Curiosity: Your new superpower?
Research suggests that curiosity boosts learning, memory, happiness, and even relationships.
Did you know that the trait of curiosity has been linked to better memory and effective learning, good social and relational capabilities, and general health?
It’s a trait that can be developed and nurtured and one that exposes us to new and interesting experiences, in turn stimulating personal growth.
Three impressive benefits of being curious
1. Learning and memory
This study published in Neuron found that curiosity enhances learning and memory.
Being curious about something motivates you to learn more about it, and makes it easier to retain information.
Albert Einstein once said "I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious."
Perhaps, though, curiosity itself is a special talent. If it offers an advantage in learning and memory, it can certainly be considered so.
If you want to learn something, becoming curious about the topic is a good place to start.
And, to look at it from another perspective, pursuing your existing passions and curiosities may be the best path to success.
Research has also shown that curiosity is a predictor of higher academic achievement. A hungry mind is more likely to feast!
The lesson? If you’re seeking knowledge and success, nurture your natural inquisitiveness.
2. Happiness
What’s more important than success? Happiness, contentment, enjoyment of life. Well, the curious among us are in luck – curiosity has also been linked to positive emotions and experiences. This study, for example, showed that curious adolescents have more life satisfaction and purpose.
It doesn’t take scientific studies to know that being interested in many things is likely to open us up to new experiences and a wider worldview. For many, this is a recipe for happiness.
A long-running study taking place at Harvard, nearly 80 years old, has found that strong relationships are a major predictor of health and happiness. Which leads to the next point…
3. Strengthening of relationships
In this study, the trait of curiosity “predicted positive relationship outcomes” amongst subjects. More research has shown that it correlates with less aggression in close relationships.
Genuine curiosity leads people to seek out information about others, which in turn helps to build closeness.
Curious people are also considered more interesting and engaging. Those who seek novel experiences are often better at connecting with strangers, or at least more willing and motivated to do so.
Get curious
The benefits of curiosity are clear and backed by science. So, how can you increase your sense of curiosity?
There are several ways to do this, many of which boil down to a bit of “fake it until you make it.” Exposing yourself to new ideas, concepts, experiences, and knowledge is likely to pique and develop your own curious tendencies.
Read lots! Books allow you to experience and understand a wide array of things without leaving your couch.
Ask questions. Sometimes we suppress our curiosity for fear of sounding dumb. Don’t be afraid to ask any question you’d like to know the answer to – and seek out knowledgeable, experienced, and interesting people to talk to about things you’re interested in.
Take an intentional interest in others’ hobbies. This is a good way to discover things that might pique your curiosity.
Be curious in your relationships – make a point of trying to understand your partner’s, family members’ or friends’ points of view, especially if you have a disagreement. Ask how they are feeling and what other things they have going on in their life. Use curiosity as a way to fuel a deeper connection with people you care about.
Embrace some discomfort. Getting outside of your comfort zone can heighten your curiosity and expose you to things and experiences you had never considered.
Leave the house and explore on foot. Walking is a great exercise to clear your head and get you thinking about things. It can also take you to new places.
However you do it, nurturing and developing your sense of curiosity is a great idea. And, you might just boost your happiness along the way!
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