Teen Breathe Magazine – Issue 42

In this issue: Let it be • Bounce back • Adventures in dreamland • Worth the wait • Shake it out • After the party’s over • Shelter from the storm • Exploring envy • Small but mighty

If a toddler were to vocalise every thought, you’d probably hear a stream of questions: What’s in here? What does that do? What does this feel like? What happens if I tip it up, squash it, bite it?

Natural curiosity builds an understanding of the world and how it works. It allows people to learn new skills and absorb huge amounts of complex information.

As the years go by, however, it sometimes seems that asking questions gets harder. Shouldn’t you know the answers by now? Will people think less of you if you don’t? (A big ‘no’ on both counts, by the way.)

The thing is, being – and remaining – curious is one of the best ways to continue to increase your understanding of yourself and those around you. And it can help to make life easier in many ways.

Imagine, for example, you’re trying to get along with new family members. Asking them what they need to feel secure is kind and constructive. It’ll also increase the chances of you finding the best way to share your space.

An enquiring approach also helps with self-awareness and acceptance. Always seeking external approval? Constantly envious of friends? Exploring what’s behind these feelings (and others) can clarify what you really want and even reveal alternative ways to feel good and get where you want to be.

Being curious is natural and rewarding, at any age. Not convinced? Look no further than the words of one of the greatest minds of all time, that of German physicist Albert Einstein: ‘The important thing is not to stop questioning.’

Cover Illustration by Ceyda Alasar