Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life

I found my first QBQ book at a local Goodwill store. Soon after I invited someone to come and present book to my staff. This is the best decision I have made in a long time. Simple but powerful insights. I am reminded every day of the principles in this book.

This is a really good book for anyone trying to find a new perspective in dealing with challenging situations. There are great examples of how changing the way you think about solving an issue can reap great rewards. Everything may not apply personally, but it gets the creative thinking process started.

This is an entirely overrated publication. There is plenty of warm and fuzzy but the recommendations could have been written by a middle school student after an hour (of less) of one-on-one conversation.

The book starts by stressing the need for more personal accountability and then presents a simple process for asking ourselves questions which will hopefully lead us to make better choices as we work through our day.

The questions take the form, “How (or what) can I do to complete some goal?” For example, “How can I better serve the customer, work with the team, manage my projects, etc.?” By asking these questions, we make ourselves personally accountable. By answering these questions, we become able to make changes for the better within ourselves.

The idea sounds pretty reasonable but is not developed further in any way. I could easily imagine a book that discussed “big picture” topics such as business strategies, organizational roles, team psychology, process improvement, and examples of solid contributions we could make to that bigger picture. Instead, the book’s message and trivial examples steer us away from any real learning and toward personal introspection.

Sadly, this book is simply a series of shallow anecdotes with some lightweight commentary on each. There is no real business information, case studies, or measures of the content’s effectiveness. However, the author does tell us that his question process “seems to work.”

This entire book could have been boiled down to a single one-page article without losing anything. If you're a first-job type young person that hasn't already figured out that maybe you should take work seriously, this book is for you. However, if you're any kind of professional interested in improvement, there isn't anything in this book that you haven't already thought of on your own.

I did notice that the author seems to have little or no substantial business experience. He mentions in his book his days as a young salesman for a training company. In addition, his LinkedIn page lists only five years of work experience as a grain buyer (WTF?). So, rather than being an accomplished businessman with deep insights to offer, the author seems to be a clever salesman who has seized upon something management will buy – a course which directs workers to quit whining. Now, he’s about to sell it to you.

This book is to a college business text as a single gummy bear is to a really good buffet.

Some observations:
- Chapter 36 "Wisdom" is only about a dozen words long.
- Chapter 37 "We Buy Too Many Books" applies to this book.

After finishing a book I always ask myself if I would buy the book again. I would not buy this book again. I did not learn much from it, it is poorly written, each chapter is 2 - 3 pages, and it just doesn’t flow well.

The book starts by stressing the need for more personal accountability and then presents a simple process for asking ourselves questions which will hopefully lead us to make better choices as we work through our day.

The questions take the form, “How (or what) can I do to complete some goal?” For example, “How can I better serve the customer, work with the team, manage my projects, etc.?” By asking these questions, we make ourselves personally accountable. By answering these questions, we become able to make changes for the better within ourselves.

The idea sounds pretty reasonable but is not developed further in any way. I could easily imagine a book that discussed “big picture” topics such as business strategies, organizational roles, team psychology, process improvement, and examples of solid contributions we could make to that bigger picture. Instead, the book’s message and trivial examples steer us away from any real learning and toward personal introspection.

Sadly, this book is simply a series of shallow anecdotes with some lightweight commentary on each. There is no real business information, case studies, or measures of the content’s effectiveness. However, the author does tell us that his question process “seems to work.”

This entire book could have been boiled down to a single one-page article without losing anything. If you're a first-job type young person that hasn't already figured out that maybe you should take work seriously, this book is for you. However, if you're any kind of professional interested in improvement, there isn't anything in this book that you haven't already thought of on your own.

I did notice that the author seems to have little or no substantial business experience. He mentions in his book his days as a young salesman for a training company. In addition, his LinkedIn page lists only five years of work experience as a grain buyer (WTF?). So, rather than being an accomplished businessman with deep insights to offer, the author seems to be a clever salesman who has seized upon something management will buy – a course which directs workers to quit whining. Now, he’s about to sell it to you.

This book is to a college business text as a single gummy bear is to a really good buffet.

Some observations:
- Chapter 36 "Wisdom" is only about a dozen words long.
- Chapter 37 "We Buy Too Many Books" applies to this book.

Self-help books are my comfort food of non-fiction prose. Generally, I find them decently written, tackle practical issues, and get me fired up for a few days, occasionally leaving a nugget that will stay for a while. I'm only writing this review a week after I first read the book, but I'm pretty certain this one is a keeper. Which is a little surprising since this book is centered on the oft trod concept of "personal accountability", without even trying to come up with some gimmicky counter-intuitive approach.

The genius in this book its a concise memorable formula for a good self-question: "Who/How" + "I" + "Action". I follow the news to know things out there can be really complex, but for any issue that directly affects me day to day, I agree with author's basic black and white premise that there are incorrect self-questions (that result in inaction) and good self-questions (that get me moving forward). This clarity of this dichotomy and the simplicity of the QBQ formula is perfect for what this book is trying to do - catalyze action among its readers.

Along with this basic clear formulation, there are two additional items which further recommend this book. The first is context - as America continues to lean further towards a service economy, this book will become increasingly relevant for those of us working in it. His examples highlight how excellence is accomplished in mundane interactions. Second, the book is succinct, and I mean that as a high compliment. I recently read another book that had a simple premise which was stretched out to three times its necessary length. Mr. Miller respects our time; his message is simple (though not easy) and he doesn't wear out his welcome - this is a book you can give to a friend without hesitation.

In all, its certainly worthy of a 5-star review...and while there are folks in the world who are truly enslaved in circumstances beyond their control, if you've got the wherewithal to be reading customer reviews on the store, you're not one of them and this book is highly recommended.

I first heard about this book via a podcast where it was mentioned, almost as an aside, but for some reason, it grabbed my attention so I checked out the website and ended up with the book to read.

Let me add here that I'm typically a slow reader. Reading is not at all a passion of mine, but in my personal drive to always strive to be a better leader, I committed myself to reading a new book every month. My goal is to read a chapter a night to get through a book each month. So with that in mind, let me say this:

I read QBQ! in a single day!!!

Once I started, I could not put it down! The book is super easy to read, and the concepts delivered by John G Miller are absolutely top notch. The book did two things simultaneously to me: Punched me right in the face by identifying "stuff" I've personally been doing and didn't even realize it, and also it gave me great leadership focus on how I can better serve those I have influence over. And I realized that you don't have to be a person in a leadership role to gain extremely valuable insight by reading this book...EVERYONE BENEFITS!

If you're a parent either with a desire to be your best for your child(ren) or maybe are struggling with a difficult child in accountability & entitlement issues, this is a must-read. If you're an employee and are wanting to better meet/exceed your goals, or possibly hoping to gain attention for a promotion, this is a must-read. If you're wanting to personally grow just to be a better person, this is a must-read. If you're an employer/business owner, not only is this a must-read for you, you need to make this a must-read for your entire organization!! This book is that good.

John's got a really great website with a lot more books available. And if you do a little digging, you'll find that he didn't just write a book, he absolutely walks-the-talk. He actions truly follow his words.

Yes, I'm reading a book a month, and many of them are very, very good and I've grown so much from each. But this one so...got to me...that this is my first/only book review ever, because I felt it is that important. I highly recommend this book and know that once you've read it too, you'll be posting your first book review if you haven't already done so. Best wishes!

When I first heard of the book, I thought it was about digging deeper into other people with questions from a sales perspective to "get the deal." I listened to the audiobook, and when the intro about personal responsibility came on..I took a big gulp and knew that this would hit me hard, in the best way possible.

I grew up with parents on public assistance. Though they both had college degrees they easily became victims of their circumstances. While they worked so hard, especially after divorcing and neither remarrying, they never asked the RIGHT questions in life, parenting, and work. I grew up always thinking of the best excuses for who to blame or what bad happened to me to cause something..instead of asking myself WHAT CAN I DO or taking responsibility and owning up to a situation.

I'm in a great place in life now, married with a toddler and I own an investing business..however now it's more important than ever for me to take responsibility and ask the right questions. This book gives the most applicable tools out there, while also having lighthearted stories and inspiring characters. John describes situations in his life with his family, a home depot employee, a server, bosses, a pilot, and many others who either ask incorrect questions or get to the question behind the question!
The new shorter verison of this book is the perfect size for a daily commute book, or listening at home. I'm excited to read the book as well and get the new workbook, because there is so much I Never want to forget! I can't afford to forget any of these principles!

I just listened to OUTSTANDING and it's also phenomenal and highly recommended!
Next on my list is Specs and Planks.

When I was in the Army my commander added this book to his recommended reading list for all of his leaders. At that point in my life I was a Soldier, mother, wife, and college student and did not take the time to read it. After retiring I began a new career journey into performance enhancement and leadership development for Army Soldiers and now for leaders in state government. How I wish I would have read this book when my commander recommended it! This book is life changing because it forces you to look within, instead of looking outward. We have the power to change our lives and stop being the victim when we begin our own journey of personal accountability. I recommend this book to every leader I encounter and every person I coach or speak to that is struggling. We have to own our personal power instead of giving it away and looking for other people to manage our lives for us. Even though the book suggests we don't look at others for answers of accountability, I purchased this book for both of my adult daughters (28 and 21) and hope it has the same impact for them as it has for me and the many leaders I have recommended it to. I also purchased Flipping the Switch which further iterates the importance of personal accountability. QBQ is a quick read or even quicker listen on Audible. I have listened to it several times and use it in preparation for leadership training. This book is at the top of my list of recommended books for Emerging Leaders because I believe that personal accountability is the first step to becoming a great leader.

I was introduced to QBQ! The Question Behind the Question more than 10 years ago when my new supervisor gave me a copy. I found it to be a quick read with concepts that were easy to grasp and put into practice. When I finished the book, I gave it to one of my direct reports and asked him to read it and let me know his thoughts. Within an hour, he had passed the book to a co-worker and the process repeated until every member of my department had read the book within 24 hours. Best of all, my team started to practices the principles outlined in QBQ! I soon started receiving calls from our internal customers who began to notice a new attitude from my team. We went from being the “department where good ideas go to die” to a department that was willing to consider new ideas, think outside the box, and take ownership for situations and issues that were brought to us. In short, our productivity went up and we became more effective business partners in our organization. We got things done!

QBQ! is unlike many business books that inundate the reader with high level business jargon, complex theories and extreme amounts of data to support their underlying business strategy. Mr. Miller uses everyday language (that can be understood by employees at all levels, not just the C-suite), real world stories and examples to make his point that personal accountability is critical in business and in life. The result is powerful tool that provides techniques the reader can use to improve his or her career as well as personal life.

QBQ! is required reading for any new member on my team and we strive to practice personal accountability every day. I highly recommend QBQ! to everyone!

Incredible! The thought process behind this is genius and so logical - it can literally be applied to anything and everything! I find myself quoting this text a lot or using the analogies/stories highlighted throughout, they're just so applicable and easy to understand that others can adapt and acknowledge it too without being told "you need to read this book".
If you are a young leader, new to leadership, a leader of millenials, a leader in general - this book is perfect for you. If you simply want to view the same life in a more positive light and fall asleep at night a little easier with a smile on your face, read this book. And read it again! And then read the other books like "Flipping the Switch" :D

I learned about this book via Dave Ramsey. I am so glad I heard about this book. I practice this at work and it has made me look inward and helped to diffuse so many possible bad situations where I could have easily blamed someone else or said "just do your job". Instead I answered with "That's my fault, I should have communicated better", or "I should have initiated the phone call", or "I should have called a meeting". Always looking at each situation as to what I could have done to make the situation better. So many of my fellow co-workers have noticed what I have said or how I have approached this issue and in their own way appreciate what I have done, to the point they love working on projects with me and like helping me out when I ask.

Accountability is key in organizations. Yet, when something goes wrong, we often focus more on identifying who's to blame than on discovering ways we can all be accountable for generating future success. QBQ! tells the story of how asking "what" and "how" questions ("How can I take action to make this situation better?" "What can I offer?") can contribute to a culture in which each person takes initiative to make positive things happen. In contrast, "why", "when", and "who" questions ("Why do I always have to answer the phone?" "When are you going to get here on time?" "Who was responsible for fixing the server?") tend to point fingers and do little to resolve a situation. Miller points out that any challenging situation presents a choice, and it's ours to make.

I randomly found this book at a relative’s vacation home, and the cover and jacket notes grabbed my attention. I’ve always been interested in self improvement, so I think I saw this as a potential opportunity to do more of this. I usually detest reading, but I will read if I find a subject matter that is really appealing to me. This book definitely appealed to me, and I couldn’t wait to finish reading it. The chapters flow quickly, and you can put it down and pick it back up without losing your place. I read this months ago, and immediately ordered more books by this author as I wanted to continue my journey! I just read the next ones, and reflecting back, I have found that the ideas detailed in the QBQ book have impacted my life and I am thinking in a different way. I would highly recommend this book!

