The brain is constructed to think, which is often geared at doing, analyzing, and planning. There is also the non-cognitive, more intuitive part that can bring forth insights from “being” that do not originate in thought. The ability to recognize these moments when they occur during the usual flow of consciousness is an important capacity that we have as humans.

These moments can bring newness, unexpected insights and creativity, and at times peace, joy, a feeling of oneness and being closer to the eternal. This is not nor can it be a constant, steady state. Ideally, we become better at surfacing and integrating the insights, potential wisdom, and passion that can emanate from these ephemeral experiences into what we do and how we do it during our daily lives.

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Excerpt adapted from The Passionate Mind Revisited, By Joel Kramer and Diana Alstad