Experiencing the Feeling of Novel
Novel is the emotion of encountering something truly new without precedent or pattern. It arises when we come across unfamiliar ideas, experiences, or perspectives that spark curiosity and awe.
Am I experiencing something for the first time?
Do I feel curious or delighted by something unfamiliar?
Is my sense of wonder activated right now?
What is this new experience trying to show me?
Novelty is one of the most life-affirming feelings we can experience, but it’s also one of the most overlooked. As adults, our routines and responsibilities can narrow our sense of discovery. Yet, the emotion of novel is crucial for creativity, empathy, and resilience. It reminds us that the world still holds surprises and that we’re still capable of wonder. When we allow ourselves to notice and embrace novelty, we reawaken parts of ourselves that might have gone quiet.
While novelty often arrives through unexpected moments like seeing wildlife on a hike or stumbling across a powerful idea, it can also be consciously invited. Trying a new recipe, listening to a genre of music you’ve never explored, or learning from someone with a vastly different life experience can all spark the novel feeling. It's not about chasing the extreme or unfamiliar for its own sake, but about staying open. The smallest shift in perspective can create that spark.
Novelty often emerges when we pause and notice the detailsespecially in the ordinary. A walk down a different street, a deep dive into a conversation, or reading something outside of usual interests can create more novel moments than major life events. It isn’t always loud or dramatic; sometimes, it’s quietly transformative. It’s the subtle shift that happens when something familiar is seen with fresh eyes.
Mindful Mindset
Curiosity supports novelty, not the kind that demands quick answers, but one that lingers with new sensations or ideas. Instead of rushing to explain, observe with gentle attention. What am I seeing? What feels different? What can I learn by simply staying with this?
Mindful Practices
To experience novelty, pause and give full attention to what feels unfamiliar. Don’t rush to explain, just observe. Notice what’s different through your senses and stay with the feeling of discovery. Let it unfold without judgment, and allow it to shift you, even slightly.
By Princess Nicole Salas,
Princess Nicole Salas is a FeelWise Assistant with a passion for emotional intelligence, empathy, always exploring what it means to understand people more deeply. She loves watching movies and reading books. She believes even the quietest role can create meaningful impact and routed and care and intention.
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