BLOG_2019_05_02_How to Hack Into Our Own Brainpower

How to “Hack” Into Our Own Brainpower

2 MAY 2019

Much like a computer responds to commands, our brain can be programmed to accept any changes we might want to make in our life. However, many of our current behaviors stem from unconstructive programming we received as a child that may be standing in the way of change.

Dr. Maxwell Maltz, in his book Psycho-Cybernetics, published in 1960, says, “Beliefs about ourselves have unconsciously been formed from our past experiences … especially in early childhood.” So keep in mind, that when you want to change a particular habit or belief, the unwanted behavior was built on patterns developed over time. As a result, it may take time to reprogram your brain.

In this classic book, Dr, Maltz introduced the idea of a mind-body connection and that positive outcomes are achieved through changing our attitudes. Here are some simple steps that can help you overcome self-sabotaging tendencies, much like installing new software into the computer of your mind.

Identify the issue.

Write down everything you know about the habit, such as when it started and why. Be as detailed and truthful as possible because it’s hard to change what you don’t acknowledge. And list all the reasons you want to change. According to Dr. Maltz, “Change the self-image and you change the personality.”

Set realistic goals.

If you want to lose weight, for instance, simply saying, “I want to lose a few pounds” is not enough to bring about lasting change. However, if you state “I will lose 10 pounds before my birthday” then your mind has a distinct path to follow. And make sure your goal is both realistic and attainable so that you set yourself up for success.

Use “creative visualization.”

Using your imagination to picture how you want to behave gives you a huge edge in overcoming unwanted habits, because the subconscious mind sees in images. For example, as you recall what you had for breakfast, do you picture the words “I ate scrambled eggs,” or do you see scrambled eggs on a plate? So “see” yourself as having accomplished your goal.

Act “as if” you have achieved your goal.

Imagining you have already accomplished your goal goes a long way toward actually achieving it. For instance, someone 10 pounds lighter may exercise more or be more confident, so if you already act as if you weigh less, you will automatically start moving more and feeling better about yourself. Here’s another example: if you want to have a cash safety net of $20,000, you would say, “I have a $20,000 cash safety net in the bank” This again programs the brain to move towards the goal.

Use positive affirmations.

Power words or phrases spoken as if you mean it keep you motivated and help you turn negative programming into positive change. And the great news is: according to many experts, including Maltz, it usually takes only 21 days to effect change in our self-concept. So you are just 21 days away from achieving your goal from the day you start! Jack Canfield also recommends you start all affirmations with, “I am”. For example, “I am 10 pounds lighter”, or “I am worthy of making a lot of money”.

Reward yourself.

Don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back for every positive step you make towards achieving your new goal. It’s important to reward yourself with something that will make you feel good about yourself and to “imprint” your newly forming positive habit.

According to Maltz, the brain itself is simply a “goal-striving mechanism” operating very much like a computer. Your mind is the software that makes you uniquely you. Following the steps offered above is a means of “hacking into” your brain, changing the programming and creating the life of your dreams.

SUCCESS STEP 1: SET A GOAL

2 MAY 2019

There are so many tips and tricks out there on how to best set and manage your goals, and at times it can all seem a bit… overwhelming.

The most important tip anyone can ever give you on goal-setting is this: JUST SET A GOAL.

Once your goal is set (and hopefully written down and shared with others), it becomes a real thing. Before that, it is just a dream, an idea…something intangible in your mind. Once you state it clearly, write it down, and share it so you are accountable, your play is set in motion.

Setting your goal is the first step toward success, and thus the most important one. After that, the universe will align and conspire to assist you. Doors will open, opportunities will arise and things will start to fall into place. Before you know it momentum will be carrying you forward.

Of course, after you get started you can refine your goal, strategize how you will keep moving down the field, and fine tune how you handle the challenges you’ll encounter along the way. But you don’t need to know all these things to call the first play…just call it and get started.

As the old saying goes, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.”

What goals will YOU kick off TODAY?