Let’s Talk Neuroscience

Not always the sexiest topic, but oh so important if you want to live the best possible version of your life.

When we are actively making changes that support our best lives, it’s not always comfortable. Sometimes we do not want to do the things that we know will help us achieve our goals. That’s where the neuroscience comes in. Specifically the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC). The ACC is a portion of your brain that is involved in decision-making, inhibition, and motivation.

Basically the trifecta of things that come into play when you’re making a difficult change in your life - or in other words: trying to achieve a goal!

When you do something that you specifically do NOT want to do, your ACC grows. That’s right, it grows! Cool, right? So when the alarm goes off at 5:30am and you throw the covers back and actually get out of bed instead of hitting snooze, your ACC is like, “hell yes, get better at doing tough shit!” Then the next time you have to do something challenging your ACC is more prepared to do the heavy lifting for you.

There is a flip side though - if you actually enjoy doing something, even if it’s perceived as difficult, your ACC shrinks. You can undo the hard work you did growing it. For me it’s weightlifting. While it it literally difficult, I enjoy doing it, so my ACC isn’t getting any stimulation.

The key to combatting this is to challenge yourself with things that you may not want to do. Don’t want to read instead of watching Netflix? Too bad! Show your ACC a little love!

Or pair the enjoyable action with one you don't want to do. Guess that means I have to go for a run after I lift weights. 😖

Let me know what you’ll be doing to grow your Anterior Cingulate Cortex by leaving a comment below!