The Joys of Wonder - Imagine

"To be surprised, to wonder, is to begin to understand" Jose Ortega y Gasset

Introduction

We are two weeks into the new year. Many of us are heading back into our regular lives after the festive season holidays. Are we living and chasing success like a machine ticking off our daily lists and routines or are we living with spontaneity and joy?

In an age where many of us have eyes and fingertips glued to a gadget, the concept of wonder seems increasingly elusive.

Yet, it is this very sense of wonder that adds vibrancy and depth and much more to our existence.

Wonder is not just a whimsical feeling; it's a powerful force that can transform our perception and lived experience of the world.

Nature & Importance of Wonder

The term "wonder" can have several meanings, which are often interconnected. Here's a concise dictionary definition:

1. Noun: A feeling of surprise and admiration caused by something that is strange, unexpected, or beautiful. It involves being amazed by something marvelous, and can often lead to curiosity and a desire to explore or understand more. In other words, it is often not a destination in itself!
2. Verb: To feel curiosity or doubt, often about something remarkable or puzzling. This can involve questioning or pondering over something that seems intriguing or mysterious.Exercise: How can we consciously harness wonder into our thinking and motivation to act?

In both its forms, wonder encapsulates a sense of awe, intrigue, and profound interest, often leading to an exploration or deep appreciation of whatever is causing this feeling.

It's the feeling you get when you gaze at a starry sky or marvel at a sunset. This emotion transcends mere appreciation; it connects us deeply with the beauty and mystery of life, the world and people around us.

Why is Wonder Important?

The evolution of human consciousness and thought over many thousands of years to today's humans is attributed to the human ability to wonder. For us today, it is vital to continue to wonder - for our well being and progress personally and at work and at play.

Curiosity and Learning

Imagine a child's wide-eyed wonder when they first see a rainbow after a rainstorm.

That sense of curiosity and amazement doesn't fade with age; it's a spark that keeps our minds alive.

Wonder ignites the flames of curiosity, making us hungry for knowledge. It's like having an eternal supply of "whys" and "hows" that propel us to explore and learn, even as adults.

Without wonder, our intellectual and personal growth may stagnate.

Creativity and Innovation

Think of wonder as the artist's muse, the secret ingredient in every stroke of genius.

When you wonder about what's possible or question the norm, your imagination takes flight. It's the reason behind those "Eureka!" moments when creative ideas burst forth like fireworks.

Wonder is the fuel that powers innovative thinking and creative problem-solving.

Inspiration and Motivation

Have you ever met someone who radiates passion and enthusiasm for their work or hobbies? That's often a result of wonder. I have a colleague Peter, who is a land surveyor, which is an exacting technical science. Yet, Peter's enthusiasm for his science (which has evolved with the availability of GPS) reaches around the world, especially amongst his peers. He is a recognised and respected expert in his field.

When we wonder about the possibilities and follow our passions, we find inspiration.

It's the magical force that motivates us to chase our dreams and push our limits, like the wonder-driven inventor pursuing their groundbreaking invention.

Appreciation of Beauty

Picture yourself standing before a stunning sunset, your breath taken away by nature's beauty.

That feeling of wonder helps us appreciate the world's wonders, from a delicate flower to a magnificent piece of art or amazing building.

It's the lens through which we see life's beauty and find gratitude in the everyday and contentment in our lives.

Emotional Well-being

Imagine witnessing the birth of a new child or a breathtaking natural wonder like the Northern Lights.

These moments of wonder can stir emotions—awe, joy, and amazement—that light up our hearts.

Experiencing wonder can lift our spirits and improve our mental well-being, like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day.

Connection with Others

Think about attending a concert where thousands of voices join in harmony or watching a meteor shower or fireworks with friends.

Those shared moments of wonder connect us. When we experience something incredible together, it forms bonds that run deep, like forging friendships around a shared passion. It creates a sense of connection and camaraderie.

Perspective and Humility

Imagine staring at the night sky, realizing how vast the universe is compared to your small place in it.

Wonder can teach us humility. It reminds us that we are part of something much larger and more mysterious than ourselves, like a profound meditation on the wonders of existence.

Resilience

In the face of adversity, wonder can be your guiding star.

When everything seems bleak, a moment of wonder can reignite your hope and determination.

It reminds you that even in life's darkest moments, there is still something amazing and awe-inspiring waiting to be discovered, much like a beacon of light in a storm.

To summarise, wonder is the magic in our lives that keeps our minds curious, fuels creativity, and inspires us to reach for the stars and grow as people.

It's the key to finding beauty in the mundane, connecting with others, and maintaining resilience in the face of life's challenges.

So, embrace wonder—it's the secret sauce that makes life extraordinary.

What Douses the Flames of Wonder

The Monotonous Rut

Imagine your life as a black-and-white movie, with each day a replay of the last. Routine and complacency suck the colour out of your world, making it hard to spot wonder hiding in plain sight.

Antidote - Dance with Novelty

Break free from routine's clutches!

Seek out new experiences, embark on adventures, or pick up a hobby you've never tried before. Embrace change like a thrill-seeker.

Fear's Hold

Fear of the unknown can be the wonder-killer. It clamps down on your curiosity, making you timid and hesitant to explore the uncharted territories of wonder.