I loved this book! Reading John G. Miller’s book QBQ The Question Behind the Question was very influential. His perspective that people’s thought process is instinctively to play victim in all situations of life is honest. Miller challenges us to take responsibility for our actions instead of placing blame elsewhere. He guides us to discipline our thoughts by asking ourselves to ask better questions which ultimately alleviates stress. The Question Behind the Question book is a quick, but impactful read. The challenge is to allow Miller’s views become my views in every situation of my life. As I read through the book I continued to jot down notes asking myself, “How am I going to remember all for this?” Miller answered my question at the end with a very concise, short chapter, The Motor of Learning. Miller ends the book with, “read it again.”

I was introduced to QBQ! over a decade ago while working at B&N, loved it so much I took it upon myself to make sure everyone had a copy. I always had a copy of it in my hands, making sure no one looking in the business section was safe from the paramount message it contains. I stashed a bunch at my register and they sold like the devil to all peoples buying all sort of different things. Sci-fi lover? WELL YOU NEED QBQ. Oh, a cooking book, QBQ!!!

Business owners started to order them for their employees, and more importantly, buying it for themselves. I started selling 20ish at a time. Within a few months, I racked over 300 copies sold (of this book and John's Sequel, Flipping The Switch).

I received countless "Thank you" cards from a bunch of different people who were changed by the Question Behind The Question.

I was enthralled by how great this book was...and the tools it contained lead me to be a better person. It help me become a tool of inspiration for others, and in turn, those that were inspired made me become inspired again.

And word started getting around...and the employees started seeing my secrets...and most of them started reading it too...and sales soared in the store. It was glorious. Because they cared. Because they stopped wasting time blaming whoever for whatever. Because QBQ reasons.

So yea, this gets 5 stars. Why? Because the store doesn't let my give 10.

Excellent book! In my work as a leader, I have the opportunity to apply QBQ principles daily. Anyone who manages people needs to read this book! In my line of work, I manage multiple projects and as a team, we have deadlines every single day. In the course of a project, there are any number of things that can go wrong. When that happens, because of this book, I immediately start to think about what I can do to get the project back on track. I own the problem and work to find a solution QBQ keeps this in the forefront of my mind. I am also happy to pass QBQ principles on to my staff. It is amazing what you can get done without victim thinking and placing blame. Be solution oriented!

In doing so, I see my employees using the same principles. There is less bickering and complaining. Be solution-oriented. Own the solution. If something isn't working well, let's not continue doing the same thing and expecting a different result. I think that might be the definition of insanity. Let's work together to find a solution or a new way of doing things. Let's own the problem AND the solution. This book helped me change my thinking and helps me continue to grow my employees with QBQ thinking.

QBQ has changed my personal life to think positively and be a problem-solver. It is fun to see how contagious it is. We just came from the grocery store and there is a young man there who is always smiling and positive. It is frustrating to listen to cashiers there grumbling about how they don't like to be there and can't wait for their break, can't wait until their shift is over, etc. I've sort of taken this on as my mission. If they don't greet me as their customer, I smile, say hello, and ask how they are doing. Any negativity that they throw out there, I turn it into a positive. By the time that are done ringing up my groceries, they are either smiling or at the very least, I have given them something to think about.

I highly recommend this book. It is a game-changer. Not only has it changed my thinking, but it gives me an opportunity to help others change their victim-thinking and negativity. Spread the love!

Well I have always been told I was a selfless person who tried my best with customer service, but one thing I ran into allot was complaining and procrastinating!!! I was an assistant store manager and, after reading QBQ I relived mistakes I was making in leadership by complaining about the leadership above us. I had it all come crashing down on me when the same people I was gossiping with I found out were gossiping about me!!! And I always wondered why is was hard for people to follow me even though they liked me, but after reading QBQ I can see its because I was acting one way and talking another. To me I knew it was not the best thing, but at the same time I never really saw anything different. I see now that, that is only an excuse to not grow and develop as a leader. I am no longer a leader, (By-Title) but I know that I am a leader in how I show others how to be the best employee possible. so with all that said this book was right on time and I just finished reading it the second time! So now time to put it to action! Thank you!!!

Great customer service principles NEVER get old. John Miller has an obvious passion for keeping fundamental customer service principles on the forefront of every business plan today. There are great business models and then there are GREAT business models. The GREAT business models prove to be the ones with consistent characteristics of outstanding customer service. These characteristics are outlined in a very simple method that yes, a fifth grader could understand. GREAT customer service does not have to be complex. It does however need to come from within the heart and ususally does when introduced to people who actually care about people. This book is a no brainer for those who already have a passion for customer service because the character is already instilled. The more important take away is for those who don't already take advantage of building a GREAT team by using these pricinciples. It's a guaranteed winner that will never be beat! I have read all the QBQ books by John. Really appreciate his passion for helping people see the need to care about what they do and showing that it makes a real measureable difference. Everyone should read this book!

I was originally introduced to this book by my HRM when I was on the training program 4 years ago. It's on our recommended reading list. So I read it and it turned out quite helpful to get myself adapted to the early career life by being accountable. I guess that's why I thought of this book and decided to re-read it this July when I felt something went off track in my life and at work. I needed some self-reflection.

This book tells the story in a simple and easy-to-understand way. But all truth about life and self-management, with these quite thoughtful ideas, which help us to be a better self through applying the basics introduced in the book. I couldn't tell you more here... you get to read it:)

I indeed love the positive way of thinking shared in this book. It provides me with great reminder and guidance to be a better myself through raising better questions. If you feel recently you tend to blame others more (like people, system, environment etc.), or you are getting upset about the unpleasant changes, or you are having issue with priorities, or you are struggling with ownership, this is the book which can help you from my perspective. It brings up the conversation between the problems you are having and yourself, then helps you with clear-thinking to figure out your solutions.

BTW, I managed to make some pleasant changes last two months after the self-reflection. I got to spend more quality time with family then and also started my MBA study in Sep. I am still working on my work puzzle but I believe I will make it. Thanks John! The QBQ works!

Cheers,
Maria

Purpose:
To help leaders and their organizations produce accountability and responsibility in their own lives and among their employees by asking better questions.

Content:
The author addresses numerous “wrong” questions such as “Why do I have to do everything around her?” and “Why are we always so short-staffed?” He then presents the “right” questions. “What can I do about the problem?” or “How can I meet the need?” He deals with the blame game and other poor practices often displayed in life.

Analysis:
This is a good, short book with brief answers and antecdotes to assist you in changing the culture of your work place to one of accountability and personal responsibility. It relates to the ministry by teaching personal accountability in solving problems that arise from people’s actions.

Application:
Who will benefit?
Leaders of all kinds and places

How will it benefit?
Realignment with personal responsibility

Where does it fit in the ministry design process?
Development stage of your culture design

Aha Thought:
“Blame and ‘whodunit’ questions solve nothing. They create fear, destroy creativity, and build walls. Instead of brainstorming and working together to get things done, we blame-storm and accomplish nothing. There’s not a chance we’ll reach our full potential until we stop blaming each other and start practicing personal accountability.
‘What can I do today to solve the problem?’
‘How can I help move the project forward?’
‘What action can I take to own the situation?’
Try these questions instead of the ‘Who?’ questions at the beginning of this chapter and see how fast you can break the Circle of Blame in your organization.” (P. 46-47)

I am now a QBQ'er
I am so glad that I got ahold of these gems while I am young! It's amazing how a book can change your life, your routines, and your attitude. It started off as I was seeking self-help with work. My attitude at work was great but inside I was blaming all the wrong people and things. Slowly but surely I realized that there are hundreds of factors tied into small problems and instead of creating more problems- I can relief blame and create solution. Slowly but surely this book and it's teachings leaked into my personal life, marriage, & motherhood. I encourage anyone with a job, child, relationship, or pulse to check this book out. I can't wait to pass mine along. -Veronica Lock

I started a direct sales business when I was 22 and single. I quit my full-time job when I was 23 and built my business to full-time income. 38 years later and my organization sells over one million dollars a year. One of the key books that I feel changed my outlook and my life was QBQ by John G Miller. It is an easy read and one I go back to from time to time just to pick up and read a quick page or two. It helped me stop looking for "someone" to do "something" and realize I was that someone who could do something! I tend to me a "thinker" instead of a "doer" & it helped me overcome procrastination in my life so I could move forward. I love his quote "Personal accountability is not about changing others. It's about making a difference by changing ourselves"

As a Recruiter and Career Development Facilitator, I LOVE the simple message in the QBQ book re. personal accountability. Everyone should read this book! I highly recommend this book. If you know someone graduating from high school or college, buy them this book. It will set them on a successful path. If you work at a place with department issues, recommend this book to your boss as a team project. We have incorporated this book into our new employee orientation.

I was introduced to this book when the leadership team at work began a facilitated read and discussion with the objective to “improve our communication skills.” I had no idea at the time just what a pin in the map of my personal and professional development it was going to be.

This book helped me to understand that people asking questions almost always have a reason for that question. And it challenged me as a leader and as a personal communicator to understand that reason. I’d spent a lifetime up to that point making assumptions and in many cases playing the victim - oftentimes without merit due to sheer lack of information.

The practical tools and accountability challenged by this book are unmeasurable. A short read that will challenge you in ways you’ll never regret.

I love John G Miller Books. I have benefited from reading the QBQ Personal Accountability. I love the positive approach to being Personal Accountable. I have memorized the idea of "How Can I help" " What can I do" When you ask these questions in almost any situation things change. You get the attitude of being a positive influence in situations and help others choose to help out. I have discussed these books with my family members who are also reading them and they love them as well. I am trying now to learn more about leadership roles and Personal Accountability. I also find myself doing what needs to be done and not putting things off. I don't want broken glass all over my drive way so I try to take care of responsibilities immediately. I feel everyone can benefit from ready these books and I plan to read more of the Authors books QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life. https://www.the store.com/QBQ-Question-Behind-Practicing-Accountability/dp/0399152334/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369049274&sr=1-1&keywords=qbq

QBQ by John Miller.
John philosophy of holding yourself accountable shows you the best way to be a sustainable leader because, in fact, accountability falls within you. If you are looking to build a great enterprise or simple as to have a great relationship with family and friends, this must be part of your personals core values. In your work environment, personal accountability will encourage and empower your team, helping you bring it to the next level. A well-oiled machine where everyone contributes at the same level and everyone is held to the same standard. Helping each other, and this is why the QBQ is one of the best books I have ever read, I am a business coach, and my recommendation to you is to don’t wait. Read this book and share it with others.

I have done a lot of employee development and training in my career, like anything else, some is good, some is okay, but the best is when it impacts performance and behavior. QBQ! training has impact. Once people understand they are responsible for what they do and can choose how to respond; you can help someone improve their work and personal life. I worked for a company that worked very hard to establish a "no blame zone" -- we tried to instill in every worker that they needed to fix problems -- not fix blame. The QBQ training helped us do that. I would recommend this book and all of John's books to any organization (including NGO's, NFP's and even for families!).

Good material, presented in an easy to digest format -- it doesn't just make you feel good; it helps you do good by doing things right!

QBQ is not only an easy read, it allows you to take a gentle look at how you can incorporate the Question Behind The Question in your own life FIRST. It is amazing how the more you read, the more you realize what you have been doing for a very...very long time. QBQ is essential for your life, your business, your church, your groups...
You won't be sorry you purchased this book.

I used this text to teach Basic NCO Leadership to Field Training Officers for years at the local police department I retired from in 2017. Now, I'm bringing it to the training on leadership/mentoring in the private sector. QBQ is an easy, quick read which promotes classroom interaction. It fits neatly into a workshop/seminar type learning environment, and the workbook for QBQ was extremely helpful for homework assignments and group discussion.
I would buy this book again and again. In the day and age of the millennial, the struggle for personal accountability is real. Use this book to narrow the gap!! A++

I am a true believer in the QBQ concept. I provide copies of this book to every employee of our medical practice. I did the same thing in my past practice. The book is easy for all staff members to comprehend. If management remains enthusiastic in their commitment to follow up, you will reap huge rewards. I have recommended John Miller's books to colleagues, and they also become raving fans. My staff members are empowered and inspired to exceed out patients' expectations.

A little background on how I got this book. I actually found this book and "workgroup" materials buried in the bottom of a drawer as it was left behind at a company I was hired at about three years ago. This is the same company that Mr. Miller worked at when he wrote this book. I never met him, since he and most of the company was gone after it was bought by a larger company. The book, as I understand was required reading for all the former employees.

