Secret 2: Limit information. Thanks
to our technology-driven and uber-connected world, the sheer volume of information we are exposed to every day is
nearly 200 times more than we were
exposed to 20 years ago! Research shows
this information overload comes at a
price. High-performing minds are more
efficient at knowing what to block out
and what to keenly pay attention to.
Limit what you take in to enhance your
brain’s natural ability to block out what
does not matter.
Secret 3: Detox distractions. On
average, individuals work for three minutes at a time before being interrupted.
Complicating matters, technology is
actually rewiring our brains to be
addicted to interruption, as we anxiously
wait for the next ping signaling a new
email, text or social media post. By
silencing your phone and computer and
closing your office door, you can actually
accelerate your brain’s ability to complete tasks.
Secret 4: Think big. Designed to
shift between details and the big picture, the brain is overwhelmed by too
much focus on details and minutiae.
Taking the time to think about a problem or idea from the 10,000-foot view
will shift your perspective and strengthens brain systems to generate high level
ideas and transformative solutions. Our
research has shown that doing so
strengthens brain systems at multiple
levels of health.
Secret 5: Calibrate mental effort.
Mental energy, like physical energy, can
be depleted. Prioritize your day by
focusing effort on the most important
tasks while your brain is at peak operating power, usually at the beginning of
the day.
Secret 6: Innovate. Stepping outside
your routine is important to brain
health and performance. Our brains
seek novelty and innovation, so challenge yourself to expand your knowledge [