by: Matt StylesPosted on:

10 Best Motivational Interview Questions for Vision Casting

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Motivational Interview

Introduction

Do your team members come to you with every problem, expecting you to solve them immediately? 

Does problem-solving for your team take significant time and energy away from your personal productivity?

Consider Motivational Interviewing.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a powerful tool that helps individuals explore their desires, values, and aspirations, paving the way for transformative journeys which empowers them to solve problems willingly and enthusiastically.

In this blog post, we will present 10 motivational interview questions carefully crafted to trigger moments of profound self-reflection and sparking the fire of inspiration within your team members. 

These questions are not merely a checklist to breeze through; they are powerful tools designed to awaken inner drive, enabling your team to unlock the vast reservoir of untapped potential that resides within each individual.

Let’s get started!

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1. "What do you envision for your future self?"

Encouraging employees to envision their ideal future is a powerful catalyst for self-discovery and empowerment. This process ignites inspiration, guiding them towards greater self-awareness and clarity. By focusing on the vision that fuels their purpose, employees transcend their current circumstances and embrace a sense of possibility and hope. 

This vision serves as a North Star, guiding decisions and actions in alignment with long-term goals. As employees articulate their qualities and attributes, they gain a deeper understanding of themselves, identify skills and attributes needed for growth, and foster a growth mindset. This exercise fosters a growth mindset, encouraging employees to view challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and development. 

Encouraging employees to envision their ideal future fosters a culture of empowerment and fulfillment, valuing and supporting each individual’s aspirations. As leaders, it is essential to inspire and support employees on this transformative journey of self-discovery and growth.

Example Script:

“As your manager, I aim to understand your vision for your future self and guide you towards your goals. Your vision shapes your career trajectory and aligns with opportunities within the organization. 

We can discuss your skills, experiences, and explore opportunities that align with your aspirations. We will set clear objectives and milestones to track your progress and help you reach your full potential. 

Together, we can create a roadmap towards your envisioned future, achieving remarkable results.

So let me ask you: What do you envision for your future self?”

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2. "What values are most important to you?"

Identifying core values is a crucial aspect of personal growth and fulfillment. These values represent fundamental principles and beliefs that guide individuals towards their true north. By embracing core values, employees can align their actions, decisions, and pursuits with what truly matters to them. 

By understanding and clarifying these values, employees develop heightened self-awareness, enabling them to make choices that resonate with their innermost being. Integrating core values into daily lives leads to a profound transformation, allowing employees to embrace their true selves and make choices that align with their beliefs and aspirations. 

This fosters coherence and congruence in all aspects of life, attracting like-minded individuals who share similar beliefs and goals. Organizations that encourage employees to identify and embrace core values create a culture of authenticity and integrity, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment among their workforce. 

Leaders play a crucial role in supporting employees on their journey of self-discovery and core value alignment, providing a safe and inclusive environment for exploration.

Example Script:

“As a leader in this organization, I value the opinions and perspectives of each team member, including yours.

Your input contributes to a shared vision that guides our decisions and actions towards a better future. Your values will be taken into account when planning and implementing initiatives that impact our organization and the broader community. 

Together, we can create a culture that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and integrity, driven by the values that matter most to each individual.

What values are most important to you?”

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3. “How does your current situation align with your long-term goals?”

The assessment of the connection between present circumstances and desired future outcomes is crucial for personal and professional growth. It helps individuals identify areas for change and improvement, leading to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. This introspective analysis helps individuals gain clarity on their progress and identify discrepancies between their current reality and their envisioned future. Recognizing these discrepancies encourages individuals to challenge the status quo and embrace change as a means of growth.

As individuals recognize areas for improvement, they can formulate action plans, such as setting specific goals, seeking mentorship, and fostering a supportive network. This accountability drives them to stay focused, persistent, and resilient in the face of obstacles. Organizations that encourage employee performance in this assessment foster a culture of growth and development, fostering a proactive workforce invested in personal and professional success.