I enjoy productivity and books that can help one do better and be better. The books took me about 90 minutes to read through. It was sort of light reading, although there were times when the author attempted to say a simple idea in a complicated way. I'm not sure if this was due to him believing that the simple method would be taken less seriously. The result was times I had to re-read the paragraph or sentence to understand what he was saying.

Boiled down and as other reviewers have said previously, this book is about "personal responsibility". The problem is that the idea of QBQ uses management jargon to deal with a basic issue. Managers might have eaten this book up, as they're looking for ways to make their teams more efficient or more responsible. The issue at hand is that there isn't a catch story to illustrate this (i.e., Who Stole My Cheese), nor is there new material that's offers a new way of having people take responsibility. Instead, we get another management book that falls flat.

The book might find someone who will glean a new way of looking at personal responsibility, so I give it three stars. I'm not one of them, hence why it's "Okay".

The good news was that the book was free for me, but won't be for you. The bad news is that I won't get back the 90 minutes I put into reading it.

Save your time & money and skip this one.

Excellent principles for being more accountable in our workplace. Our company gives a copy of this book to every employee, and we refer to the principles and expect accountability from everyone. It is an amazing return on investment. It has added great context in our company for developing a culture of accountability and reduced drama and excuses. And its an easy read so even busy people like me can get through it quickly and enjoy it!

This is a must read for all! It truly changes your approach to many personal and professional situations. It will certainly reduce your complaints in life and create you into a problem solver rather than a finger pointer. Personal accountability can create huge success. This book will change your life and lead you in the right direction. A+

Recently Mr. Miller took time to answer any question we had through a phone call.

I am a Vietnam Veteran diagnosed with PTSD in 1985 and then again in 2002. I attend weekly therapy groups with many Vietnam Veterans, and attend group book reading, with Veterans from different wars, on books to help us deal with our daily lives with PTSD. My wife received your book Question Behind the Question in 2013 at work, I briefly looked at it and didn’t think it would be a book that could help me develop my skills or be a tool to help me with PTSD. However, I was wrong. In 2014 I found QBQ again, among some other books, curiously I decided to read it more in depth, which took me about 2 hours. I have read QBQ many times since 2014 and it has made a great impact on my learning to live with PTSD. I take personal accountability of my PTDS, and I am always looking new skills and tools to use to improve my life. I feel that this book has helped me and feel it would be of great help to other Veterans, and I’m glad I came upon it again.

I often recite you twist on the Serenity Prayer to myself and in group.

Thanks Ivan

What a quick, powerful read! While some of the content from this book could certainly be considered basic in terms of accountability practices, I found the way in which the concepts are presented refreshing and insightful - most impactful for me was the help this book provides in terms of discussing / teaching these accountability practices to others. I read it on the recommendation from a friend, and there are several useful, practical thoughts and actions I've gleaned from this book. For the record, my favorite thought from QBQ is the definition of leadership: "Leadership, more than anything else, is about the way we think. It's a moment-to-moment disciplining of our thoughts." I believe the rest of this book helps the reader do exactly that - disciplining of thought - in ways that would help nearly anyone grow in their ability to lead & learn well.

I am going to recommend all the leaders in our company read this book! It has been so insightful for me and I am able to relate to so many of the incorrect questions (IQ's) the author poses throughout the book. I have also taken the principles to heart in my day to day work and really finding out the difference it makes in helping others see things from a different perspective by asking the question behind the question (QBQ). If you have negative people in your office, on your team, etc. read this book and recommend it to them!

This is an exceptionally short and interesting book. I finished it within an hour. Ironcially that's the beauty of it which is just so straightforward and well written that I can remember some stories/teachings long after I closed it, especially the story of the waiter asking his manageress to buy the author a diet coke in a restaurant that served only Pepsi (dare you challenge the company policy to satisfy a customer?), and the one of a Cinderella cashier in Home Depot who bought a $2 stuff for a rich man (the prince who would marry her) who got only $100 notes to keep customers from waiting too long. In short, well worths the price and the time, though QBQ and personal accountability to you (and me) may just be another marketing name, similar to the "5 Whys?" (asking "why?" at least five times for every problem engaged) that Toyota, the excellent auto maker, had adopted for decades.

Below please find some passages I like the most for your reference.

I saw the angel in the marble and I chiseled until I set it free. - Michelangelo

Focusing on what we dont have is a waste of time and energy.....Let's ask the QBQ "How can I achieve with the resources I already have?" pg 40

"When are we going to hear something new?" is the wrong question. The right one is "How can I apply what I'm hearing?" - even if I've heard it before. pg 42

What can I do today to solve the problem? How can I help move the project forward? What action can I take to "own" the situation? pg 46

God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know..........it's me! pg 79

Leadership, more than anything else, is about the way we think. It's a moment to moment discipling of our thoughts. It's about practicing personal accountability and choosing to make a positive contribution, no matter what our role or "level." A receptionist, an engineer, a sales person, a temp worker, a cashier: They all can be leaders...Parents? Absolutely. Parenting may be the most important leadership role there is. pg 93

"Servant leadership" is the QBQ way, and it requires a humble spirit combined with a servant's heart. Humility is the cornerstone of leadership. pg 95

We attend too many seminars. We take too many classes. We buy too many books. We play too many audios in our cars. It's all wasted if we're unclear on what learning really is: Learning is not attending, listening, or reading. Nor is it merely gaining knowledge. Learning is really about translating knowing what to do into doing what we know. It's about changing. If we have not changed we have not learned. What have you learned today? pg 110

Had the honor of listening and learning from Mr. Miller and his daughter at a training. His information was intuitive and inspirational. This book is a great read and if you inspire to be a great leader, this book will give your some great information to succeed.

Love the content in QBQ! It is true that we can only change ourselves and take full accountability for the RESULTS of our ACTIONS. Enough of the blame, shame, and justifying in our society. Definitely an application based read that can set the necessary tone to change and inspire an entire organization!

John Miller's book is easy to read - an hour or two, tops - but life-changing in scope. The secrets of personal success really are as simple as changing the mechanics of what you ask yourself, and how you respond.

I can speak from experience on this, having made a career of helping many organizations dramatically change their service quality. I don't change their "attitude" - we just look at, and change, the mechanics of what they say and think, and suddenly the lights turn on for everyone. In the same way, looking for the QBQ (question behind the question) flips the magic switch that makes you a leader every time.

The real secret is that QBQ! works at a global level as well as a personal level. Miller shares many stories of how people become leaders by being accountable and asking what they can do - but when you look critically at who are the service or profitability leaders in any business, you'll often find entire organizations who succeed by creating an environment where *everyone* feels that success starts with them. QBQ! is a manual for how to join them - read it, give it to everyone on your team, and start changing your life!

-Rich Gallagher, author of The Soul of an Organization and Great Customer Connections

I love that this book gets to the importance of self-accountability early on, with clear direction on how to better my behavior - the only one I can control. It is an easy read and listen. The 4 words that I have ingrained into my brain: What, How, I, and Action! EASY to remember, implement, and repeat! This is something that I can manage and easily remember. Beneficial book for anyone!

Blaming others is a powerful source of unhappiness and bitterness. Blaming propagates victim thinking and victims feel pushed around by others and circumstances.

John Miller's book "QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life" can help you transform victim thinking into personal responsibility by teaching you to ask the right questions.

"The answers are in the questions."

Personal success begins when you STOP asking why, who, and when questions.

When will I be appreciated?
Why do I have to do everything myself?
Who is setting vision?
Why doesn't the younger generation want to work?

Personal success begins when you START asking what and how questions.

How can I be a better coach?
How can I be a better leader?
What can I do to set better boundaries and just say "no?"
What can I do to communicate better?
Blaming others won't make you a better leader. It's not about what "they've" done or not done. You'll find success, "within the box."

Rather than working to change others work to change you.

There are three components to every effective QBQ:

Begin with "What" or "How," (not "Why," "When," or "Who").

Contain an "I," (not "They," "Them," "We," or "You").

Focus on action.

QBQ: The Question Behind the Question, will help you learn, grow, change, and lead.

I love this book. I bought a case to give as gifts.

QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life

Every day we are faced with hundreds of choices. Many of them are so routine and seemingly insignificant that we don't think twice about them. Ultimately, where we are and where we end up in our life is the result of each and every one of those choices. If you aren't happy with where you are right now, start looking at the choices you make. Want to start making better choices for your life? Start asking better questions.
For years in my life, without realizing it, I had been asking questions that wrongly deflected responsibility from me to my family, friends and associates. Not only was that punishing them, it kept me from growing and becoming the husband, father and friend I wanted to be. QBQ helped me to "reframe" different situations and start asking questions that would yield positive solutions rather than dwell on problems.
With a healthy dose of humor, Miller shows us in thirty nine bite-size chapters how to accept responsibility for our own choices, actions and attitude. QBQ will show you how to approach your daily life situations with better questions. Better questions will yield better answers. Better answers will yield better long-term results.
Larry Hehn, Author of Get the Prize: Nine Keys for a Life of Victory

This book is amazing! I have always taken personal accountability very seriously but still learned a lot. This book has helped me identify areas where I can continue to improve. It also asks questions that I had not thought to ask myself. I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to be more effective in relationships, parenting, business or just life!

I am currently leading a group through this book and every person in the group is taking away key things that they can implement. I personally thought I was pretty good at personal accountability but the book has revealed some areas I can continue to work on. This book is a great tool for anyone looking to better themselves.

I work in tourism which is heavy in customer service. I always try to "go the extra mile" for our guests. This book taught me a lot about great service should really be. Don't make excuses when things go wrong- even if it looks like it was your fault but it wasn't.

Once I was boarding passengers onto a motocoach. I had been given the wrong information from someone, so I had to tell them that is was the wrong coach & they had to wait for the next one. I knew I wasn't at fault, but I didn't say who was or make excuses. I just apologized for the confusion. They weren't super happy still, but at least I owned it instead of "throwing someone else under the bus". (See what I did
there?).

I think EVERYONE should read this book. The information is great for any job you might have & also great for dealing with anyone you might come in contact with.

I ordered this book because a friend recommended it. The minute I got it, I started reading and a couple hours later finished it. It is such a practical book and a quick and easy read. I am planning to read this again and again and will be sharing it with my organization as well. It just makes so much logical sense and I hope that others will embrace the concepts of personal accountability and will spread the word!!

This review is from: QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life (Hardcover)
A few years ago and as a production supervisor I was fortunate to be able to meet John G. Miller speaking at a seminar here in Nebraska, along with his very enthusiastic and compassionate daughter, Kristin. From that time forward and throughout my working career (now retired) and personal life, I have put into practice the motivational theme of Personal Accountability as motivated by John. Just the simple one line changed my life..."What can I do to make the situation better?"...and the Question Behind The Question is alive and well. I can bear witness, pass on teachings, and most importantly practice Personal Accountability in my personal/family life and as a mentor to others. If you never read another book in your life..please read QBQ by John G Miller and then let the message and power thereof enter your life and what you can do to help others and motivate them will be quint essential to your everyday success also. Don't however stop with one book, continue to read other books by John and you will be empowered to move in a most positive direction for the balance of your life.. I would highly recommend that if you ever have a chance to meet John, please do so, but you do have a opportunity now and here in his written books and powerful helpful messages, from work, to play, home to parenting, the power of this message will inspire and change your life for the improvement of you and mankind alike. Please pick up his books and see what you just may be missing in your life and what you can do to help so many others improve their lives.

Useful and practical insights into how to improve business and personal relationships and be happier! I've used the lessons from this book in my personal and professional lives and doing so has helped me grow as a leader in my organization and as a person overall. I find that, when I remember the lessons from this book, I'm genuinely happier and don't "sweat the small stuff" nearly as much. Highly recommend!

I read QBQ first in a three book series by John Miller. It provides the basis for understanding how re-orienting responsibility is key to focusing on the things you can change in your life not changing others or buying in to a "victim" attitude. I found the book to be an easy and quick read. Don't let the size of the book fool you, it's the size of the message that's important. Sometimes big ideas come in small packages. Worth a read and a re-read at times like these.

I have purchased several copies of this book. I truly love it and the information has changed my professional and personnel life. I love the Question Behind the Question and what can I do to change my life and take personal responsibility. i have shared the book with others and I use the information daily. I love the emails that follow up with new material - thank you so much for the guidance. Glenna mount

This is a "rewrite" of his first book, PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY, published in 1998. He is the founder of QBQ Inc. in Denver. In 1995, he began speaking about this concept in workshops.

