"好奇心を持ち、批判的にならないように"

Let's break down this idea. At its core, the saying encourages us to approach the world with an open mind and a desire to learn, rather than with preconceived notions or quick judgments. It's about fostering curiosity over criticism, which can lead to deeper understanding and more meaningful connections.

Historically, this phrase is often attributed to Walt Whitman, although there's some debate about its origin. Regardless, it's gained popularity in recent times, especially after being featured in an episode of the TV show "Ted Lasso." In the show, the character Ted uses this philosophy to triumph over cynicism and surprise his doubters with kindness and wisdom.

Now, imagine you're at work and a new colleague joins your team. They do things a bit differently, and your first instinct might be to think, "That's not how we do it here." But instead of jumping to conclusions, what if you were curious instead? You might ask, "Can you tell me more about why you approached it that way?" You might discover a new, more efficient method or gain insight into their previous experiences. This shift from judgment to curiosity can foster collaboration and innovation.

To apply this wisdom in daily life, start by catching yourself when you begin to judge. If you see someone acting in a way that's unfamiliar or confusing, pause and ask genuine questions. It’s about replacing statements like "That's weird" with "I wonder why..." This small shift can transform interactions and open up a world of learning and empathy.

Let's look at a relatable scenario. Picture this: you're at a family gathering and your cousin, who’s usually quiet, starts passionately talking about a hobby you've never heard of—let's say, urban beekeeping. Your first thought might be, "What a bizarre thing to get into!" But hold that judgment. Instead, lean into curiosity. Ask questions. "How did you get started with beekeeping?" "What's the most fascinating thing you've learned?" Not only will you probably learn something cool, but your cousin will feel valued and respected for their interests.

By being curious, not judgmental, you open doors. You invite conversation and connection. You create space for others to share their world with you, and that enriches your own life. Try it next time you encounter something—or someone—you don’t immediately understand. You might be surprised at how much more interesting life becomes when you lean into curiosity instead of judgment.