How would Superman / Obama / [any idol figure the respondent has] handle this?
This question is used more in the coaching setting. It stretches the respondent’s mind in a positive and fun manner. It helps remove the self censorship the respondent may have. Put it this way – this question is a good one in the ‘Option’ discussion under the GROW coaching model.
I experienced a similar question. It is also about empowering the respondent to think by giving / reminding him / her a role. I was having great difficulty in making a career decision. My friend asked me ‘Being a father, what would you love go tell your kids 10 years later in how you make your decision?’. The question put things in perspective. I saw the long term and the big picture. More importantly I made the decision more easily.