People change, one at a time, through his/her own choices. Personal accountability (which he uses incessantly throughout this little book) is the power of one. It changes the world one choice at a time. Stress is sometimes the result of our choices.

Communication is not just being understood but also understanding the other person. You need to discipline your thoughts and make better choices (another word he uses a lot!). When we are faced with frustration or a challenge, our first reaction is usually negative and defensive. Only through action is anything accomplished. Action requires courage and leads toward solutions. It builds confidence and brings learning and growth at all ages.

Humility is the cornerstone of leadership. "Wisdom is what we learn after we know it all." By the type of questions we ask others and ourselves, the world may become a far better place, without blame and negativity.

I'm sure John Miller is a great workshop leader, like the one one from Chicago who taught me the difference between agression and submission at a PTA training session when I was still young (I have never been one for submission!), but this book is so simple. He is a graduate of Cornell University while my Alma Mater is Martin Methodist College in Middle Tennessee. What a vast difference, but I doubt his major was English. Mine wasn't either -- liberal arts. And it is getting a workout par excellence.

The QBQ! book is one of those rare books that has a meaningful, longterm impact. While it is a quick and simple read, the topic of personal accountability much more complex. It is human nature to want to blame others to make ourselves feel better when things don't go the way we think they ought to, but John G. Miller's book points out that we as business professionals, parents, teachers, and human beings often ask the wrong questions such as "When will we get more training?" and "Why aren't they listening" and not asking the right questions such as "What can I do to help them understand" or "How can I communicate more effectively." This book has had a profound impact of me professionally and personally and I refer to the concepts daily and each day I feel as though I become a better and person and have the opportunity to teach others as well. Thank you John G. Miller!

In The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability in Business and in Life, John G. Miller presents an alternative way to look at our problems (or challenges) and encourages us to ask different, but better questions about them.
Miller starts off by illustrating incorrect questions (IQ's). IQ's focus on things or people outside or external to us. Some examples might be "When will he learn to manage better?", "Why can't they see my point-of-view?", "Why can't they hire better workers?". IQ's tend to sap our energy and deflate our spirit.
IQ's do, however, seem to come naturally, perhaps as a result of human nature. Miller often asks groups of people what's the one thing they would like to change in their organizations. The answers always follow the external P's: that is, change the policies, procedures, prices, and other people. "Nobody ever says me." As an example, look at the following questions and see what is the first response that comes to mind.
-A poor subordinate blames the _____.
-A poor executive blames the _____.
-A poor driver blames the _____.
Although these thoughts or questions may be natural, they lead us into blame, complaining, and procrastination. Miller's solution is to discipline our thoughts and to look behind our initial questions to come up with better questions-or, as he terms it, the question behind the question (QBQ).
These are Miller's three guiding principles for better questions or QBQ's. Better questions:
1. "Begin with what or how (not why, when or who)."
2. "Contain I (not they, we, or you)."
3. "Focus on action."
A perfect example of a QBQ is "What can I do right now?" The essence of the QBQ system is that "the answers are in the questions". If you ask the right question you can make positive moves toward achievement and a rewarding life.
The book concludes with a list of lousy questions and the better QBQ's or questions behind the questions. A brief sample follows.
The sales department:
"When are we going to get some new products?"
"Why can't we get better customer service support?"
QBQ's:
"How can I add value for my customers?"
The management:
"Why aren't my workers more motivated?"
"Why do they keep making the same mistakes?"
QBQ's:
"What can I do to help them do their job better?"
To summarize, "The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability in Business and Life" presents some basic, yet powerful ideas about creating a more rewarding and fulfilling life.

Purchased and consumed this book when first published. I really loved it! It truly steered me to think differently, work differently, manage differently and lead differently. Now, as some seek advice and guidance QBQ! is a "must read" that I suggest as a mentor.

Questions are indeed powerful tools for personal and professional discovery. Unfortunately, far too many people truly do not understand the real questions to ask themselves.

In this book, QBQ! The Question Behind the Question What to Really Ask Yourself, Practicing Personal Accountability in Business and in Life, John G. Miller through the use of personal observations show the power of questions and their answers. Beyond being an easy read and quick one as well (less than 120 pages in bigger print), Miller paints in 39 short chapters how to eliminate blame, complaining and procrastination.

The author states the essence of QBQ is all about making better choices through better questions. Just think how that could affect your life? Would you have less resistance by your children to customers? Would you actually have more of your desired results? Imagine the possibilities?

I personally enjoyed Chapter 24 where the author encourages people to leave organizations they no longer believe in. Chapter 25 looked at the power of one because change begins with I or me and not with we. If you want to be noticed, to stand out in the crowded business world, to be The Red Jacket in a sea of gray suits, then in my opinion, this book should be in your personal library and reread on a regular basis.

I absolutely loved the book. So much that I purchased it for my entire staff and we are flowing it down to the organization. Started a management book club to discuss in staff weekly. It has started to make us release how much of our valuable time we spend in the past and opposed to planning the future. I have also read the QBQ for parenting.....extremely valuable as well. You might say I am a QBQ addicted at this point.
Thank you John

As a supervisor in the Addictions and Criminal Justice Field, I often find staff imbued with cynicism and negativity. These fields have been marked by significant changes in the past decade.
Complaints about the lack of resources, changing relationships, new technology abound.
Historically it has been easy for me to join in with the mob and focus on how awful and unfair things are.
As a counselor I know how hard it is for people to change their thinking patterns - and even though I know how to help others change their thinking patterns, I have often had trouble myself challenging my "thinking errors."
Then I read John's book. And it is amazing. John gets to the root of the issue not by asking the reader to analyze their pattern or the roots of their issue but by having the reader shift their behavior - shift your behavior by focusing on the words - specifically the questions - you ask.
After my second - or maybe third read - I have a heightened sense of the "lousy questions" that pepper conversations, discussions and negotiations with colleagues. (Its almost like, unconsciously people want to be a victim).
This quick read contains so much grist for thought - each time I read it I recognize more ways to step up to the plate an practice personal accountability.
Get this book - read it a couple of times and see for yourself!
Thanks John!

A lack of personal accountability can devastate an organization, company or family. In the rank and file, it causes poor execution; among executive leadership, it devastates morale and leads to musical chairs for those beneath them.

This book is a quick read; perhaps two hours, and offers an excellent antidote to this lack of accountability. The next time you begin whining, restructure your complaint so that it:

1. Begins with WHAT or HOW, and not Why, When, or Who.
2. Contains the pronoun: I
3. Focuses on an Action.

When am I going to get some sales help? becomes: What can I do today to be more effective?
Why does management just not get it? becomes: How can I communicate better?
Who is going to help me? becomes: What can I do to gain more support?

The quality of the questions we ask determines the quality of our results. The more we focus on our own behaviors (which we control) the less we concern ourselves with the behavior of others (over which we have no control. The result is feeling of true ownership, which is a great way to get excellent results.

These days, it seems that we are looking for a scapegoat to conveniently blame all our life's problems on. Almost seems like being a victim is in fashion. We cannot do our jobs because we don't have the materials to do so. We ask why we don't have the resources to improve our lives. John Miller says quit asking "Why can't they....?" and start asking "How can I...? "

"QBQ! The Question Behind the Question" is a classic book on personal accountability. John helps us to frame the questions to help us in our personal and professional lives. From the server who sent his manager to the corner store to get John his beverage of choice to the disabled man that John and his family encountered gathering the papers that flew out of his pick up, we get example after example of the QBQ in action.

John G. Miller continuously drives home the point that when you point a finger at someone, you are pointing three back at yourself .

In these days of soundbites and 140 character tweets,QBQ is a very refreshing quick read. It only takes a little over an hour to read,but this will be a very profitable hour because it will pay off in dividends.

If your life and career has you blue
You need to buy QBQ
When you're faced with a task
It tells what to ask
In helping you decide what to do

First, I disliked some of the first read...not because of the content, message and clearly positioned topic but because of the awakening to the reality of what John G. Miller presents in QBQ!. Within a few chapters it became clear that this was not just good material...this is TERRIFIC material...the premise, the explanations and the first-person examples.

What I've come to realize in my consulting work with various small market radio stations - the people that bring news, weather, markets, information and entertainment to their audiences - is that John's work is needed more than ever by so many, in and outside the industry. The press of the day, the cacophony we all face everyday allows us to slip into victim thinking so easily and it becomes habit to feel pressed upon.

QBQ! brings you startlingly fast to the realization that you have more control over your life, destiny, work, environment and personal happiness than anything else....IF you ask the better questions. QBQ! doesn't just tell you what a key problem this is for many but gives an awe-inspiring way of solving situations, create solutions and rekindle belief in oneself...

I'm only disappointed that 5-Star is the top rating I can share because QBQ! is a 10-Star plus read.

I wish someone had told me a while ago, "Go out and buy and read this book...It could have an instant, dramatic, and positive influence on your life." I did buy and read this great book, and it has begun to change my life in some very positive ways. In fact, I think so much of this book that I have shared it with my boss (who loved it) and we have bought it and shared it with everyone in our office.

Miller's common-sense approach to addressing the deeply personal and broadly universal character issue of personal accountability was both refreshing and enlightening. The book is a series of short, simple, and inter-related chapters that discuss or illustrate different thoughts and perspectives about personal accountability. The chapters contain many outstanding stories, anecdotes, and personal experiences of people making a difference through personal accountability. Many times I personally related to the questions and situations Miller presented.

According to Miller, the essence of QBQ is making better choices in the moment by asking better questions. Instead of asking lousy questions that do not solve anything -- "Why don't they communicate better?" or "Who dropped the ball?" or "Who is going to solve this problem?" - Miller argues for questions that begin with "What" or "How," contain "I," and focus on action - "How can I make a difference?" or "What can I do to contribute?" Miller's argument was a great complement to Stephen Covey's first habit (of 7) of highly effective people (being proactive; being responsible for making good things happen in your life) and Viktor Frankl's last of the human freedoms (being able to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances).

Lastly, I believe Miller intended this book for individuals who are serious about introspection for the sake of character refinement and life improvement. I love challenges, and I took Miller's words that follow as a constructive challenge that I have gladly accepted:

"Learning is not attending, listening or reading. Nor is it merely gaining knowledge. Learning is really about translating 'knowing' what to do into 'doing' what we know. It's about changing. If we have not changed we have not learned. What have you learned today?"

I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I enjoyed your book QBQ! I started a new job yesterday here in Salt Lake and one of our first assignments was to read your book. I read it in over an hour and enjoyed it immensely. It is a life changer when we allow it to be. Holding ourselves accountable is a characteristic that is lost in today's world (actually passed down from generation to generation). Fortunately we have the ability to change that. Thanks again! Your book is going on my shelf of favorite inspirational collections! Read it people... it is definitely a life changer!

Rob P, Salt Lake City, Utah

I am a clinical psychologist and treat combat veterans. I run a readers' group for them and one of the veterans requested this book, stating he had already read it 4 times and it has helped him with his Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I chose it as our next book and not only used it to help the veterans with their PTSD, but also with their interpersonal issues. This book is not only for business -- it can be applied to any aspect in your life. It is a fast read and well worth your time. Best of all, I arranged to have the author speak to our veterans once the book was read and he is a fantastic speaker!

John Miller's intuitive perspective on the art of personal accountability answers the questions many organizations have about how they should go about maximizing productivity.

Simply stated, personal accountability leads to a warm & fuzzy feeling of ownership, which in turn enhances employee engagment & morale. The end result is an internally driven stimulis package, without the crippling effect on federal government deficits.

In other words, under these conditions, everyone will lead a better life, and most importantly, businesses can get back on track again and become far greater profit making organizations. Bailouts? Not necessary, thank you very much.

Believe it or not, this is not a simplistic perspective on "what could be" for society; it is very attainable. The directions are inside the pages of this short and marvelous book.

I've read this book at least five times now. As a career professional ranging from higher education to corporations, no one is immune to the "blame game" of he did it/she did it or better yet, "they" did it.

Much time and emotional energy is spent on blaming others for problems, frustrations, and anger. This also spans into our personal lives.

QBQ address the crux of the matter or what I feel is truly choice. Many people do not feel that they have choice or that they need to deal with the deck of cards they've been handed. The reality is that all of us have a choice on how to act or react in any given situation.

QBQ takes the premise of choice and places into a framework that takes blame language into positive, actionable language where one can take charge of a situation. Instead of who did it or why did "they" cut our budget, an appropriate rephrase might be "how can I help this situation?"

This book is a very easy read, half hour tops and is good to come back to again and again. No matter how positive one might be, even the best of us can fall into victim thinking to remove ourselves from the equation.

An excellent read for anyone, professionally or personally.

