Seek by Scott Shigeoka Summary

Seek explores how deep curiosity can heal personal and societal divides through Scott Shigeoka’s DIVE model: Detach from assumptions, Intend with purpose, Value others’ dignity, and Embrace life’s challenges. Blending research, storytelling, and actionable strategies, it offers a roadmap to foster connection, resilience, and understanding in polarized times.

This book suits individuals seeking to mend relationships, leaders addressing workplace polarization, or anyone craving personal growth. It’s ideal for readers interested in psychology, social change, or self-help—particularly those drawn to Adam Grant’s work on vulnerability or Brené Brown’s research on empathy.

Yes, praised by thought leaders like Adam Grant as a “timely bridge for our divided world,” Seek provides science-backed tools to navigate uncertainty and conflict. Its practical frameworks (e.g., overcoming biases) and relatable case studies make it actionable for diverse audiences.

The four-step framework includes:

• Detach: Release assumptions, biases, and certainty.
• Intend: Cultivate openness through mindset shifts.
• Value: Recognize inherent worth in others and oneself.
• Embrace: Lean into discomfort as a catalyst for growth.
  This model builds empathy and courage to bridge divides.

By reframing curiosity as a skill to actively listen and understand opposing viewpoints, Shigeoka argues it can counteract polarization. Examples include bridging political gaps and healing familial estrangement through intentional inquiry.

Key lessons include:

• Curiosity reduces fear-driven reactions.
• Embracing discomfort strengthens relationships.
• Letting go of certainty fosters collaboration.
• Stories from firefighters, nuns, and activists illustrate these principles.

The book teaches readers to confront biases, navigate uncertainty, and practice self-compassion. By applying the DIVE model, individuals enhance emotional resilience, creativity, and intentional decision-making in daily life.

Strategies include journaling to identify biases, setting “curiosity intentions” before conversations, and reframing conflicts as learning opportunities. These tools help readers implement deep curiosity in relationships and workplaces.

Unlike generic advice, Seek combines academic research (e.g., UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center) with grassroots storytelling. Its focus on systemic division healing sets it apart from books like Atomic Habits or Dare to Lead.

While largely praised, some may find its emphasis on individual curiosity undervalues systemic solutions to inequality. Critics might seek more data on long-term societal impact, though anecdotes highlight personal transformation.

As AI, political tensions, and workplace dynamics evolve, Seek’s lessons on adaptability and empathetic communication remain vital. Its strategies help navigate modern challenges like remote collaboration and cultural polarization.

Notable lines include:

• “Curiosity is the antidote to fear” (Adam Grant)
• “We’ve been hiding from each other for far too long”
• “Deep curiosity is how we move through hard times”