with the Power of Movement
MOVE LEARN LIVE
Reorganize, Consolidate, and
UPDATE YOUR BRAIN with the Power of Movement
"If you can't explain it simply,
you don't understand it well enough."
Albert Einstein
"Albert Einstein was undoubtedly a genius, but his greatest contribution may not have been his intelligence. Rather, it could be that he understood that explaining complex concepts in simple terms was the key to success. If you understand a topic, there's no need to provide unnecessary detail. Instead, focus on ensuring your audience can comprehend your message effectively. In essence, Mr. Einstein's message was clear: don't add anything that doesn't contribute to the greater good."—Me.
Move, Learn, Live
Any Stage of Life
One might think that, given humanity's rich history of overcoming challenges and hardships, we would possess a well-established guide or timeless manual to help each generation navigate life's journey. However, this is not the case. Since our inception, we have continued to struggle to smooth out all the bumps along the way, because the unpredictable and intricate nature of life defies simple solutions. Instead, we navigate life's complexities by relying on our personal experiences, trusting our instincts, and embracing the profound wisdom passed down from those who have come before us. In many ways, our journey on this planet is both thrilling and intimidating, filled with unexpected twists and turns that present opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. Ultimately, these experiences lay the groundwork for significant transformation, which in turn directly affects our brains.
How does this opening paragraph relate to the broader theme? Although the connection may not be immediately apparent, it runs deeper than you might think. While it may seem somewhat disconnected to us at first, we will soon discover that there is much more happening Below the Surface that ties everything together, particularly within the human brain. As we learn more about this connection, we will gain a deeper understanding of our relationship with movement and its impact on our lives. Each new benefit we discover from movement, along with the excitement of learning new skills, strengthens this bond. Research and evolutionary evidence clearly show that these activities are not merely hobbies; they are powerful remedies for mental stress and essential for our overall well-being. By participating in enjoyable and invigorating activities, we can significantly enhance our brain's performance.
Consider this: our brains have evolved in remarkable ways, enabling us to participate in activities that significantly distinguish us from other species. We don’t just dream of flying around the globe; we can actually make that dream a reality. Our ability to learn, adapt, and acquire new physical skills is not only beneficial but also essential for flourishing in our everyday lives. I encourage you to embrace the principles found in Update Your Brain. These ideas can spark your natural curiosity and encourage a mindset geared towards lifelong learning. We are wired to absorb new information, and it is our responsibility to channel that focus towards our extraordinary potential as human beings.
It's inevitable that we will face challenges; however, maintaining a positive attitude can help us recognize and appreciate the good things in our lives. While a negative outlook can drain your energy, a positive perspective can elevate your spirits by releasing feel-good chemicals in your brain. Even when you're uncertain about the future, reviving the curious and optimistic spirit of your youth can be a helpful ally during tough times. Optimism is a powerful catalyst for rekindling enthusiasm.
While I wouldn’t consider myself an expert in any specific area, I’ve honed a skill over the years for transforming an ordinary day into something extraordinary through movement. It all began with a firm belief that, with the right knowledge and support, we can train both our brains and bodies to work together seamlessly. This means we can improve our ability to function with greater efficiency. My guiding principle is both simple and powerful: by enhancing coordination and equipping individuals with knowledge about how the brain learns, along with effective learning strategies, we can unlock their hidden potential and significantly improve their performance. This is why I’m excited to introduce a carefully selected range of tools that will help you harness these invaluable resources. You’ll find these instruments at the heart of what I call The Science Behind an Awesome Day.
Diamonds in the Rough
It Sticks Out Like a Sore Thumb
Many writers are more than happy to share their unique journeys, weaving tales of personal experiences, travels, and the fascinating individuals they've met along the way. This style can lead to captivating autobiographies, but when it comes to books that focus on teaching specific methods or learning strategies, a different approach is often necessary. A sprinkle of background information and a few personal anecdotes can support the narrative, but overwhelming readers with too many stories might cloud the core message. It’s completely normal for our minds to drift, especially considering how fragile our attention spans can be amidst all the distractions we encounter. The last thing we want is to be sidetracked unnecessarily. This is exactly when we need to be aware of those moments and gently guide our focus back to what’s important, whether we are in the role of teachers or students.
