Move and Groove 45 - Question

I used to ask my parents so many questions that they tired of it.

My curiosity got me in trouble a few times, like when I was nine and took the vacuum cleaner apart and couldn't put it back together.

But, more often than not, curiosity has rewarded me.

I never really questioned why I was curious - it just felt good...

For me, curiosity starts with a question. For example, "what happens if..." or "where is the limit of..." or "how does this really work?" or "are my assumptions correct?" (that last one has changed my worldview more than once!)

Neuroscience Nugget

A study by Gruber, Gelman, and Ranganath (2014) revealed the brain-boosting power of curiosity. Curiosity lights up reward circuitry in the nucleus accumbens and midbrain, similar to anticipating financial rewards and improves memory retention in the hippocampus.

Curiosity drives dopamine and norepenephrine, increasing focus and motivation.

The bottom line? Questioning isn't just about getting answers—it's a powerful cognitive enhancer that primes your brain for learning, memory, and innovation.

Pep Talk

Ready to practice curiosity with questions? Start your day asking "What am I curious about?" This simple act can prime your brain for creativity and learning.

When facing a new task or project, figure out a way to get curious. Do you like the problem space, can you learn a new tool or process, where are the limits?

"I don't know" is not a weakness, but a perfectly good answer when facing the unknown. Before making decisions, ask yourself, "What question am I not asking?" This habit can protect you from blind spots and lead to more informed, creative solutions.

By honing your questioning skills, you're not just gathering information - you're rewiring your brain for enhanced learning, memory, and creativity. So go forth and question! Your next breakthrough may be just one great question away.

Be well,

Eric

P.S. Enjoy these resources on your journey:

• Winning at Work - our signature course on doing your best work, while feeling great at the same time. Access the launch promotion and get $300 off, coaching, and surprise bonuses.
• Be Well Mind - blogs on neuroscience, sports science, and performance.
• Schedule a free call - enjoy a powerful one hour coaching session for free.
• Group Flow Checklist - improve your team's ability to enter group flow for more productivity, innovation, and joy.
• Friday Afternoon Strategy Hack - when your competition is choosing where to go for happy hour, outmaneuver them with this strategic tool.