Curiosity: The Misadventure that Leads to Success (or At Least Valuable Lessons)
Image by Kyle Johnson on Unsplash
Anyone who’s ever had a curious child—or, let's be honest, a curious adult—knows how quickly that thirst for knowledge can spiral into mischief. Cue Curious George.
The mischievous little monkey is often getting himself into sticky situations, but what if it's his insatiable curiosity that truly makes him relatable? What if his adventures aren't just a series of accidents, but rather lessons in growth, experimentation, and resilience?
In the world of leadership, curiosity often gets a bad rap. People associate it with being distracted, unfocused, or—dare I say—unproductive. But the reality is that curiosity is the quiet driver of innovation, growth, and success. Like Curious George, we may get into a bit of a jam along the way, but it’s those very "mishaps" that shape us into stronger leaders.
Let’s be honest: staying within the lines of what we know feels safe, but it doesn’t push the boundaries of our potential. It’s the curious leaders—the ones who question, explore, and dive into the unknown—that make real change happen. They’re the ones who build the skills, relationships, and wisdom that set them up for success—not by doing what’s expected but by venturing beyond the comfort zone.
“Be brave enough to say, ‘I don’t know… how can we find out?’”
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
So, how can curiosity benefit you as a leader?
Embrace the unknown: It’s okay to not have all the answers. Be brave enough to say, “I don’t know… how can we find out?” Asking this question shifts the focus from uncertainty to possibility, sparking creative solutions.
Cultivate a learning mindset: Every situation, whether a success or a setback, holds a lesson. Curiosity helps you see the opportunity in every outcome and grow from it.
Lead by example: When you embrace curiosity, you model it for your team, encouraging them to do the same. It creates an environment where innovation thrives, and collaboration feels exciting.
Curiosity doesn’t need to be messy like George’s misadventures. But it can be playful, fun, and rewarding. The next time you're faced with an unfamiliar situation, channel your inner Curious George. Be brave. Explore, ask questions, and see what new paths might emerge—whether it's learning from a mistake or celebrating a big win.
Let’s Talk Leadership Development
Hi! I’m Carrie. I coach mid-to-senior level professionals — especially team leads stepping into larger leadership roles and parents returning after parental leave — who feel less confident transitioning from technical expertise to people management. Rather than “starting from scratch”, we’ll tap into your strengths, build your confidence, and help you lead with clarity and authenticity, both at work and at home.
If you're ready to enhance your leadership skills or help your team grow, let’s connect.