I'm suspicious of people who aren't curious.
I recently ended a 35-year relationship because of it.
I don't remember what we were discussing, but during one conversation with my ex-friend a few years ago, he interrupted me with an exclamatory:
"Dude, I'm just not that curious."
Translation:
"I don't give a shit about what you're talking about, or what you think. And, furthermore, the fact that you keep blabbing on about it is really pissing me off. Now, if you just shut the fuck up, we can go drink some beer."
Lack of curiosity is a key trait in poor leadership.
People who aren't interested in the lived experiences, truths, backgrounds, and perspectives of other people possess an alarming lack of empathy.
When you're not willing to spend even the tiniest bit of your emotional bandwidth to more fully understand and appreciate another person, it's pretty damn impossible to build trust and connection – the foundations of a sustainable relationship.
People notice that you don't care. People notice your superficiality. Your narcissism. Your callousness.
People feel your indifference and judgment. And they don't like it.
People notice how you treat them, and how you treat others too.
Curiosity and empathy are intertwined. Inclusive leaders have both in abundance.