This quote is a reflection on the art of communication and the power of subtlety. It suggests that direct questions might not always be the best way to acquire information or understand a person’s perspective. Instead, it proposes that by allowing the other person to guess what you want to know, you are creating an environment where they can share their thoughts more freely and organically, without feeling interrogated or pressured.

This idea can be likened to the concept of ‘leading’ in a conversation, where instead of directly asking, you guide the conversation in a certain direction, allowing the other person to fill in the gaps. This approach can often lead to more insightful, nuanced, and honest responses.

In today’s world, this concept can be applied in a variety of contexts, from personal development to business negotiations. For instance, in a personal development context, instead of asking oneself direct, pressure-filled questions like “Why am I not successful?”, one could subtly explore the areas of life where they feel unfulfilled or unsatisfied. This approach allows for a more gentle self-inquiry, which can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s desires.

In a business or professional context, this approach can be used to gain a deeper understanding of a client’s needs or a colleague’s perspective. Instead of directly asking what they want, guiding the conversation and allowing them to express their thoughts can lead to more comprehensive and meaningful insights.

This approach requires patience, active listening, and the ability to guide conversations subtly. It fosters a more empathetic and understanding form of communication, which can lead to deeper connections and more meaningful interactions.