From a young age, I felt confident in identifying books that excel in teaching, marked by clarity, relevance, and conciseness in their writing. Although this skill may not have seemed valuable at first, it prompted me to seek out books that deepened my understanding of the material. By the end of our time together, you will be well-equipped to recognize the differences between outstanding and average teaching examples. Before long, these signs will Stick Out Like a Sore Thumb.
I've had the privilege of meeting a host of exceptional educators—many of whom haven't yet published a book or taken the stage at a TED Talk. What I found to be most fascinating is that these special teachers often operate outside traditional classrooms, wielding a gift for sharing knowledge in ways that genuinely resonate with their audiences. It’s a bittersweet reality; if only they had embraced the art of self-promotion, their talents could have shone even brighter. Nevertheless, they remain Diamonds in the Rough, leaving a profound impact on those lucky enough to learn from them.
Finding educators who spark your curiosity and showcase their expertise can profoundly enrich your learning experience, regardless of their level of recognition. These inspiring figures empower you to take the reins of your own educational journey. In today’s digital era, where countless people are on the hunt for answers online, it’s up to you to uncover these skilled instructors. Together, we’re going to hone your ability to spot them quickly and effortlessly.
Once is Enough
All it takes is a Gentle Nudge
After finishing a book, it’s easy for readers to set it aside and let its details fade away. I created Reorganize, Consolidate, and Update Your Brain with the Power of Movement to help you avoid this common issue. Update Your Brain will become a trusted companion that you can turn to, ready to boost your confidence and revitalize your thoughts whenever you need it. I’ve organized the material to help you quickly recall the key points, so you don't have to go back through the entire book. Our brains often retrieve memories with simple cues, which is why I’ve included prompts throughout to effectively trigger those memories. Sometimes, a gentle nudge is all it takes to revive a forgotten memory.
To effectively create triggers, I’ve organized each topic clearly and consistently, focusing on three main components. First, you’ll find a brief explanation of the subject. Next, I’ll outline what we will cover in that section. Each section concludes with a key takeaway that highlights the main points, providing concise summaries for easy reference in the future. Additionally, I’ve included videos designed to enhance your visual memory, making the learning experience more interactive and practical. Remember, the reminders you keep on hand will help you make progress.
THE FINAL BRIEFING
Fast Forward
Let's take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made so far. We have gathered all the science, ideas, concepts, applications, and Essentials needed to learn a new skill. The Notebooks and The Bridge have shown us what's possible when we Work with the Brain and Not Against it. A Little Bit of Science has exposed us to the latest research, providing a deeper understanding of the Things That Matter through that science.
From the beginning, we have focused on understanding and addressing the challenges that impact our learning abilities. We gained valuable insights from The Biggest Mistakes We Make, exploring various questions in the process. Through this process, we have identified the most significant questions for our Q&A Session with the Brain. The Four Key Questions we have selected will guide us in finding the answers we seek.
Now that you've done your homework, you should feel confident and ready to embark on A Journey Below the Surface. So, let’s take a deep breath and explore the uncharted waters of the brain together.
A Journey Below the Surface
Where Each Trip Is Unique
"Give me six hours to chop down a tree,
and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe."
Abraham Lincoln
Get Prepared
The Tortoise and the Hare
Using a sharp axe makes chopping down a tree much easier, and the same principle applies to reading this book. Your approach to engaging with Update Your Brain will significantly influence what you take away from it. While the book is designed to be an easy read, it’s important to take your time from the outset. This initial sharpening of your understanding will deepen as you progress through the chapters. By reading slowly and thoughtfully, you'll find it easier to grasp the main theme: prioritizing skill acquisition and brain health as lifelong pursuits. Considering the average lifespan of approximately 28,616 days, it becomes clear that investing time in your goals today can yield long-lasting rewards in the years to come. Remember, it’s never too late to start a new journey.
