In a world bustling with routines and distractions, awe often takes a back seat. However, as we probe deeper into the realm of awe, we discover that it’s not confined to grand spectacles alone. Psychologist Dr. Dacher Keltner defines awe as a transformative experience that we can readily access and that significantly impacts our lives. This summer, I waded into Dr. Keltner’s book, and now, I invite you to explore with me the captivating world of awe. We’ll delve into its essence, its profound effects on our well-being, and practical strategies for actively inviting awe into our everyday lives.
Exploring the Essence of Awe:
Awe is an intricate emotion that defies easy categorization. As Dr. Keltner describes it, awe involves the sensation of encountering something vast that transcends our understanding of the world. This sentiment can be triggered by the grandeur of nature, an act of kindness, or even a challenging situation that prompts us to reevaluate our beliefs. Awe’s triggers are diverse, encompassing both positive and potentially threatening situations, making it a complex and multifaceted emotion.
The Transformative Impact on Well-being:
In his book “Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life,” Dr. Keltner emphasizes that awe serves as a cornerstone of well-being, akin to joy, contentment, and love. Research underscores that experiencing awe yields substantial health benefits, such as soothing the nervous system and releasing oxytocin, affectionately known as the “love hormone.” Awe’s influence extends beyond the physiological realm; it also possesses the power to quiet our inner critic, enabling us to perceive ourselves in a more positive light.
The Interplay of Biology and Psychology:
In contrast to the basic emotions identified in the past, awe emerges as a distinct emotional experience. Dr. Keltner’s research reveals that awe activates the vagal nerves, resulting in physical responses such as a lowered heart rate, improved digestion, and deeper breaths. Moreover, awe possesses the remarkable capacity to deactivate the default mode network, the brain’s self-perception center. This attribute becomes particularly significant in an era where self-criticism and the influence of social media loom large.
Incorporating Awe into Everyday Life:
Contrary to popular belief, awe is not confined to extraordinary events; it can be cultivated through daily experiences. Here are practical steps for actively infusing awe into your life:
1. Heighten Awareness: Take deliberate moments to observe the beauty and marvels in your surroundings. Pay close attention to moments of kindness and positivity that often elude our notice.
2. Celebrate Moral Beauty: Actively acknowledge the benevolent actions of others. Witnessing acts of kindness can evoke awe and serve as an inspiration to contribute to the cycle of goodwill.
3. Cultivate Mindfulness: Dedicate time to nurture mindfulness, enhancing your ability to focus and remain present. Mindfulness lays the foundation for experiencing awe by reducing distractions and fostering deep contemplation.
4. Embrace Novelty: Actively seek out the unfamiliar in your daily routines. Embracing new experiences enhances your receptiveness to awe-inspiring moments.
5. Draw Inspiration from Remarkable Individuals: Immerse yourself in the wisdom and stories of inspirational figures to trigger awe. Their insights can broaden your perspective and actively infuse your life with wonder.
Taking it Home:
Awe possesses the potential to enrich your life by offering an active, fresh lens through which to view the world. While awe is often associated with extraordinary occurrences, this article underscores the beauty of actively weaving awe into everyday encounters. By heightening your awareness, celebrating goodness, practicing mindfulness, embracing novelty, and actively learning from remarkable individuals, you can unlock the transformative potential of awe and actively cultivate a renewed sense of wonder in even the simplest moments. As Dr. Keltner aptly points out, awe is not confined to extraordinary circumstances; it is ever-present, waiting to be actively acknowledged and embraced.
Application to Coaching:
Integrating the concepts of awe into executive coaching provides a novel approach to leadership development. By actively infusing leadership practices with awe-inspired principles, leaders can tap into their authentic selves and actively enhance their impact. Awe’s essence in leadership involves actively redefining the role through transformative moments that elevate perspective and purpose, driving leaders to navigate challenges with renewed clarity and resilience.
An Executive Coach can actively incorporate practices that trigger awe, such as mindful leadership techniques and actively exploring inspiring narratives. By actively guiding leaders through self-reflection and actively encouraging them to embrace strategic novelty, coaches help cultivate a sense of wonder, deepen self-awareness, and actively foster authenticity. Through intentional integration of awe, leaders embark on an active, transformative journey where heightened awareness and emotional intelligence lead to more impactful and authentic leadership.
