Open + Curious

Can thinking about this distinction guide us? Both fine and applied art have value. I’m drawn to the fine art. What are the participants creating during a good conversation? Certainly, good conversations have a “do no harm” undertone. But it’s the pleasure of the shared experience which is at the core. To your capability you…

Balancing observing and participating in a conversation Details that would have been lost in the blur of the experience, will stick in your mind and become mile markers. We shouldn’t rely on luck. When we find ourselves in a budding conversation, we must be intentional with what we are trying to create. I’m not suggesting…

Self-awareness as the master key We must imagine clearly and in detail where a conversation could go, and then be aware of where it actually goes. Intention is about having some reason for a conversation. If we want intentional conversations, then we must spend some time in self-reflection to discover those reasons. If we want…

How can you effectively and gracefully end a conversation while maintaining its value and mutual appreciation? Understand the balance between leaving a conversation fulfilled and seeking more. This article is based on the episode How do you end? from the Open + Curious podcast as part of a short series on Bringing conversation alive. Craig…

What role does dialogue play in fostering a sense of connection and transformation within individuals and communities? Can dialogue itself be more important than the decisions it leads to? This article is based on the episode Once awakened from the Open + Curious podcast as part of a short series on Bringing conversation alive. In…

Our common desire for understanding We must bootstrap our self-awareness and use that to work on our humility and curiosity. Everyone wants to be better understood. I know I do. You know you do, and from you and I it’s easy to extrapolate to saying “everyone.” But don’t take my word for it, ask people.…

What defines a deep conversation, and how can one recognize or evaluate its depth? Is the depth of a conversation defined by content or the experience? This article is based on the episode Depth versus aliveness from the Open + Curious podcast as part of a short series on Bringing conversation alive. I feel like…

Experimenting, observing, and reflecting on your conversations I believe we must move beyond studying, into active practice. Every time I think perhaps I should begin to work on a book about conversation, I find another book. I’m always waffling between being convinced that I do have something original to contribute, and being convinced that I’ve…

Why do we keep talking, and when should we stop? Join Craig and Jesse as they challenge the urge to keep talking and explore the value of silence. This article is based on the episode Why do we keep talking? from the Open + Curious podcast as part of a short series on Bringing conversation…

Preparation and practice before the dive lead to better outcomes Are we envisioning play and the joy of discovery, or work and struggle? Our ability to go deep depends on our preparation. In the moment before the dive, of course, it matters how much energy we are expecting to need. It also matters how and…