People with open or extroverted personalities tend to display more novelty-seeking behaviors. They may enjoy the opportunity to pursue different careers, hobbies, or almost anything else new and exciting. Their natural curiosity is often associated with a higher level of intelligence, as well as scientific inquisitiveness and discovery.

A study published in the Journal of Personality examined whether personality traits related to creativity (such as openness to new experiences and extroversion) were associated with novelty seeking. They also studied whether novelty seeking facilitates creativity.

In data gathered from 700 research volunteers, they showed that novelty seeking is not only associated with greater openness and extroversion, but also divergent thinking, which is known to facilitate creativity.

Creative activities can be a form of brain exercise. For example, scientists have found that duration and intensity of musical training has a significant effect on brain anatomy.

On average, people who pursue artistic or scientific careers score higher on openness personality assessments. In one study of older adults, those who had received musical training during childhood showed faster neural responses that appeared to protect their brains from age-related neural decline.

In addition, people who pursue new experiences tend to be more positive and enjoy a better quality of life. They are also more adaptable to change. Novelty seeking can help people deal with stressful and uncertain situations.