The best approach to pit experiences is finding appropriate opportunities to transform them into peak experiences.performers entertain and interact with guests whilst they queue. DISNEY EXAMPLE – Disney “fills the pit” of long lines for rides and attractions by creating interesting distractions e.g.the death of a loved one, finding out about a terminal illness or missing out on a promotion. They include an element of pain or hardship e.g. They are defining moments in life, but normally unwanted experiences.Pits lie at the opposite end of the spectrum to peak moments.How can you create some simple but magical moments this week, for your friends, family, colleagues and love ones?.Peak moments can be simple and small – it’s about creating one or two unforgettable awe-filled moments.The key learning from this example is that it isn’t about making every detail perfect – “customers will forgive small swimming pools and underwhelming room décor, as long as some moments are magical”.They created surprise and unexpected delights.

Disney excelled at creating a little drama and magic, a little pomp and ceremony around seemingly mundane and standard tasks. And all of these services and treats were delivered for free. Unlimited laundry could be dropped off for washing, and was delivered back wrapped in butcher paper tied with “twine and a sprig of lavender”. Magicians performed tricks at breakfast three times a week. “Hello, Popsicle Hotline” was the greeting anyone received when ordering these fun treats, using a specially designated phone. Popsicles were delivered on silver trays by waiters wearing white gloves. So how did it achieve such a high positive rating? It excelled in creating simple but unique, unforgettable magical moments that surprised and wowed its guests. It was by the no means the plushest hotel to stay at – its rooms were dated, furnishings were spare, walls bare – it looked like “a respectable budget motel.

CREATING MAGICAL MOMENTS EXAMPLE At the time of the book’s publication, Disney’s Magic Castle was considered as one of the top 3 rated hotels in L.A., with over 93% of guests scoring it excellent or very good.

A peak defining moment is one of positivity, awe, and delight.

There are 3 types of defining moments : 1) PEAKS, 2) PITS, and 3) TRANSITIONS.

Instead of waiting for them just to happen spontaneously, we can set about actively creating them.

“Recognise where the prose of life needs punctuation.”

“Spot the occasions that are worthy of investment”, more than the standard birthday or graduation celebration.

“No one reflecting on their life has ever wished there had been fewer.”

Such peak moments are vital in our lives.

These are moments that capture our imaginations, moments when we are fully absorbed by the experience.

A defining moment is defined as “a short experience that is both memorable and meaningful”.

It’s the significant moments that stand out in our lives, rather than the tasks achieved or ticks on an action list.

“ Our lives are measured in moments, and defining moments are the ones that endure in our memories”.

Were they rich in emotion? A social event? Something unique? Something fun?.

Think about the moments over the last year when you felt truly alive? What were you doing? Who were you with? Why do those moments stand out?.

We can actively create defining moments – stop leaving them to chance.

We age because our lives become routine – we need more peak moments.We remember meaningful moments, not tasks achieved.Purpose trumps passion – purpose connects through a shared goal.Feeling trumps thought – engage the senses.

People want to feel more, they want to be surprised and delighted.

Defining moments are peaks, pits or transitions.

Defining moments boost sensory appeal, allow people to connect, deliver insight and/or break the script.

Let’s elevate our lives and maximise these experiences – we can’t leave then to chance – we must work to actively create them instead. Those exhilarating times that transcend the norm, that left us in awe, and made us feel alive. Looking back on our lives, it’s the meaningful moments that stand out. Get out of the trap of defining a successful day by tasks achieved.

The power of moments