Come Wonder With Me: A New Series Exploring The Psychology of Being Human

I love psychology (and neuroscience). I’ve always been curious about why people do what they do, and how they become who they are. I took a few psychology classes during my Criminology degree years ago, and I never really stopped. Since then, I’ve kept studying — not because I needed to, but because I’m one of those people who genuinely loves learning (my husband doesn’t get it).

I’m a lifelong student. Over the years, I’ve taken a whole bunch of courses and certificates just for the joy of it — things like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Metacognitive Therapy, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and courses on the psychology of everyday life and successful people.

I’ve also done diploma-level programs in psychology and neuroscience, like Positive Psychology, Intro to Cognitive Neuroscience, Cognitive Development and Reasoning, Psychiatry, and Advanced Brain & Behaviour.

So — while I’m not a licensed psychologist — I’ve spent a lot of time in this world. And I’ve decided to finally bring that love of psychology into Dose of Wonder.

Starting this Thursday, I’m launching a new weekly article series called Psychology Meets Wonder. One article per week, for 15 weeks. Each one will explore a topic that blends the science of the brain with the softness of being human — with curiosity, compassion, and a little magic.

Here’s what’s coming:

The Psychology Meets Wonder Series

June 20: The Psychology of Awe: Why We Crave What Makes Us Feel Small

How awe expands our perception of time, increases generosity, and helps regulate stress — and how to invite more of it into our lives (like staring up at a vast, starry sky).

2. The Psychology of Liminal Space: What Happens In-Between?

On transition periods, identity shifts, and why the “messy middle” can feel both disorienting and quietly transformational. I’ve written about this before, too.

3. The Psychology of Nostalgia: Why We Long for the Past

How nostalgia can be both grounding and grief-laced. What your longing is pointing you toward.

4. The Psychology of Treats: Why We Bribe Ourselves with Little Joys

Exploring reward systems, dopamine, and how even the smallest pleasures can regulate our nervous systems. You might recognize this topic from my most recent article.

5. The Psychology of Burnout: It’s Not Laziness, It’s Survival

What’s really happening in your brain and body: decision fatigue, emotional numbing, freeze response. Why rest isn’t indulgence — it’s repair.

6. The Psychology of Imagination: Why Escaping Into Fictional Worlds Heals Us

Imagination as rehearsal, refuge, rebellion. And why loving fictional characters can be a form of survival. I just shared an old Medium article on this topic.

7. The Psychology of Wonder: Not Just for Children

Why grownups need wonder, too — maybe more than anyone. I talk on this in my first podcast too!

8. The Psychology of Identity Shifts: When You No Longer Recognize Yourself

What happens during major life transitions and how our sense of self gets redefined.

9. The Psychology of Softness: Why Gentleness Isn’t Weakness

On co-regulation, mirror neurons (my favourite!), and the power of softness in a harsh world. For anyone who's ever been told they’re "too sensitive."

10. The Psychology of Silence: What Happens When We Stop Filling the Space?

The science of mental noise, stimulus fatigue, and how silence can actually restore our frayed nervous systems.

11. The Psychology of Self-Compassion: Why You Can’t Heal Through Criticism

Featuring the wisdom of Dr. Kristin Neff (of course!). Why kindness — not shame — is a more effective motivator.

12. The Psychology of Savouring: Making Joy Last a Little Longer

On why we rush past good moments, and how to linger in them instead. With mindfulness, gratitude, and wonder.

13. The Psychology of Letting Go: What Your Brain Fears About Release

Why we cling (even to pain), and what it means to release identities, roles, relationships, or dreams. This might seem familiar to you from this article of mine.

14. The Psychology of Belonging: Why Feeling Seen Changes Everything

The deep human need to be understood — and the quiet grief of being missed.

15. The Psychology of Hope: Not a Luxury, But a Survival Tool

Why hope protects us neurologically. And how to rekindle it when the light feels far away.

And…a mystery bonus 16th one that I'll leave as a surprise!

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So that’s what’s ahead. I’d love to know — which one are you most excited about?

I hope you’ll walk with me through these next 15 weeks. There’s so much wonder in the workings of the human mind — and I can’t wait to explore it with you.

With wonder,

Caitlin

If this letter found you at the right time, feel free to share it with someone else who might need a little wonder today.

Dose of Wonder is a free publication.
If something here stirred your heart or made you pause — and you’d like to support my work — you can do so for less than the price of a fancy coffee (just $3).
Click the image below or the ‘Support Me’ link at the top of my page (doseofwonder.ca).
Every small contribution helps keep the wonder flowing.

With heartfelt thanks, always.
— Caitlin

P.S. Want to write for Dose of Wonder?

If you're curious about sharing your voice and ideas here as a guest writer, I’d love to hear from you. Your piece will be sent to all my subscribers—and you can cross-post it to your own audience too.

More eyes. More wonder. More connection.

Curious? Read this article for all the details →