On a gloomy day in Porto, Portugal, my family and I found ourselves standing in a long queue outside Livraria Lello, a century-old bookstore that has become a cultural icon. The line stretched around the block, filled with tourists clutching pre-booked tickets. This bookstore has become so popular that you now need a timed entry voucher just to step inside.

As we waited, I couldn't help but wonder if this experience would be worth the hype. Would we find anything beyond the tourist trap that Livraria Lello seemed to have become?

Finally, our turn came. As we crossed the threshold, the gloom of the day melted away. We were enveloped by warm, golden light filtering through a stunning stained-glass ceiling. Intricate wooden shelves towered around us, and a winding staircase spiraled up like something out of a fairy tale. It was easy to see why rumors persist that this place inspired J.K. Rowling's Hogwarts library.

My daughter's eyes lit up as she took in the endless rows of books. My husband and I exchanged excited glances – we were in a book lover's paradise. Yet, as we tried to navigate the crowded aisles, I felt a tinge of disappointment. Was this all there was to it? A beautiful interior swarming with tourists snapping photos?

Determined to make the most of our visit, I struck up a conversation with a staff member. In Portuguese, I mentioned our love for rare books and inquired about any special collections they might have. The staff member's eyes twinkled with interest. “Follow me,” she said, leading us away from the bustling main floor.

My heart raced as we descended a staircase protected by a red velvet rope. Our guide paused to deactivate an alarm, then invited us into a hushed sanctuary – the Gemma room. This, we learned, was the space that Livraria Lello dedicates exclusively to its most precious treasures: rare books, manuscripts, and first editions.

The air in the Gemma room was cool and still, heavy with the weight of literary history. The scent of old books enveloped us as our guide carefully picked up a 1478 printed book and opened it to show us its beautifully decorated pages, hand-colored with vivid hues in the style of old illuminated manuscripts. “This,” she said softly, “is the real magic of Livraria Lello.”

My daughter whispered in awe, “I can't believe we're actually here.”

In that moment, surrounded by literary treasures, I had an epiphany. The most enchanting experiences don't come from a ticket or from following the typical tourist path. They come from shared passion, and the power of genuine engagement.

As we left this iconic bookstore, I noticed the clouds had parted, mirroring how this experience had lifted our spirits. What could have been a mere photo opportunity had transformed into a profound encounter with history and literature.

This unexpected journey became a highlight of our trip to Porto, teaching us valuable lessons that extend far beyond travel. We learned that curiosity truly opens doors. By expressing authentic interest and asking the right questions, we unlocked an experience that wasn't available to the average visitor.

Our shared passion for books created an instant bond with the staff member, leading to a unique experience and demonstrating how common interests can forge meaningful connections. The visit also taught us to look beyond the surface. While the main floor of Livraria Lello was undoubtedly beautiful, the true magic lay hidden beneath, reminding us that often the most rewarding experiences require a bit of digging. We embraced spontaneity, realizing that some of the most memorable moments come unplanned when we're open to unexpected opportunities.

So the next time you find yourself in a new place, or even in familiar surroundings, remember the lesson of Livraria Lello. Be curious. Ask questions. Share your interests. You never know what hidden doors might open, what secret rooms you might discover, or what magical experiences await when you do.

In a world where it's easy to feel disconnected, let's remember that real magic often lies in the connections we make – with places, with stories, and with each other. All it takes is a spark of curiosity and the courage to explore beyond the surface.

Practice the P.I.E. Method

P for Pause. Take a moment to reflect on the story of the hidden Gemma room in Livraria Lello. Allow yourself to be present with the ideas it evoked about curiosity and unexpected discoveries.

I for Increasing Self-Awareness of your feelings, thoughts, and actions.

Here are some possible prompting questions:

• Recall a time when your curiosity led you to an unexpected discovery. How did it make you feel? What thoughts did it provoke?
• How do you typically approach new experiences or places? Are you more likely to follow the crowd or seek out hidden gems?
• Think about a passion you have. How often do you share it with others? What holds you back from expressing it more freely?

E for Embracing Experimentation.

Challenge: This week, commit to a “Hidden Magic” experiment inspired by the Livraria Lello story. Here are some ideas:

• Visit a familiar place (like your local library, a museum, or even your workplace) with fresh eyes. Engage with a staff member and ask about any “hidden treasures” or lesser-known aspects of the place.
• Choose a topic you're passionate about and find a way to share it with someone unexpected. Notice how the connection unfolds.
• Pick a routine destination (like your commute or a regular errand) and intentionally take a different route or approach. What new things do you notice?

Document your experiment: What did you do? How did it feel? What did you learn about the power of curiosity and engagement?

Remember, the goal is not to judge yourself but to grow in awareness and spark your sense of curiosity and connection.

**Want to learn more about the P.I.E. Method?

Grab a copy of my book, MINDSET ZONE: Actualize Your Potential, HERE!