A thought-provoking advocacy for finding more curiosity in our lives and using it to drive our approach through both good times and bad. Definitely something I'm thinking about heading into the new year!

In a world that often feels dominated by the pressure to "know"—to have answers, certainty, and solutions—Scott Shigeoka’s Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World offers a refreshing and deeply thought-provoking shift in perspective. Shigeoka’s exploration of curiosity as both a personal and social tool for growth and transformation left a lasting impact on me, and it’s a book I know I’ll be revisiting time and again.

What makes Seek so compelling is Shigeoka’s ability to not only define curiosity as a concept but also to demonstrate how it can be a powerful, dynamic force in every area of our lives. From the moment I opened the book, I was struck by the way Shigeoka presents curiosity not as an abstract idea or something reserved for philosophers or scientists, but as a fundamental way of being that we can all tap into. Rather than approaching life from the perspective of either “knowing” or “not knowing,” Shigeoka invites us to see curiosity as a stance—one that opens up new possibilities for learning, connection, and personal development.

What I found most impactful was how Shigeoka encourages readers to apply curiosity both to themselves and to others. It’s easy to think of curiosity as something we apply to external things, like discovering new information or solving problems. But Shigeoka pushes us further, urging us to use curiosity as a way of understanding our own thoughts, emotions, and actions. By embracing curiosity about ourselves, we unlock a deeper understanding of who we are, why we think the way we do, and how we can continue growing. This self-reflection, fueled by curiosity, can lead to profound personal insights and transformation.

Equally, Shigeoka emphasizes the power of curiosity in our relationships with others. In a time when so much of communication is transactional or surface-level, the idea of approaching conversations and interactions with a mindset of curiosity feels revolutionary. Instead of assuming we know someone’s story or motives, curiosity invites us to ask deeper questions, listen with greater empathy, and see others as complex, multifaceted individuals. This shift in perspective is not only life-changing in terms of personal growth but also in terms of how we relate to the world around us.

Shigeoka supports his ideas with compelling stories and real-life examples, which bring his concepts to life. These narratives make the book highly relatable, and it’s easy to see how curiosity has shaped Shigeoka’s own life and work. He skillfully illustrates how curiosity can lead to innovation, personal breakthroughs, and deeper human connections. But Seek is not just a collection of abstract ideas—it’s a practical guide. Shigeoka provides readers with actionable steps to cultivate curiosity in their lives through his DIVE framework (Detach, Intend, Value, Embrace), which serves as a useful acronym for applying curiosity in a mindful and structured way.

Each part of the DIVE framework is thoughtfully explored, providing readers with a clear and accessible method for putting curiosity into practice. For example, the first step, Detach, encourages us to release preconceived notions and judgments in order to fully engage with the present moment. This is followed by Intend, which challenges us to approach life intentionally, with a focused desire to learn and grow. Value emphasizes the importance of recognizing curiosity as an essential and worthy tool, not just for problem-solving but for enhancing our emotional intelligence and relationships. Finally, Embrace invites us to welcome uncertainty, vulnerability, and the unknown as opportunities for discovery and growth.

What’s particularly powerful about Shigeoka’s approach is that it doesn't demand perfection or an overnight transformation. Instead, it invites readers to approach curiosity as a lifelong practice—one that can be cultivated and refined over time. This makes the book not only a tool for immediate personal development but also a roadmap for ongoing self-improvement. Shigeoka provides thought-provoking questions, insightful reflections, and exercises that allow readers to engage with the material in a meaningful way, making it a resource that can be returned to again and again.

Seek also speaks to a broader vision of how curiosity can change the world. Shigeoka suggests that if we all embraced curiosity more fully, we could transform our communities, workplaces, and even global relationships. The book underscores the importance of cultivating curiosity in our interactions with others, especially in a time when division and misunderstanding seem to dominate the discourse. If we approach each other with genuine curiosity, listening with the intent to understand rather than to judge or convince, we open the door to more meaningful connections and more productive conversations. This is not just a personal or self-help book; it’s a call to action to bring more empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness into the world.