QBQ is an easy read with a ton of valuable information. It's not a book you read once and forget about it, but almost a manual you default to when you can't seem to find the answer on your own. Read it, gift it and read it again.

Great book!!! Very insightful, shows you the tools we all have to ask the correct questions, not the incorrect questions (IQ). A great way to self evaluate how you look at things and others. A wonderful self improvement guide to improving yourself and workforce!

Normally, I have a fair amount to say after reading a book. In the case of this one, not so much. Mostly because it's stuff I've long believed, lived, espoused. (Although I do have my own version of how to approach things, RBR, or Reason Behind the Reason, which deals with causation and acting gracefully in response to someone's limitations.)

The concepts are simple, and for me, summed up in the title of my review. Anyone who has any experience with yoga, who has entered into that philosophy needs no further explanation.

Well done to Mr. Miller; this is a great contribution not just to the business world, not just to the self-help community, but to society at large; what's here is the sort of 'enlightenment' that was 'common sense and good manners' a century ago.

Namasté.

Personal rating: 9/10 (I'd have appreciated some more illustrations.)

These days, it seems that we are looking for a scapegoat to conveniently blame all our life's problems on. Almost seems like being a victim is in fashion. We cannot do our jobs because we don't have the materials to do so. We ask why we don't have the resources to improve our lives. John Miller says quit asking "Why can't they....?" and start asking "How can I...? "

"QBQ! The Question Behind the Question" is a classic book on personal accountability. John helps us to frame the questions to help us in our personal and professional lives. From the server who sent his manager to the corner store to get John his beverage of choice to the disabled man that John and his family encountered gathering the papers that flew out of his pick up, we get example after example of the QBQ in action.

John G. Miller continuously drives home the point that when you point a finger at someone, you are pointing three back at yourself .

In these days of soundbites and 140 character tweets,QBQ is a very refreshing quick read. It only takes a little over an hour to read,but this will be a very profitable hour because it will pay off in dividends.

If your life and career has you blue
You need to buy QBQ
When you're faced with a task
It tells what to ask
In helping you decide what to do

First, I disliked some of the first read...not because of the content, message and clearly positioned topic but because of the awakening to the reality of what John G. Miller presents in QBQ!. Within a few chapters it became clear that this was not just good material...this is TERRIFIC material...the premise, the explanations and the first-person examples.

What I've come to realize in my consulting work with various small market radio stations - the people that bring news, weather, markets, information and entertainment to their audiences - is that John's work is needed more than ever by so many, in and outside the industry. The press of the day, the cacophony we all face everyday allows us to slip into victim thinking so easily and it becomes habit to feel pressed upon.

QBQ! brings you startlingly fast to the realization that you have more control over your life, destiny, work, environment and personal happiness than anything else....IF you ask the better questions. QBQ! doesn't just tell you what a key problem this is for many but gives an awe-inspiring way of solving situations, create solutions and rekindle belief in oneself...

I'm only disappointed that 5-Star is the top rating I can share because QBQ! is a 10-Star plus read.

I wish someone had told me a while ago, "Go out and buy and read this book...It could have an instant, dramatic, and positive influence on your life." I did buy and read this great book, and it has begun to change my life in some very positive ways. In fact, I think so much of this book that I have shared it with my boss (who loved it) and we have bought it and shared it with everyone in our office.

Miller's common-sense approach to addressing the deeply personal and broadly universal character issue of personal accountability was both refreshing and enlightening. The book is a series of short, simple, and inter-related chapters that discuss or illustrate different thoughts and perspectives about personal accountability. The chapters contain many outstanding stories, anecdotes, and personal experiences of people making a difference through personal accountability. Many times I personally related to the questions and situations Miller presented.

According to Miller, the essence of QBQ is making better choices in the moment by asking better questions. Instead of asking lousy questions that do not solve anything -- "Why don't they communicate better?" or "Who dropped the ball?" or "Who is going to solve this problem?" - Miller argues for questions that begin with "What" or "How," contain "I," and focus on action - "How can I make a difference?" or "What can I do to contribute?" Miller's argument was a great complement to Stephen Covey's first habit (of 7) of highly effective people (being proactive; being responsible for making good things happen in your life) and Viktor Frankl's last of the human freedoms (being able to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances).

Lastly, I believe Miller intended this book for individuals who are serious about introspection for the sake of character refinement and life improvement. I love challenges, and I took Miller's words that follow as a constructive challenge that I have gladly accepted:

"Learning is not attending, listening or reading. Nor is it merely gaining knowledge. Learning is really about translating 'knowing' what to do into 'doing' what we know. It's about changing. If we have not changed we have not learned. What have you learned today?"

WOW - a real eye opener! So many examples of "victim" thinking that we've all experienced and great tips on how to overcome that and take control of your thoughts/actions. A simple, easy read that hits home and is also wonderful for building a stronger team. Definitely recommend having your leaders and co-workers read this book and make sure you get the QBQ! Workbook as well. Changing your thinking takes practice, time, repetition and patience!

I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I enjoyed your book QBQ! I started a new job yesterday here in Salt Lake and one of our first assignments was to read your book. I read it in over an hour and enjoyed it immensely. It is a life changer when we allow it to be. Holding ourselves accountable is a characteristic that is lost in today's world (actually passed down from generation to generation). Fortunately we have the ability to change that. Thanks again! Your book is going on my shelf of favorite inspirational collections! Read it people... it is definitely a life changer!

Rob P, Salt Lake City, Utah

I am a clinical psychologist and treat combat veterans. I run a readers' group for them and one of the veterans requested this book, stating he had already read it 4 times and it has helped him with his Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I chose it as our next book and not only used it to help the veterans with their PTSD, but also with their interpersonal issues. This book is not only for business -- it can be applied to any aspect in your life. It is a fast read and well worth your time. Best of all, I arranged to have the author speak to our veterans once the book was read and he is a fantastic speaker!

This is by far my most favorite leadership book. Sure there are a lot of books out there, and a lot that get released every year, but I will recommend/give away this one first over any other. Personal accountability is the foundation at which great leadership is built. John delivers the message with such grace and ease. I have the book on Kindle, hardcover, and audio and there isn't one I prefer over the other, I just like to be able to come back and review the good message within at whichever medium is most available. I haven't done this with any other book and for good reason.

John Miller's intuitive perspective on the art of personal accountability answers the questions many organizations have about how they should go about maximizing productivity.

Simply stated, personal accountability leads to a warm & fuzzy feeling of ownership, which in turn enhances employee engagment & morale. The end result is an internally driven stimulis package, without the crippling effect on federal government deficits.

In other words, under these conditions, everyone will lead a better life, and most importantly, businesses can get back on track again and become far greater profit making organizations. Bailouts? Not necessary, thank you very much.

Believe it or not, this is not a simplistic perspective on "what could be" for society; it is very attainable. The directions are inside the pages of this short and marvelous book.

I've read this book at least five times now. As a career professional ranging from higher education to corporations, no one is immune to the "blame game" of he did it/she did it or better yet, "they" did it.

Much time and emotional energy is spent on blaming others for problems, frustrations, and anger. This also spans into our personal lives.

QBQ address the crux of the matter or what I feel is truly choice. Many people do not feel that they have choice or that they need to deal with the deck of cards they've been handed. The reality is that all of us have a choice on how to act or react in any given situation.

QBQ takes the premise of choice and places into a framework that takes blame language into positive, actionable language where one can take charge of a situation. Instead of who did it or why did "they" cut our budget, an appropriate rephrase might be "how can I help this situation?"

This book is a very easy read, half hour tops and is good to come back to again and again. No matter how positive one might be, even the best of us can fall into victim thinking to remove ourselves from the equation.

An excellent read for anyone, professionally or personally.

This book is required reading for all my employees and it plays a huge role in our culture. We enjoy working as team members where blame is never a factor and everyone is looking for ways they personally can make a difference. I cannot recommend this book enough! Once you have read this one, read Flipping The Switch!

QBQ is an easy read with a ton of valuable information. It's not a book you read once and forget about it, but almost a manual you default to when you can't seem to find the answer on your own. Read it, gift it and read it again.

Great book!!! Very insightful, shows you the tools we all have to ask the correct questions, not the incorrect questions (IQ). A great way to self evaluate how you look at things and others. A wonderful self improvement guide to improving yourself and workforce!

The ideas, lessons, and stories John provides in QBQ! allow us all to challenge ourselves on our thinking on a day to day basis, and truly establish a foundation on which we can recondition how we react to the world around us in a much more productive manner than whining, hopelessness, and blame.

Normally, I have a fair amount to say after reading a book. In the case of this one, not so much. Mostly because it's stuff I've long believed, lived, espoused. (Although I do have my own version of how to approach things, RBR, or Reason Behind the Reason, which deals with causation and acting gracefully in response to someone's limitations.)

The concepts are simple, and for me, summed up in the title of my review. Anyone who has any experience with yoga, who has entered into that philosophy needs no further explanation.

Well done to Mr. Miller; this is a great contribution not just to the business world, not just to the self-help community, but to society at large; what's here is the sort of 'enlightenment' that was 'common sense and good manners' a century ago.

Namasté.

Personal rating: 9/10 (I'd have appreciated some more illustrations.)

I absolutely loved this book. We read it at our school and it has really helped me see things in a different light. No blaming others for what they don't change but changing myself so that I learn to handle situations better. I recommend everyone at least pick out one of Mr. Miller's many great books and see if you feel the same way.

QBQ! is truly a classic.
In order to achieve success in any area, you have to be accountable, but not just accountable to others, you need to be accountable to yourself.
Human nature is to blame others for our problems. Every day see we see other people blaming us for their problems. However we think that we are free from such a mentality.
This book show you know that you too blame other people for your problems. This book is for anyone in the human race. It is a must read.
I spoke with John on the phone a few times and he is really a great guy. He is really interested in improving the lives of many, many people. I fully endorse his work, and I wish him much success!
Zev Saftlas, Author of Motivation That Works: How to Get Motivated and Stay Motivated &
Founder of [...]

QBQ is one of the greatest little books I've ever read about how to create a positive and changing difference not only in your professional life but in your personal life as well. Having an optimistic attitude is something I've always chosen to have and it has served me well throughout my professional and personal life. QBQ opened up even more possibilities for looking at life, career with an added perspective on how to improve that optimistic attitude. I'm excited to incorporate the simple but deep ideas and steps as a daily boost of positivity. QBQ packed a lot of vital information into a simply easy and fun book to read. I loved the light bulb reaction that kept going on in my head as I had some aha moments on how I could look at thing differently. Fantastic book for you if you are looking to improve your own attitude and opportunities in your personal and professional life. Great for families and for organizations as well! this is the one book I'll keep by my desk. Heck I might have to get a second copy to have at home. Thank you John Miller for putting it into simple and easily understood format for looking inside myself to be my own change agent for personal accountability. QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life

Miller tells the story of the waiter sending his manager out to get a Diet Coke for the customer. Now how many of our managers would be willing to do that for us? On a regular basis? On a daily basis?

I rest my case: Managers are part of the problem with customer service.

Most bosses exempt themselves from the principles they teach. They use books like this to extort and guilt-trip employees into increasing customer service. However, most employees can see through all of this.

[...]

So to the book. Anything that forces us to change ourselves for the better is good. This books forces you to examine your motives, and to look at why you are raising the issues that you do. Not all question are equal: some are faulty, some are "loaded," some are leading, and some are misleading.

This book reminds me of a "Chicken Soup For Socrates' Soul." The idea is to question your own questioning. We need to look at our motives for raising questions. Questions are not neutral: they can shed light, but it can also spread darkness.

Fundamentally, it is a call to drop the hypocrisy, and the sanctimoniousness we put on. We are one-person wrecking crews, but we do it under a cloak of communication. Bah!

IMYO, get this book, read it in conjunction with the "Seven Habits" discussion of spheres of influence , and then do all you can with your little plot. Even if it is just yourself.

I was tasked to read this as a new hire by the HR dept. at my new job. This book only contains anecdotes about the author's experiences on how other people have 'increased personal responsibility." There is no real concrete advice in this book, just suggestions based off of highly subjective anecdotes. You can definitely tell that this book was written by a privileged white male, even without knowing the author's name or picture. The book definitely pushes a western bourgeoisie frame of reference that gaslights those that are wronged (eliminate victim thinking and complaining). It is filled with buzzwords and phrases that seem like they mean things but really don't hold much value.

While this is a good reminder to keep an overall general positive outlook on life and work, the recommendations of this book are outlandish and purely derived from the narrow viewpoint of the author. These examples and recommendations would not make good employees, they would make good servants.

I found this book in the business section of the bookstore and read a few pages. I immediately knew I had to have it. For anyone who knows me, you know I've struggled at time with various aspects of my life. Most notably my career choices and my weight. Over the past year, I've made some strides but know I have a long way to go.