Leaders play a pivotal role in facilitating this assessment and supporting individuals in their pursuit of improvement and change. By providing constructive feedback, offering resources for skill development, and recognizing progress, leaders empower individuals to take charge of their growth journey. In conclusion, the assessment of the connection between present circumstances and desired future outcomes is a catalyst for growth and transformation, empowering individuals to celebrate successes, recognize areas for improvement, and embrace change as a vital component of progress.

Example Script:

“As your supervisor, I am committed to your growth and success within the company. To help you achieve your long-term goals, I encourage you to reflect on your career ambitions and how your current role fits into that vision. 

Your input is valuable in providing support and opportunities for development. 

Together, we can identify areas to nurture skills and experiences. Your success is a priority, and I want to ensure you have the resources and support needed to achieve your goals. 

So, allow me to ask: How does your current situation align with your long-term goals?”

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4. "What accomplishments are you most proud of, and why?"

Recalling past successes significantly impacts an individual’s self-confidence and mindset. These successes serve as reminders of their capabilities and resilience, boosting self-assurance and reinforcing a growth mindset. Reflecting on past successes provides valuable lessons and insights, enabling individuals to identify strategies and approaches that worked well in the past and apply them to current situations. 

Reflecting on past successes also acts as motivation and inspiration, igniting a sense of purpose and driving determination. Encouraging employees to recall past successes fosters a positive and empowered work environment, valuing efforts and contributions. Celebrating past successes creates a culture of recognition and appreciation, boosting morale and camaraderie among team members. 

Recognizing setbacks and challenges as opportunities for learning fosters resilience and perseverance, essential qualities for continued success. As leaders, it is crucial to foster a culture of celebration and recognition, encouraging individuals to reflect on their achievements and embrace challenges with unwavering self-belief.

Example Script:

“As a manager, I appreciate your hard work and achievements. Take a moment to share your accomplishments, reflecting on projects or tasks that bring satisfaction and value to your position here in this organization. 

Your insights will help foster an environment for the team that nurture and celebrate our success.

Your growth and accomplishments are vital to our team’s success, and I am committed to supporting you every step of the way.

So I ask you this: What accomplishments are you most proud of, and why?”

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5. What obstacles do you anticipate on your journey, and how can you overcome them?

Acknowledging potential roadblocks is a crucial step in personal and professional growth, empowering individuals to approach challenges with a proactive mindset and build resilience. This practice helps individuals anticipate potential challenges, devise contingency plans, and develop effective strategies to overcome them. It also fosters problem-solving and creative thinking, fostering adaptability and resourcefulness. 

Embracing a growth mindset, acknowledging roadblocks as opportunities for learning and growth, and building resilience are natural outcomes of facing challenges head-on. Leaders should encourage individuals to take ownership of their growth and development by providing a supportive environment that values learning and embraces challenges as opportunities for advancement. 

By cultivating resilience and a proactive mindset, individuals become more confident in their abilities to overcome difficulties, leading to a sense of empowerment and bold steps towards achieving their aspirations.

Example Script:

“As your Team Lead, I believe in your potential to overcome challenges and succeed in your endeavors. Reflecting on your anticipated obstacles is extremely important, whether they be related to projects, skill development, or personal growth. And of course, together we can formulate actionable plans to address them, including additional training, mentorship, or team support. 

I am committed to supporting you in your journey and celebrating your successes. 

With that being said, I’m wondering: What obstacles do you anticipate on your journey with this company, and how can you overcome them?”

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Motivational Interview
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6. How would achieving this (specific) goal positively impact your life?

Understanding the significance of objectives is crucial for personal and professional growth. It provides motivation, empowers commitment to change, and guides actions. The deeper purpose behind objectives is what truly matters, as it imbues actions with purpose and direction. 

