It's Sunday morning at about 10:30, and I just got home from reading names at graduation.
It was a wonderful ceremony, and as I sat there listening to the passionate student speakers, I was reminded once again about the benefits of being curious.
One of the things I love most about teaching college students is their enthusiasm. I'm inspired by their open mindedness and their willingness to learn. They let their passions drive them, and they rarely shy away from asking questions and digging deep.
They embrace their curiosities and allow themselves to dream.
As we age, however, we occasionally lose some of that curiosity. We get "set in our ways," and we abandon the inquisitive nature that fueled our younger hearts.
The true beauty of leaning stuff, including apparently useless stuff, is that it takes us out of ourselves, reminds us that we are part of a far greater project, one that has been under way for at least as long as human beings have been talking to each other.
So today, we're going to explore the benefits of being curious, and why we should keep our sense of curiosity strong. At the end of the post, I also offer a free E-Book that dives deep into the question: "How can I boost my curiosity?" Be sure to check it out!
In other words, a sense of curiosity fuels motivation, excitement, and wonder. In turn, it boosts our happiness as we reach past the familiar and continue to grow.
By maintaining a "curiosity mindset," we push ourselves to both ask questions and listen to others. Hearing these new perspectives helps us better understand the world around us. It connects and strengthens our relationships, and it helps us grow as individuals.
It probably goes without saying that a healthy sense of curiosity also increases one's knowledge. When we're fueled by questions, excitement, and genuine interest, we're motivated to actually learn these new subjects. We find ways to connect with seemingly unrelated information, which helps makes learning easier and more enjoyable.
In other words, curiosity is like exercise for your mind. It keeps your brain agile, fresh, and in tip top shape.
Having a curious mind inspires us to look at challenges as opportunities rather than setbacks. We have an easier time seeing potential strengths in each situation, which helps us both learn and grow. What's more, a curious mind encourages us to look at circumstances through many different lenses, which grants us a deeper understanding of the situation at hand.
Have I peaked your curiosity? Are you ready to learn more? Then download my free E-book that not only walks you through the benefits of being curious, but also teaches you strategies to boost your curiosity quota every day. Grab your copy here!
Would you describe yourself as a curious person? How do you fuel your curiosity? In your opinion, what are the benefits of being curious? Let me know below!
This is a really fabulous blog post! I always try to cultivate my curiosity, but I never thought about the positive benefits of being curious. Who knew it had so many great health benefits, like boosting happiness and keeping our minds healthy. Wonderful! Thanks for this informative and well-written article!
Such a cool post and I feel like my mom is so good about this and I strive to be more like her with her childlike wonder – she doesn't age!
I love this comment! It's so fun to hear about others who remain "ageless" because of their curiosity and wonder.
Curiosity knows no age. Even when we are old and gray, we should never stop asking questions, discovering things, and learning new stuff. It keeps our brain alert which helps delay the aging process.
Completely agree with the first one, I had lost interest in my previous job and wasn't feeling curious anymore which made me really unhappy!
Trying to find that again and not be so cynical!
These are all so true!! I love this post!!
Love this!! I never thought about curiosity this way, but this is so true. I love how curious my girls are and I need to learn more from my girls.
My parents used to say I was "nosy". I always said I was "curious"! Now I know it's a great quality to have.
Kid's another name is curiosity. Can't agree more. They are ready to grasp information as much as they can at this age. Nice blogpost.
Yes, yes, yes! Love this! I think it's so important to keep curiosity fueled and to continually learn and take in the world around you!
Curiosity is such a fun and energizing trait. It is what keeps us young! Asking questions and the desire to learn new things is so beneficial to our overall health. Great article!
You're so right – curiosity is a huge part of the growth mindset! It's also why I travel whenever I can!
I feel like I used to be but after having kids and answering their questions all day- not so much anymore… I guess I am busy fueling their curiosity and sharing my knowledge but would love to get the curious nature back.
I think that's something to be celebrated, too! It's a huge benefit to your kids to be fueling their curiosity.
This is exactly what I try to tell my son all of the time. The power of his curiosity will lead him to thrive in so many new ways. Under our guidance of course! thanks for sharing this amazing post!
Just like we should never stop learning we should never stop being curious. Great list of why this is a benefit no matter our age.
When I was a child and during these past two years, I have been especially curious about more things. I love learning, so anything that I can learn at work to better myself is something I love to do. Also, being part of a blogging group online and reading many people's blogs have naturally sparked my curiosity on more subjects. Curiosity brings purpose and meaning into my life. Great post!