Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World by Scott Shigeoka Summary

1. Practice deep curiosity to heal divisions and transform strained relationships.
2. Detach from assumptions to unlock deeper connections in conversations.
3. Intentionally prepare your mindset to foster curiosity across differences.
4. Value every person’s dignity—including your own—to bridge divides.
5. Embrace life’s challenges as catalysts for growth and empathy.
6. Replace certainty with “tell me more” to resolve conflicts.
7. Use Scott Shigeoka’s DIVE model to strengthen relationships daily.
8. Curiosity requires courage to listen without agenda or judgment.
9. Transform fear of uncertainty into curiosity about others’ perspectives.
10. Self-compassion is the foundation for curiosity-driven personal growth.
11. Detaching from biases creates space for genuine mutual understanding.
12. Curiosity heals by revealing shared humanity beneath surface differences.

About the Author of Seek

Scott Keoni Shigeoka, award-winning author of Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World, is an internationally recognized curiosity expert, speaker, and bridge builder.

A lecturer at the University of Texas at Austin and a fellow at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, Shigeoka merges cutting-edge research with grassroots community work to address societal divisions and personal well-being. His book, a blend of science and storytelling, introduces the DIVE model (Detach, Intend, Value, Embrace) to help readers heal relationships and navigate polarization.

Shigeoka’s expertise has been featured in The New York Times, The Today Show, and TIME, and he advises organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to Hollywood initiatives like Good Energy.

A Hawaii native now based in California’s Mojave Desert, his work has earned accolades including an Amazon Best Book of 2023 and the Porchlight Best Business Book Award.

FAQs About Seek

What is Seek by Scott Shigeoka about?

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.

Who should read Seek by Scott Shigeoka?

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.

Is Seek by Scott Shigeoka worth reading?

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.

What is the DIVE model in Seek by Scott Shigeoka?

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.

How does Seek by Scott Shigeoka address societal division?

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.

What are the main takeaways from Seek by Scott Shigeoka?

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.

How does Seek by Scott Shigeoka help with personal growth?

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.

What practical exercises are in Seek by Scott Shigeoka?

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.

How does Seek by Scott Shigeoka compare to other self-help books?

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.

What are the criticisms of Seek by Scott Shigeoka?

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.

Why is Seek by Scott Shigeoka relevant in 2025?

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.

What quotes are featured in Seek by Scott Shigeoka?

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”