Undervalued Curiosity

Why do so many leaders undervalue curiosity?  I recently met a chairman of the company who clearly undervalued curiosity, having people around who would challenge the direction of the company, the strategy, and the value placed on the brand. Many leaders feel threatened by people who will not accept the first idea put forward (often their idea), but instead should entertain or ask questions to ensure that the best opportunity is presented for now and into the future. As we leap into 2017, curiosity is one of the great attributes that any leader can foster.
Over the Christmas break I read a terrific book that I highly recommend called A Curious Mind by Hollywood film producer Brian Grazer. It’s a story about Brian’s restless, relentless, and remarkable imagination driven by questions. This book shows you how questions can change not only your life, but also the life of others.  Brian Grazer is a super successful movie producer with credits like A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13, Splash, 8 Mile, and a host of other Academy award nominated films. This is a great book that reminds us that curiosity cures complacency and breaks familiarity.  
Don’t be threatened by people who challenge, question, or are curious about the business if it’s coming from the right place, as this surely is where the next great idea can be unlocked.