Wonder.
It’s more than a fleeting feeling—it’s a vital state of being, and most of us leave it behind somewhere between childhood and the constant rush of adulthood. But what if wonder is actually the secret key to creative success, inspired leadership, and a life that feels deeply meaningful?
If you’ve ever paused, even for a moment, to marvel at something beautiful or unexpected, you’ve brushed up against the transformative power of wonder. But for most people, wonder feels rare—a luxury, not a necessity.
How We Lose (and Rediscover) Our Sense of Wonder
Recently, I found myself wandering through Austin-Bergstrom International Airport—a place more often associated with stress and schedules than with inspiration. But tucked among the gates was an interactive art exhibit by Janet Zweig, entirely devoted to imagination and the theme of “wonder.”
The installation was easy to miss. In fact, thousands pass by daily, rarely giving it a second glance. But for the curious—the child tugging at a parent’s sleeve, or the weary traveler open to surprise—it offered a chance to step into a world where Narnia, Howl’s Moving Castle, and hot air balloons are real destinations.
The “boarding pass” to this magical journey? A single question: Which came first, the chicken or the egg? The real answer, of course, is wonder itself.
The Science and Power of Wonder
So, what exactly is wonder?
Psychologists define wonder as a complex emotion—a mix of surprise, admiration, curiosity, even a hint of doubt or marvel—sparked by the beautiful, the unfamiliar, or the inexplicable. It can be found in breathtaking art, a child’s laughter, an unexpected kindness, or even a puzzle we can’t quite solve.
Wonder isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” Research in positive psychology shows that cultivating wonder has concrete benefits:
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Boosts creativity and problem-solving
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Deepens connection and empathy
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Strengthens resilience during stress and change
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Enhances leadership and vision
Leaders and innovators throughout history have championed wonder as the birthplace of wisdom and discovery. Einstein put it best: “He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed.” Socrates agreed: “Wisdom begins in wonder.”
Why Cultivating Wonder Matters (and How to Start)
Every definition of wonder—whether surprise, admiration, curiosity, or amazement—holds a piece of the truth. The experience of wonder is layered: it can bring joy and sadness, certainty and doubt, anticipation and nostalgia. It is the spark that ignites learning, creativity, and wisdom.
In a world that pushes us toward efficiency, cultivating wonder means choosing to slow down and notice. It’s about making room for the unexpected and the magical, even (especially) in the most ordinary places.
Ready to Reclaim Your Sense of Wonder?
Tomorrow, I’ll dig into the questions we all share:
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When do we lose our sense of wonder?
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What are the full benefits—personally and professionally—of bringing wonder back?
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How do you intentionally cultivate wonder as an adult, a creator, a leader?
For now, give yourself permission to pause and notice. Because wisdom—and magic—start with wonder.
Leave space for awe.
Leave room for magic.
Kabrina Ashley
