When I went to school to become a psychologist, a popular theorist was often discussed, Abraham Maslow. Maslow posited the hierarchy of needs and the concept of peak experiences which refers to moments of intense joy, fulfillment, and transcendence, during which we feel connected to something larger than ourselves. These experiences can be deeply emotional, often involving a sense of profound clarity, purpose, and unity with the world or universe. I loved the concept, and yet I had a hard time identifying these peak experiences in my own life. The birth of my children was certainly peak, and admittedly painful as well. Though I didn’t think that’s what Maslow was referencing. 

My impression of his meaning was that the peak experience wasn’t based on something we were doing, but rather who we were being in that moment. In my example, it could be that I was being a mother filled with love for her children. It wasn’t the act of motherhood as much as the experience of love. The concept really was beautiful, and yet it seems hard to experience in today’s world. We are inundated with technology, notifications, the burden of constant accessibility, and division and stress that I’ve never seen before in my life. 

Peak experiences are meant to be joyful. They are meant to be experienced rather than forced. So how can we open ourselves up to these experiences in our highly charged and highly challenging world?  Here are a few ideas (some of them prompted by Chat gpt):

1. Art in whatever form motivates you. Maybe participating in some form of artistic endeavor or maybe observing it such as a play, opera, or concert. 
2.  Spiritual practices that work for you. Maybe meditation or yoga or maybe religious prayer connect you being spiritual. 
3.  Physical or Athletic experiences. These don’t have to be competitive, they can be a great run, a walk with your dog, or a hike in the woods. 
4.  Nature or Beauty: Being in a breathtaking natural environment or witnessing a profound moment of beauty (like watching a sunset or experiencing a piece of music) can elicit a peak experience.
5. Love and Connection: Deep, intimate moments with loved ones, where people feel a profound sense of connection, understanding, and unity, can also be described as peak experiences.

Here’s the bottom line…I think we are all going to want to set ourselves up for more peak experiences in life, particularly due to the stressful, constantly moving environment that most of us live in. Find what works for you. What provides you with these life enhancing peak experiences. They are unique to each of us, so you get to pick and seek what works best for you. Let me know how you do.

Love,

Certified Professional Coach and Psychologist

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How often have you wished for that person in your life who listens deeply, doesn’t judge you, and doesn’t try to fix you? That person who holds space for you to talk through your struggles, your hopes, and dreams so that you can live the personal and professional life that you truly want? I’m that person. Yes, I’m a psychologist and a professional life and leadership coach but my superpower is listening, deep, empathic, compassionate listening. If you’ve been seeking a professional listener who will help you live the life you truly desire, let’s set up a time to talk. My email is Lisa@LisaKaplin.com.