Recently I’ve been focused on some new research around using brain training to help with stress management. Needless to say, I’ve been down a rabbit hole and I’m just coming up for air but wanted to share one of those great ‘A-HA’ moments that I often talk about.
There is so much neuroscience to the old statement “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” All though I often feel that it is used in a dismissive way and often with a lack of empathy; a bit like ‘get over it’ and ‘let it go.’ It’s one of those ‘says easy, does hard’ kind of things in life. Incredibly challenging at the time so it is only upon reflection that we experience its benefit.
Resilience Training
If there is one thing that the pandemic taught us was resilience, however for this growth to occur it takes time to heal.
That’s the missing piece, the ‘A-HA’ moment for me. It’s TIME!
Resilience Training + Practice x Time will allow you to grow stronger.
We are leaving out the important part around time. No two brains are alike, no two people learn the same way, so therefore no two timelines of growth will be the same. Resilience is a working demonstration of neuroplasticity. Your ability to cope with added adversity shows your brain’s talent for adaptability. Now that’s a superpower.
Ever noticed that some people are able to cope with some much in their lives and yet still remain positive, optimistic and dare I say it, happy. I’m sure if we could measure it, their neuroplasticity would be off the charts.
There is now research that shows we are able to pinpoint in someone’s DNA the impact of PTSD, Resilience and also PTG (Post Traumatic Growth). This research released by a team from QUT Brisbane showed changes in the telomeres of 1st year paramedics. Now that’s an amazing breakthrough, and once again what was the important factory – TIME. If they could find this in 12 months, just imagine what they will find after 5, 10, even 20 years. This then takes us down the rabbit hole of generational trauma and the impacts on DNA; but that’s for another day.
Cognitive Training
That’s why cognitive training is such a great compliment to your leadership toolbox, for you and your teams. The more you’re training your brain, the higher the level of neuroplasticity. The higher level of neuroplasticity, the better you are able coping with adversity which ultimately makes you a better leader.
Make yourself and your teams even better by leading with the brain in mind.
Reach out to our team to find out more, contact us here
Warmest regards
Linda (and Lola the cat)