Antidote - Unfurl the Banner of Open-Mindedness

Throw caution to the wind! Keep your mind open, question the status quo, and let curiosity guide you.

Approach life with arms wide open to the extraordinary.

The Shadow of Negativity

Our external world bombards you with negativity - the media, people, etc. Pessimism casts a gloomy cloud over your wonder radar. When your thoughts dwell in the abyss of negativity, it's a challenge to see the world's beauty.

Antidote: Nurture Hope

Plant the seeds of optimism in your garden of thoughts.

Look for the silver lining in the darkest clouds. Believe in your power to turn the tide of adversity and light the way with hope.

The Fixed Mindset Shackles

A fixed mindset locks you in a mental prison where growth is stifled. You avoid challenges and cling to the comfort zone to protect your ego.

Antidote: Embrace the Growth Mindset

See challenges as stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.

Understand that effort and learning can transform you. Mistakes become allies on your quest for wonder.

The Deserted Island of Isolation

Wonder thrives when shared. Isolation can be the enemy, limiting your exposure to diverse perspectives and fresh experiences.

Antidote: Seek Connection's Oasis

Forge wide, deep and diverse connections that run deeper than Facebook or LinkedIn likes.

Engage in meaningful conversations and share experiences with a diverse tribe. Together, you'll spark wonder's flames.

The Yawn of Boredom

When boredom sets in, wonder packs its bags and leaves town. The mundane becomes your only companion.

Antidote: Ignite the Flame of Curiosity

Question, explore, and embrace challenges with zeal.

Keep your curiosity alive, and boredom will have no room to breathe.

Arrogance and Hubris

Arrogance and hubris blind you to the wonders of the world. Believing you have all the answers leaves no room for curiosity or awe.

Antidote: Embrace Humility

Acknowledge that there's always more to learn and discover. Adopt a humble stance, willing to be surprised and amazed by the world's mysteries.

Practical Marvels to Stoke the Flames of Wonder

1. Mindful Living Step into the present with both feet. Forget the past and ignore the future. Engage your senses fully, savoring the texture, colour, and aroma of your surroundings. In the everyday, uncover the hidden treasure of wonder. Walk in the park with your phone on silent. Look at those hills around you and wonder what's over the ridges. Look at the clouds and spot any shapes of creatures.
2. Wonder Journal Start a wonder journal. Scribble down moments that send your curiosity soaring or leave you starry-eyed with awe. Flip through its pages to reignite the spark of wonder whenever you need it.
3. Inspiring MediaDive into books, films, documentaries, and art that challenge your worldview. Let them whisk you away to new realms, inspiring wonder and expanding your horizons.
4. Voyages of Discovery Travel off the beaten track, even if it's to the neighboring town. Exploring new environments and cultures exposes you to wonders you'd never imagined. Talk to shop or cafe assistants about their town.
5. Mindfulness and Meditation Embark on a journey within. Mindfulness and meditation can unlock a deeper connection with the present, unveiling the wonders hidden in everyday moments. Practise yoga and stretching in silence.
6. Lifelong Learning Embrace the pursuit of knowledge, no matter your age. Pick up new skills, delve into uncharted territories, and rejoice in the thrill of discovery. Study a country and learn a language or cooking recipes.
7. Nature's Embrace Nature is a wonderland waiting to be explored. Whether it's a tiny ant or a sprawling forest, reconnect with the natural world to rekindle your sense of wonder.Visit a garden nursery and check out unfamiliar plants.
8. Community of Wonder Join clubs, organizations, or volunteer groups that align with your passions. Engaging with a community that shares your interests can lead to wonder-filled adventures.

Incorporating these antidotes and practical marvels into your life will not only shatter the barriers to wonder but also rekindle the flames of curiosity and awe within you.

Remember, wonder is like a hidden treasure; all you need to do is follow the map of your heart and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

Conclusion

In wrapping up our exploration of wonder, let's paint a vibrant picture of its significance. Imagine life as a grand adventure, and wonder is our trusty sidekick, our secret map to hidden treasures of joy and inspiration. It's the thrill of discovery, the spark that lights up our world when routine threatens to dull its colours.

Wonder isn't an escape from reality; it's an invitation to dive headfirst into the extraordinary within the everyday. It's the magic that transforms the mundane into the magnificent, the routine into the remarkable.

As we march forward into the new year, let's make a pact with wonder. Let's chase it with the same zeal as an adventurer chasing a legendary artifact. Because in wonder, we find not just joy and inspiration, but also a renewed sense of purpose and adventure.

Let's pledge to seek out wonder in the nooks and crannies of our lives, to embrace it in the simplest of moments and the grandest of experiences. It's the essence of a life well-lived, a constant reminder that the world is a wondrous place waiting to be explored.

So, fellow adventurers, let's embark on this quest for wonder and let it guide us to a life filled with endless excitement, beauty, and fulfillment.

To your success!

Frank Choy

14 January 2024

Recommended reading:

"Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder", Dacher Keltner, Penguin, 2023

"On Looking: A Walker's Guide to the Art of Observation", Alexandra Horowitz, Scribner, 2014

"Tracking Wonder: Reclaiming a Life of Meaning and Possibility", Jeffrey Davis, Sounds True, 2022

"What Got You Here Won't Get You There", Marshall Goldsmith, Profile, 2008