Sunrise at Haleakalā: 5 Ways Awe Fuels Personal and Professional Growth

As I stood at the rim of Haleakalā, enveloped in the crisp pre-dawn air, the anticipation was palpable. Slowly, the inky sky gave way to a breathtaking palette of purples, pinks, oranges, and reds, as the first light of day broke over the vast crater of the towering dormant volcano on Maui. The experience was not only visually stunning but emotionally profound—a moment of awe that reminded me of my place within a much larger tapestry of life.

What struck me most was how many people seek out this experience every day. Despite the early hour, hundreds gather at the summit well before dawn, all driven by the same desire to witness this remarkable spectacle. My travel companion and I woke up at 2:30 a.m. to drive from Lahaina, joining 149 other vehicles on the winding road to the top, arriving by 5 a.m. to claim our ticketed spot at the crater's edge.

So, why do so many people go to such lengths to witness the sunrise at Haleakalā? It’s more than simply watching the dawn of a new day. It’s a transformative moment where the vastness of nature becomes profoundly tangible. Whether you seek to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with the rhythms of the natural world, experience the sheer awe of this rare sight, or find introspection, peace, and perspective, as the sky ignites in vivid color, the collective gasp of those gathered confirms that every sacrifice of comfort is well worth it. The shared sense of awe becomes part of the experience itself.

For me, the lingering contemplation of this experience is in the role awe plays in our growth. I ask myself: I’ve had this experience—so what? Now what?

For me, the lingering contemplation of this experience is in the role awe plays in our growth. I ask myself: I’ve had this experience—so what? Now what?

In a world that often prizes relentless productivity over introspection, moments of awe can be transformative, offering a renewed sense of purpose and a shift in perspective. Here are five reason why cultivating awe in everyday life is essential to growth, both personal and professional:

1. Awe Grounds Us in the Present Moment

In the midst of life’s daily demands—managing deadlines, responding to emails, balancing priorities—it’s easy to fall into mindless routine. Standing on the rim of Haleakalā, I was wholly present, absorbed by the unfolding beauty. The sunrise commanded my full attention, leaving no room for distraction. This grounding in the present is equally valuable in the professional realm. Being fully engaged with our work, teams, and clients fosters deeper connections, more insightful decision-making, and an enriched experience of the tasks at hand. Presence is not only a gift to ourselves but also to those we lead and those with whom we collaborate.

2. Awe Fuels Curiosity and Innovation

Awe has a remarkable way of expanding our mental horizons. As I gazed over the vastness of Haleakalā, I was struck by a profound sense of curiosity—about the world, about nature, and about the possibilities ahead. Awe stirs within us a desire to learn, explore, and question the familiar. Professionally, this translates into creativity and innovation. Whether we’re solving complex problems, envisioning new strategies, or seeking fresh perspectives, awe encourages us to break out of habitual thinking and approach challenges with an open mind and spirit of exploration.

3. Awe Connects Us to Something Greater Than Ourselves

Awe uniquely shifts our focus from the self to the broader context in which we exist. As I stood before Haleakalā’s immense crater, I felt both small and profoundly connected—part of a much larger system that transcends individual concerns. This sense of connectedness is crucial for professional growth. In the face of challenges—whether navigating organizational change, overcoming setbacks, or leading teams through uncertainty—recognizing our place within a larger ecosystem provides clarity and motivation. Awe fosters a sense of purpose and belonging that enhances our capacity for leadership and collaboration.

4. Awe Cultivates Resilience

Witnessing the sunrise atop a volcano reminded me of nature’s enduring resilience. Day follows night, seasons change, and life continues its cyclical patterns. Awe inspires resilience by reminding us that we, too, are capable of renewal and growth. Professionally, this resilience is indispensable. In moments of difficulty or adversity, awe helps us regain perspective, reminding us that setbacks are part of a larger journey. This renewed outlook strengthens our resolve, enabling us to persevere and emerge with greater insight and fortitude.

5. Awe is an Invitation to Start from Where You Are

Experiences of awe, such as watching the sunrise at Haleakalā, offer us the opportunity to reflect not only on our place in the world but also on our capacity for growth. At the core of my company’s values is the belief in cultivation—the idea that "I am enough, and I can be more; both can be true at once." Awe invites us to start from where we are—this present moment—acknowledging our strengths while accepting the gifts of our imperfections. The clarity gained from awe-inspired moments can guide us as we align our actions with our values, helping us move forward with purpose and grace.

Integrating Awe into Everyday Life

It’s tempting to think awe is reserved for extraordinary events or grand landscapes like Haleakalā, but awe is accessible in the everyday. Whether it’s the glint of sunlight on morning dew, the quiet beauty of a sunrise on your morning commute, the excitement of a breakthrough idea, or the satisfaction of seeing a team collaborate seamlessly, awe can be found if we make room for it. By intentionally cultivating moments of awe in our personal and professional lives, we create space for greater fulfillment, creativity, and connection.

For me, the sunrise at Haleakalā was more than a visually stunning moment; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of making the effort to step back, reflect, and appreciate the world around us. As we grow in our careers and personal lives, may we seek out moments of awe that reignite our passion and renew our perspective.

In coaching, much like witnessing a sunrise at Haleakalā, moments of awe and peak experiences are powerful catalysts for transformation. These moments of clarity bring a client’s core values into sharp focus, surfacing what truly matters in their personal and professional lives. Just as awe inspires a connection to something larger, coaching helps clients connect with their deeper purpose and long-term vision. By exploring these peak moments, clients gain insight into the elements that bring the most satisfaction and fulfillment. This reflection informs their choices, guiding them toward decisions more aligned with their authentic selves, ultimately fostering a life that reflects their values and aspirations. Like the awe at Haleakalā, coaching illuminates new possibilities, helping clients see beyond the immediate to create a vision that’s both inspiring and actionable.

Imagine standing at the edge of a new horizon, where the first light of possibility breaks over the landscape of your life. The path to clarity, fulfillment, and purpose is illuminated before you, waiting for you to take that first step. If you're ready to discover what lies beyond the ordinary—if you're ready to align your values, choices, and vision with the life you've always envisioned—let’s explore together! Reach out to me, and let's create a coaching partnership that sparks awe, transforms your perspective, and guides you toward the heights of your potential. The sunrise of your next chapter awaits. Will you step into the light?

How has awe shaped your personal and professional growth? Let me know in the comments!

#Awe #GrowthMindset #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Resilience #Leadership #Creativity #Curiosity #Cultivation

Kelly Scullin, CPCC, SHRM-SCP is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) with deep expertise as a People and Culture (HR) executive who is known for evoking trust, fostering self-discovery, and catalyzing bold action with creative, human-centered coaching techniques to inspire transformation. She is also a S.M.A.R.T. Recovery Facilitator with more than four and a half years of sobriety.

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