Hypothetical Questions to Ask Parents
Thought-provoking hypothetical questions that help you understand your parents' perspectives, values, and experiences while creating meaningful conversations and deeper connections.
1If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
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If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
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Why this works
Reveals their wisdom and life lessons while showing what they've learned from their experiences and what they value most.
2If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Shows their career aspirations and interests while revealing what kind of work or lifestyle they find most appealing or fulfilling.
3If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
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If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their travel interests and lifestyle preferences while showing what kind of place or culture they find most appealing.
4If you could have dinner with anyone living or dead, who would it be?
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If you could have dinner with anyone living or dead, who would it be?
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Why this works
Shows their interests, values, and intellectual curiosity while revealing who they admire or find most fascinating.
5If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Fun and imaginative question that reveals their personality, values, and what they find most important or appealing.
6If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
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If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
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Why this works
Reveals their regrets and aspirations while showing what they'd want to change about their past or present circumstances.
7If you could be famous for anything, what would it be?
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If you could be famous for anything, what would it be?
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Why this works
Shows their aspirations and interests while revealing what they value most and what they'd want to be known for.
8If you could have any talent, what would it be?
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If you could have any talent, what would it be?
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Why this works
Reveals their interests and aspirations while showing what skills or abilities they find most appealing or useful.
9If you could go back in time and change one decision you made, what would it be?
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If you could go back in time and change one decision you made, what would it be?
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Why this works
Shows their regrets and reveals what decisions they'd want to change while helping you understand their life choices.
10If you could have any pet, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any pet, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Fun and personal question that reveals their preferences and shows what kind of companionship or characteristics they value.
11If you could be any age again, what age would you be and why?
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If you could be any age again, what age would you be and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their favorite life stage and shows what period of their life they found most enjoyable or meaningful.
12If you could have any car, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any car, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Shows their preferences and interests while revealing what kind of vehicle or lifestyle they find most appealing.
13If you could have any hobby, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any hobby, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their interests and aspirations while showing what kind of activities or pastimes they find most appealing or fulfilling.
14If you could have any house, what would it be like and why?
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If you could have any house, what would it be like and why?
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Why this works
Shows their lifestyle preferences and reveals what kind of home or living situation they find most appealing or comfortable.
15If you could have any vacation, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any vacation, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their travel interests and shows what kind of experiences or destinations they find most appealing or relaxing.
16If you could have any skill, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any skill, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Shows their interests and aspirations while revealing what abilities or knowledge they find most appealing or useful.
17If you could have any friend, who would it be and why?
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If you could have any friend, who would it be and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their social preferences and shows what kind of relationships or companionship they value most.
18If you could have any memory, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any memory, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Shows their favorite experiences and reveals what moments or memories they find most meaningful or enjoyable.
19If you could have any achievement, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any achievement, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their aspirations and shows what accomplishments or recognition they find most meaningful or desirable.
20If you could have any experience, what would it be and why?
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If you could have any experience, what would it be and why?
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Why this works
Shows their interests and aspirations while revealing what kind of experiences or adventures they find most appealing or fulfilling.
Best Practices for Parent Conversations
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Show Genuine Interest in Their Perspectives
Demonstrate authentic curiosity about their thoughts and experiences. Ask follow-up questions and show enthusiasm for their insights and wisdom.
Be Patient and Respectful
Give them time to think and share their thoughts. Be respectful of their perspectives and experiences, even if they differ from your own.
Create a Safe and Supportive Environment
Ensure they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. Be supportive and non-judgmental when they share personal information.
Question Sequences
The Wisdom and Life Lessons Sequence
The Aspirations and Interests Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Judge or Criticize Their Choices
Avoid judging their hypothetical choices or experiences. Be respectful of their perspectives and show genuine interest in their thoughts.
Don't Make Assumptions About Their Preferences
Don't assume you know what they'd choose. Ask open-ended questions and let them share their thoughts and preferences.
Don't Ignore Their Life Experience
Acknowledge their life experience and wisdom. Show appreciation for their insights and perspectives, even if they differ from your own.