Motivational Monday Series – Never Stop Exploring

(Video Credit: The North Face)

"We feel that this stands as a symbol of the insatiable curiosity of all mankind to explore the unknown."

Buzz Aldrin, astronaut aboard the Apollo,  July 24th, 1969

Curiosity is inherent in humans from the time we are very young. Throughout history, those who have made the most significant contributions and lasting marks on the world have been curious to their core - always searching for an alternative path, new ideas and ways to get there.

Being curious throughout life can benefit you (and the world around you!) in many ways. When you're curious, your mind is active rather than passive, which helps it to grow stronger and stronger the more you challenge it to think outside the box. It also leads to an adventurous life in which new doors open everywhere you look. As new ideas emerge, you are more likely to give them genuine consideration if they pique your interest and curiosity. You will also be more open minded to the thoughts and opinions of others, which is never a bad thing.

What if you've grown out of your child-like curiosity? Never fear - there are things you can do to claim it back....

1.) Read diverse material

By reading many different genres, you immerse yourself into all sorts of worlds, complete with characters and circumstances that are unique. Get a subscription to an educational magazine that you normally don't pick up, and get to reading!

2.) Keep an open mind

This may seem pretty obvious, but you'd be amazed at how few people truly keep an open mind in life. By being willing to learn, unlearn and relearn things, you open the door to new knowledge and opportunity.

3.) Don't take anything for granted

When you accept that the world is the way it is, you have absolutely no incentive to dig deeper. Always strive to look beneath the surface and discover more than what meets the eye.

4.) Ask questions

Who, what, when, where and why are ones we all learned in school, and they still apply once you've grown up! Keep them in your back pocket and don't forget about them. They can always be pulled out on a daily basis.

5.) Choose to see learning as fun

This takes some practice, but it is definitely possible. Even the most challenging of things can be rewarding to attempt (sometimes over and over) until we finally succeed. Look at life through a glass that's half full and exciting.