Is Curiosity your superpower?
Are you a curious person? Do you go down the rabbit hole when you are interested in a topic? Curiosity is a superpower, in my opinion. Seriously. I am a voracious reader, sometimes a book a week. It’s all fiction - usually historical fiction mysteries. When it comes to non-fiction, I often listen instead of reading text. I’m that annoying friend who finds an article or podcast and forwards it to people I think will be interested. And then I ask them if it resonated and see if they want to discuss it.
The more curious I become, the more life opens up for me.
I encourage you to get curious. Take a course. Read a book. Listen to a podcast or an audiobook. Ask questions of friends and strangers alike. Get to know people.
What are some benefits of being curious, you ask? Well, there are many.
Enhances Learning and Knowledge: Curiosity drives us to explore unfamiliar topics, which actually strengthens our capacity to learn. We also absorb information more effectively when we are genuinely interested in a given subject matter. Have you ever read a paragraph numerous times because you just can’t seem to absorb it? You might have too much on your mind or you are just not that interested in the topic.
Improves Problem-Solving Skills: Curiosity allows us to approach challenges with a fresh perspective. We tend to consider multiple angles, making it easier to find innovative solutions. Ever had an aha moment about an issue you are trying to solve? That’s you being open to options!
Strengthens Relationships: Asking questions and showing genuine interest in others’ lives and experiences can deepen our connections. Curiosity helps us understand and empathize with others, which builds trust. Have you ever found out something about someone that was surprising? How did you not know that about them?!
Fosters Personal Growth: Curiosity prompts self-reflection and exploration, allowing us to better understand our strengths, weaknesses, and passions. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace change, which is pretty essential for personal development.
So, how does one cultivate curiosity?
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of focusing on yes-or-no questions, ask ones that spark conversation. For example, “What inspired you to choose this career path?” or “What’s something you’ve learned recently that surprised you?”
Challenge Assumptions: Curiosity often involves questioning the status quo. Take time to examine your beliefs and assumptions. Ask yourself why you think a certain way and if there might be an alternative perspective.
Read/Watch Widely and Diversely: Books, articles, blogs, and videos offer endless insights into unfamiliar topics. Try exploring topics that are outside of your go-to’s, or read about subjects that pique your interest. Variety is the path to new ideas and ways of thinking.
Embrace “Beginner’s Mind”: Approaching situations as if you’re a beginner can help you appreciate the subtleties that experts sometimes overlook. It’s a mindset shift that opens us up to details we might otherwise ignore.
Seek Out New Experiences: Travel, try new foods, learn a new skill, or explore a new hobby. Novelty fuels curiosity and keeps our minds engaged and receptive to learning.
Surround Yourself with Curious People: Being around curious people can inspire your own curiosity. Engaging in stimulating conversations and observing how others ask questions can encourage you to adopt a similar approach in your own life.
Curiosity is a powerful force and the more we explore the more curious we become. It grows exponentially. When we actively engage with curiosity, life becomes a richer, more vibrant experience. We’re no longer just moving through the world; we’re exploring it with intention and wonder.