109. Monica Parker: Exploring the power of awe and wonder

Slowing down and engaging in activities that quiet the brain can bring more wonder into our lives. Monica Parker talks to host, Sue Stockdale about how practicing mindfulness and being observant allows us to cultivate a slower thought process, which is essential for experiencing wonder. Additionally, exposing ourselves to new ideas, new perspectives, and new environments can also stimulate wonder by breaking our routines and allowing our minds to notice novelty. Monica suggests that we don't have to wait for extraordinary moments or visit extraordinary places to experience wonder and awe. Instead, we can find it in the ordinary, in the simple things in our lives. Appreciating things like sunsets, the beauty of autumn leaves, or small details can bring a smile to our faces and evoke a sense of wonder, and enhance our overall sense of happiness and fulfilment. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of curiosity, both about the world and ourselves, in fostering personal growth and self-acceptance. About Monica Parker Monica Parker is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller The Power of Wonder and a world-renowned speaker, writer, and authority on the future of work. Parker has spent decades helping people discover how to lead and live wonderfully. The founder of global human analytics and change consultancy HATCH, whose clients include blue-chip companies such as LinkedIn, Google, Prudential, and LEGO, Parker challenges corporate systems to advocate for more meaningful work lives. In addition to her extensive advocacy work, Parker has been an opera singer, a museum exhibition designer, a policy director, and a homicide investigator defending death row inmates. A lover of the arts, literature, and Mexican food, Parker and her family split their time between Atlanta, London, and Nice. Her wonderbringers include travel, time spent with friends, and live music. Connect with Monica Parker on her website : LinkedIn : X : Instagram TimeStamps [00:03:07] Finding wonder in prison. [00:06:09] The benefits of wonder. [00:07:03] Slowing down for wonder. [00:13:41] The power of mixed emotions. [00:15:54] The role of inspiration in wonder. [00:19:38] Redefining the work environment. [00:21:00] Silver linings in dark times. [00:24:28] The Power of Wonder. This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations. Find out more at squadcast.fm Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn Sign up for our newsletter | Read our Impact Report