An A–Z of creative nudges from my book Seriously Playful Creativity.
C is for Curiosity
One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is to remain curious.
Curiosity is less about finding answers and more about staying open.
Being curious means giving yourself enough time to consider alternative angles and for something unexpected to emerge.
The Curiosity Jar Activity
Inspired by choreographer Twyla Tharp and her idea of “playing with questions”, here’s a simple activity designed to awaken curiosity in everyday life and work.
Take twenty small pieces of paper and write down things you are genuinely curious about.
Questions, ideas, possibilities, tensions, or things that keep catching your attention.
You might ask:
- Why am I drawn to certain conversations lately?
- What would happen if I approached this differently?
- What creative practice have I stopped making time for?
- What am I avoiding exploring?
- What would I do if I followed my curiosity more often?
Place the questions in a jar or container.
Once a day or once a week, randomly select one and spend a little time with it.
Read about it. Sketch ideas around it. Have a conversation with someone. Experiment in some way.
During coaching, I stay curious and encourage others to do the same, resisting the urge to rush too quickly towards solutions before fully understanding the question.
In Seriously Playful Creativity, I explore curiosity as a creative companion, inviting us to notice, question and play.
You can explore it here:
https://www.maverickminds.com.au/seriously-playful-creativity/
Next month: D is for Disruption.