The introduction is divided into two distinct sections that establish the foundation for the book's main themes. Their purpose is to connect key concepts and ideas that will be explored in greater detail as the book progresses. As I mentioned earlier, taking your time can provide a wealth of learning tools. While you may find yourself moving at a more leisurely pace, this approach actually helps the brain to more effectively process and retain information. In contrast, rushing can impede progress and lead us to overlook the most rewarding aspects of new experiences. You never know what unexpected surprises might arise, which could lead to valuable lessons. So, savor each step along the way, and maintain an open mind. Remember Aesop's fable "The Tortoise and the Hare"—slow and steady wins the race.
Everything Must Begin Here
Gratitude and Appreciation: The Bedrock of Your Journey
As we continue on our journey toward improved movement and brain health, it's important to recognize how fortunate we are to enjoy the freedom and ease of movement, particularly when it comes to learning new physical skills. Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone. Throughout life, from infancy to adulthood, a variety of challenges—such as injuries, illnesses, congenital disabilities, and brain disorders—can significantly impact a person’s ability to move, turning everyday activities into hurdles that many of us may struggle to comprehend. Navigating these often demands a tremendous amount of inner strength from these individuals. Even with the support of family and caregivers—who also face their own set of responsibilities—this journey can be quite demanding. While we may never fully grasp the depth of their struggles, we can show our respect by acknowledging and valuing our own ability to move freely. As we move through each chapter of this book and our lives, let's nurture a genuine sense of gratitude. Remember, nothing in life comes with a guarantee.
"The Sharpening"
Let's Get Serious and Have Some Fun
On the Same Page
If you are looking for a book filled with entertaining stories, you won't find much of that here. However, I will keep the content engaging and relevant to your needs. When I share a story, it will be directly related to the topic at hand, ensuring the core message remains clear without distractions for the sake of amusement. While a well-told story can be captivating, it can also divert attention from what really matters. If your goal is to expand your knowledge, learn new skills, and improve your cognitive well-being, then we are definitely aligned in our goals. Let’s stay committed to the plan.
Embrace the Adventure
The Steps to a Rewarding Journey
When you begin learning a new skill, it's completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed, especially if you're not quite sure where to start. However, once you identify your starting point, putting in consistent effort and practice can transform your experience into a rewarding one filled with a sense of accomplishment. Although the path may have its ups and downs, maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges is key. Your perseverance, combined with a touch of science, can help you move forward. One effective strategy is to remind yourself that obstacles are simply part of the learning process for our brains, rather than reflections of your abilities. By reinforcing this understanding, you can shift self-doubt into confidence.
Let's Take a How-Come Approach
Experience the Difference
Imagine the advantage we would have if we had a deeper understanding of the human brain and could apply that knowledge to acquire more skills, and, most importantly, derive greater enjoyment from using it effectively. To get us there, Update Your Brain had to be less of a how-to book and more of a how-come book. As soon as you modify your perspective from "how to" to "how come”, you'll notice an immediate difference. The answers you are looking for will come to you much more easily.
As I gained more knowledge of the brain's inner workings, it became clear that understanding the underlying causes of progress can be more valuable in the long run than simply knowing how to achieve it. For example, consider the contrast between learning hockey and learning to play tennis. Although the techniques for these two sports may differ, the underlying factors that affect the outcome are remarkably similar. I will demonstrate how these connecting factors are grounded in scientific principles. In the future, you can apply these principles while learning any new skill.
The Most Asked Question
How come I'm not getting any better?
Our attention will be on addressing the most frequently asked question: How come I’m not getting any better? To get us there, I felt the need to create the sensation that you were a wannabe neuroscientist and your task was to learn more about your brain. By assigning you this role, it will introduce you to specific aspects of science that explain how your brain functions. Knowing the basics will be enough to make a difference in your pursuits. The simplest changes can produce the biggest leaps in progress.
Through this scientist-like role, you'll gain a new appreciation for what the human brain is capable of, which will help you begin to make positive changes in how you think about it. Instead of just going through the motions, you'll start paying more attention to what's happening Below the Surface. To make this work, I plan to involve you in certain aspects of the research. So, while others are trying to figure out how to learn something quickly, you and I will focus on more significant matters. Again, our objective is to answer the most common question we've asked ourselves: How come I'm not getting better? The answer to this question and others will be what you and I bring back from our trip - A Journey Below the Surface.
