Several years ago I attended a psychology conference in Sydney. Just after the conference ended, I stood a few steps from a female scientific colleague, when a young man approached her and said, “I don’t know how to say this, but I was wondering…” This sounded interesting, so I leaned my head closer to him to hear what he said. He continued: “… would you be willing to sign my conference program?” I could not believe my ears: He wanted her autograph. How often does a scientist get asked for an autograph? I figured that for my colleague, who is a leading expert on emotional intelligence, the request had to create a peak experience

What is a peak experience? It is one that involves a sense of great happiness and fulfillment. 

Observing the scene at the conference reminded me of a scene in an Academy Award winning movie, “A Beautiful Mind.” In the movie, John Nash develops and writes about a new, important mathematical idea applicable to economics.  Later he goes to a Princeton University staff dining room, where other professors stop at his table to congratulate him for his work and to leave him a pen with their name on it – the traditional way there to honor an academic for making a great contribution to science.  Probably a peak experience for Nash.

Writing about peak experiences led me to consider what peak experiences I have had. My first thought took me back decades to a inter-office softball game. I stepped up to bat, hit a ball hard and started running toward first base. I turned to watch the ball clear the left-field fence for the only home run of my life. As I jogged toward home, I saw, to my surprise, all my teammates lined up to give me a high five. That gave me a feeling of great happiness and fulfillment. 

All the examples I have given of possible peak experiences involve achievements. But there are other paths up the peak. Some individuals have peak experiences related to religious or spiritual life, to romantic or sexual activities, to childbirth, or to interactions with nature. The sources of peak experiences are limitless. 

Are peak experiences good for something? Yes. They enrich life and they provide positive emotions that help us create and help us grow as a person. They also serve as a balance to negative experiences.

Some individuals seek out peak experiences. They take on challenges or travel to exotic places. Count me in for this effort.

I also use another, quirky, method: I have wish-fulfillment dreams. I experience some of my highest peaks when I am asleep. Without a doubt, my best chance of being asking for my autograph is during a dream.

One way to maximize the benefits of peak experiences is to think about past peaks now and then.  Try it and see for yourself.