Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen. – Winston Churchill
Courageous curiosity. What is it? It sounds “buzz-word” worthy, doesn’t it? But, it is what I believe we – the worldwide population, and especially the United States – could benefit from right now. In this moment of historic division and fear.
So, what is it? Courageous curiosity challenges us to confront life’s and humanity’s greatest divides, challenges, obstacles and opportunities. And, it encapsulates two of the most important self-leadership characteristics a human can possess: curiosity and courage. To be curious means to lean into the risky unknown and uncomfortable with the desire to learn. Courage gives you the strength to seize the risk, to grow and use it for a productive cause.
Today, curiosity and learning seem to be absent. I observe a lot of one-sided anger, pontificating fueled by the echo chamber of our social media feeds and self-selected news sources. Our experts are self-anointed and tend to be radicalized by a strong vocal minority. Our culture is rewarding the loudest voices, rather than the most thoughtful, curious ones.
In the past week, I have taken a mindful step away from social media in order to re-center myself and get back to my own core. I needed to remember why I chose to name my company True North. I focused on simple pleasures like gardening, playing fetch with my three dogs, reading for pleasure, going to see a movie in an actual theater. I also spent time with my family, and friends at a 50th birthday party where no one discussed politics or world events because everyone is exhausted.
Over this past week, I’ve discovered in talking with my family, friends, peers, and clients that we are all worn out. We have now fully come to realize this current state of affairs:
Where there was once an understanding that the ocean between our views and opinions is meant to be crossed, and bridges are meant to be built, we are now more interested in fortifying the fortresses on our side of the ocean, creating small empires of like-minded followers. How dare anyone attempt to cross the ocean?
This statement is not as dire as it sounds. Why? Because 100% of the people I spoke with are curious and they want to cross the ocean! Let me repeat: They are curious. And confused, wondering how we got here, and how do we get back to place of compromise, understanding? My question to them was, what’s stopping you?
I turned the flashlight back on myself. Rather than bury my head, what steps can I take to positively influence the dialogue? What actions can I take to contribute productive energy into the world? The first step is writing this article today.
I close with a question and a challenge. When is the last time you embraced courageous curiosity? How will you embrace it to learn, grow, and start building the bridge of understanding? What one productive action will you take this week?
Curiosity is an act of vulnerability and courage. We need to be brave enough to want to know more.
– Brene Brown
