Steve,   Wise suggestion. Too many times we want to just give our thoughts. Good info.

Jerry, thanks for your comments. This applies equally well to subordinates, partners, children, and associates.

I found this technique to work well when helping kids with their homework.  It just didn't feel right to give them the answer, so I would help them work through it.  Then they would fee smarter after coming to their own conclusion by logic.

Georgina, very good suggestion. It's easier sometimes just to give them the answer, but your idea helps them learn.

Steve - I've learned this technique over time and find it very useful - especially with our agents and my kids.  Most of the time people know which direction they need to go, but as you said they often want to seek out a sounding board to work through the idea.  It's powerful and very effective.

Lynn, thanks for your comments - and your agreement. Even when people don't think they have the confidence to come up with a solution they usually have a pretty good idea of what needs to be done - they just need to be challenged to come up with it.