Naïve curiosity

When we think about questions, are we biased to think that some are good and some are bad? We might think questions should be powerful and insightful. But what about naïve ones?

When we think about questions, are we biased to think that some are good and some are bad? We might think questions should be powerful and insightful.

But what about naïve ones?

Questions that don't try to be clever, witty or powerful, just curious and honest.

When our understanding isn't fitting, our best approach is to find out more.

Questions allow us to unearth the mysteries before us.

And yet, often, we hold back. Instead, we look around at others to see if we're the only ones in this position. Does everyone else have the same question? Should I ask it?

And we waver.

Asking questions is a vulnerable act, and it requires us to open ourselves up and be seen.

It shows our unfamiliarity.
It shows our curiosity.
It shows our interests.
It shows our naïvety.
It shows our gap in knowledge and understanding.

For children, questions are a daily act; none are left unasked, no opportunities missed—there is no judgement of right or wrong, only absolute curiosity and awe.

Questions help us learn and better understand the world, link it together in new and exciting ways, and make sense of it. They are foundational to our development.

And yet, we grow up. At a certain point, how we think people see us becomes more important, and we stop being curious and asking questions because they might lead to ridicule.

We continue to learn, but our personal development stalls. As long as we're more worried about how others see us, we cannot experience deep and transformative learning.

Let us not worry about asking the right question and focus on asking a lot of simple and perhaps even naïve ones.

In itself, that will lead to deeper and richer understandings of ourselves, others and the world.

And in doing so, we also inspire others to do the same.

Where will your curiosity lead you?

Miguel,
Sparknotion – Think Differently.