Know how the Brain Works
Knowing you your brain works is important for two key reasons; 1) you will improve your ability to understand your personal mechanics, and 2) you will be much more effective and making positive change.
It's widely recognized that a significant portion of our brain's resources is dedicated to monitoring for threats, a remnant from our evolutionary past. This vigilance was crucial for survival in environments filled with predators.
When faced with danger, the body activates the "fight or flight" response, which involves redirecting blood flow from the brain to the muscles, preparing the body for immediate action. This physiological response can impair logical thinking, as the limbic brain, which is responsible for emotional responses, reacts five times faster than the thinking brain (prefrontal cortex which governs reasoning ). This rapid response is crucial for survival, as it enables instinctive actions before rational thought can process the situation. An easy way to think about this is that when we respond to fear we get stupid (the blood leaves our brain). You can be most effective when you remain centered.
The eyes have a direct connection to the limbic brain, which allows for faster processing of visual information. This connection enables quicker responses to visual stimuli, which is essential for survival. Visual signals from the eyes are relayed to the limbic system almost immediately, allowing for rapid emotional reactions to what we see. This quick response is crucial for detecting threats in our environment, enabling immediate action without waiting for the slower, more deliberate processing by the thinking brain. Because of this direct connection, visual cues can trigger strong emotional responses, influencing our behavior and decision-making processes more than other senses might.This was useful in the past as a survival Mechanism.
This discrepancy in response times explains why fear can often overpower logic, leading to decisions driven by emotion rather than reason. To mitigate this, techniques such as mindfulness or cognitive behavioral strategies can help individuals regain control and allow the thinking brain to engage more effectively in decision-making
Leaders and influencers can exploit this fear response to manipulate or control individuals, as fear can override rational thought, leading to quick, emotional decisions rather than logical ones. It is critically important to understand how our brains work to understand where we are in terms of our culture.
It is also critically important to discipline your brain so that you can be most effective and are not easily influenced by conspiracy theories. To counteract this instinctual response, it’s beneficial to practice mindfulness or take time to allow the rational brain to regain control. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or cognitive reframing can help shift focus from fear to logical thinking.
Exercise is also important for effective brain function. Exercise has numerous benefits for brain function and overall cognitive effectiveness. Physical activity boosts blood circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the brain, which enhances its functioning. Regular exercise promotes the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) and increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports learning and memory. Exercise releases endorphins and other neurotransmitters that improve mood and reduce stress, which can enhance cognitive performance and emotional well-being. Studies suggest that regular physical activity can improve various aspects of memory and learning, making it easier to acquire and retain new information. Exercise has been shown to improve attention span and concentration, helping individuals stay focused on tasks. Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can significantly enhance brain health and cognitive function.