Fuel resilience by priming curiosity first

Curiosity isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the engine for learning, memory, and creative problem solving. When we encounter a knowledge gap, our brain’s dopamine reward system kicks in, sharpening focus and boosting retention. But that gap must be primed; we won’t seek answers to questions we haven’t noticed.

Game designers know this well: they tease players with glimpses of treasure just out of view, compelling them to keep exploring. In the same way, educational psychologists recommend “desirable difficulty”—making the challenge neither trivial nor overwhelming. When you introduce an unexpected twist, learners lean in and remember far more.

The trick is pacing: reveal just enough intrigue to spark wonder, then build on it. Each small answer uncovers deeper questions, fueling a virtuous cycle of curiosity. With deliberate design, you make the learning journey itself irresistible.

Next time you lead a discussion or workshop, start with a single provocative question or fact. Pause and let the silence build for five seconds—resist filling it in. Invite guesses and reflections before you deliver the full explanation. Watch as the room leans forward, minds engaged. That moment of wonder is the spark that lights deep, long-lasting learning. Give it a try in your next meeting.