Children are among the more curious members of society. They are always brimming with questions that are often amazing and bewildering in nature. It is a trait that helps them learn quickly.

Psychologists say that asking questions is an important tool for human development. Yet, most adults consider it unnecessary and usually avoid asking questions until faced with no other choice.

Surveys show that four- to five-year-olds ask at least one question every two minutes or so, but by the time these kids reach high school, they can easily get through the day without asking a single question.

Scientists cannot put their finger on why people ask questions less frequently as they grow older. Perhaps it is because they become more egocentric, or perhaps it’s because asking questions simply makes them feel insecure. Maybe, they simply do not want to impose on others.

The reality, however, is that people who have no questions are not capable of innovating or reinventing themselves. They are unable to do anything other than what they have been doing all their lives.

Here is why questions can bring about positive change in your life.

• You’ll become more likeable

A 2017 study by Harvard Business Review found that asking questions makes people more likeable.

People love talking about themselves, and by asking questions you are giving them the opportunity to do just that.

Those who ask questions are regarded as attentive listeners, which in turn allows the other person in the conversation the dignity of being heard.

• You’ll become more competent at your job

Did you know that investigations into a 1997 plane crash revealed that a junior pilot was prevented by Korean culture from questioning his superior’s erroneous decision-making?

In this instance, not having the freedom to ask questions hindered the junior pilot in the proper discharge of his duties.

• Your relationships will improve

In 1997, a group of psychologists conducted a study which revealed that people who asked each other a set of questions went on to experience a deeper and more intimate connection. This shows that asking questions is vital for longevity in relationships.

• You’ll trigger creativity

Do you know how the Polaroid instant camera came to be invented?

It was Edwin Land’s innovative response after his daughter asked why she could not immediately see the result of a photograph he had taken.

Questioning helps break the status quo and can bring about creative solutions.

One important reason why some people are afraid to ask a question is because they fear they will be branded ‘stupid’ by others.

Yet, many revolutionary ideas were sparked by questions considered ‘stupid’ by society.

• You’ll become braver

Once you overcome your irrational fears, a whole new world of opportunities presents itself.

Your insecurities make you fear questioning, but ask yourself – what is the worst that can happen? Questioning can calm your fears and help you evaluate your risks better.

• You’ll improve your EQ

Asking questions also allows you to learn more about the other person, especially his responsiveness, emotions, and thought processes.

At the same time, fielding questions asked by others will help you get a better understanding of yourself.

Eventually, you will learn how to properly react to questions while dealing with your own emotional response to them.

• You’ll likely become a better leader

Recent studies show that curious inquiry is a general trait in successful CEOs. This is contrary to the popular perception that leaders are supposed to be the ones who have all the answers.

Asking your subordinates “Is everything okay?” or “How do you see this working out?” will help people open up to you and allow you a better understanding of how they think.

As you can see, asking questions helps in so many different ways. Here are some tips on how to ask good questions.

Be probing

Don’t ask questions just for the sake of doing so. Instead, have a curious mind that is ready to learn.

Ask open-ended questions that incorporate ‘why’, ‘what’, and ‘how’.

Using this technique, you will provoke thoughts and elicit deeper responses than just a plain ‘yes’ or ‘no’.

Be more engaging

Engaging questions help the receiver formulate a greater sense of trust. You can show you are more engaged by controlling your non-verbal cues.

Dig deeper

People in management positions tend to want to hear only good news. This sends a message to staff that the boss does not want to know of the issues they are facing.

Employers must accept that the team’s problem is their problem, and must want to know about it.

Ultimately, asking questions not only allows you to gather information but also helps to improve your EQ.

For a manager, asking questions creates a safe space for employees to open up and discuss their problems.

Erika Peres is a social media influencer, entrepreneur and director of multiple companies. She is a mother of two boys and has a passion for sports, fitness and lifestyle. She can be reached on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.