3 - Live for the Questions Swap Caution for Curiosity and the Deeper Dig

Question 1

What do pivot points represent in our lives?

Answer 1

Openings for discovery and new possibility

These moments arise when a new question emerges, prompting exploration.

Question 2

Which animals are known for their regenerative abilities?

Answer 2

• Salamanders
• Starfish
• Octopi
• Zebrafish

These animals can regrow limbs or tails, inspiring research into human regeneration.

Question 3

What was the primary quest of the author and their mentor regarding regeneration?

Answer 3

To explore if humans can trigger the same regenerative response as certain animals

This led to potential treatments for conditions like multiple sclerosis.

Question 4

What is the significance of asking questions in the innovation process?

Answer 4

It emphasizes the need for quality questions to define and solve problems

The author notes that many successes and failures stem from the questions asked.

Question 5

What was the major oversight in the author’s stem cell therapy project?

Answer 5

The team did not consider how the treatment would reach patients

This led to a dead-end when seeking funding.

Question 6

What are the various problems to investigate in the exploratory process?

Answer 6

• Clinical problem
• Science problem
• Patent problem
• Manufacturing problem
• Regulatory problem
• Practical use problem
• Investment problem
• Go-to-market problem

These facets must be explored to develop effective solutions.

Question 7

What should researchers question in their processes?

Answer 7

• Their own questions
• Assumptions
• Past decisions

This helps uncover outdated beliefs and assumptions that limit thinking.

Question 8

What did the author learn from analyzing questions asked at lectures?

Answer 8

To identify patterns in high-yield questions that drill down into important issues

This process improved the author’s ability to ask effective questions.

Question 9

What is a key characteristic of high-yield questions?

Answer 9

They illuminate important assumptions made without substantial support

This helps validate methodologies before applying them.

Question 10

What can flawed or distorted conclusions in scientific research lead to?

Answer 10

Misinterpretation of results and potentially incorrect applications

For example, not including control groups can skew conclusions.

Question 11

What distinguishes interesting results from results that matter?

Answer 11

Interesting results show differences, while results that matter have significant implications for patients or applications

Researchers aim for results that can lead to meaningful impact.

Question 12

What is the importance of self-inquiry?

Answer 12

It helps explore personal values and align actions with those values

This can lead to deeper understanding and fulfillment in life.

Question 13

How can questioning historical assumptions benefit research?

Answer 13

It can reveal outdated beliefs that may limit current understanding and progress

The author cites a case where an assumption about stem cells was proven incorrect.

Question 14

What metaphor is used to describe the power of questions?

Answer 14

Questions are like excavation equipment, tools for action

They can uncover truths and facilitate exploration.

Question 15

What is the role of curiosity in inquiry?

Answer 15

It ignites inquiry and discovery

Curiosity leads to deeper questions and insights.

Question 16

What can limit a person’s life according to James Clear?

Answer 16

Not questioning things can limit life to others’ imaginations

It emphasizes the importance of personal dreams and aspirations.

Question 17

What is the goal of the author’s lab regarding questions?

Answer 17

To create an environment that encourages asking better questions

This approach aims to exceed existing measures of success.

Question 18

What does James Clear suggest is better than being limited by other people’s dreams?

Answer 18

Being limited by what you can dream for yourself

Clear emphasizes the importance of personal imagination and questioning.

Question 19

What key concept did Phillip Sharp contribute to the field of biology?

Answer 19

Discovery of split genes and RNA splicing

This discovery was crucial for understanding messenger RNA (mRNA) biology.

Question 20

What was the impact of Sharp’s discovery of RNA splicing?

Answer 20

Paved the way for the development of mRNA vaccines against Covid

This discovery catalyzed new medical research on cancer and other diseases.

Question 21

How does curiosity relate to inquiry and discovery according to the text?

Answer 21

Curiosity ignites inquiry and discovery

It is described as a cognitive state and is wired into the brain’s thought processes.

Question 22

What do neuroscience and education research suggest about curiosity?

Answer 22

It stimulates the brain for deep learning and discovery

Curiosity is linked to pleasure, reward, and memory centers in the brain.

