My uncle told me to never ask 'why' at work, only 'how'.

We were in his garage in Phoenix, fixing a lawnmower, when he said that line after I asked why a part was designed a certain way. He argued asking 'why' makes you seem like you're challenging authority, while 'how' shows you're just trying to learn. Do you think that's actually good advice, or does it just keep people from understanding the real reasons behind things?

2 comments

2 Comments

blair_allen1d ago

Used to think that sounded like bad advice. Then I saw how often asking "why" just makes people defensive at work. Honestly, asking "how" first usually gets you the same answer without the fight.

harperwright1d agoMost Upvoted

My old boss drilled "ask why five times" into us. Felt like the only way to solve problems. Then I watched a project lead shut down every time someone questioned her choices with that word. Switched to asking how she planned the timeline instead. Got the full story without the tension. Totally changed how I approach feedback now.