Another aspect of the book that stood out to me was how Shigeoka integrates the concept of curiosity with emotional well-being. He points out that curiosity can be a powerful antidote to feelings of anxiety, fear, and disconnection. When we’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or overwhelmed, curiosity offers a pathway forward—a way to approach problems and challenges not as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities for growth and exploration. Shigeoka’s perspective on curiosity as a tool for emotional resilience is something I’ve found particularly valuable, and it’s a concept that has already begun to shift the way I approach my own life and struggles.

Shigeoka’s writing style is engaging, approachable, and deeply thoughtful. He writes with warmth and authenticity, making the book not only intellectually stimulating but also emotionally resonant. His personal stories and reflections lend the book a sense of intimacy, allowing readers to feel as though they’re on a shared journey of discovery. The tone is conversational yet profound, and Shigeoka’s passion for curiosity is contagious—it’s impossible not to feel inspired by his words.

In conclusion, Seek is a book that offers both deep insight and practical tools, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to cultivate curiosity in their own life. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, deeper relationships, or simply a more open-minded approach to the world around you, this book provides a roadmap for embracing curiosity as a transformative force. With its actionable framework, relatable stories, and inspiring vision for a more connected, thoughtful world, Seek is a book that has the potential to change how you see yourself and others. I know I’ll be revisiting it often, using it as a reference and a guide in my own ongoing journey of curiosity and growth. This is a book that not only invites you to be curious about life—it encourages you to live your life with curiosity as your compass.

A book on how and why to become more curious. I thought this would be more a look into curiosity and its benefits but it was much more self-help. As someone who is curious, I didn’t find this to be as interesting or helpful.

SEEK is thought-provoking and instills the value of curiosity. The author introduces the DIVE model and several strategies to learn on to be a better seeker of knowledge. It was an interesting read with some nuggets of useful information.

ARC was provided by NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

Very good stuff. Not necessarily new info but very solid, and will help any reader.

Thanks very much for the review copy!!

Can I say that I was curious about this book? I learned a lot about curiosity, and a lot about the author. I found it interesting to learn a bit about how our minds work, and what curiosity is, and why it is so important. I consider myself a lifelong learner, and I ask lots of questions, so this book was insightful for me. It is textbook-like at times, but at other times, the author shares bits about his life and his own thoughts on things, which is also interesting. Thank you to NetGalley for the advance read copy.

Wonderful book that weaves insightful life hacks, personal anecdotes and suggestions for putting in to practice and evangelizing "curiosity." I put that in quotes because this book is about so much more! The most useful tips for me were about how to approach new situations in an open and accepting way, such as how to individuate and not just ask questions because you're supposed to. Other useful tidbits were about how much or how little other people are actually thinking about you and your behavior and how to stop your downward spiral of damaging thinking after a perceived bad performance.
There are a few paragraphs where I felt the author got a bit off track and I would have liked a few more references such as published studies mentioned in text (they are cited as references).
Overall, I found this to be informative for an already curious person. I hope that people that aren't already naturally curious about everything find their way to the pages of this great book!

This book is a catalyst for sparking creativity and curiosity, exactly what one would anticipate given its title. The author, Shigeoka, masterfully draws readers into the realm of innovative thinking.

The book promotes transformation by providing practical tools such as thought-provoking questions, comprehensive lists, and engaging exercises. It's a resource that won't disappoint; it equips you with fresh perspectives and tools that enhance your creativity, whether you're strolling through the city, participating in a meeting, or starting a new day. This book is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enrich their creative endeavors and conversations.

In his thought-provoking book, Scott Shigeoka underscores the pivotal role of curiosity in life, advocating for its development through the DIVE framework (Detach, Intend, Value, Embrace). The book is replete with engaging content, particularly the illuminating "Cup of Tea" and ABCS analogies. Before encountering these concepts, I hadn't given much thought to the idea of deep curiosity, but its significance now resonates with me.