QBQ basically summed things up for me. It's all about personal accountability. In this country, we have so many freedoms and opportunities. I strongly believe that regardless of your background, one can accomplish almost anything. There have been many jobs I've had where I've placed blame on others rather than doing my best. I've went about making suggestions the wrong way. If I ask questions that start with "What, or How" rather than "Why, When, or Who" I'll go a lot farther in life. This book gives many examples of how that can be achieved. I hope to practice these principles in my new career I'm about to start.

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to take control of there life and stop blaming others for their misfortunes.

As a motivational speaker and instructor, I always take a copy of this book with me to highly recommend it to others for their personal and professional development. Personal accountability is a major key in one's success. This is a 'must read,' for everyone.

I had the pleasure of hearing Mr Miller speak to my organization and felt his message in personal accountability spoke volumes about how to make small changes create a large impact.

Mr Miller speaks eloquently about his topic and is obviously passionate about the role QBQ takes for everyone, be they a leader, parent or any human being. The book is an easy read and the concept is not a stretch to understand, follows similarly to "Who Moved My Cheese" or the One Minute Manager series. This is the type of concept that asks you to think about what is the right thing to do, and more importantly, complete it. The procrastination concept is powerful and impactful, again, very simple, however a concept all need to follow and practice...practice being the root of all habits.

Mr. Miller has one example of a cashier at Home Depot that lowered the rating from 5 to 4 stars; this example is too far fetched and the litigious results that potentially could arise from other customers feeling slighted is too over the top. I understand what Mr. Miller is presenting, and why he purposely ignores the repercussions of such an act, this example only degrades the message he is presenting.

I look very forward to reading "Flipping the Switch" and putting these concepts into action, along with re-reading this series annually to ensure I continue to practice personal accountability.

The world is sorely in need of people who are accountable and resist the "victim mentality." In QBQ, John Miller teaches us how to ask better questions, hold ourselves accountable and protect ourselves from victim think.

I owned (not read) QBQ for several years as part of a book of the month club for leaders. It looked really good sitting on my bookshelf. Within the last couple of years I heard the book promoted by someone respected in the business world. I grabbed QBQ to read on a flight as I headed for a presentation. As a personal development trainer focused on human behavior and personalities, this book lit me on fire. No excuses. Take responsibility. Be accountable. I remind people often that it is okay to be wired a certain way, but it doesn't mean you don't have to change to improve personally / professionally. QBQ is that lightning rod that will jolt your thinking so that you can change you mindset. By the way, as a leader of team, it wouldn't hurt for your team to read and live out the QBQ principles with you. You may enjoy leading more when they do.

QBQ! really give some meaty solutions to the problems of blame, victim thinking, and procrastination. It's a quick read with short chapters which I just love. I am able to reread the book or just a few chapters and immediately go use the content on the job. It teaches how to ask questions that enable one to practice personal accountability and how to take ownership. It also makes me aware of what questions to not ask. So much that happens at work requires a response of accountability - not blame and finger pointing. Clearly we need our politicians to ready this book. Unlike many popular biz books that just provide parables and fictional story lines, QBQ! provides a tremendous "how to" so it can become part of my daily walk. The supporting stories are fun and real life.

This book had simple but powerful truths. It is also good for the avid reader and those that are not. My Dad gave me your book QBQ about 15 years ago when I was just starting my career. It made a big impression on me then and is still in my library today. I have resently paid it forward by purchasing copies to give to others.

Dear Colleagues of Humanity,
QBQ! is an essential read for anyone who interacts with, works with or serves others--nearly everyone....hmm, if you are a hermit, give it a go...you might be surprised!
Become more evolved, empowered and happy. John Miller's wisdom and advice is timely, timeless, and universal. Read it today!

Author John G. Miller admonishes people to quit whining! Miller advocates personal accountability, an almost novel concept in today's litigious world of finger pointing, excuse making and not-my-fault thinking. Instead of asking, "Why is this happening to me?" he says to ask, "What can I do to improve my situation?" Miller calls this the "QBQ, the Question Behind the Question." When you ask such questions you become less of a victim, and put yourself more in control, empowered to improve your life and contribute to the success of your organization. Miller entertains and explains by using examples and uplifting stories culled from his personal experience. His easy-to-grasp theory is fairly one-dimensional and in the banquet of self-help books, it is more of an appetizer than an entrée. Yet, if you want a quick bite of applicable self-improvement advice and don't mind a bit of a scolding, we recommend this tasty treat.

Very good read and a way to start transforming your way of thinking in your job and life in general! Explains what is wrong in a lot of thinking these days within the corporate world! Highly recommend. Easy read but the value far outweighs the time it takes to read!

I bought this book because it was recommended by Dave Ramsey and it's the first of his recommendations that I was slightly disappointed with. This book has a great message, don't get my 2 stars wrong. I think everyone should have a sense of personal responsibility and accountability in all aspects of their lives.

The reason I give this book 2 stars is because I believe you can get just as much out of reading the reviews as you can from buying the book. It's a short book and a quick afternoon read - but for some reason it took the author a whole book just to say more or less two things:

1) Start taking responsibility for your lives
2) Stop asking "why me?" or playing the blame game and instead start asking "what or how can I fix this? or "what can I do to help in this situation?"

I truly believe the main points to this book could be summed up in a well-written pamphlet. I found the book to be incredibly redundant, however I suppose if taking responsibility for yourself is a new concept to you, maybe you need to reread it over and over again...

John's book QBQ is an excellent book for anyone concerned with Personal Development, He gives you a wonderful perspective and a formula that I can personally attest has impact on how you interact with everyone. When the principles in John's book are applied they can truly change your life. Thanks John!

I found QBQ! to be incredibly helpful. I have read quite a few leadership and self-help books, however this one stands out because it is immediately applicable. Once the simple but effective points are made (begin with "what" or "how" questions instead of an "I" and focus on action), these principles can change your life! I also appreciate the focus on "doing" versus just the theoretical.

The message of this book is clear and simple, we all need to learn to take personal accountability for our work and our actions. I know I have been as guilty of this as anyone in my life and that's why this book had such a huge impact on me. There is far too much finger-pointing and passing the buck going on in this world today. I definitely do not want my children growing up thinking that they don't need to learn to own up to their actions. The issues presented in this book make it a perfect gift for anyone getting ready to enter the workforce. I would highly recommend this for high school students and college grads. I plan to keep this book on hand for my kids to read some day and I hope to refer to it myself many times until then, so that I can be a role model to them.

QBQ is a quick read but is loaded with powerful thoughts to challenge you to grow in your work, home and social life. Essentially QBQ is about personal accountability. The author, John Miller, has built an entire personal development system around the idea that we should focus on what we can do to improve performance at work or relationships with our kids, not on what others should be doing to improve or accomplish any given objective. The concept is incredibly simple and is presented that way in QBQ. Nevertheless, it is very foreign to many of us in post-modern America.

If you find yourself hitting walls in your life or being frustrated with others, QBQ will teach you a new way of thinking that will wipe away much of that frustration. This book is especially powerful for people who work in teams or organizations where "people problems" are the greatest hinderance to achieving goals and/or being happy while trying.

Great book - short consise and susinct chapters allow for a quick read - followed by thoughtful contemplation. Many of the ideas correlate well with daily life situations and choices. A "must read" book in my opinion.

This book was recommended to me by a new friend Rini from BP, and i love it. I read it just in a two hours flight ( i am not a fast reader!), finishing it right when the plane landed, and i kind of feel very motivated and enpowered!

In the simple similar tradition of One Minute Manager, Fish, and other simple to read business book, this one has one great idea about how we should ask questions.

In a nutshell:
1. Begin with "WHAT" or "HOW", and not "Why", "When, or "Who".
2. Contain an "I"
3. Focus on Action.

So, instead of: " When are we going to be more competitive?", use: " What can i do today to be more effective?".
Or, instead of " Who will care as much as I do?", use "How can I communicate better?"

QBQ is a simple powerful technique that will improve the way you see life. John Miller has a whole organisation build into training it.

Even that the way they write is way different, i would like to compare the idea of QBQ as such similar power with One Minute Manager. It's easy to teach, easy to implement, and have great return if people start using it.

So, for 2 hours easy reading that might change your life for the better, you have nothing to lose, get a copy.

Picked up this book based on a recommendation by Dave Ramsey. The concept in QBQ is an important one. How to stop thinking like a victim. I think the process/technique that Miller lays out is very well thought out and will definitely impact the way I think about and react to negative people, events, situations, etc. However, I was hoping for a little more meat. The book was small to begin with and when you open it up it also has somewhat large print. It took me about 45 minutes to read the entire thing. Great message and an excellent tool to use in your everyday life...but like Chinese food...it leaves you wanting more after you are finished.

Absolutely fantastic book. Sometimes, we read a book to help us become better leaders and managers, and it helps us become better people. This is one of those books. This book helped me to stop starting with defensiveness in difficult interactions. This is huge! If you consistently start by asking yourself the right questions, it can help you get solutions oriented in your life and career. I have given copies of this book to people on my team if they are struggling with taking accountability and ownership and are thus stuck in a victim state with no chance of success. It has not failed to help someone yet. Highly recommend!!!

Did you recently start a new job? Do you like giving unique and meaningful gifts? Are you a self-improvement seeker and perhaps don’t have the time right now to attend a full licensed training course? THIS SERIOUSLY IS THE BOOK FOR YOU!!

The QBQ! Book does NOT have to be read front to back! It’s a quick and easy read because the material is so relatable and applicable to your daily life.

Five years ago, I was working as an Assistant Buyer in Omaha, Nebraska. My Supervisor enrolled me in the full-on QBQ! licensed training course. Without being too hyperbolic about the program, it helped change the course of my career!

Fortunately, I absorbed the true value of personal accountability early in my career. Today, I manage the Purchasing Department for a manufacturing company in Los Angeles, CA. I now can introduce these lessons to my team. Pay it forward. Onward and upward!

This book was recommended by my son-in-law who coaches and works with youth at his school that need some encouragement they don't get at home. He loved the book and shared it with me. My company provides business training for contractors coast-to-coast and the principles thought within this book are "right on" when it comes to business ownership and leadership. As a matter of fact the author has agreed to provide an audio overview of the book for our Profit University Audio Series that is listened to by contractors in all trades. I would highly recommend this book as a wake up call for personal accountability.....something individuals in our country really need to hear.

This book was required reading one night during my recent interim pastor training. It took me about 40 minutes to read it and I found the book to be inspirational and helpful in asking questions the 'right' questions in a world that is no longer linear and predictable. In a world where change is the only constant, this book was helpful to begin to re-frame the kind of questions to ask and how to approach situations so as not be reacting to change but to be part of the solution to problems that come up in a constantly changing world. I'd recommend this book to any professional who is seeking to understand how to be effective in a constantly changing environment.

In a culture that constantly wants to displace blame and complain about their lot in life, it's great reading this book on personal accountability. John Miller gives a refreshing reminder that we have the power to make choices in how we respond to our circumstances. We can't always control what happens to us but we can always control how we react. The lessons I learned in this book serve as a daily reminder and I highly recommend this book to everyone. It's an easy read that will leave a lasting impact.

I've read QBQ several times and I was originally hooked by John's ideas about asking the Question Behind the Question rather than pointing fingers at others or whining about my "bad, bad customers." I've read many 400-page, profound self-help books over the years, but it's amazing how many great ideas John packs into such a small space. He presents his ideas in an easy-to-read, easy-to-understand, story-telling format that's actually fun to read! You can read QBQ in about an hour or in small bites (some chapters are as short as a page of two). It will be one of the most valuable hours you've ever spent.

This book contains alot of common sense guidance on how to practice personal accountability. Like all books like this, your first instinct is to say "I need to give this book to my employees, spouse, brother, etc." However, this book isn't about changing others, but about changing yourself, the one person whom you have any control over.

I especially enjoyed the direction given on asking the right questions, often substituting "I" for "we", "you", "they", etc. This book gives good guidance on common sense leadership principles that I find especially useful which redirects you from the natural tendency to look for scapegoats rather than search for solutions, a common problem in many organizations.

A very good little book that gives sound advice regardless who you are and what responsibilities you are faced with.

Without a doubt one of the all time most important books I've read and should be a required read of anyone in business... Really EVERYONE should read this book! It's a great reminder to look in the mirror first which would alleviate 99.9% of most problems in the world! Get it today and while your at it buy an additional 10 copies! You will want them on hand to pass out!

I read this book for the first time a little over a year ago. At the time, I tried to soak in the message, but since I thought it didn't really apply to me, I think it went in one ear and out the other, so to speak.

