Curious has always been one of my favorite words as it captures something really special about the magic of learning and constantly pushing yourself to be exposed to new things with an open mind and being comfortable not having it all figured out.  The journey of learning and enjoying the ride vs being focused on the destination of knowing.

Contentment is the satisfaction of having achieved the goals you’ve worked so hard for and going through the process of self-examination to understand you have enough. Enough of whatever it is you were seeking – money, time, recognition, etc.  An off ramp to not have to constantly chase the next level up of whatever it is you have achieved.

I share “curious contentment” as a concept with entrepreneurs who have worked so hard for so long and now have the thing they were working so hard to do – start, build, grow and sell a business. It can also apply to other moments of transition where one thing has been achieved and the next thing awaits.

Now what?

Entrepreneurial minded people do not do a good job of doing nothing so after short vacations they realize their engines are still running and they are seeking a new challenge.  

I have found that balancing being curious and content keeps you centered and clear minded while trying to pursue worthwhile work.  Something worth your time that is rewarding based on the time invested.  It is easy to lose sight of this and I frequently do but it is calming, at least to me, to remind myself that it is ok to be satisfied with what you have achieved while still pushing yourself to continue the learning journey.