Reclaiming Curiosity as an Adult

When did you stop asking "Why?" Remember childhood, when every rock could hide a mystery and the world felt endlessly fascinating? For most of us, that natural curiosity gradually faded, replaced by routine and responsibility. Yet reclaiming curiosity could unlock not just better performance, but a richer, more meaningful life.

As we age, our sense of wonder often fades. Work demands leave little time for exploration, pushing us toward efficiency over discovery (Roos, 2021). Social pressures make us fear appearing ignorant, so we stop asking questions (Farrell, 2021). Research shows curiosity levels plateau after our thirties, and our minds shift from actively learning to simply applying existing knowledge (Latumahina, n.d.).

Curiosity remains invaluable in today's changing world. In workplaces, curious individuals drive innovation and adapt readily; organizations like NASA and Google actively cultivate curiosity to stimulate creativity (Roos, 2021). Beyond professional benefits, curious people experience healthier relationships, less anxiety, and greater life satisfaction (Farrell, 2021). When we stay curious, our minds remain active, constantly strengthening through the mental exercise of asking questions and seeking answers (Latumahina, n.d.).

How do we reclaim curiosity? Start by slowing down to observe your surroundings, as rushed lives leave no room for noticing (Farrell, 2021). Learn to see when you're closed off: moments when you dismiss ideas or think "I already know this" signal opportunities to lean into curiosity. Visualization helps too; imagine yourself genuinely interested before conversations, priming your mind for engagement (Greater Good Science Center, 2024). Most importantly, question your questions with nuance. Instead of "What's your name?" ask "What's the story behind your name?" Moving beyond surface-level questions allows us to unearth stories, insights, and values that build genuine human connection (Greater Good Science Center, 2024).

As you navigate this week, identify one closed-off moment. What question could you have asked? Start small, practice consistently, and watch curiosity reopen doors. The rewards, such as stronger relationships, enhanced creativity, and richer experiences, await. By reclaiming curiosity, you're not just learning more about the world; you're rediscovering that childhood sense of wonder where every conversation holds a mystery and life feels endlessly fascinating again.

Written by: Sammie Suh

01/2026

References

Farrell, K. (2021, September 20). Bringing curiosity into life. The Whole U. https://thewholeu.uw.edu/2021/09/20/bringing-curiosity-into-life/

Greater Good Science Center. (2024). Curiosity [Audio podcast episode]. In The Science of Happiness. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/podcasts/item/curiosity_the_science_of_happiness_podcast

Latumahina, D. (n.d.). The importance of being...curious. Anderson University. https://andersonuniversity.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/importance-of-being-curious.pdf

Roos, J. (2021). Why cultivating curiosity & imagination benefits your business. Hult International Business School. https://www.hult.edu/blog/why-cultivating-curiosity-imagination-benefits-your-business/