Actions + Thoughts = A Brain Changed
This week I've heard two separate record player analogies about the brain. To date, this is my favorite brain metaphor. So I think it's time to pass it forward. Fact: The brain is malleable. It is not stuck. It can grow, change, and learn long into old age. Also fact: Your ACTIONS are what shape your brain to think differently. Think about how a turntable works: each time the record spins, the needle digs ever-so-slightly deeper into the groove. Over time, the groove itself becomes deeper. The vinyl record is permanently altered. Your ACTIONS turn on the turntable. Your THOUGHTS are the needle. Your BRAIN is the record. Each time you choose to take positive action, you are deepening the positivity grooves in your brain—and training it to take that path next time.
Example: You're feeling overwhelmed because you are struggling to get all of your to-dos completed for the day. It's 10pm and there are still 4 huge tasks to complete—3 of which are impossible to do after-hours. You're starting to feel the urge to beat yourself up—"did you really have to take a full hour for lunch today? Ugh, why can't you ever prioritize better?!"—AND THEN YOU STOP YOURSELF.
You recognize this negative train of thought isn't going to get anything done. It won't complete your tasks for you, it's only going to create more stress.
You decide to treat yourself, in this moment, like you'd treat your best friend if she were stressing. You CHANGE THE COURSE OF YOUR THOUGHTS THROUGH ACTION.
You say to yourself, "You know what, you did your best. And look at all you WERE able to achieve. That list is impressive. If these 4 tasks are critical, let's take a look at how we can squeeze them in tomorrow morning. Just know: you're killin' it. Relax. We've got a game plan." My guess is you'll be motivated to wake up the next morning to push forward. AND you'll get that much needed R&R before bed so you can recharge instead of charging up your anxiety.
Here's what's happening here: You chose to act kindly to yourself. You actively chartered a new course for your thoughts. And your brain changed as a result. If you're thinking, "yeah but my brain isn't going to change overnight"—you're right. Happiness is a practice. But that means each time you exercise it, it becomes stronger. You grow. Flex that happiness muscle. Eventually, if you exercise this muscle enough, the groove will become so deep you won't even have to think about stopping yourself from spiraling into negativity. The constructive path will be second nature. I believe they call this resilience. Give it a shot: tomorrow, take note of those moments where you do decided to chart a constructive course for yourself. Pay close attention to moments when you feel stressed. Can you choose to take your thoughts in a more constructive direction? Share your experiences in the comments!