As the expression goes, “curiosity killed the cat, however, what can it do for us? Here’s what I’m quite sure most of us can agree on…our political environment is super challenging these days with lots of judgment one way or another. Admittedly, judgment and I’ve become pretty darn intimate lately and knowing that I’m not alone in this deal, I felt the need to explore options to bring more kindness and understanding for us all. Distrust can be detected from both sides of our political gamut. To borrow a quote from Mother Teresa, “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” What wisdom!
In truth…if Mother Teresa’s quote is a helpful diagnostic of our situation, then we must ask: “Why did we forget that we belong to each other?” and “How do we get this trust back?”
In an article titled “Struggling to Talk Politics in an Age of Division? Lead with Curiosity”: The beginning of an answer lies in the human capacity for a spirit of curiosity. If we seek healing throughout our communities, across our country, and around our world, could approaching discourse with a mindset rooted in curiosity be helpful? .
Why will curiosity help us? According to this article, curiosity becomes especially important for conversations with folks we disagree with most. Genuine and insightful questions in a conversation have a way of changing the atmosphere of the conversation. Instead of engaging in unproductive arguments, curiosity actually helps move everyone involved into a space of mutual humility…an expression of hospitality and sincere care for other people. This shared pursuit is where the healing begins.
“Curiosity is one of the great secrets of happiness.” — Bryant H. McGill, an author, activist, and motivational speaker
In an article titled: “Five Simple yet Powerful Tips to Help you be more Curious”, we can learn more:
1. Be Ready for Unexpected and Unfamiliar: Some people are not open to other people and ideas, however, people who cultivate their curiosity are drawn to the unexpected and unfamiliar that can open up important perspectives and conversation.
How to become more curious: Sign up for an improv class where a story is made up at the moment. Since everything is created on the spot, you must say “yes” to whatever your fellow actors are saying and add on to it. Another option is to watch an improv show called “Whose Line is it Anyway/” to get our creative juices flowing.
2. Don’t Interrupt Others: When we are interested in what they have to say, they will tell you more things. Spend more time listening than talking.
How to become more curious: Resist the urge to talk over others. Listening and taking an interest in others can be infectious in a good way..
3. Deepen Our Understanding: Curiosity doesn’t get old, so let’s look at the world like we were three or four years old. Ask many “why” questions about what you see in your life. Then, ask the “how” to figure out things more.
How to become more curious: Don’t take things for granted and find joy in the ordinary. The older we get, the more we lose our curiosity to ask questions and learn new things. Let’s go deeper into daily conversations and seek out awe-inspiring moments of wonder.
4. Challenge Our Perspective: Changing our perspective on things can show us where we need to connect the dots. Challenging ourselves to grow in our personal and professional lives starts with changing our perspective on things. See the opportunities and possibilities, not challenges and problems.
How to become more curious: The next time we have a challenging situation, let’s figure out if we are fearful of the situation or look at the limitations. When a challenge happens, we can respond emotionally or use the power of creativity. Ask three critical questions:
- How can this situation be turned around?
- How are my emotions affecting my thoughts?
- What options do I have?
5. Get Out of Our Comfort Zone: Curious people seek out the uncomfortable. They live outside of the status quo. When we embrace the uncomfortable, we absorb more new information.
How to become more curious: Ask questions such as: What am I drawn to? Is there something I am avoiding? What do I fear? Your answers may surprise you, and you’ll discover a new side of yourself.
Let’s challenge our judgements with curiosity instead Warriors…it’s a healthier option. Progress, not perfection
Spiritual Meditation: Love is the sacred perfume of the Spirit. – Daily Medicine