People read to experience something beyond themselves. As a storyteller, you have a unique perspective forged by your unique life story. But in the end, our stories are as limited as we are.

When we’re humble enough to acknowledge our limits and open ourselves to exploring the unknown, the unknown will expand our imagination—and enrich our readers’ experience of our stories.

Attitudes are habits. Curiosity, like any attitude, can (and should be) intentionally developed and fed. What are some intentional steps writers can take to nurture a humble and vibrant sense of curiosity?

🔎 Focus on people and things outside yourself. People (including you) are at their most interesting when their attention is absorbed in something else. Listen to the stories of others. Read history. Serve people.

🔎 Question your assumptions. Be aware that because you don’t know everything, there may be other sides to the story. Make a practice of exploring different angles of an issue before you settle on a conclusion.

🔎 Lean into your questions. It may feel safer to base your storytelling on the answers you already have, but letting your own questions and doubts guide your storytelling can be a far more rewarding experience. Explore the unknown, and your stories will become a place of growth for you and an authentic experience for your reader to follow.

🔎 Get to know the One who has all the answers. The deeper you get in the never-ending journey of discovering the wonder of God, the more you’ll realize how much you have yet to learn. And in finding your limits, you’ll find opportunity to trust God to enlarge your soul to receive more of Himself.

Safe in the knowledge of the One who is the unchanging Truth, we can face the Unknown with joyful anticipation instead of fear. Accept the journey of discovery⁠—and take your readers along for the ride.

Thank you for reading! This is the first installment of an ongoing series exploring the importance of nurturing a healthy sense of curiosity as a storyteller.