The Importance of Being Curious
Helen McHugh, RN, BSN.
I am fascinated by curiosity - the strong desire to know more. Since I created a video a couple of months ago on the subject, I am trying to be more curious, inquisitive and wondering, especially in situations that are unfamiliar, and with people that may think or feel differently from me. When I practice curiosity, I find deeper understanding, where I might settle for a hasty judgement otherwise.
I’ve also found that mindfulness makes me more aware of what I’m feeling when I’m curious. I notice this spark of energy and eagerness to dive deeper. My mood brightens, and I look forward to learn more. Turns out, there’s science to back that up!
Curiosity is a survival tool. Our brains evolved to reward us with feel-good chemicals like dopamine when we encounter something new. This “explorer mode” keeps us alert and helps us adapt to a constantly changing world.
Curious people are happier. Studies show that curiosity is tied to higher levels of positive emotions, less anxiety, and greater life satisfaction. Sure, happier people might naturally be more curious, but since novelty boosts our mood, curiosity likely works both ways.
Curiosity drives success. Whether at school or work, being curious makes it easier to engage and perform well. When we’re interested in something, we naturally put in more effort and enjoy the process, which leads to better results.
It also makes us more empathetic. Being curious about people with different experiences or views helps us understand them better. A simple conversation with someone outside your usual social circle can be eye-opening and help you connect in meaningful ways.
Curiosity strengthens relationships too. Showing genuine interest in someone makes you come across as warmer and more attractive. Research even shows that sharing personal stories with someone who’s curious builds closeness and trust.
Finally, curiosity can improve healthcare.
Health care providers who stay genuinely curious and open to understanding their patients' perspectives—even during emotionally tough moments—can do a lot of good. Not only does it help reduce frustration and anger for both sides, but it also leads to better decision-making and more effective treatments, according to Dr. Jodie Halpern, bioethicist.
In 2001, Dr. Halpern introduced the idea of clinical empathy in her book, From Detached Concern to Empathy: Humanizing Medical Practice. She explains that clinical empathy is different from sympathy. It’s not just about feeling bad for someone; it’s about really tuning into a patient’s emotions and being actively curious about their unique perspective.
Halpern emphasizes that clinicians need to focus on what matters to the patient, not their own assumptions or feelings. This is why she’s against the common phrase, “put yourself in the patient’s shoes.” Instead, she believes the real goal is to understand how the patient feels in their own shoes, from their personal viewpoint. That shift in perspective can make a big difference in how care is delivered.
Hopefully, this blog shows that curiosity is powerful—it sparks joy, builds connections, and even enhances well-being, success and health care in big ways. We can all do it with a simple shift.
What do you think it would take for you to be more curious?
Bibliography:
Vocabulary.com
Roman Krznaric, Ph.D., 11.27.2021 Greater Good Magazine
Emily Campbell, 9.24.2015, Greater Good Magazine,
Sarah Yang, 5.7.2007, UC Berkeley Magazine