Curiosity: Killing Cats or Securing Success?

“Curiosity killed the cat."

1. The Importance of Curiosity

Curiosity…

A. …Makes Life More Interesting (Adds Zest!)

“The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.” (Ellen Parr)

B. …Makes Learning Fun

C. …Makes Us Successful

2. Curiosity Busters (Hindrances to Curiosity)

·        Pride

·       Fear

3. Rekindling Our Curiosity

A. Move From Passive Listening to Active Seeking.

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out. (Solomon)

Be curious always, for knowledge will not acquire you; you must acquire it. I want to be remembered as being curious to the end. (Warren Bennis, Distinguished Business Professor and Best-Selling Author)

B. Ask Good Questions

You've got to ask! Asking is, in my opinion, the world's most powerful -- and neglected -- secret to success and happiness. (Percy Ross)

The important thing is not to stop questioning…It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity. (Albert Einstein)

Curiosity is one of the most permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect. (Samuel Johnson)

''From the time he was able to open his mouth his first word, I think, was ‘Why?' You just had to answer every question, and then there would be more. Most of what I remember is Steve's curiosity and inquirious (sic) nature. He was just curiouser and curiouser….'' (Steven Spielberg, from Spielberg, p. 37,40)

"Did you ask any good questions today?" (Isador Isaac Rabi's mother)

C. Be Curious About Everyone