Curiosity is a catalyst for creativity. A skill anyone can develop, it motivates us to explore, observe and question. In the first post for This Creative Life, Sarah dives into the creative habits of curious folk and share how you can enrich your life by being more inquisitive.
1. Asking questions
Curiosity is like a muscle. We need to train it. And asking questions is perhaps the most essential of creative habits. Those who wish to understand more are always willing to dig deep to uncover new things, and pursue new ideas, leading to breakthroughs in life and work. The search for answers helps us clarify understanding, challenge assumptions, and discover opportunities.
To embrace this habit, you might begin by asking more questions in your everyday life. Consider children for a moment. They read and watch, and they ask. And they love to make discoveries. Could you adopt the same approach by having deeper discussions with friends or making more time for reflection?
2. Listening actively
Asking questions is essential, but it’s vital to listen to answers. Active listening is a key creative habit of curious people because it allows us to learn from others and gain new perspectives.
It’s one form of communication that I have to be mindful of because I’m easily distracted. But the benefits are endless, often leading to a greater sense of connection, engagement and understanding. Can you practice active listening today? Begin by putting away distractions and focusing on the person you’re with. Ask open-ended questions and give them space to share thoughts and ideas. Seek their perspective and pay close attention.
A hallmark of curious people is their openness. They value hearing from those from different backgrounds.
3. Embracing uncertainty
Curiosity thrives on uncertainty. A willingness to step into the unknown requires boldness and bravery, and it’s a beautiful way to learn and grow. But it can be uncomfortable, and this is why so many of us avoid it. I struggle with the unknown, preferring to avoid the challenges that follow transitions. Yet when I embrace discomfort, I find meaning and purpose.
Curious people aren’t afraid to take risks because they know failure is a natural part of learning. Try taking small steps outside of your comfort zone. And once you’ve stretched yourself a little, attempt to take on new challenges, try new experiences, and remain open to the unexpected. When you waver, and you will, remember that growth may be waiting on the other side.
4. Remaining present
When we’re preoccupied, we miss out on possibility. Curiosity asks us to be present – in the moment – and engaged without distraction. And it asks us to release worries about yesterday or tomorrow.
Living in the beat of life allows us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. And to appreciate richness and beauty more profoundly. This state of being can be cultivated through creative habits such as journaling, meditation, and yoga, but it can also be found in simple, quiet moments. Being present is not always easy, but it is a powerful way to deepen our sense of fulfilment and foster community and belonging.
5. Being receptive
A hallmark of curious people is their openness. They value hearing from those from different backgrounds and with different experiences – even if they don’t necessarily agree with them! And they also look for possibilities to engage with people who can offer fresh insights, which can lead to broadening their thinking.
They also tend to be open to receiving constructive feedback on their work and ideas, which is a challenging but essential trait of the curious person because it encourages them to explore new avenues, leading to creative ideas they may not have considered.
Curiosity is a lifelong pursuit of adventure, knowledge and wisdom. And curious people never stop learning.
6. Creating change
With a thirst for knowledge, it’s no surprise that curious folk are rarely content with the familiar. Instead of going through the motions, they gravitate towards the unexpected, travel to new places and take up new hobbies. They also seek to create change, both in their own lives and in the lives of those closest to them. They’re not afraid of progress and know that making small shifts can lead to impact.
Of course, progress often requires teamwork and connecting around a common goal, which is where curious folk can be helpful because they’re not afraid to step outside their bubble and take on different viewpoints, thus amplifying their power and creating meaningful change.
7. Staying curious
Curiosity is a lifelong pursuit of adventure, knowledge and wisdom. And curious people never stop learning.
They have a growth mindset, a craving for change, and make a conscious effort to educate themselves and embrace new hobbies. Curious people also believe in collaboration and often connect with coaches, mentors and other creatives to help them grow. They thrive on the accountability and motivation that they find in these relationships.
Why not reach out to a possible coach or mentor, a fellow creative, or even join a group programme?
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As one of my core values, curiosity has become an essential ingredient for building stronger foundations in my business and within my family. In nurturing these creative habits – asking questions, listening actively, embracing uncertainty, remaining present, being receptive, creating change and staying curious – I can bring more play into my life and work.
Can you adopt one or two of these practices and see where your curiosity takes you? The path of discovery is ongoing, but the rewards are endless.
