10 Powerful Keys to Fix Your Broken Brain and Boost Mental Performance

In today's fast-paced digital world, many people struggle with cognitive issues like poor memory, lack of focus, and mental fatigue. The good news is that you can take concrete steps to "fix your broken brain" and dramatically boost your mental performance. This article will explore 10 powerful keys to optimize your brain function and unlock your full cognitive potential.

Understanding the Concept of Mental Muscles

Just as we have physical muscles that need exercise and training, we also have mental muscles that require consistent stimulation and development. If you're not actively working to grow these mental muscles, they will atrophy over time.

Many people are amazed when they see memory experts memorize long lists of names, numbers, or words forwards and backwards. But the truth is, with proper training, anyone can develop these impressive mental abilities. The key is learning specific techniques and consistently practicing to strengthen your mental muscles.

Unfortunately, traditional education systems often focus solely on what to learn (math, history, science, etc.) but neglect to teach students how to learn effectively. There are typically no classes on improving memory, accelerating learning, enhancing creativity, or sharpening focus. These critical cognitive skills are left for students to figure out on their own.

Overcoming Learning Challenges

Many people struggle with learning difficulties or cognitive issues, often stemming from childhood experiences. For example, the speaker in this talk suffered a traumatic brain injury at age 5 that left him with significant learning challenges throughout his school years. He had trouble understanding lessons, lacked focus, and struggled with memory issues.

However, these types of cognitive difficulties can be overcome with the right approach. By studying how the brain works and experimenting with different learning techniques, it's possible to dramatically improve mental performance - even for those who previously believed they had a "broken brain."

The Power of Motivation and Mindset

One of the most crucial factors in enhancing cognitive function is having the right motivation and mindset. When you have a compelling reason to improve your mental abilities, it provides the drive needed to consistently work on developing your brain.

For instance, one student was able to read 30 books in 30 days because she was desperately searching for information to help her mother who was battling terminal cancer. This intense motivation allowed her to tap into mental resources she didn't know she possessed.

Cultivating a growth mindset - the belief that you can develop your abilities through effort and practice - is also essential. Many people limit themselves by believing they have fixed cognitive capacities. But research shows the brain is highly plastic and can continue developing new neural pathways throughout life.

The Three Villains Attacking Our Brains

In the modern world, there are three major "super villains" that negatively impact our cognitive function:

1. Digital overload - We are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of information and stimuli in the digital age. This information overload leads to stress, anxiety, and difficulty focusing.

2. Digital distraction - Our smart devices constantly interrupt our concentration and rewire our brains for distraction rather than sustained focus.

3. Digital dementia - We increasingly outsource cognitive tasks to our devices, leading to atrophy of our mental muscles.

To combat these villains, we need to be proactive about protecting and strengthening our cognitive abilities.

10 Keys to Fix Your Broken Brain

Here are 10 powerful strategies you can implement to repair cognitive function and boost your mental performance:

1. Optimize Your Brain Diet

What you eat has a profound impact on your cognitive function. Focus on consuming foods that nourish and protect your brain, such as:

• Avocados
• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Coconut oil
• Salmon
• Green leafy vegetables
• Dark chocolate (without added sugar)

These foods provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that support brain health and protect against cognitive decline.

2. Eliminate Negative Thoughts

Negative self-talk and limiting beliefs can significantly impair your cognitive abilities. Work on identifying and challenging automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) that may be holding you back. Replace them with more empowering and realistic perspectives.

3. Exercise Regularly

Physical exercise is one of the most powerful ways to boost brain function. It increases blood flow to the brain, stimulates the growth of new neurons, and enhances cognitive performance across the board. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Supplement with Brain Nutrients

Even with a healthy diet, you may benefit from targeted supplementation to ensure optimal brain function. Some key brain-boosting nutrients to consider include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids
• B-complex vitamins
• Vitamin D
• Magnesium
• Curcumin

Consult with a healthcare professional to determine which supplements may be most beneficial for your individual needs.

5. Cultivate a Positive Peer Group

The people you spend time with have a significant impact on your cognitive function and overall wellbeing. Surround yourself with positive, growth-oriented individuals who inspire and challenge you to reach your full potential.

6. Create a Clean Environment

Your external environment profoundly affects your internal mental state. Declutter your physical space and create an organized, inspiring environment that supports clear thinking and focused work. Also, be mindful of potential environmental toxins that could be negatively impacting your brain health.

7. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep is essential for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and overall brain health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to optimize your sleep quality.

8. Protect Your Brain

Take steps to protect your brain from physical injury and environmental toxins. This includes wearing appropriate protective gear during sports and avoiding excessive exposure to pollutants, pesticides, and other harmful substances.

9. Engage in Lifelong Learning

Continuously challenging your brain with new learning experiences is crucial for maintaining cognitive function as you age. Take up new hobbies, learn a language, or dive into subjects that fascinate you. The key is to keep pushing your mental boundaries.

10. Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your brain health and cognitive performance. Implement stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to keep your stress levels in check and support optimal brain function.

Implementing These Strategies in Your Daily Routine

To truly transform your cognitive abilities, it's important to incorporate these brain-boosting strategies into your daily routine. Here's an example of how you might structure your day to support optimal brain function:

1. Upon waking, spend a few minutes recalling and recording any dreams you had during the night. This helps activate your memory and creativity.

2. Make your bed to start the day with a small accomplishment and set a tone of excellence.

3. Take a brief cold shower to reduce inflammation and increase alertness.

4. Brush your teeth with your non-dominant hand to stimulate neural pathways.

5. Drink a large glass of water and take any brain-supporting supplements.

6. Spend 10-15 minutes meditating to cultivate focus and reduce stress.

7. Prepare a brain-boosting smoothie or tea with ingredients like turmeric, lion's mane mushroom, or ginkgo biloba.

8. Spend 20-30 minutes reading to stimulate your mind and learn new information.

9. Do a few minutes of intense physical activity (e.g. jumping jacks, push-ups) to get your blood flowing.

10. Throughout the day, take regular breaks to move your body, practice deep breathing, and stay hydrated.

11. In the evening, limit exposure to digital devices and engage in relaxing activities to prepare for quality sleep.

Conclusion

Fixing your "broken brain" and optimizing your cognitive function is entirely possible with consistent effort and the right strategies. By implementing these 10 keys - from optimizing your diet and exercise routine to managing stress and engaging in lifelong learning - you can dramatically enhance your mental performance and unlock your full cognitive potential.

Remember, there is no "magic pill" for instant brain enhancement. Instead, focus on incorporating these evidence-based practices into your daily life. With time and dedication, you'll likely experience significant improvements in your memory, focus, creativity, and overall cognitive abilities.

Take control of your brain health today and invest in your most valuable asset - your mind. The benefits of a sharper, more resilient brain will ripple through every aspect of your personal and professional life.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWP-OoVEQ8M