A Reasonable Assessment
Keepin' it Real
Update Your Brain with the Power of Movement is as realistic a book as you'll find on brain fitness, brain training, and skill acquisition. Why do I think this? Because the idea of a "keeping it real" theme mattered to me. I'd rather you be pleased by my candidness than be disappointed in the content or believe it lacks value. I didn't write this with marketing in mind, so there's no hype attached and no selling visions of grandeur. In place of gadgets, gimmicks, secret remedies, and brain hacks, I have included a reasonable assessment of what you can expect to accomplish based on the science of how the brain learns a new skill. If I can help you with that assessment and guide you more accurately toward the skills that suit you, we will both meet our reasonable expectations.
Yes, 'reasonable assessment' is not an exciting or powerful choice of words. Still, for this book to work, that description is necessary. Update Your Brain is structured to deliver a straightforward message: There is no one-size-fits-all system for teaching the human brain a new skill. My use of "reasonable" shouldn't be seen as a negative or a goal killer; rather, it's my way of defining a strong and stable starting point. We’ll confirm that in the Time, Talent, and Devotion section.
So, don't be discouraged. You'll find that being reasonable will ultimately benefit you. We already have plenty of motivational speakers who tell us that we can do anything. Still, the message should also include "within reason" for that advice to be more effective. I'll elaborate on my thoughts on that later.
Driven by Curiosity
A Journey of Discovery
My purpose here is not necessarily to motivate or inspire you or preach some profound philosophy as if I have all the answers. I don't. But if you feel inspired, go for it with unrestrained passion. You should also know that the journey that brought me here was not a mystical, enlightening adventure that led to uncovering hidden secrets or breaking a code to learn better and faster. It wasn't like that. This journey was an exploration of self-discovery and the inner workings of the brain. It was simply that.
While I believe in the potential of individuals and the power of encouragement, I support scientific research because it addresses a broader range of topics and scenarios. Although I recognize that there are ways to speed up progress, the rate of advancement will vary for each individual. I would support accelerated learning methods if accompanied by a disclaimer, rather than claiming that all participants will achieve the same results.
Disclaimer: It's important to note that what works for one person may not necessarily work for everyone. While someone may have had success with a particular experience, it doesn't necessarily guarantee that others will have similar outcomes.
The Power of Curiosity and Passion
It's Crucial to Our Survival
I've always been driven by curiosity, a profound passion, and a firm conviction that staying active, engaged, and continually learning are essential for our well-being and survival. If I can pique your curiosity as I inspire myself, you'll naturally be inclined to explore this powerful connection between body and brain. There's nothing quite like nurturing a real passion for learning, especially when you can see the tangible results of your hard work.
Here’s another remarkable function of the human brain: even if no one acknowledges your accomplishments, it has an internal reward system that releases feel-good chemicals, giving you a deep sense of satisfaction. It’s as if it is applauding your achievement. In the upcoming chapters, we will explore how these successes, no matter how small, trigger positive chemical reactions in our brains. It’s also essential to note that not all brain chemicals are equal, and not everyone has the same levels of them. These disparities do not limit us; they contribute to our uniqueness. We’ll explore this further in The Bridge section.
Why Write This Now?
The Conversation Has Changed
Recent advancements in neuroscience have given me the confidence to make a meaningful impact in this field. While I would have continued to support my research and conclusions, knowing that neuroscientists worldwide are validating many of my beliefs has given me much-needed reassurance. This validation has relieved a great deal of the burden I have carried over the years, trying to explain that my work was worth it and had merit. Unintentionally, science has given my work more validation. Looking back, it appears that I documented every experience with an eye on the future, a notion I now refer to as Where Science Meets Experience.
A Purpose
Navigating the Obstacles
From the very beginning, my mission has been to share my research, observations, and personal experiences, providing a unique perspective on how the brain learns, retains, and recalls acquired skills. At the heart of this mission is the encouragement for everyone to welcome new learning experiences. Throughout history, the human brain has thrived on overcoming obstacles, which is essential for our progress and development. Unfortunately, repeatedly facing the same barriers can be frustrating and may hinder our growth. Therefore, I focus on helping you navigate these more effectively, minimizing difficulties when possible, and enabling you to experience the joy of learning more frequently.
