HOW THE BRAIN WORKS
The design and purpose of the brain is the survival of the human species! Every aspect of the brain is organized and focused on avoiding what might be "perceived" as a threat and danger and seeking out what might be perceived as safety and security. We use the term, "perceived" because the brain responds to those circumstances, in the present, that our past experience(s) tell us will either be a threat or lead us to safety. Our brain relies on past patterns and predictions to remain safe and survive. Pretty clever of the brain, right?
The design and purpose of the brain is the survival of the human species! Every aspect of the brain is organized and focused on avoiding what might be "perceived" as a threat and danger and seeking out what might be perceived as safety and security. We use the term, "perceived" because the brain responds to those circumstances, in the present, that our past experience(s) tell us will either be a threat or lead us to safety. Our brain relies on past patterns and predictions to remain safe and survive. Pretty clever of the brain, right?
The premise on which our brain operates continues to be the same - protect and survive from threats & dangers and seek out safety & rewards. Yet the environment in which you & I exist has changed dramatically. Where the threat & danger exists now is in navigating the social environment. Human beings have always been a very social being. Today, even more so. Our default can be seen in the comparison below. Our brain is hard-wired and automatic for behaviors that, in essence, undermine performance. Unfortunately, we are very unaware and unskilled at how to work with, motivate and empower people given this default of the brain. But, the brain is malleable - it can be rewired and new pathways can be created. As a leader, it is critical to become fluent in the underpinnings of human performance AND how to create new pathways that enhance performance. Neuroscience is at the leading-edge of this endeavor.