I think the best place to start is where most quests begin… Stories and inspiration from the past.
Anyone can write nice words in a book about what it means to achieve a higher consciousness (just think like me, and all is sorted) - but legends and tales that survive the ages are rarely without merit.
You'll find that some cultures have a very different view of what it means to become a higher being. The tale of the lunar rabbit, for example, where the Jade Emperor is enjoying his time on Earth as a homeless man and is brought offerings by a few animals. Taoism is known for having the sage who is occasionally petulant in his behavior, when the situation calls.
Then there is the concept of internal alchemy that is similar to the concept of visions…
I think, before trying to view things bigger than this life, it is important to contemplate what truly could be bigger than this life. We are often very quick to dismiss the importance of this world because it can be inconvenient and painful at times.
But I am rambling at this point.