Curiosity, Benefits to Wellbeing

But not cat wellbeing……..

I’m curious, does that pun qualify as a ‘Dad Joke’? Kashdan et al (2009) define curiosity as “recognising, embracing, and seeking out knowledge and new experiences.” Why is it curiosity is not considered as often as other factors when it comes to contributions to wellbeing, even though curiosity is a very common character strength.

Curiosity, like gratitude discussed in a previous post, can be seen as both a trait and a state, where the individuals experience of curiosity may be influenced by their trait curiosity. (And for the record, curiosity is high up on my VIA results) Research suggests curiosity is a positive predictor of wellbeing in both adults and adolescents. Curiosity has also been found to play a crucial role in learning and intrinsic motivation. Interestingly, trait curiosity, in the form of personal initiative, has been found to positively relate to the quality of employee work life through increasing wellbeing, and decreasing emotional exhaustion.

Exploring my relationship with curiosity, the feeling of curiosity for my positive psychology study allows me to willingly dedicate more of my attention, gain a deeper understanding of the material and be better able to recall what I am learning. From the VIA survey, I have established my trait curiosity is high, which may increase my feelings of curiosity. This process also allows me to understand better how curiosity contributes to both intrinsic motivation and the idea of flow. In fact, descriptions of intrinsic motivation and flow often become blurred with curiosity itself.

My willingness to grow my knowledge gives me confidence in my study, however in other situations, I may not be as open to curiosity, such as trying new foods, therefore we can see a variance of curiosity for individuals in different situations.

So how do we best grow curiosity? There are limited descriptions of curiosity interventions, however it has been found promotion of wellbeing through curiosity is dependant upon the individual regularly acting on curious feelings. It has also been found in strength based studies, training in one strength can influence other strengths. An example from my own experience if I may?

I enjoy focusing my attention on appreciating the beauty of sunrises, sunsets and cloud patterns, clearly evident from my Instagram account. I often use this opportunity to incorporate exercise, walking or riding my push bike to different locations and practice my photography. Lets consider how many strengths this may involve,

1. Curiosity – exploring and discovering new experiences
2. Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence – taking in the beauty of nature
3. Spirituality – seeing the experience as being part of something bigger
4. Gratitude – reflecting on this experience as part of a gratitude practice
5. Zest – energy from exercise and being outside
6. Love of Learning – learning more photography techniques
7. Creativity – again, relating to photography and the images I create

Evidence also shows that on days of greater physical activity and happiness, curiosity is found to be increased. So what will you explore to grow your curiosity? Explore a new hobby, or study? Visit somewhere you have never been? Try a different meal on the menu? Listen to some new music? Perhaps explore your own childhood pursuits with your children?

Sounds like solid grounds for a reboot of the Curiosity Show.

#BeCurious