As a facilitator in brain-based learning and leadership, I created “two-footed questions” as a tool to spark deeper, transformative thinking that links academic learning with real-world relevance and personal values. What is a two-footed question?
A two-footed question stands with one foot in content knowledge and the other in real-world application. It challenges learners and leaders to think critically while also reflecting personally, ethically, or practically. It adds feet to a discussion, heart to decisions, and IQ to our possibilities.
To design a two-footed question for a specific topic or audience, such as leadership, education, business or personal development is to:
• Activate both hemispheres of the brain (logical and emotional centers)
• Encourage learners and leaders to connect knowledge with purpose and active engagement
• Spark growth mindset reflection, innovation, and empathy in ways that advance innovation
Example of two-footed questions I ask leaders on a global stage: How would you use what you know about the brain to solve a real-world problem where people are stuck in outdated mindsets?
This question motivates action for an improved situation beyond discussion:
• Uses cognitive content (what we know about the brain’s capability to problem solve)
• Applies it to a real-life, value-driven context (helping others change mindsets)
A two-footed question is a powerful, open-ended question designed to engage both head (thinking) and heart (values/emotions). It encourages deep, meaningful exploration rather than just surface-level answers. These questions are often used to learn, lead, and facilitate growth mindset work.
Why is it called “two-footed”? The idea is that a good question stands on two solid “feet”:
1. Cognitive Foot challenges critical thinking, reasoning, or analysis.
2. Affective Foot taps into beliefs, engages values, feelings, and inspires personal actions.
Two-Footed Questions Ask: Why do some people resist change, even when it’s good for them?
What does it take to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular? How can failure be both painful and necessary for success?
Two-footed questions are especially effective in leadership coaching, community dialogue, deep discussions, and personal reflection. They’re great for prompting growth mindset thinking because they invite people to wrestle with both logic and personal meaning.
What two-footed question will you ask today to motivate action on a specific topic or audience?