The Power of Awe: How Feeling Small Can Make You Happier

16 December 2025

We live in a world that’s constantly pushing us to be more—do more, have more, achieve more. But what if the secret to feeling truly happy wasn’t in feeling bigger, but in feeling... smaller?

Sounds counterintuitive, right?

Welcome to the fascinating and transformative world of awe. It's that mind-blowing feeling you get when you’re staring up at a sky full of stars, standing at the edge of a massive canyon, or hearing a piece of music that hits you right in the soul. Awe is the emotion that makes you feel small—but not in a bad way. In fact, in a deeply beautiful, connected, and meaningful way.

So, let’s dive in.

What Exactly Is Awe?

Awe is one of those tricky emotions that’s hard to define, but you definitely know it when you feel it. Psychologists describe awe as that emotional reaction we have when we encounter something vast—something bigger than our normal frame of reference—and we struggle to wrap our minds around it. It stretches our understanding of the world.

Think of watching a lion roar just a few feet away, or realizing the light from a star took millions of years to reach your eyes. It’s humbling, and, let’s be real—it gives us goosebumps.

The Science Behind the Feeling

Alright, let’s get nerdy for a second. Scientists have been digging into awe, and what they’re finding is mind-blowing.

According to research published in psychological journals, awe activates areas of the brain associated with emotional processing, social connection, and well-being. It’s been linked to increased feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and even better physical health.

When we experience awe, something called the “Default Mode Network” in our brains—responsible for self-focused thinking—actually quiets down. In simple terms? We stop thinking so much about ourselves. Our egos shrink, and we start tuning into the world around us.

And that’s where the magic happens.

Feeling Small Isn’t Always a Bad Thing

We’ve been trained to believe that feeling small is a sign of weakness. But in moments of awe, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Feeling small in the face of vastness—whether it’s nature, art, or human kindness—is actually incredibly freeing. It takes the pressure off. It's like life reminding you, “Hey, it’s not all on your shoulders.”

It puts problems into perspective. That awkward email you sent last week? Tiny. The argument with your friend? Manageable. When you think about the billions of galaxies out there, suddenly daily stresses don’t feel quite so earth-shattering.

Awe and the Bigger Picture

Awe changes the way we see the world—and ourselves.

Studies show that people who experience awe report a greater sense of purpose and a deeper connection to others. They’re more likely to help strangers, donate to charity, and even pick up trash without being asked. Why? Because awe stretches us beyond our personal bubble. It reminds us that we’re part of something far greater.

It’s like zooming out of your GPS and realizing your little blinking location dot exists inside a whole city, then a country, then a planet. This “zoom-out” perspective fosters humility, compassion, and openness.

Real-Life Awe Triggers

So, where can you find awe?

You don’t have to climb Mount Everest or visit the Grand Canyon (although if you do, bring tissues—you’ll need them).

Here are some everyday awe triggers that can totally change the game:

1. Nature

Go outside. Look at the clouds, feel the wind, watch a butterfly land on a flower. Nature is awe on tap.

Ever listen to birdsong at dawn or watched a thunderstorm roll in? That’s raw, unfiltered awe.

2. Art and Music

Ever sat in a theater, goosebumps rising as an orchestra plays the final note? Or stood in front of a painting that seemed to speak a truth you couldn’t put into words?

Art stirs the soul. It opens doors to emotions you didn’t even know you had.

3. Acts of Kindness

Watching someone go out of their way to help another person can hit harder than any movie. Simple, selfless acts remind us of the power of human connection.

4. Science and Space

Think about this: we're made of stardust. Literally. The elements in our bodies were forged in exploding stars. If that doesn’t amaze you, read it again.

The Happiness Connection

Okay, but does all this actually make us happier? Yep, and there’s science to back it up.

Awe brings with it feelings of meaning and connection—two big predictors of long-term well-being. It gives us a natural high, like a reset button for the soul.

Psychologist Dacher Keltner—one of the leading researchers on awe—found that even short moments of awe can lower stress levels, reduce inflammation, and boost life satisfaction.

Even better? Awe isn’t just something you feel—it’s something you share. Telling others about your awe moments amplifies the effect, and listening to others’ experiences can spark awe in you too.

How to Cultivate More Awe in Daily Life

Let’s be real: we’re not going to run into a double rainbow or a soaring symphony every day. But awe isn’t limited to the grand and dramatic. It’s also in the whispers.

Here’s how to start seeing more of it:

1. Slow Down

We miss awe because we move too fast. Next time you’re walking somewhere, put your phone away. Look up. Notice the colors in the sky or the way the leaves move.

Awe loves stillness.

2. Be Curious

Ask questions. Marvel at things that don’t make immediate sense. What makes whales sing? Why do mushrooms glow in the dark? Curiosity is awe’s best friend.

3. Seek the New

New experiences shake up the brain. Take a different route to work. Try a random hobby. Watch a documentary about black holes. Variety invites awe in.

4. Practice Mindful Observation

Look at something familiar as if you’re seeing it for the first time. It could be a flower, your pet, or your own hand. Really take it in. Appreciate the complexity.

5. Surround Yourself with Awe-Inspiring People

Some people just see the world differently. Hang out with those who are passionate, creative, and deeply curious. Their perspective is contagious.

Awe in Times of Struggle

Here’s where it gets real.

Awe isn’t just for the good times. In fact, it can be a powerful tool during struggles. When life knocks you down, awe reminds you that it’s not the whole story. It reconnects you with the bigger picture, offering hope and resilience.

Ever watched the sunrise after a terrible night and felt, somehow, a bit more okay? That’s awe reaching out its hand.

Awe and Spirituality

While awe doesn’t have to be spiritual, it often feels that way. Many people describe awe as a “spiritual emotion” because it connects them to something greater—be it God, the universe, nature, or humanity.

This connection gives meaning to our lives. And meaning? That’s what happiness is made of.

Whether you find awe in a cathedral or a canyon, the effect is the same: your ego softens, your heart opens, and your soul expands.

What Awe Teaches Us

At its core, awe teaches us that we’re not the center of the universe, but that we belong in it.

It humbles us and uplifts us, all at once. It reminds us that life is infinitely bigger and more mysterious than we can ever fully grasp. And that’s okay.

In fact, that’s beautiful.

Final Thoughts

If you take one thing away from this, let it be this:

Awe isn’t rare. It’s just hidden beneath our routines, our deadlines, our constant scrolling. But when we pause and pay attention, the world offers up awe in abundance.

So go outside. Watch the clouds. Read a poem. Listen to a song like you’re hearing it for the first time. Let yourself feel small.

Because sometimes, feeling small is the first step to feeling happy.