Curious Attitude, Consistent Effort

Walt Whitman said “Be curious, not judgmental.”

There is an unforgettable scene in the first season of Ted Lasso (link here) that reinforces this idea. Highly recommend Ted Lasso for many lessons on being earnest and kind. This is one of the show’s defining moments.

A common coaching truth, we’ve all heard is, “There are only two things in life within our control. Our attitude and our effort.”

Much is to be interpreted from this advice, but I think its simply boiled down if we combine these two aphorisms.

We can certainly have a judgmental attitude about life. Live in a world of cynicism and scarcity. Or we can choose to be curious like Ted. Take the pressure off ourself to pass judgement. Collect data. Be open-minded. Choose to believe we live in a world of abundance and generosity. Maybe not today, maybe today sucks, but over time with consistent effort, and curious attitude.

On a day that sucks, in the spirit of being curious, what if we take a step back and ask why? Not “why” to blame others or “why me” like a question for fate or God, but why is this happening and what is within my control to prevent it from happening again? This is how a curious attitude can change our path.

It starts with a curious attitude, but is reinforced with consistent effort.

Another common coaching truth is “Hard work beats talent if talent doesn’t work hard.” Well, consistency is the key to working hard. Anyone can work hard for a day, or a week, or a year. But showing up, giving it our best that day, today, consistently. Working through obstacles, making adjustments, but continuing the path until the job is done. This is within our control.

So yes, be curious, not judgmental. Show up, consistently. The rest is outside your control.