There are certain stages of life that prompt routine questions.

After being engaged, when is the wedding?

Recently married, when are you having kids?

Just graduated, what are your plans after high school?

And although these questions are asked for a reason (we want to know the answer!) they often serve as an easy fallback instead of asking questions that uncover more value, like getting a sense for how the person is doing.

For example, instead of asking what their plans are after high school, asking what kind of character they want to have in 3-5 years could be insightful.

Although not a perfect question it’s a worthwhile thought exercise.

Photo by Taisiia Shestopal on Unsplash.