The Power of Curiosity
“Wisdom begins in wonder.”
— SOCRATES
An essential component of effective communication is asking powerful questions.
The other day, my friend David Reed asked me something that made me pause with exhilaration. His inquiry tapped into my curiosity and I felt a surge of excitement. We ended up scheduling a zoom call to explore what he called “inquiry as a pathway of revelation and deliberate curiosity as a catalyst to connection…” As a life-long learner, my mind was instantly stimulated and intrigued by this kind of dialogue.
How questions are framed can make a big difference to an interaction. You can read more about the Importance of Powerful Questions here. The point being, a question can impact an exchange instantly, both positively and negatively.
The reason being, when questions are formed and arise from a place of inquiry, as opposed to judgment, assumptions or bias, a different line of dialogue and connection unfolds. You see, effective communication is an art. Understanding the way communication works and how we react to it is science. Curiosity is the fuel, and a powerful one.
As an awareness practitioner, I’m usually the one who asks the questions.
In all transparency, I experienced a combination of both excitement and vulnerability sitting “in the hot seat.” Although, remembering David’s initial question, my love for learning along with my passion (obsession, let’s be honest) for human behaviors, personal growth and effective communication won, hands down!
And that’s what David tapped into with this question: “How are you engaged creatively?” Feel free to pause here to contemplate your own answer.
The beauty lies in what the question elicited from me and the magic in David’s inquiry. Which leads me to the power of curiosity. There’s a multitude of research, books, Ted Talks, endless blogs…all discussing the importance of how curiosity helps us grow personally & professionally.
There are thousand and one reasons curiosity is the secret sauce to a meaningful and satisfying life. Here’s a short list:
4 reasons to stay curious, my friend:
It increases our self awareness. Questioning, exploring and experimenting with our beliefs, values & perceptions is the basis for personal & professional development.
It’s important to success: Curious people have the power to push through uncertainty by asking tough questions and always looking for ways to improve by staying in the inquiry. It’s an important trait for successful leadership.
It cultivates a growth mindset. Curiosity is the driving force to life long learning. Open-mindedness relates to the way people approach the views and knowledge of others, the receptiveness to new ideas and willingness to consider alternate viewpoints.
It improves our relationships: People are drawn to those who show interest in them. Having an abiding fascination in others give you the opportunity to learn new things, collaborate, enhance trust; thereby making a deeper connection and unleashing a collective vision & wisdom.
How do you cultivate a sense of wonder, you might ask? Well, the quickest way is to watch a child play, or better yet, join them! Children are innately curious and we can learn a lot by observing and engaging with them. Other suggestions are to take an inquisitive approach to yourself & your relationships, go outside of your comfort zone, read more and always carry a notebook! Or find friends like David Reed.
To Powerful, Positive Change…Cheers!
Adela
“I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.”
— ALBERT EINSTEIN