Stoked and Refueled
A Renewed Passion
Since I was young, I've been captivated by the mystery of how the brain learns new skills. It's a lifelong fascination that drives my passion for movement and learning. It thrilled me so much that I began documenting my experiences and tracking the solutions I discovered for various challenges, big and small. Even though social media platforms like YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram didn't exist back then, I still managed to gather a significant amount of content. Keeping decades' worth of videos and handwritten notes authenticates my passion for this subject, which I continue to this day. So, much hasn't changed for me over the past few decades, except for the recent advancements in brain research, which have sparked a new passion. As I immersed myself in this field, I became increasingly determined to uncover solutions, bridge the gaps, and address the lingering questions that arose from my work and that of others. I'll address some of the answers in The Notebooks and The Bridge sections.
This is Just the Beginning
A New Frontier
It's best to clarify that the journey we're about to embark on will have no end. Why? When studying the human brain, scientists may never see the final destination. The human brain is as vast and mysterious as the universe. It’s astounding to consider how much there is still to discover. Much like the universe, scientists have only begun to understand the complexities of the brain. What is particularly fascinating is that these unknowns exist within a space small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. The brain is often regarded as the most powerful and complex system ever created, and it is at your disposal. This fact alone should inspire you to further explore how it functions.
Given that our understanding of the human brain lacks a clear endpoint, what is the next step? We continue to do what we've always done: appreciating what's possible given the available knowledge and recognizing that we may only have some answers. This way, it's easier to accept when things don't go as planned. Luckily, we have some of the world's most brilliant scientists working diligently to help us update our brains and modify those plans. We can rely on them to do the research, so we must check in regularly to hear about the latest news.
It Would Take an Earth-Sized Blanket
8,000,000,000 Uniquely Designed Brains
Of course, it would be nice to tell you that everything you'll ever need is in this book; however, as I pointed out, there are many unknowns related to this area. Since many mysteries remain unsolved, making that claim would be unrealistic and impossible. I want to distinguish Update Your Brain from other books, promising that anyone can learn anything within a handful of hours or become world-class in any skill in six months or less. The human brain has been a work in progress since its inception. The idea that someone can master the process of learning in just a few hours or months is unrealistic, given its complex and complicated history. Update Your Brain is not this type of book.
I do not advocate for quick learning systems. It’s not because accelerated learning is not possible. Through camps, clinics, groups, private lessons, and my experiences, I have repeatedly observed that we acquire skills at varying rates across different levels. Therefore, I stand firmly by my assessment. Why do I feel so strongly about this? I've learned that, despite the presence of top instructors, optimal training conditions, and extended training lengths, students' improvement varies considerably. These are a few reasons why I don't particularly appreciate a skill acquisition timetable.
Predicting Success is Unpredictable
Imagine the high-stakes realm of sports scouting, where experts meticulously evaluate athletes’ talents, often starting as early as elementary school. Scouts commonly utilize detailed checklists to assess a player’s abilities, but even the most promising prospects with stellar scores can sometimes fall short of expectations. Occasionally, these athletes may not meet the scout's initial hopes, or it may simply take them longer to showcase their true potential.
This raises an important question: if seasoned professionals struggle to accurately gauge an athlete's abilities, how can someone without that expertise—especially a stranger with limited knowledge of the individual—make a fair assessment? When people insist that anyone can reach their goals within a specific timeframe, it's wise to approach such claims with skepticism. Judging someone's potential is difficult enough, especially when you know so little about them.
You Know Yourself Better Than Anyone
As we work through The Notebooks, I will explain why certain types of teaching, even under the best circumstances, may not always meet your needs. Once we address that, we can develop a strategy that better aligns with your preferences. At this point, I will step back and allow you to take the lead. You know yourself better than anyone else, so your input is essential here. It would be unrealistic to assume that I could fully understand what you are capable of without having met you in person. This does not mean that I lack confidence in you; it simply means I need more information to make an informed evaluation of your potential. Please recognize and appreciate the reasoning behind this approach.
