Tracking Wonder

“When was the last time you allowed yourself to be transfixed by the moon or marveled at the eloquence of a six-year-old? Wonder is not just for children—it’s a powerful tool for creativity, connection, and resilience.”

1. Wonder is a fundamental part of being human.

Wonder is not just a fleeting emotion; it’s deeply embedded in our nature. Anthropologists and scientists have observed that even animals, like chimpanzees, display behaviors that suggest a capacity for wonder. For example, chimps in Tanzania’s Gombe Stream game reserve have been seen marveling at waterfalls, engaging in what appears to be a ritual of awe and admiration. This behavior, while seemingly impractical, highlights how wonder transcends utility and connects us to something greater.

For humans, wonder can elevate our state of mind and help us see the world with fresh eyes. It’s not just about appreciating beauty but also about stepping outside of ourselves and experiencing a sense of connection to the larger world. This shift in perspective can inspire creativity, foster peace, and even improve productivity by allowing us to approach challenges with a more open and innovative mindset.

However, in our fast-paced, task-oriented lives, we often suppress this natural inclination. We prioritize efficiency over curiosity and dismiss wonder as a distraction. But as the book argues, reconnecting with wonder can lead to profound personal and professional growth.

Examples

• Chimpanzees marveling at waterfalls in Tanzania.
• People experiencing awe at natural phenomena like the Northern Lights.
• Artists and scientists finding inspiration in moments of wonder.

2. Openness is the gateway to creativity and fulfillment.

Openness is the first facet of wonder, and it’s essential for creativity and personal growth. German poet Goethe once said, “Naïveté is the most important attribute for genius.” This idea suggests that being open to new experiences, even when they seem unfamiliar or uncomfortable, can lead to breakthroughs.

Take the story of Carey Smith, who founded Big Ass Fans. Initially, his company had a technical name, HVLS Fans, but he embraced the quirky nickname customers gave his product. By staying open to this unconventional branding, Smith turned his business into a massive success, even during the Great Recession. His willingness to step into the unknown and adapt to unexpected opportunities exemplifies the power of openness.

To cultivate openness, the book suggests practical exercises like visiting new places, embracing hobbies, and listening to others with curiosity. These small actions can help us break out of our routines and see the world—and ourselves—in new ways.

Examples

• Carey Smith rebranding his company as Big Ass Fans.
• Travelers discovering new cultures and perspectives by visiting unfamiliar places.
• People finding unexpected joy and creativity in new hobbies.

3. Curiosity keeps our minds active and engaged.

Curiosity, another facet of wonder, is a trait we often associate with children. But as adults, we tend to suppress it, fearing that asking too many questions might make us seem naïve or unproductive. Yet, research shows that curiosity is linked to greater life satisfaction, well-being, and even mental flexibility.

For instance, psychologist Todd Kashdan found that curious people tend to lead more meaningful lives. Similarly, cognitive psychologist Keith Oatley observed that reading ambiguous literary stories can keep our minds open by encouraging us to explore multiple interpretations. These findings suggest that curiosity is not just a mental exercise but a way to stay engaged with the world.

To nurture curiosity, the book recommends simple practices like keeping a “curiosity journal” or creating a cabinet of curiosities filled with objects that spark your interest. These activities can help you rediscover the joy of asking “why” and “how.”

Examples

• Todd Kashdan’s research linking curiosity to life satisfaction.
• Keith Oatley’s studies on the impact of ambiguous stories on mental openness.
• Collecting and displaying objects that inspire curiosity, like peacock feathers or unique stones.

4. Hope transforms challenges into opportunities.

Hope is a powerful driver of resilience and achievement. It allows us to see possibilities even in the face of adversity. Naturalist Nikki van Schyndel’s story illustrates this beautifully. Stranded in a storm and at risk of hypothermia, she and her partner found hope in the bioluminescent algae glowing in the water. This moment of wonder gave them the strength to keep rowing to safety.

Hope is not just about wishful thinking; it’s about taking actionable steps toward a goal. Studies show that hopeful people tend to perform better academically, have greater physical stamina, and maintain higher self-esteem. By focusing on what’s possible, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.

To cultivate hope, the book suggests setting meaningful goals and breaking them into manageable steps. Even small actions, like taking a walk to brainstorm solutions, can help you stay focused and motivated.

Examples

• Nikki van Schyndel finding hope in bioluminescent algae during a storm.
• Students achieving better grades by maintaining a hopeful outlook.
• Nick Cave creating the Red Hand Files to connect with others after a personal tragedy.

5. Admiration helps us grow by reflecting the best in others.

Admiration is the final facet of wonder, and it’s about appreciating the excellence in others. This doesn’t mean idolizing them but recognizing their achievements and using that inspiration to improve yourself. For example, instead of envying a friend’s adventurous travels, you can admire their courage and take steps to plan your own journey.

The book emphasizes the importance of flipping envy into admiration. By doing so, you not only celebrate others’ successes but also motivate yourself to pursue your own goals. Complimenting others and learning from their experiences can create a positive feedback loop, where admiration fuels personal growth.

This practice also strengthens relationships. When you genuinely admire someone and express it, you create a deeper connection. And when others admire you, it’s an opportunity to reflect on your own strengths and accomplishments.

Examples

• Turning envy of a friend’s vacation into inspiration to plan your own trip.
• Complimenting a colleague’s work to build a stronger professional relationship.
• Learning from the achievements of people you admire, like authors or entrepreneurs.

Takeaways

1. Practice daily wonder by setting aside time to appreciate something beautiful, whether it’s a sunset, a piece of art, or a kind gesture.
2. Keep a journal to track your curiosity, hope, and admiration. Reflect on what sparks your interest and how you can act on it.
3. Flip envy into admiration by identifying what you admire in others and using it as inspiration for your own growth.