Question 23

True or False: Asking questions can make us feel self-conscious and hesitant.

Answer 23

True

Negative reactions can limit free and open discussion.

Question 24

What does May-Britt Moser believe about ‘stupid’ questions?

Answer 24

They can turn out to be the most interesting ones

All questions have value in a scientific setting.

Question 25

What is the significance of asking high-yield questions in a lab setting?

Answer 25

It leads to innovative solutions ## Footnote This concept can also be applied to personal and community challenges.

Question 26

What public health issue did Vivek Murthy address as surgeon general?

Answer 26

The escalating opioid addiction crisis ## Footnote He emphasized community compassion and motivation in addressing the issue.

Question 27

What question did Vivek Murthy ask during his listening tour?

Answer 27

How can I help? ## Footnote This question led to significant public health insights.

Question 28

Fill in the blank: Curiosity is often described as a strong desire to learn or _______.

Answer 28

know something

Question 29

What is the common denominator in health, according to Vivek Murthy?

Answer 29

Human connection ## Footnote He sees it as essential for healing.

Question 30

What question does Gerhard Gründer pose about living?

Answer 30

How do we want to live? ## Footnote This question encourages reflection on personal values and future decisions.

Question 31

What does James Clear suggest we need to be clear about in life?

Answer 31

What we are optimizing for ## Footnote Understanding personal goals and outcomes is crucial.

Question 32

What narrative aspects does Lisa Sasaki emphasize regarding history?

Answer 32

Who gets to record history, who remembers it, and who shares it ## Footnote These factors influence how history is understood and interpreted.

Question 33

What is a key question regarding systemic inequities?

Answer 33

Who is telling our history? ## Footnote Acknowledging the storytellers is essential for understanding historical narratives.

Question 34

What does the text suggest about the relationship between questions and personal insights?

Answer 34

Questions can kindle change and lead to personal insights ## Footnote They help define problems and identify what is important to us.

Question 35

True or False: Curiosity can be emotionally arousing and lead to anxiety.

Answer 35

True ## Footnote Self-consciousness can squelch curiosity and limit inquiry.

Question 36

What is the significance of questioning who tells our history?

Answer 36

It changes the information people receive and acknowledges the need to question perspectives and interpretations.

Question 37

What is the call to action regarding historic and systemic inequities?

Answer 37

To question responsibility for the past and consider our roles in shaping the future.

Question 38

What important question can individuals ask about their actions?

Answer 38

What am I doing or what have I done that has propagated inequities or negativity?

Question 39

What does Henry David Thoreau's quote suggest?

Answer 39

It invites curiosity and questions, encouraging empathy and understanding of others' experiences.

Question 40

How does Robert Langer define success in life compared to being a student?

Answer 40

In life, you’re judged by how good your questions are, rather than how well you answer questions.

Question 41

What does the simple question 'Why not?' help us to do?

Answer 41

It helps to challenge preferences and inclinations that may be limiting.

Question 42

What are the components of the habit loop described by Charles Duhigg?

Answer 42

Cue, routine, reward.

Question 43

What did the author realize when faced with a speaking engagement opportunity?

Answer 43

That old habits of avoidance can be challenged by questioning them.

Question 44

What does the author mean by 'interrupt the autopilot of inclination'?

Answer 44

To question existing patterns and make conscious choices that align with intentions.

Question 45

What is the goal of recognizing patterns in thoughts, choices, and actions?

Answer 45

To see clearly where inclinations are taking you and act with intention.

Question 46

What are some ways to cultivate an inquiring mind?

Answer 46

* Surround yourself with energetic, question-asking people * Practice shaping and asking better questions * Use current events as cues for reflection

Question 47

Why are yes-or-no questions less effective than how or why questions?

Answer 47

They do not generate discussion and exploration of ideas.

Question 48

What can small talk facilitate between two people?

Answer 48

It opens up energy channels and fosters connections.

Question 49

How can questions help maintain focus during conversations?

Answer 49

They show interest and deepen relationships by engaging others more fully.

Question 50

What is the purpose of using questions in current events or personal experiences?

Answer 50

To reflect on and explore significant, larger questions.