Remember Curious George — that mischievous little monkey with a knack for finding himself in the middle of chaos? As a kid, I laughed at his antics. As a parent, I was a kid again revisiting his escapades. And now, as a woman fully steeped in midlife, I realize there just might be some lessons we can all learn from him.

Curious George’s world is all about wonder. He doesn’t hesitate to explore, to ask “what if?”, or to follow his heart  — even when it lands him in a mess. And yet, things always work out.

Why? 

Because curiosity, when guided by openness and joy, always has us learning and landing somewhere good, even if it’s simply having a good time.

Adventure, play and joy add years to your life… and life to your years!

So if little George could give we adults some pointers I think he’d say…

Curiosity keeps life alive.

It is, after all, how we learned, grew and experienced the world as a kid. If I had a dollar for every “why?” my kids enthusiastically posed I’d have a nice chunk of change in the account right now. When we stop being curious, life starts to shrink. Ask questions, explore different perspectives, try something new, go somewhere different… that’s how we keep our heart singing and ignite new possibilities in our lives.

 Adventure is an attitude.

And it adds spark to your days. In my group program yesterday one of my clients shared about a wonderful day hike adventure she experienced a few days prior. Her energy was literally bouncing off the screen! You don’t need a grand trip or a bold career move to live adventurously. Adventure begins the moment you decide to get out of the daily rut and do something new. Just for fun!

Live from your heart.

George doesn’t overthink things — he follows what feels right. He feels his way through life. We are all meant to fully experience this life of ours. So,… how would your life be different if you started giving the reigns to your heart instead of your head? Joy, playfulness and wonder aren’t childish traits; they’re the most natural compass you have.

So maybe it’s time you channel your inner monkey and get more curious — about your dreams, your routines, and what might happen if you followed your heart.