Stories of Awe

Key Takeaways

• Awe reduces self-focused thinking, boosts collaboration
• Sharing awe stories builds community and empathy
• Awe experiences rise in frequency since 1990
• Creative mediums deepen personal reflection on emotions
• Awe links to better mental health and learning

Pulse Analysis

Awe, once linked to fear, is now recognized by psychologists like Dacher Keltner as a distinct emotion triggered by encounters with vast, incomprehensible phenomena. Neuroscientific studies show that awe activates the brain’s default‑mode network, quieting the ego‑centric voice and expanding attention outward. This shift lowers cortisol levels, increases dopamine, and enhances prosocial behavior, making individuals more receptive to new ideas and less defensive. As a result, awe serves as a catalyst for personal insight and emotional resilience.

In the business arena, awe’s ability to diminish self‑absorption translates into tangible performance gains. Leaders who cultivate awe‑inducing experiences—whether through immersive storytelling, striking visual design, or exposure to grand challenges—spark creativity and collective problem‑solving among teams. The emotion’s broaden‑and‑build effect encourages employees to think beyond immediate metrics, fostering long‑term strategic thinking and cross‑functional collaboration. Companies that embed awe into branding or workplace culture often see higher employee engagement, lower turnover, and a stronger capacity for innovation.

The "Art of Being Human" project leverages digital platforms to crowdsource awe narratives, turning individual moments into a communal archive of wonder. By encouraging contributors to express awe through writing, art, or video, the initiative amplifies diverse perspectives and reinforces a shared sense of purpose. This collective storytelling not only enriches cultural discourse but also provides a repository of real‑world examples that educators, marketers, and leaders can draw upon to inspire audiences and drive meaningful change. The growing popularity of awe‑focused content signals a broader societal shift toward valuing experiences that expand consciousness and foster connection.