Fast forward to today. This book is required reading for my work, and I read it a little more closely this time around. As it turns out, this little book is jam-packed with morsels of good advice. It's all about using a JFK-esque philosophy: ask not what your company can do you for you but what you can do for your company. You can insert almost any words you'd like to replace "company": team, client, etc. The whole point of the book is encouraging people to take a moment to think before placing blame. Instead, look in the mirror first and see if YOU can resolve the issue instead of passing the buck as we are so wont to do in this society.

There are few things which will catapult a person to success than taking personal accountability. Our organization works with kids and parents who's primary reaction is to blame and avoid personal responsibility. John Miller in this short and easy to read book shows the the power of the questions we ask, both for good and bad. The teens we work with come from histories of being let down by adults from neglect or abuse and have a lot of reasons to be angry, but by teaching QBQ they are moving ahead and making decisions which will create the future they want rather than wallowing in the pain of their past.

This book incorporates time proven strategies that has impacted not only our teens but also their parents and our whole team.

This was a fascinating read because, as other reviewers have said, the change that comes over you when you read this book is gradual but decisive. It is true that a change in the language used often coincides with a change in attitude and action, and it was so with this book.

I found as I read furthur on, I recognized myself in the negative questions or comments posed, and when I thought about what I could say differently to pose the questions or comments usefully rather than complainingly, I had trouble rephrasing them myself, but then said "Aha!" as I read the author's suggestions.

This is almost more of a New Age/ self-help book than a business book in some ways, because it is working to subtly change the way you pose questions to yourself. If you find yourself feeling powerless in any part of your life, I'd recommend this book as a way of taking positive action and taking charge of your reactions to the world.

The concept is good. Personal accountability is important an more, myself included, need to adapt it. It appears to be missing in the world and nothing is to blame but ourselves.

I would have like more point/counterpoint style QBQs. I would have liked to see a question/IQ, then the QBQ and go into the thought process behind each one.

QBQ Changed my life, and made me a better leader. 15 years ago, John Miller presented the personal accountability concept of his original book as a guest speaker at a Safety conference for the US Navy. His unique and original concept of looking deeper into every situation taught me how to discover the true root of every problem, and find real solutions that last.

This book shows you how to apply QBQ at work, and saves you the 15 years it took me to apply the lessons myself. I apply them every day in my coaching and consulting business to find the true problems clients are facing, instead of simply addressing symptoms. You can now easily apply them to your work life, and solve problems before they start.

This little book is a gem and something I come back to every year. Even though it takes less than an hour to read, it will get your brain churning .... where all in your life have you not been practicing personal accountability? Unfortunately, victim mindset is rampant in society today, but this book teaches us to take complete responsibility for our own lives.

It will teach you how to ask the right questions - in order to move you from blaming others to placing the responsibility squarely on your shoulders. And that in turn will make your life richer and more enjoyable. At least that's what it did to my life .... once I began putting the ideas into practice. Get the book.

I first heard about QBQ several years ago and read the book in my mid 20s. It revolutionized the way I saw my life in relation to the people around me. I went from being a me centered, arrogant blame shifter to someone who (hopefully) is less focused on myself, a little humble and willing to own up when things happen in my life. I realized while reading the book that I can continue to fail and blame everyone and everything around me or I can own up to my part in any issues that arise and succeed in life. My relationships have taken a complete turn over the years by applying QBQ methodology into my life. I am happier and those around me are happier too. I would give this as many stars as the site allowed because QBQ has drastically changed my life. It took time, as anything worth while does, but I would encourage everyone to start the journey today and read this book. You will be a happier person for doing so and those around you will be too. Life is better when lived the QBQ way. This is one of the top 5 books I've ever read in terms of impacting my life. I think if you read it you will find a similar impact on you and those around you.

Excellent book! I could not put it down. This is a quick read with a strong, simple message. It is empowering, and you will not be disappointed.

As a healthcare professional, this book is beneficial for anyone experiencing increased change in the medical field. I have recommended the book to leadership at my hospital as well.

Only read QBQ if your goal is to become a better human.

If you are looking to find a key to making your life a lot less stressful, and making everybody in your life aware of a serious change, look no further than John G. Miller's QBQ!

Using the principles in this book on a daily basis has positively changed every single day for me at work. Im not exaggerating there. Being accountable for my actions and attitudes allows me to deal with problem customers, unmotivated coworkers, and even demanding bosses in a way that makes me happy to be at work (and I'm in the service industry!)

This book is required reading for anyone that I coach or mentor. This book is so good that it gets better the second time around. And best of all, it can be read in an afternoon!

"QBQ! The Question Behind the Question" has had a profound impact on my life. It makes you think about things in a different way; instead of finding fault with others, you start thinking of how YOU can improve things. Since reading QBQ, I am a much happier person, both in my career and at home. AND, most importantly, it absolutely changed the way I process stress.

The book is very easy to read, but I find that I refer to it frequently.

QBQ! by John Miller is simply amazing. This little book is a grand slam all the way! QBQ strips away all the excuses and reminds us again where it is the buck is supposed to stop. If you're looking for an instruction manaual for leaders, here it is. People don't need tricks, methods, myths or secrets...what they really need is a tool that helps them step up to the plate and be accountable for their own results. One of the biggest weaknesses of the American workforce is the ability to accept responsibility and accountability for our own actions. Bravo for QBQ!

Love this book! It's a quick read for a simple concept...."simple" doesn't mean it's easy to implement. This is the book that I keep handy to remind myself of what I need to do better and to help me stay focused on personal accountability. Definately worth it if you're looking for a straight forward personal leadership book!

QBQ is filled with many short chapters that make you think about how you handle yourself in life's situations. While the read is easy, the application is more challenging. Living a QBQ lifestyle of personal accountability is more difficult than it looks on the surface. It is so easy to deflect responsibility and blame others. However, reflecting back on the concepts that QBQ addresses helps to encourage me to continue to live more accountable each and every day. Don't let the seemingly simple, short nature of the book overshadow the real challenge of living a life of personal accountability.

QBQ has been a great spark for my school. On top of crazy schedules and in depth curriculum work we needed to get a grip on getting our school out of a rut of ho hum and its not my job. QBQ provided a fast, motivational read for the staff that reminded us of the bigger theories but didn't bog us down in "academic jargon" and lofty dissertations with $100 words. It was refreshing for us to hit the "reset" on our personal accountability with each other and our students. It certainly can spring board into deeper discussions and processes but you have to have a start some where! The straight forward examples can find its way through the sometimes dense attitudes of people. Anyone who can't see the opportunity to start with themselves after reading this book wouldn't make the effort to read any theory about self improvement.

Both of Miller's books are life changing. One is QBQ! and the other is Flipping the Switch. Very practical content that anyone can use. He teaches how to stop the blaming and victim thinking. As I read it, it stopped me in my tracks: Simple but profound. I realized right then, though I thought I was an accountable person, I had been off track by asking the Incorrect Questions that lead me to finger-pointing and waiting for others to get things done. Now at work I am better able to practice personal accountability by simply looking at a situation and asking, "What can I do to help?" as opposed to blaming the other dep't or my boss or my colleagues. I find the QBQ! approach reduces my stress and I manage my time better. Blame is such a time waster. When I then read Miller's newest book (Flipping the Switch) I realized these ideas can be taken even deeper. I can build Trust, Learning, Creativity, Service, and Ownership into my daily walk. I highly recommend both books. Buy them as a set. Both are an hour read and well worth the time and money!

The QBQ is a relevant book for todays professionals.I have been a healthcare professional clinician and manager for over 20 years. I have led many different teams throughout those years mostly in the emergency department. How I wish the QBQ had been written when I first started. John G. Miller has hit the heart of many organizations by capturing his understanding that organizations are made of people and those people hold the organizations success in thier hands. He then encourages the readers by not dismissing the hard issues they face today, but, to instead, learn to embrace new ways of thinking that will propel them to greater success than they knew before. His practical insights have become a tool I use with all my managment teams to challenge our ways of thinking and I also use it as a tool as well as when consulting with other organziations.

One of my employees made the statement "John makes the book fun to read and hard to put down".

I have had experiances where every department seemed to fall back into a "silo" as mentioned in chapter 15 or "protective cocoon" when hard times pressed in upon us. It was one thing to fight the regulatory requirements and competitors but to be fighting each other at the same time was just exhausting. We had become what he describes as the "victim" in chapter 5. The QBQ was the "instrument of choice" to assist us in breaking down those silos by learning to ask the correct questions and confront the negatives we were allowing ourselves to feel and placing us back in charge of our destiny.My management teams love the QBQ and share it with new employees as well. I have given this book a 5 because it truly helps people and organizations move forward.

Each employee at our manufacturing consulting firm receives a copy of QBQ! to read. We have a short dialogue and its contents are referenced daily. Every time I listen to Miller's "book on tape" CD or re-read QBQ!, something new hits home. I have shared these books as gifts with employees and friends and with my family as well. From my wife to each of the four children ages 22 to 14. It makes a difference at all levels and now Flipping the Switch, Miller's new book, is also wonderful and being read by all!

These books are not just for business and reading them once is not enough. Depending on the day, the circumstances, or even a new client, the basic sense of Miller's content is simply priceless. I now provide a personal copy of QBQ! to all our employees, and will be doing so with Flipping the Switch soon. When I meet a new client and they have not been exposed to QBQ, I give one away. It is so important to me to get this information out to all people because it is "simple and easy" to apply and better yet - it works. Personal accountability is such a perfect message. Thanks to John Miller for writing these little gems. One of our clients has had every single person read QBQ! From the President/CEO to the frontline employees everyone knows what QBQ! is. It is referenced constantly. This firm is between their second and third year of implementing LEAN manufacturing. They have been very wise about their LEAN Journey, applying what is necessary, staying focused and moving forward efficiently in most areas. QBQ! helps them keep the blame and victim thinking out of their culture.

I facilitate a year-long leadership development program each year for my employer, and some of the key concepts that we address are the importance of personal accountability and actively becoming part of the solution to challenges identified. These are significant goals in that our program is specifically designed to develop leadership skills amongst non-supervisory staff, who have the potential to influence co-workers from the "middle of the pack". John Miller's "QBQ" provides us with a concise, easy-to-read resource containing numerous applications for daily use that have become easily implementable for the nearly 200 graduates of our program to date. Each class session, we find examples from his book that apply regardless of the topic being explored--resolving conflict, engaging in collaboration, communicating openly & with purpose, etc...Participants frequently mention QBQ in their end-of-program reviews as one of the components having lasting impact on them--and not simply during their workday, but in their personal lives, as well. I have changed a number of things about the program over the last 7 years, but QBQ has been there from day one!

So many books miss the point when it comes to accountability/responsibility. But author/speaker John G. Miller QBQ! in QBQ! it with a practical "how to" method to live it each day. Rarely do you find a book so small with such a "hands on" approach. It is specific in every way because:

1. QBQ! tells us WHY personal accountability is important and WHAT it is.

2. QBQ! teaches us what accountability is NOT. This is critical because without this, we don't really "get it."

3. QBQ! shows us HOW to do it by eliminating bad questions we ask and how to ask excellent questions of ourselves. The three step technique taught is effective and easy to apply. A gem of a tool.

4. QBQ! changes one's thinking instantly so you view problems, frustrations and your daily work differently right away .... and in a better light.

5. QBQ! helps us realize that accountability is about ME and not others

6. QBQ! provides excellent stories about people who practice personal accountability and it is these stories that live with me long after I've read the book.

And just like the author recommends, QBQ! is to be read over and over so it becomes part of our daily walk. I keep my copy right on my desk as THE resource to help me stop blaming, whining, and procrastinating and begin each day with an accountable mindset.

I also give 5 Stars to Miller's new book "Flipping the Switch ...Unleashing the Power of Personal Accountability." An absolutely terrific companion piece to QBQ! More wonderful stories and additional practical content.

We had Mr. Miller (QBQ.com) in to keynote our conference and he is a fantastic speaker ... so that is another way to bring QBQ! and the message of accountability into an organization.

QBQ! is a quick, simple, thought provoking read that we provide to EVERY SINGLE new hire in our operation. We ask that they read it BEFORE they come to work on the first day - we provide it to them in the gap between the time they accept our offer and their coming to work. They are excited about their new endeavor and we want to capitalize on that enthusiasm by giving them a framework of how we want them to conduct themselves in our workplace. We couple it with Gung Ho! by Ken Blanchard and we feel it really gives new folks a great introduction to the type of employee and company we appreciate and desire.

