Some people seem to be naturally curious. Others work at it, while some just lack interest in learning. You can notice this when traveling. Some people can describe many aspects of their local vicinity while others don’t know anything about why certain features exist. They say that the most interesting people are those who are interested in others.
The primary work skills of the previous century, what I call ‘Labour’, can be summed up as: compliance, diligence, and intelligence. These skills were needed for routine work and standardized jobs. But the new skills required to live in a world dominated by networks and non-routine work requires ‘Talent’: curiosity, creativity, and empathy. The core skill is curiosity. Curiosity about ideas can improve creativity. Curiosity about people can improve empathy, through understanding others. We cannot be empathetic for others unless we are first curious about them. We cannot be creative unless we are first curious to learn new ideas.
We see a lot of discussion about digital skills and future of work skills, but the basic skill required to navigate the network era is curiosity. It should be nurtured and supported in our schools, but often is not. Standardized curriculum dulls curiosity. Standardized work reduces creativity. Standardized communities have little empathy for those who are different. If we want to change the world, be curious. If we want to make the world a better place, promote curiosity in all aspects of learning and work.
I reckon the dearth of curiosity is a corollary to the passive narcissism and entertainment addiction typical of millenials into adulthood.
Thanks, Ron. By the way, I note that you made your first comment here 10 years ago. Thank you for the conversations 🙂
I have found that there are still a goodly number of curious people of all ages working in creative spaces or building communities around common interests.
I’m always pleasantly surprised at the level of innovation and creativity that lies untapped around us due to the current restrictions in many workplaces. Deepak Chopra in his “The Soul of Leadership” provides plenty of great advice on how to get our egos out of the way and support those around us to grow.
I’ve just read another blog which reminded me that we measure what we value what we measure. When we measure (or at least regularly offer a comment on) a student’s curiosity, empathy and creativity we will then ensure it is valued.
I agree with Hugh – there are plenty of creative people of all ages… all over. They’re easy to find if you don’t dismiss them through pointless generational stereotypes (Ron).
Great point, Greg. We repeat the behaviors that are rewarded. Reward curiosity and you’ll get more curiosity.
So very spot on Harold. Glad to see the issue being brought up – we need as many people as possible to understand the tidal change coming. Thanks for that!