Scott suggests that deep curiosity functions as a potent remedy for feelings of anxiety, disconnection, fear, and loneliness, providing valuable tools to navigate these challenges. The book also engages in genuine discussions about the art of cultivating meaningful human connections. I found this book to be particularly enjoyable, prompting moments of reflection as I read.

I had the privilege of exploring an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and the opinions expressed here are my own.

A really wonderful book! I was pleasantly surprised I would rate this book 3/5 thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me a copy of this book to read.

I fell into SEEK by Scott Shigeoka and enjoyed a smart, wonderfully enlightening view into curiosity, feeling my own ideas stir with his excellent writing, stories , and deep examination of what we all share in common if we let ourselves: finding out the answer to our "Why?" in everyday ordinary and deep, philosophical musing. Definitely a book to gift, to read and, most importantly, wonder where it will take you now that you've had your curiosity aroused. A keeper! I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.

These types of books always interest me given my professional career as a therapist, but also just as a person who is interested in personal growth. Overall, I thought this was a really interesting book that would cater well towards individual who are interested in tapping into the curious side of themselves to learn and grow. Everybody could benefit from doing this, however, I do not think that everybody who could benefit would be interested in reading this type of book, unfortunately. However, I think that this will be a great book on anyone’s shelf who is interested in this type of topic.

DIVE into Curiosity and Transform Your Life
The author uses the acronym DIVE to explain how curiosity is our superpower;
Detach - Let go of the ABCs (Assumptions, Biases, and Certainty).
Intend - Prepare your mindset and setting.
Value - See the dignity in every person, including yourself.
Embrace - Welcome the hard times in your life.

Readers are encouraged to start practicing deep curiosity and strengthening our capacity to connect and be transformed by the people, places, and experiences we encounter.

My Thoughts
At the beginning of this book, the author describes himself as "a city-dwelling liberal Asian American spiritually queer professor and researcher from Hawaii." He quit his job and spent a year living out of his car and meeting people that he would not normally encounter. He visited rural towns, an Indigenous reservation in Minnesota, a retreat center where nuns and millennials live together, and even a Trump rally. He became a seeker.

This is really an awesome book. It explains the difference between shallow curiosity where we are just seeking information and deep curiosity which is about making someone feel heard, seen, and validated.

The author goes into great detail about using the DIVE model to develop healthy and safe curiosity. He emphasizes the importance of listening and communication skills. Curiosity should always come from a place of genuine desire to know who someone is and how they became that way, not trying to get them to agree with our point of view.

Finally, Mr. Shigeoka suggests the following actions to begin our curiosity journey;
Articulate curiosity as an important value.
Embrace curiosity as an identity.
Bring curiosity into the spaces you're already in.

After reading this book, I value curiosity and I am a seeker.

MY RATING: 5 Stars Out Of 5

I really liked that this book encouraged a slowing down process to help people really reflect and explore their thoughts and experiences. The prompts and exercises were neat!

The author, Scott Shigeoka, weaves research and stories to to show that curiosity must be a lifelong habit, and not something we abandon after childhood. He uses the acronym DIVE — Detach (letting go of assumptions), Intend (be actively curious, not just a bystander), Value (recognize that you won’t always agree and that’s OK), Embrace (welcome whatever comes) — to encourage people to be more curious about the world around them. His thesis is that only by being this curios can we understand ourselves, the people around us and the wider world. This is an intriguing and well-researched book with many practices to implement — and I will!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reader copy.

Some books encourage creativity and curiosity. You'd expect that from a book with this title. Shigeoka is a storyteller who intends to pull you into the world of the creative thinker.

Transformation is encouraged through practical guides of questions, lists, and exercises. You won't be disappointed - next time you walk down the street, sit in a meeting, or wake up to a new day, you'll have new tools to fuel and expend your own creative work and conversations.