People have often commented that I ask a lot of questions, which is true, and it's one way I've learned a lot. I can remember when I was deciding on what type of bathroom sink to install in a new property, so I kept three samples on a sofa in my front offices. I would ask everyone who came in which sink they liked best--and why--and I did the same when deciding what kind of chair to choose for a new ballroom I was building. I was genuinely interested in their comments, and while the final decision was mine, I had a lot of perspectives to consider and felt I could make a very informed decision. People were surprised I took such an interest in their opinions--as well as seeing sinks and chairs lined up in my offices--but details matter to me and their opinions mattered as well.

Curiosity also provides a starting point for discovery. It's a bit like research--once you find something of interest, the natural inclination is to learn more about it. Sometimes it may not have anything to do with your current endeavor, but it can broaden your understanding. I don't believe any knowledge is wasted. My interests are diverse largely because I'm curious, which has certainly helped me as a businessman.

Before I attended Wharton, I had considered studying film at USC. The entertainment business had interested me so I knew something about it, and continued to watch it as an industry. Little did I know that years later I would have a hit television show--but when that happened, I had some background to rely on. My early curiosity paid off. I had a great deal to learn, but this is one reason I emphasize the importance of learning everything you can along the way. You never know when it will be useful. As Albert Einstein stated: The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.