Update Your Brain will explain, through science, how impractical "how to learn anything" claims are by proving that there is nowhere near enough scientific evidence to confirm that results like this are possible on an individual basis, let alone on a global scale. I applaud those who encourage others to challenge themselves by learning something new, even if they only attain a minimal skill. Still, my research doesn't support a learning approach that claims to accommodate each of the 8,000,000,000 plus uniquely designed brains living on the planet. If such a system did exist, it would take an Earth-sized blanket to cover every brain. Currently, there is no blanket.
When we arrive at The Notebooks section, we'll uncover the obvious and a few underlying issues within quick learning methods and other instructional concepts. Yet, we won't be too critical because we'll learn that it isn't always about a flawed teacher or teaching approach but rather the lack of effectiveness in accommodating large groups of students (aka, brains). It's the same struggle teachers face daily in the classroom, making it impossible to teach every student the same way; obviously, it's a tough task. Again, it's hard to believe a foolproof teaching system exists.
Instead, we will create a flexible process that is more likely to succeed. Once you finish the chapters, The Notebooks and The Bridge, you'll understand when and how to make the necessary adjustments. While I can't guarantee that you'll become an expert right away, you can expect your need for changes to be minimal with this new knowledge. With this "operating system" update, you'll find it easier to be forgiving toward yourself. You may have previously viewed failures as a reflection of your inability to learn and adapt, rather than simply a lack of scientific knowledge. As the saying goes, we're not going to reinvent the wheel; we're just going to improve it so that it performs better under adverse conditions.
A Shift in Priorities
Imagine the Possibilities
It's fascinating how we customize our cars, upgrade our homes, and demand better performance from our phones, iPads, and other devices. Our primary focus is to improve the quality of material items. Now, picture this: what if, in the future, we focused more on enhancing our brains' abilities through ongoing education and mindfulness? Envision the possibilities of achieving increased physical and mental resilience. Our possessions may come and go, but you will always be you—hopefully, an improved version as you learn and grow. The key is to understand your operating system, that is, your brain.
"Sometimes the simplest changes
can produce the most significant leaps in progress."
Me
Your Journey Starts with Change
Give it Meaning
Can substantial progress be achieved without a specific system in place? Absolutely, but it requires a change in mindset. The first step is recognizing that acquiring new knowledge goes beyond just completing tasks quickly; it involves uncovering something meaningful and gaining a deeper understanding of what truly resonates with you. By doing so, you can establish a strong knowledge base and gain experience that will enable you to handle most situations in the future. In essence, you need to identify the methods or strategies that work most effectively for you. Then, you can capitalize on those strengths and eventually work on some of your weaknesses. We'll address how to accomplish this in the section covering the brain's parts primarily responsible for movement.
What Can you Expect?
New Tools and a Grasp on Reality
If you stick with me until the very end, you will have acquired new and exciting tools for learning and have a firm grasp of the reality that the amount of time it takes to learn a skill will never be a common denominator between us. It will only take a short time to confirm this reality once we factor in those 8,000,000,000 uniquely designed brains. Understanding how your brain learns is what matters.
Why is this one change so integral to your success? Your experiences will be more thorough and robust than those focused on learning rapidly. If the human brain is as vast and far-reaching as the universe, dedicating a few hours to learning will cover only a small distance. If you think of it that way, you'll be more willing to take your time and explore more of that undiscovered area. Unlike quick learning supporters, I'm not in the business of teaching people how to "rent a skill." I want people to take ownership of their skills. You’ll find a significant difference between the two once you fully appreciate the value of creating vital neural pathways and understand that skill acquisition is about strength in numbers and uninterrupted repetition. Once you get the hang of it, it’s not complicated.
Where is My Place in All of This?
School of Hard Knocks
Many writers draw on their knowledge, research, and life experiences, often blending all three elements. Their work provides valuable guidance into unfamiliar territories. This is why experts from various fields must collaborate and share their findings, results, and conclusions. By working together, these experts can devise solutions that enhance our overall well-being and improve brain health.
