How to Cultivate Curiosity

Curiosity is the fuel that propels us forward, that drives innovation and growth. Yet, so many of us lose curiosity as we grow older. There’s some evidence that suggests that our decrease in curiosity may be related to our increase of knowledge as we grow up. If we already know what we want to know, why should we care?

But here’s the thing: curiosity is not a luxury. It is critical for life-long learning, keeping a sense of youthful wonder, and even building more robust relationships because we’re genuinely more interested. So, today, I want to share with you some practical strategies to help you cultivate curiosity in your own life.

1. Embrace the Unknown. It’s natural for us to seek comfort in what we know, in what feels familiar. But if you want to cultivate curiosity, you must be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Get into some adventures. Try things you haven’t done before. Embrace the unknown, the uncertain, and the unfamiliar. It’s in these moments of exploration that true curiosity thrives.
2. Feed Your Mind. Curiosity is fueled by knowledge and information. So, make it a habit to feed your mind regularly. Read books, listen to podcasts (like this one!), watch documentaries, attend workshops—immerse yourself in a wide range of subjects and perspectives. The more you learn, the more connections you can make, and the deeper your curiosity will grow.
3. Embrace Failure. We talk a lot about failure on this podcast so I won’t go into deeply here but just consider this a friendly reminder that failure and FEAR of FAILURE can chop curiosity at the knees. Failing or fumbling around is a natural part of the learning process as we open ourselves up to new opportunities for growth and discovery. It’s through these experiences that true curiosity flourishes.
4. Ask Questions. Questions are the fuel that ignites curiosity. Don’t be afraid to inquire, to challenge the status quo, and to seek understanding. Ask yourself why? And how? Asking questions expands your knowledge and opens up new pathways for exploration. When chatting with new friends or old, make it your goal to learn as much as possible about their interests. Practice saying less, and listening more.
5. Write. Reflection is a great way to explore and then more deeply about topics. Whether it’s published (like a blog) or a journal just for you, you can explore connected topics, ideas, and feelings about what you’re learning which can lead you down new paths you haven’t considered before.

Remember, curiosity is not just a trait—it’s a superpower. It’s what allows us to see the world with fresh eyes, to push the boundaries of what’s possible, and to live a life filled with meaning and purpose.

Enjoy!