A Sense of Wonder

A Sense of Wonder

It’s Not Just for Children.

My children can be amazed by the simplest of things. The flashing of a firefly in our neighbor’s yard. Watching our dog, Buster Brown, with his ears flapping in the breeze riding on the front of our boat. The excitement of a bouncing hay ride to find the perfect pumpkin at the farm every fall. That sense of wonder children exhibit so freely is the engine that drives curiosity and helps develop a robust intellect. To put it simply, we are prewired to learn and to be interested in everything around us. Wonder fuels learning, no matter how young or old we are.

Sadly, our world today is largely designed to stifle wonder. We all know about the challenges of screens, technology, and mindless activity. That applies to adults as much as to children. To retain a sense of curiosity, we must be intentional. As difficult as it may seem, you and I must find time to read, acquire new knowledge, engage in deep and thoughtful discussion, let our imaginations wander, and finally, create in some way (it doesn’t have to be a masterpiece). That’s how we will generate wonder in our lives. And wonder will help us flourish in all areas of life by giving us a sense of purpose, well-being, centeredness, and faith.

My advice to you? Work on that sense of wonder. It’s not just for children.

Stay Sharp,

Holly Hayes, President & Founder
ISI Consulting