So, where do I fit in? I strongly identify with the trial-and-error approach, as it encourages exploration and learning through experience. However, my thought process is also grounded in scientific inquiry, which involves observation and systematic experimentation. Although I'm not a neuroscientist, my research on human movement has provided me with valuable knowledge into how the brain learns new skills and the importance of maintaining physical activity and good health. This understanding has given me a newfound appreciation for the human brain and made me more aware of the importance of taking better care of it.
Writing With the Brain in Mind
Engaged Not Confused
I set out to create this book with a specific goal: to offer comprehensive information for a wide range of brain-related needs. I stayed true to this guiding principle throughout the writing process, even incorporating video demonstrations to enrich the learning experience. While researching, I immersed myself in numerous how-to books and watched countless instructional videos, and I noticed that many failed to convey their messages effectively. Even when the information was accurate, it was often not communicated clearly, which left me wondering if I could understand the content. I wrote Update Your Brain to help you stay engaged and eager to learn without getting overwhelmed or confused.
It's About YOUR Tools
The Right Resources
Naturally, your mindset while engaging in brain training, brain fitness, and skill acquisition has a significant influence on your success. While physical abilities are a significant factor, your mental approach is paramount for achieving optimal results. Each of us possesses special talents, but accessing them requires the right tools and resources. Understanding the specific brain areas responsible for nurturing these talents will be a great strength. In the A Little Bit of Science section, I'll spotlight these regions to help you get started. Additionally, regularly expressing gratitude for your good fortune is beneficial, and learning about these brain regions will further deepen your appreciation.
Once you've finished Update Your Brain, I hope you'll be motivated to continue digging deeper and expanding your knowledge of what lies Below the Surface. With consistent practice, a readiness to push your boundaries, and access to the right resources, you'll be astounded by how effectively your brain and body can work together.
The Science Behind an Awesome Day
Expanding Your Options
Expanding Your Options
Adding the Spices to Life
They often say that variety is the spice of life, and having options brings excitement and flavor to our daily routines. Whether picking up golf, trying out tennis, rollerblading, or learning a new dance routine, expanding our experiences provides the mental stimulation our brains crave. Not only do new skills strengthen our brains, but they also unlock a whole new world of possibilities. Imagine waking up one day and deciding to play a game of tennis, then switching it up the next day with a round of golf. With such a diverse set of options at your fingertips, exercise would transform from a monotonous chore into an enjoyable part of your life.
"Keep it simple and focus on what matters.
Don’t let yourself be overwhelmed."
Confucius
#1 Rule - Keep it Simple
Sim·ple - /ˈsimpəl/ easily understood or done; presenting no difficulty
Keep things relatively simple. If you plan to teach me how to bake a cake, give me a list of ingredients and directions. That would be sufficient for me and most others, and it simply works. If I can make something that looks and tastes like a cake, you are an outstanding teacher in my book.
Avoid including the chemical formula for baking soda at any point during your teaching. I have zero interest or need to know. (BAKING SODA - sodium bicarbonate - is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO₃. It is a salt composed of sodium ions and bicarbonate ions.) I'm curious to know how many bakers are familiar with the term NaHCO₃. I'm guessing there won't be many.
Over the years, my research has shown that keeping things simple is crucial to achieving success. When things get too complicated, the brain is more likely to become overwhelmed and confused. Once this happens, it becomes harder to regain focus and stay on track.
Therefore, teachers should avoid trying to impress others with their knowledge during teaching. Instead, following in the footsteps of great thinkers like Einstein and Confucius, communicating information simply is preferable. The simpler, the better. It's like baking a cake - the simpler the recipe, the better the result.
Our Simple Approach
Thinking Practical
As I mentioned earlier, we will begin each discussion by examining the issue to understand the scientific reasons behind the problem that is hindering our progress. Once we identify the root cause, we will apply scientific principles to develop a practical solution that allows us to move forward. Finally, we will summarize what we've learned in a way that will be helpful for your future reference. It may seem like a lot to cover, but we will focus on the key points in just a few short paragraphs. These summaries will guide us along the way.