What are the benefits of curiosity, what hinders it, and how can we foster it?
Having a curious nature can open many doors in life. When we ask questions, research, learn, and connect, we invite new experiences and perspectives into our lives, nurturing a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth along the way.
In life, a curious mindset can lead us to new experiences and skills. In relationships, it can form closer bonds. And at work, it can foster innovation as we connect with fresh ideas and information.
Proving the point are some of the brightest minds in history. Albert Einstein once famously said: “I’ve no special talent, I am only passionately curious.” Voltaire said to “judge a man by his questions, rather than his answers”, while Canadian author Danielle LaPorte said: “If knowledge is power, then curiosity is the muscle.”
What are the benefits of curiosity?
For those with anxiety, the idea of opening yourself up to the unknown might seem unrealistic, or daunting. However, it’s worth exploring as it’s actually been found to be a method to lower levels of anxiety. A 2021 study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine suggests that viewing the worry cycle as a habit, and applying techniques like mindfulness, allows people to respond with something more rewarding, like curious awareness rather than anxiety.
Numerous other benefits have been noted, too, including higher levels of positive emotions, and greater psychological wellbeing. One study published in Neuron found that when participants were curious about a fact, they were 30% more likely to recall it, corresponding to heightened activity in areas of the brain that release dopamine. Another showed curiosity can increase our patience and enjoyment of tasks, while a third published in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes found that it increases creativity and the linking of ideas.
The key takeaway is this: when we get curious about things we like, we feel good, grow, learn, and form connections. Intrigued?
What hinders curiosity?
The essence of curiosity is being open to the fact that we don’t know everything. So, at times, it may feel like displaying curiosity might come with ridicule from others, or societal pressure that to show an interest in a subject suddenly means you have to be an expert in it or you’re a fraud – especially if you’re looking to pursue a new hobby. A fear of failure, or negative experiences, when it comes to learning something new can also be barriers to curiosity.
And while it’s easy to stay in a familiar space where questions aren’t asked, these spaces foster conformity rather than curiosity, and rarely present an opportunity to grow. The classic saying ‘The magic happens when you step outside of your comfort zone,’ is wholly appropriate in this sense – with curiosity as the conduit to help us take that leap.
A way to challenge any barriers you might feel is to accept the risk of sometimes getting it wrong. Remember that nobody is the fountain of all knowledge. Sometimes you might be right, sometimes you won’t, and that’s OK. By releasing that fear, you can dive straight into the heart of curiosity, and approach things with a sense of openness and intrigue.
10 ways to foster curiosity
A good place to start is to think about what you love and what you’d like to know more about. Then form daily habits that encourage questions and actions.
Use our tip list below to embark on your own journey of curiosity. Cultivating curiosity is an ongoing process, but by nurturing your inquisitive nature, even when faced with challenges or setbacks, you can reap huge rewards. It’s not just about finding answers – it’s about embracing the endless possibilities that will come your way along the journey.
1. Ask questions
‘Why?’ ‘How?’ ‘What if…?’ These questions are the very seeds of curiosity and can be the link we need to fuel creativity and innovation. Don’t be afraid to ask the small – and big – questions. The answer might surprise, interest, or compel you to discover more.
2. Embrace something new
Rather than shying away from what you don’t know, try embracing it instead. Whether it’s an idea, challenge, or new encounter, approach it with an open mind, and see where it might take you. Curiosity thrives in uncertainty, and could present an opportunity for discovery where you least expect it.
3. Be open-minded
By being receptive to new ideas and perspectives, you’ll likely find your curiosity starts to flourish. Letting go of the need to be right, listening intently, and embracing an open mind (without forming a response or judgement) can help us flex that curiosity muscle, and challenge our own ideas, beliefs, and views.
4. Follow your passions
Curiosity thrives in spaces we care about. Whether it’s a hobby, skill, or activity, immersing ourselves in the things we love can serve as a springboard to dive deeper into curiosity. And the deeper we dive, the more there is to learn and uncover!
5. Take a creative approach
Creative activities like painting, photography, music, art, cooking, and travel can set us on a wonderful path to explore new ideas and approaches. Commit to experimenting and see where it might take you.
6. Don’t be scared of setbacks
Curiosity might feel a little challenging at times, but it’s important to recognise that it isn’t about a quest for perfection. Setbacks are in fact a huge part of the learning process. You might not get the answer you want. It might take five attempts to bake that brilliant loaf of bread. Or perhaps you haven’t quite connected with that person you imagined would become a friend. Framing these setbacks as valuable lessons can propel you forward on your journey of discovery.
7. Connect with others
Curiosity thrives in collaboration, and presents a direct way to learn from others. Surround yourself with curious minds who inspire, challenge, and motivate you. Curiosity can lead you to wonderful mentors in life, providing an outlet for meaningful conversations, sharing ideas, and learning from each other.
8. Get curious about familiar things
The things we use in our daily lives can hold stories all of their own: the ceramicist who crafted the mug you drink your morning coffee from; the way the garden looks as dusk descends; or the joy you derive from that morning yoga routine. Taking the time to examine familiar objects or routines from new angles can be really rewarding.
9. Allow your curiosity to guide you
When something piques your interest, follow it. Learning about the things that spark something inside of us is instantly engaging, colourful, and rewarding. Wondering what a yoga retreat in Goa looks like? Who are the most powerful women in business? Or what you could learn from a one-day pottery class? Dive right into that rabbit hole!
10. Stay curious
As with anything in life, if you practise it enough, it grows stronger. Making a conscious effort to stay curious through things that stimulate the mind can be hugely rewarding. Reading, watching documentaries, and researching can all enhance curiosity. But the real gains can be found when we step outside the front door. Walking, watching the seasons change, wandering through the local library, or simply sitting in a café and watching the world go by. These actions ignite ponderous thoughts, reconnect us to the world, and stimulate curiosity in a way that a screen simply can’t.
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