What I appreciate most about QBQ! is its simplicity. As Abraham Lincoln once said, "I apologize for the long letter but I didn't have time to write a shorter one." QBQ is a book that anyone can and will read. It is NOT intimidating. It is not 500 pages filled numerical data points and detailed modeling. It is real world. It is fun to read and frankly more people would read business oriented books, including me, if they were more like QBQ!

This is like most corporate books - a very quick read. Even at 140 pages you definitely can read it over your lunch hour.

The concept is pretty simple and I have to admit had I read this prior to leaving my last role I might still be there...glad this book waited until I was here. My biggest take away was that you cannot change those others so ask the questions that will help you to determine what you can do to help yourself.

This is one of the most important business books I have ever read. You will not become a leader if you don't take responsibility of yourself. This small books explains personal accountability in way you can apply to any situation. If you take responsibility of yourself you are going to stand out among the people around you. If you are a leader, this is a book to share and discuss with your team.

We read QBQ! regularly to ensure we have the proper mindset and personal accountability. We've now made this book a "must read" for our teenage children as well. It's so well-written, and it really guides us on how we should approach every situation and circumstance. This book will remain on our regular rotation for years to come!

Outstanding book by seasoned author John G. Miller. John shows the reader the 'why' and the 'how' of taking full responsibility for your choices and the ensuing positive consequences. You will enjoy QBQ. I promise!

Books can be fun reads. Sometimes they can be educational or instructional. I’ve read many that have been inspirational, but not very many provide the framework and advice to completely change the way we look at life. John Miller’s QBQ will do exactly that.
This book has changed the way our company serves our customers and even the way we interact with one another internally. It’s changed the way I interact with my wife and kids. Personal responsibility isn’t something that comes easy, but I believe the truths and challenges of this book have made me a better team member, husband, father and friend.
Don’t let its small size fool you. You can probably read it in an hour, but its results can be huge. If applied, it will impact you and those around you for a lifetime.

For everyone forced by management to read this book and/or take the class I will summarize it for you: Quit you're whining and accept the fact that your company is the way it is, just concentrate on what you can do now. There's alot of motivational talk about personal accountability and not blaming others, just concentrate on what you can do to rectify the situation.
That's it. Seriously. John Miller also goes on and on about how we learn by repitition, so read that 5 times and you don't have to read the book or take th class. Serously though, I understand that the book has good points and I understand why corporations all over the US will have their employees take this class, because it just says what I said above. But in the end it is very demotivational and a little insulting. This is from a person who truly feels he has learned quite a bit from reading many CEO biographys, management books, and books such as the 7 habits and six hats. I don't necessarily but into motivational hype, but I keep an open mind and try to pull in as much useful information as possible. I took the the DVD/facilitor-led class and then read the books in hopes of more inspiration and just left a little insulted.

I had the pleasure of first reading QBQ several years ago and loved it. We used the book and course in our team to look at our leadership and what we could do to improve. I have since used the material over and over to challenge myself as a husband, father and people leader. John gave a one day seminar with my team and it was one of the most valuable sessions I have been through. I endorse this book for anybody willing to challenge themselves.

QBQ! is such an awesome book! An easy read that provides a wealth of information. I firmly believe that this world has lost its 'common sense', and I feel this book appropriately puts it back in our minds, lives, and jobs! Our society needs personal accountability (on so many levels) and it is my hope that every person - especially in organizations & corporations! - reads this very practical book!

I read John's book 2 times. I try to read it about once a month because it talks of a subject we constantly have to remind ourselves about. That subject is Personal Accountability. In a world which is quick to blame others, find fault with others and pass problems along to others, this book causes one to view things in a much better, more helpful light.
Then, I heard John speak at our convention. I was amazed at his great sense of humor and how he could teach this very important subject in such a way that it really hit home and made sense. I would reccommend him to any group looking for a great public and motivational speaker.
Everyone should read the QBQ. I look forward to the QBQ2.
Once you become personally accountable for everything in your life, stress becomes a thing of the past....
Great book!
Margie Hopper--Director, The Pampered Chef

I read the audiobook of this title, which was abridged. The general idea behind QBQ is effective: changing your attitude toward apparent problems makes them easier to solve and makes you a more effective employee/leader/spouse/etc. As a Stoic, the change-your-mindset approach is really appealing to me. The audiobook was just over an hour. I highly recommend it, short though it is. . –Ryan Mease

If there is one book you make time for in your busy life, it should be this one. A colleague gave me a copy of this book a few years ago and it changed my life for the better. The book is a amusing quick read and it reminded me of many times in my life where if I had just asked the right questions I could of made a positive difference instead of compounding the problem. This book is applicable to all aspects of your life not just in the workplace. My favorite part is the waiter story; still makes me smile. I went on to read his other books, which I highly recommend as well. If you want to stop playing the victim and actually change your life, this is a must read.

The book is very well-written, and thought-provoking! There are limitless possibilities for utilizing the QBQ, in both my professional and personal life! This is such a wonderful way to live a much stress free life...although at times it's not easy , it is very simple to change the things we say and do to create a more positive attitude in every situation. I work in a very negative environment and since I have read QBQ! I have implemented it each day to practice personal accountability ......I'm much happier and very excited to use what I've learned . I'm the only one who can change me, there is no one to blame. If the ball is dropped, I pick it up and make the play where it will benefit the organization I work for. I expect no praise however my joy comes from within me. Knowing how to do the right thing at the right moment....Thank you for soooo much author John Miller and I look forward to growing stronger in my personal accountiblily,

As a district mgr in a retail firm, I find it necessary to stay on top of my personal accountability game. It's easy - as John Miller writes in QBQ! - to slip into blame and victim thinking. We have big goals and quotas and we all want to win, but it's easy to ask the worng questions like "When will others carry their weight?" and "Why can't corporate support us more?" But then I work to create what Miller calls QBQs - questions that help me eliminate the blame and complaining. I begin to ask "What can I do?" and "How can I contribute?" and it's amazing how fast I am refocused. We are using the QBQ! training program with all our managers along with the book, and this whole concept of accountability is taking root. Our culture is changing and as we gear up for the end-of-year, it's apparent that people are asking QBQs and we will have better results. I know I will. Miller's book is a fast read, practical and humorous - I recommend it to any person or company wanting to really take personal accountability seriously.

I am in the real estate/investment business and when I read QBQ! it changed completely for the better the way I think. I had been blaming my tenants/customers, property mgrs, the marketing dep't, etc. for my results and when I read QBQ! I sat down that night and asked "How can I be more effective?" and then set about writing out a new plan for my approach to my business. Since then things have improved greatly. The chapter on how I can only change myself has made me a better manager of my people, by far. The book took me an hour to read and then I went back through and re-read and highlighted. I take it wherever I go as it is such a practical message on personal accountability I can use it in all areas of my life. QBQ! deserves 5 stars ... maybe 6. I've read a ton of business books and QBQ! has made the difference for me.

The book reads easily, partly because most of what it has to offer almost everybody already knows. That being said, there are some worthwhile thoughts embedded in it, and it can be read in an hour, so there's not much to lose.

My biggest problem with the book is that Miller's impliicit definition of "personal accountability" is not distinct from responsibility and therefore loses all of its power, especially as a business requirement. Yet, the subtitle of the book is "practicing personal accountability at work and in life", and, sorry, you can't practice accountability if you don't know what it is...Oh, and the phrase "personal accountability" is a redundancy -- there is no accountability other than that which is personal.

Finally, a book without funny characters and parables. One with excellent content that can be applied. QBQ! not only made me

AWARE of the need for more personal accountability in my life at home and at work, but it showed me HOW to do it. Refreshing!

Miller helped me understand that too often I play victim by asking questions like "Why doesn't my company train me more?" and "When is someone going to clarify my job?" I've learned to pause and simply ask "What can I do to develop myself?" and "How can I adapt to change?" This is a book that won't let you down. It took me an hour to read ... and then I read it again - twice. Each time I picked up something new. Really enjoyed it ... and then I bought copies for my team and now we're studying it together. Our training department is now using it for everyone! And I'm proud to say I found it first.

QBQ is not only a great business book, but a great guide to being more accountable personally. The title of the book tells the story and implies what questions should we be asking, along with the idea of "practicing" personal accountability. I find it interesting and true that we all need to "practice" being personally accountable. It is a must read for anyone in leadership, coaching or influential posiitons.

I believe so much in the message of this book that I purchased 200 books for the top 30% of our sales organization. (Fortune 100 financial services company) I also invited John Miller to come and present this message to our company. If half of the audience practices this technique we will become an even more efficient stronger and heathly company.

BUY IT.... READ IT.... LIVE IT!!!

I read ths book a number of years ago, after the first time through it had such a profound impact I re-read it (and continue to do so) and share it as often as I can. What I love about this book is it provides actionable tools to make an improvement to your life by ellimating blame, victim thinking and procrastination. By asking a QBQ it will take you from an internal to external locus of control and move you to action. I love the message that personal accountability is for me not others, realizing I alone have control of my actions and own the results of those actions. This realization has had a dramitic impact both in my professional and personal life. I have recommended this book to coworkers, friends and family as I can only hope that it will have the same impact for them as it has had for me. What are you waiting for? buy the book, give it a read and see for yourself!

I happened upon this little gem strictly by accident, or was it divine intervention. QBQ is a straight-to-the-point, no-fluff and tremendously relevant book; no matter who you are. While reading you think, "Wow, it's really that simple to change my outlook and the way I go about my daily activities?" The reality of personable accountability hits home, and it hits home hard. John backs up his insights with examples that we can all relate to. It's not a magic pill or mysterious tonic. What QBQ is, is a set of guideline for living your life to the fullest based upon the conscious choices you make and asking better questions that focus on the "how and what I can do" and not the victimization questions that begin with "why, when and who." The book is a quick read, but the changes are up to you to implement. John goes beyond the book by providing his readers with a website the supports the QBQ way. I've already seen positive changes in how I deal with family, friends and business associates. I just stared reading John's new book "Flipping The Switch." Look for my review on this one soon. Thanks, John! Ken.

I was introduced to the concept and power of personal responsibility about 17 years ago and have been a proponent and student of it ever since.
I was introduced to QBQ! by John Miller somewhat over a year ago.
What I've found to be true about John's premise is that it is easily integrated into a personal or corporate philosophy.
It has diminished blame, built, finger-pointing and generally feeling badly about things.
Using the principles has been personally and professionally liberating.
I've introduced the book to friends and clients over the past year with results being uniformly positive.
I recommend the book to anyone out to support themselves and others in having a life that works.

I read this book because at my last job 3 of the employees I worked with said "that's not my job". When I took on more responsibilities, I was given a job description and told not to veer from it!! This book made me feel better about myself and my work ethic. Thank you John Miller for giving me back my take charge attitude at work!

This is a great practical book on the importance of personal accountability and why we are generally mistaken when we starting blaming everyone and everything else for our own problems. This book is so important I bought a copy for everyone in my organization. I highly recommend this to absolutely everyone. It is a very quick read and worth every minute.

Of all the balanced, happy, consistently efficient and "most-popular-with-the-customer" team members I've been privileged to know, PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY was the single common factor in their achieving whatever personal and career goals they had. I've tried hard to copy the good examples I've met in my life and very much appreciate QBQ!'s positive and thought-provoking examples. It really is the definitive piece on PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY. By learning to ask better questions - QBQs - we have changed the way we approach our customer both internal and external. Working for government, it is easy to place blame, procrastinate and complain - but for whatever reason, I'm not made that way. I do completely believe in accepting responsibility and the consequences of my actions. I believe that I've lived my life along the principles QBQ! teaches, however, seeing it framed in this context most certainly provides guidelines to the principles I believe in.

I will reread the book since the author points the amazing value of repetition. I will strive to instill more of the QBQ! spirit when I find myself drifting, and believe I'll find myself enjoying a much more fulfilling career.

The QBQ! book: Concise, quick, and lots of fun. And life-changing for sure. Very, very real - and works for people at all levels. Five stars!

This book is founded on the idea of personal accountability. Unfortunately, the random collection of parables and stories does little to advance the premise. Ideas are presented in a one-dimentional fashion deviod of any real depth of analysis and only a very few tools.
The book is packaged in a palatable feel-good package which will make it ripe for the plucking for corporate management looking for the next "Who moved my cheese" or "Emotional Intellegence."
Bottom line - the book is simple common sence. The message? Stop playing the complain and blame game, take responsibility for your actions, make your own choices, and get on with your life.
I have to belive that the reviewers who are rating this as "the best read ever" have a woefully small library. I do think that the premise of the book is very valid, however the book is more fluff than substance.
Sidebar:
If you are interested in the personal actions that help with following a path of personal accountability, I suggest you look at the ideas behind Albert Ellis's Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) which gives you a working model of how to apply the ideas of personal accountability to your own thinking.