Have we forgotten how to be curious?

In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, filled with responsibilities and deadlines, lies a silent question: Have we forgotten how to be curious? As children, curiosity was second nature; we eagerly explored and learned about everything around us. Yet, as adults, we often push this curiosity aside, deeming it unnecessary or believing we’re too busy for it.

I’ve experienced this shift myself, where seriousness, a notorious focus on metrics, and the drive to achieve goals overshadowed my innate curiosity. Recognising this, I see every day as part of an ongoing journey towards embracing my identity as a curious creator. This understanding shapes my actions and interactions, serving as a reminder of how I can be at my best and contribute most effectively to the world.

Simple, not easy

Can you remember a time when something piqued your interest, but you dismissed it thinking, “I’m too old for this,” “I don’t have time,” or “I can’t learn that”? Think back to that moment. Was there a small desire to explore, perhaps dimmed by the fear of failure or lack of time? Being curious is simple, but not necessarily easy. It can feel daunting and scary. That’s why embracing it by taking one small baby step at a time makes it easier. If that one baby step brings joy, take another, and you’ll find yourself on a path back to excitement and exploration.

Welcome curiosity back

• Acknowledge curiosity: We are all born curious and inherently know how to be curious. We just need to invite curiosity to become a part of our daily lives.
• Give yourself permission to be curious: Forget the idea that curiosity is trivial. No matter your age, abilities or how packed your schedule, there’s always an opportunity to be curious.
• Baby steps: Reigniting your curiosity doesn’t require changing your entire life. Start with small, achievable actions. Whether it’s learning a new skill, reading articles outside your field to gain new perspectives, or asking more in-depth questions about decisions to understand their broader implications, every little step counts.
• One step at a time: The journey is built on the foundation of persistence and joy, not perfection. Don’t let the fear of not being perfect at something new discourage you. Every effort, no matter how small, is a step forward and a part of your growth. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection.
• Celebrate your curiosity: Celebrating curiosity can be as simple as jotting down your curious moments in a journal, discussing them with friends, or setting aside time for new adventures. When you take a moment to reflect on your curious moments and their outcomes, the value they add becomes evident. This recognition not only highlights the benefits of being curious but also motivates you to incorporate more of it into your life.

Rediscovering curiosity not only enriches your day-to-day experiences but also empowers you to make a positive difference in the world.

Curiosity is an act of care

Curiosity goes deeper than just wanting to learn; it’s truly an act of care. It’s about taking care of ourselves, our long-term health, and our growth. It means we care enough to ask questions, to want to understand more deeply, and to explore new things. But this care doesn’t stop with us. It reaches out to the people around us, to our community, and even to the wider world. Being curious helps us grow, and as we grow, we help make the world a better place. It’s a win-win, enriching our lives and, at the same time, inspiring others to embrace their curiosity. This shared journey of discovery strengthens our connections and builds a more understanding and empathetic society.

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Let’s take those baby steps together and reignite the joy of being a curious creator.

Together for a curious culture.