This understanding helps gain clarity about the “why” behind aspirations, maintaining focus and resolve. It also fosters a sense of ownership, empowering individuals to take responsibility for their actions and decisions. Recognizing the significance of objectives increases passion and enthusiasm, making them more resilient and determined to persevere.

Understanding the significance of objectives enables conscious choices, prioritizing tasks and allocating resources effectively. Regular reminders of the significance serve as inspiration and a compass for progress. Leaders must help individuals understand the significance of their objectives by providing a clear vision and connecting goals to the organization’s broader purpose. Nurturing this understanding among team members fosters a culture of purpose and commitment to change, where each individual’s contribution contributes to the greater good.

Example Script:

“As your supervisor, I am interested in your growth and well-being. Consider achieving a goal related to your role, personal development, or other aspects of your life. 

Imagine the positive changes it would bring, the potential benefits, and the impact on your skills, confidence, and overall well-being.

I am committed to supporting you in achieving this goal, whether through training, mentoring, or growth opportunities. Let’s discuss the impact of your goal on your life, ensuring your aspirations align with your overall well-being and contributing to your long-term success.

Now, I would like to ask you: How would achieving this goal positively impact your life?”

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7. What steps have you already taken towards your goals, and how did they make you feel?

Reflecting on past achievements and milestones can ignite determination and drive growth. Acknowledging the effort and dedication invested in reaching goals fosters pride and self-belief. This perspective helps overcome self-doubt and reminds us that setbacks are temporary obstacles. 

Reflecting on past progress also reinforces commitment to aspirations and inspires new goals and ambitions. Learning from challenges and setbacks informs decisions and shapes future endeavors. Remember that progress is not always linear, and the memory of past achievements can provide resilience during moments of slow progress or insurmountable obstacles.

 Leaders should encourage regular reflection, embrace growth with pride, and foster a culture of self-reflection and celebration of accomplishments to create an environment where determination flourishes and individuals are motivated to reach their full potential.

Example Script:

“As your manager, I am invested in your progress and success. Take a moment to reflect on your efforts towards achieving your goals along with the emotions and experiences associated with them. 

Also, acknowledge the satisfaction, excitement, or renewed sense of purpose you have experienced. You have been doing a great job!

I would like to work together with you to identify strategies to overcome any challenges that you have had along the way and to build on your accomplishments. Remember, each step brings you closer to your goal, and I am committed to supporting you in your journey. Let’s discuss your progress and create a plan to continue building on your achievements.

So, let’s begin with this: What steps have you already taken towards your goals, and how did those steps make you feel?”

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8. What strengths and skills do you possess that can aid you in this journey?

Recognizing your strengths is a transformative process that unlocks your potential for success. Each individual possesses inherent strengths that enable them to excel in specific areas. By acknowledging these attributes, you gain a deeper understanding of your innate talents and how they contribute to your personal and professional endeavors. 

By leveraging your strengths, you maximize your effectiveness in problem-solving and decision-making, identifying opportunities that align with your abilities, leading to a more focused and efficient pursuit of goals. Embracing your strengths fosters a positive mindset, allowing you to capitalize on your assets and view challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement. 

Harnessing your strengths cultivates authenticity, self-assurance, and self-assurance, enabling you to make more informed choices about your career, relationships, and personal development. Leaders should encourage individuals to recognize and celebrate their strengths, creating an inclusive culture that values diversity in skills and talents. This inclusive approach fosters a workforce that is more engaged, innovative, and collaborative. 

Recognizing strengths in others enhances teamwork and collaboration, creating a cohesive unit that results in more creative and effective solutions to challenges. In conclusion, recognizing your strengths is a powerful practice that unlocks your potential for success, fostering authenticity, positivity, and resilience.

