The Great White shark, a.k.a. “Jaws”, is a very curious creature. They set their minds on what they want, and they usually get it. You may be happy to note that humans are not on their menu. If they take a bite out of someone, it is simply out of curiosity (or self-defense).

Be curious! It benefits leaders greatly as it opens doors and creates possibilities. Like the Great White, we shouldn’t judge nor fear, and we must stay focused. To lead successfully requires finding new solutions, new ways to motivate people and new ways to think. The curious never stop, even when they think they have found a solution. Like the Great White, they are relentless.

Take Steve Jobs, for example, who had an intense focus. He wanted all his products to not only work well, but to be attractive. If you’ve ever watched the documentary, “Steve Jobs: One Last Thing,” you’ll realize that the secret to his success was his curiosity. He had a voracious appetite for learning. He wasn’t afraid of being wrong either, because he knew that was the best way to learn.

Curiosity requires confidence. And, who doesn’t have more confidence than the Great White? Leaders know they don’t have all the answers, and they’re not afraid to admit it. They ask questions constantly, finding out the who, what, how, why and where of everything. Ask the right questions and you’ll stay on track.

So, how can you enhance that spirit of curiosity?

Curious people read a lot. By opening a book, you learn from other people, you see different perspectives and you gain new ideas. Ask yourself what your interests are, then browse books on those subjects. You can also listen to books on tape when you’re driving, or find an interesting podcast or two to follow.

Ask all kinds of questions, even if you think they’re dumb. What you think is dumb may reveal a lot of answers. Ask your customers what their favorite interests and their goals are. This will get you far!

 Curiosity – your future depends on it. As for the Great White, its life depends on it.