Why Curiosity is the Key to Growth
Hey there friends…
Today, I want to dive into something that's at the heart of everything I create and also happens to be one of my favourite words in the English language:
curiosity
As an artist, I’ve learned that curiosity is the thread that stitches together every piece of work I create. It's what transforms a fleeting idea into a physical, tangible piece of art. But this isn’t just about art - it’s about life. Curiosity isn't just about asking questions or exploring the unknown. It's about embracing the thrill of discovery, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. As an artist who thrives on storytelling and making weird shit, curiosity fuels my imagination and drives me to uncover new realms of creativity.
But curiosity isn't just for artists; it's a superpower we all possess. It's the spark that ignites innovation and propels us forward, whether we're navigating the chaos of life or exploring new passions. Think about it: every great invention, every breakthrough in science or art, started with a simple question. What if? How does this work? What lies beyond the horizon? These questions push boundaries and challenge us to see the world with fresh eyes.
Embracing curiosity means embracing growth. It's about being open to possibilities, even when they seem out of reach. It's about nurturing that childlike wonder that reminds us there's always more to learn and explore. But beyond creativity and innovation, curiosity is also a powerful antidote to the stresses of everyday life. When we become trapped in routines and weighed down by responsibilities, curiosity can be the key to breaking free. Here are a few ways you can tap into your own curiosity to bring more joy and ease into your life:
try something new just for fun
When was the last time you did something just for the sake of exploring it? Whether it's learning a new hobby, reading a book outside your usual genre, or even taking a different route on your daily walk, these small changes can reignite your sense of wonder and lead to break-throughs.
ask more questions
Instead of rushing through your day, take a moment to pause and ask yourself deeper questions. Why does this interest me? What would happen if I approached this differently? How can I see this challenge from a new perspective?
let go of the fear of ‘‘wasting time’’
So often, we feel pressure to be productive, but curiosity doesn’t have to lead anywhere specific to be valuable. Let yourself explore simply for the joy of it. I love this quote by John Lennon: “The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.”
spend time in nature
We all know the benefits of spending time in nature right? The natural world is full of tiny miracles waiting to be noticed. Watching the way trees grow around obstacles, observing the patterns in a leaf, or listening to birds sing can remind us that life is filled with small wonders. Just the other day I watched ants in my backyard pick up a small (but rather large to the ants) piece of cat food and carry it to their nest. INSANELY COOL! I was absolutely mesmerised by their strength and the way they work together.
reconnect with your inner child
Remember what fascinated you as a kid? What did you love to do before the world told you to be 'practical'? Reconnecting with those early interests can unlock a deeper sense of fulfillment.
start a curiosity journal
At the end of each day, jot down something that piqued your interest or a question that came to mind. Over time, you'll start noticing connections between ideas, sparking new inspiration.
Curiosity isn't just about looking outward; it's also about looking within. It teaches us to see stress not as a dead end but as an invitation to explore different ways of thinking and being. When we approach life with curiosity, we shift our focus from feeling stuck to seeing opportunities everywhere.
So, my challenge to you is this: let yourself ask What if? and Why not? more often. Be curious about the world, about others, and most importantly, about yourself, because growth isn’t a straight line, it’s a constantly winding path of questions, discoveries, and the courage to keep exploring. And curiosity? It’s the key that unlocks it all.
over to you:
How has curiosity played a role in your growth? I’d love to hear your stories. Feel free to share them in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to keep wondering.
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Until next time,