Example Script:

As your Team Lead, I aim to help you succeed on your journey by tapping into your unique strengths and skills. By understanding your strengths and abilities, we can tailor our approach to support your growth and development. We value your input and encourage open discussions about your unique talents. Aligning your strengths with your aspirations will create a roadmap for excellence. I am committed to providing resources and opportunities to help you develop and apply your skills. Your contributions are valued, and we can capitalize on your talents and skills to make significant strides towards achieving your aspirations.

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9. How will achieving this (specific) change benefit those around you?

Consider the positive impact your personal transformation may have on others, adding meaning and purpose to your journey. This perspective motivates you to embrace responsibility and make a difference in the lives of others. By recognizing your transformation’s potential to inspire, support, or empower others, you become a role model and catalyst for positive change. This broader perspective fosters interconnectedness and empathy, guiding actions towards collaboration and mutual growth. 

Recognizing the impact on others also develops a deeper sense of accountability, as you understand that your growth journey is not just about yourself but also about contributing positively to the larger community. 

This accountability guides your decisions and actions towards making a meaningful difference. Ultimately, considering the positive impact on others enriches your sense of purpose and responsibility, empowering you to be a beacon of positivity, empowerment, and transformative change.

Example Script:

As your manager, consider the positive impact of achieving a specific change on your team and the organization. Reflect on how it will benefit colleagues, the team, and the broader organization. Identify the benefits of the change and its potential to inspire and uplift teammates, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. Your dedication to making a difference in others’ lives is commendable, and your success is meaningful to both you and the team. Together, we can create a shared vision that elevates the entire team. Your contributions are valued, and I am here to champion your efforts and celebrate your successes.

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10. On a scale of 1 to 10, how ready are you to make this (specific) change, and what would it take to move one step higher?

The readiness scale is a powerful tool for self-assessment and goal-setting. By rating your readiness on a scale of 1 to 10, you can gain insight into your level of preparedness and commitment to embrace change. A score of 1 indicates unpreparedness, while a score of 10 indicates full readiness and eagerness. 

The second part of the question, “What would it take to move one step higher?”, shapes your path forward. Strategies to move one step higher may involve seeking additional knowledge, training, setting smaller goals, seeking guidance or mentorship, and addressing fears or limiting beliefs. The readiness scale also serves as a foundation for creating a realistic action plan, aligning with your goals and setting you up for success. 

As you progress, reassess your readiness periodically and monitor your growth to be motivated and empowering. Celebrate progress and be compassionate with yourself if setbacks occur. In conclusion, the readiness scale is a powerful tool for self-awareness and goal-setting, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and take necessary steps to elevate your readiness.

Example Script:

As your manager, I value your readiness to embrace change and commitment to growth. To assess your readiness, I would like to know your current score on a scale of 1 to 10. If you feel unprepared or uncertain, a score of 10 indicates full readiness. To move up the readiness scale, consider resources, support, or training that would boost your confidence. Your insights are crucial in identifying areas for assistance and creating a roadmap that aligns with your comfort and capability. Encouraging change is a gradual process, and we can create an environment that nurtures growth and development. Let’s discuss your readiness and the steps needed to move closer to your goal. Your success is a priority, and we’ll work together to ensure you are fully prepared and confident as you embark on this transformative journey.

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Conclusion

Motivational Interviewing questions serve as powerful catalysts for self-discovery, fostering a deeper understanding of your desires, values, and abilities. Embrace the journey of self-reflection and introspection, as it will guide you towards positive change and personal growth.

Remember, the process of transformation is not linear, and it’s okay to encounter setbacks along the way. Embrace each step as a learning opportunity, and maintain a compassionate and patient attitude towards yourself.

Through the art of asking motivational interview questions and delving into your innermost motivations, you can unlock the limitless potential that lies within you and pave the way towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Embrace the power of self-discovery, and let your motivation be the guiding light on your path to success.

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Matt Styles

Matt Styles is the founder and voice of The Stylish Leader enterprise. Empowering the next generation of leaders, Matt is focused on challenging minds, inspiring hearts, and helping others achieve their highest potential for success.

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