QBQ, part 4

In a previous post, I said that I would be reviewing "QBQ: The Question Behind the Question" by John G. Miller and this is the third of the series.

I’ve noticed while reading and reviewing this book it is easy to exude personal responsibility dealing with pleasant situations, but the real power of QBQ kicks in when problems arise.

Who made this mess?
Who is responsible?
Who dropped the ball?

So, what’s wrong with asking “Who”? One must identify the responsible party.

When we ask “who”, instead of taking charge of the problem at hand, we are looking for someone to blame. In challenging situations, blame will not help fix the problem. Once again, “What can I do to help?” is the most pertinent question you can ask.

“But, isn’t it important to find out who isn’t carrying their weight or is responsible for the problem?” Yes, it is important to identify and improve weaknesses in any group, however keep two things in mind; 1) You can’t “fix” other people. Don’t even try. The best you can do is teach, encourage and coach others. (Ephesians 4:29b) 2) Personal responsibility is personal. Only you can control your reaction to situations. Only you can improve your weaknesses.

“It’s not my responsibility to help.” In any organization, it is everyone’s responsibility to assist the organization in meeting its objectives. This applies to churches, businesses, puppet teams, families and society in general. What would happen if everyone applied this truth to their lives?

I challenge you to stop asking “Who” and start asking “What”.

*thinking out loud*
Blame is a powerful thing. It allows us to shift responsibility for addressing circumstances to someone else. Therefore it isn’t my problem and I wash my hands of this train wreck. What would have happened if God took this approach toward me?