It’s easy to get swept up in routines and social expectations in a world that never stops buzzing. But sometimes, all it takes is one well-timed question to spark profound change. Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, a celebrated filmmaker and storyteller, learned this firsthand.

In a candid reflection on his journey, he shared on his Instagram page, “There was a time when I attended every party I was invited to, which amounted to 14-21 parties a week. Then I started asking myself: Am I really needed here?”

That simple, introspective question changed the course of his life. His social circle shrank, but his conversations deepened, filled with meaningful exchanges and cultural insights. The absence of parties, alcohol, and noise was more than compensated for by ideas, relationships, and intercultural learning.

The Transformative Power of Self-Inquiry

Self-inquiry is the practice of questioning your actions, beliefs, and choices. When done with honesty, it helps you peel back the layers of habit and conditioning to uncover what truly matters.

The right questions can act as a compass, guiding you toward a more meaningful, authentic life. They can help you:

Reassess Priorities: What are you doing out of obligation versus genuine joy?

Transform Relationships: Are your connections nurturing or draining?

Redefine Habits: Which routines bring value to your life, and which ones must go?

Questions That Can Change Your Life

Inspired by Vivek’s journey, here are some powerful questions that can usher your own self-inquisitiveness.

1. Am I needed here?

—Are the places and situations I’m investing time in truly adding value to my life?

2. What brings me joy?

—What activities and interactions make me feel fulfilled inside?

3. Who do I want to grow with?

—Which relationships support my personal and career growth?

4. Am I unnecessarily holding on to things?

—Which habits or commitments no longer serve me?

5. Am I living aligned with my values?

—Is the way I spend my time a reflection of what I truly care about?

Practical Steps to Start Asking the Right Questions

Pause and Reflect: Carve out quiet moments to think without distractions. Journaling can help organise your thoughts.

Be Honest: Self-inquiry only works when you are brutally honest with yourself.

Seek Feedback: Sometimes, others see what we can’t. Ask trusted friends or mentors for their insights.

Adjust and Act: Once you have clarity, take steps to realign your priorities and habits.

A Life Lesson From Vivek

“Two questions and quitting one habit made my life so wonderful and enriching,” He exclaims in his Instagram post. It wasn’t about stepping away from parties but toward deeper connections, better health, and personal growth.

Asking the right questions can be the catalyst that triggers your transformation. They can remove the noise and reveal the path to a more authentic, fulfilling life.

So, what will you ask yourself today?