
The QBQ is all about cutting out victim thinking, procrastination, and blame. It’s simple, but it’s the kind of mindset shift that can make a big impact.
Here’s what John Miller suggests:
Stop asking “Why” or “When” questions. They just lead to blame and waiting around.
Start asking “What” or “How” questions. These focus on action and ownership.
Use “I” statements. At the end of the day, you can only control yourself.
One of my favorite takeaways? When someone asked Miller his favorite QBQ, he said: “How can I let go of what I can’t control?”
If you haven’t read it yet, QBQ is a great one to share with your team. It’s a quick read but packed with lessons you’ll come back to over and over. Check it out—you won’t regret it!