Childlike wonder
At a push, you might recall a little about what thinking like a child involves. Seeking opportunities for play, for example, may be on your list. However, there is a great deal more you can benefit from, other than a fun-loving persona. Here are some unexpected advantages of adopting a child's way of thinking.
See the whole picture
A study reported in Psychological Science revealed that although adults are better than kids at focusing on a single item in their environment, kids are far better at seeing the entire scene.
Kids' brains soak up as much data as possible to help them learn. They notice a lot more in their surroundings than adults do. Your ability to concentrate might get you through a long lecture, but your perception is limited to what you select to view. The data you notice is highlighted by your brain and irrelevant details are missed.
Increased curiosity
Curiosity helps kids learn too. Their inquisitive nature makes them ask questions and seek to understand what's happening around them. As people age, they start to lose interest in their environment, compared to when they were kids. As you mature, if you start to become more curious, you can continue to learn faster.
Another advantage of having a curious nature is that you'll recognize and create more opportunities. You'll make new friends and business contacts too.
Added awe
As an adult you experience awe occasionally. For instance, you might gasp at the beauty of a sunrise, or be blown away by the gorgeousness of a field of lavender in full bloom. Most of the time, however, you like or dislike what you see, but aren't filled with awe.
Life is packed with new experiences when you're a child. You're often overwhelmed by little wonders, like the sight of ladybirds taking flight or bright pebbles as they are pushed and pulled by the tide on the beach. None of these events are fresh when you're an adult, so they don't have the same impact as they did when you were young.
Studies show awe is an important emotion. It aids social cooperation as people bond over the awesomeness of sights and events. At the same time, awe helps people feel connected to their surroundings, boosting gratitude and appreciation.
You probably don't want to develop a childish outlook, but increasing a childlike mindset offers one substantial benefits. Not only will you be more creative and playful, but you might also learn more, recognize extra opportunities and increase your love of life.