Jennifer Jim, M.S.Ed, LPC

When I was 20 years old, I found myself amidst a sea of strangers at Heathrow Airport. The anticipation and excitement of reuniting loved ones filled the air, but for me, a realization struck deep within my heart—I knew no one. As I stood in the arrivals area, I decided to succumb to fear and let the unknown overwhelm me or tap into my curiosity and embrace the adventure that awaited. Little did I know that choice would shape one of my life's most transformative and fulfilling experiences. And now, as a fellow mom, I want to share this story with you, for you, too, may be facing a similar crossroads.

Choosing Growth Over Familiarity:

In that moment of panic, the decision I thought I faced seemed simple—a choice between safety and risk. But it was more profound than that. It was a choice between familiarity and a willingness to learn and grow. And I chose growth. I realized that by allowing curiosity to replace fear, I could open myself up to a world of possibilities and new connections.

The Power of Curiosity:

Curiosity, often associated with childhood, holds incredible power. Think of a curious child you've known (your own or even you!)—they are confident and unafraid to make mistakes. Curiosity doesn't eliminate emotions; it coexists with fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. By cultivating curiosity, we allow ourselves to approach those emotions objectively.  Curiosity and judgment don’t mix.  Living in curiosity means allowing yourself to live without your judgment or fear of others' judgment. 

Rating Your Curiosity:

Take a moment to assess your curiosity on a scale of 1-10, with ten being the highest. Then, consider what it would take to move up just one level. Even a tiny increase in curiosity can bring about significant shifts in perspective and open doors to new experiences and personal growth.

Ways to Increase Curiosity:

Ask Questions: Cultivate the habit of asking questions about the world around you. Challenge assumptions, seek diverse perspectives, and remain curious about the reasons, processes, and meanings behind things.

Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindful living by embracing the present moment without judgment. Through mindfulness, you can observe and appreciate the intricate details of the world, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder.

Try New Things: Step outside your comfort zone and explore activities or experiences you haven't tried before. Whether experimenting with new recipes, exploring different art forms, or simply trying a different route on your morning walk, embracing novelty keeps curiosity alive and ignites exploration.

The "Heathrow Airport" Moment:

As mothers, we often face decisions that appear to be between safety and risk. But beneath the surface, those choices are about our beliefs, willingness to learn, and desire to grow. So if you find yourself in a "Heathrow Airport" moment, choose growth and embrace the unknown with curiosity.