Find the One Who Is Most Curious
Earlier this week, I got my hair cut.
After I sat down in the chair and put on the black smock, the new-to-me stylist said, “let's just talk for a few minutes.” From here, she spent about 10 minutes asking me questions along the lines of:
What did I like about haircuts I've had in the past?
What didn't I like?
What has worked well in the past?
What hasn't?
How often would I like to come in?
Several times, I found myself saying, “Wow, thanks for asking that —nobody has ever asked me that before”
The conversation reminded me of advice that I got from my friend and colleague Jon a couple of years ago. Jon is of the best leaders I've had the pleasure of working with.
When I asked for his advice on how to find the right physician for a loved one, he told me:
“Find the one who is the most curious.”
His advice can be applied not only to finding a new physician, but a new dentist; a new hair stylist; or a new contractor to help with house projects.
Einstein said, "I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.”
At a moment in time where we can find answers to nearly anything within seconds online or by leveraging AI, perhaps being passionately curious is a more timely approach than ever.
Reflections
What could it look like to be curious, rather than trying to be right?
How can we attempt to overcome fear with curiosity?
What could it look like to stay curious just a little bit longer?
Within our world, our country, and our society, where are we observing a lack of curiosity —and what could be possible with just a bit more of it?
What is one tiny way to practice curiosity with someone who I find difficult?
