No such thing as a stupid question

Someone is yet to win a formula one race without a pit crew or engineers. It would be a mammoth and impossible task. A modern Formula 1 team is a well oiled machine where each individual of the team has their specific place and time to raise issues. A strict chain of command, where issues are prioritized and solved on the fly. Each team member plays an integral and important role, and each knows how to escalate issues. In a race of milliseconds no question is stupid. As long as you’re asking the right person at the right time.

Is this the way to the finish line?

People feel embarrassed when they think they're asking stupid questions. It seems to be more common when individuals approach those that they value highly - not wanting to waste that individual's time or seem unintelligent in front of their peers. They often put themselves down before asking what they need to, to make themselves feel a bit better and ironically waste time. If it really is a stupid question, then you can probably solve it yourself. And if it’s not something that you can solve yourself, then it’s not a stupid question. As long as you’re asking the appropriate person. 

I'm trying to catch a fish of this size. Any bait suggestions?

I find that those who lead with "you're probably going to think this is a stupid question" have made it a habit from past experience. And it’s a difficult habit to break out of. What it does tell me, is that they very clearly see a chain of command. When individuals self-deprecate in this way, it’s often because they value their own time less than whoever they are talking to. 

I know who I'm asking sumo advice from

In saying all this, the most egregious mistake would be continuing with an incorrect solution. By not asking even the most stupid of questions, individuals can find themselves completing tasks which are neither helpful, and creating solutions that are unable to be utilised.