THE BRAINY BUNCH

[CROWN COUNCIL]

No matter how smart you are and how well you acquire and retain information, it seems there is always a desire to get more out of the brain.  Here is one approach produced by the experts in this field. We know that there is a left brain and a right brain that have specific functions mostly dealing with factual information, but here is some relatively new territory of great interest having to do with emotions and in fact with survival in some instances.

 

The psychologists have identified three different functions of the brain, and we can certainly profit by understanding them and using them for all they are worth.  Here is glimpse at each:

 

We all have a Brain Stem that generates instinctive drives for survival and reproduction

The fight-or-flight response as well as stress reaction are their resource here.

 

The Limbic System is located on top of the brain stem, and it filters the instinctive drives  through a network of past experiences.  This deals with emotions such as fear, desire and jealousy.

 

Next comes the Frontal Cortex which is located behind the forehead and is the thinking brain.  It allows us to plan, create and find meaning and purpose in life.

 

If the Brain Stem is dominating, there is rage, ravenous hunger or stress.

If the Limbic System leads, we’re filled with either confidence or self-doubt.  When the Frontal Cortex dominates, we plan and judge, seek knowledge and weigh costs against benefits.

 

So now you know the resources, what do you do about it?   The originators of the framework of brain systems recommends that instead of approaching your challenges with logic alone, you can let your brain activity expand.   Allow associations that might seem far-fetched, or even outlandish, to open up.  Then the originators say that you may very well discover interesting ideas and solutions to vexing problems and refreshing approaches.

 

Now with these brain resources you may not have known you had, hopefully you will realize that you are far more brilliant than you previously thought.  .

 

Gregory B. Anderson–director