You can ask yourself: Why do I do what I do (to motivate yourself).
However, it is best to avoid asking clients/ patients Why-based questions.
These types of questions automatically put people on a defensive approach.
In example:
- Why did you act out?
- Why didn’t you call me sooner?
- Why did you fold the clothes that way?
- Why did you decide to wear that shirt today?
- Why didn’t you do this a month ago when I suggested?
These types of questions give an impression that you’re blaming them.
Example:
Child calls her mother.
Her mother replies with, why haven’t you been calling me more often?
Child feels guilty and starts to work on making excuses and justifications.
A better approach is to ask other people: What questions.
- What you have you been doing lately?
- What do you like about your outfit today?
- What was happening when you were angry?
- What is really important to you in life right now?
These types of questions feel easier to answer.
These types of questions promote healthier communication.
Ask other people “What” and not “why” questions.