Curiosity

I read an article recently where the author compared curiosity with being open. After thinking about it for a few days, I have to admit that while curiosity is often accompanied by a natural openness,  I do think you can be open without necessarily being curious.

To me, curiosity is associated with a sense of childlike whimsy. The curious person is one who asks, “Why?” and makes efforts to find the answer. My husband is naturally curious. He finds great joy in solving problems by finding out how things work. He can tinker for hours without getting discouraged and is so excited to answer his own questions. It is why he became a chemist and then a software developer. I, on the other hand, am open – open to experiences, ideas, and people. My goal each day is to accept without judgment and learn as much as I can. This acceptance, while it feels open, does not feel curious. I am fine if I don’t know “Why?” all the time and, generally, I move on before I get too involved in the minutia of something. I am determined, focused, and productive, but I was definitely the kid who accepted that the sky was blue without having to know the reason.

Another article I recently read named curiosity as one of five top character strengths identified by positive psychology researchers as most closely linked to fulfillment and happiness. I can certainly see the truth in this, and I accept it with openness   . . .  and only a mild sense of curiosity.