Feel Out of Control?  

Brain scientist Dr. John Medina tells us that when we can't control constant negative stress or its frequency, our experience of being out of control and trapped destroys our brain cells.

Thinking and feeling that 'there is no way out' damages our cognition - our ability to process information, problem solve, and know. The more we experience  negative stress as an endless loop, the less productive we are. No wonder we find ourselves unavailable for what we say matters most to us.

Are you suffering from any of these 'on-the-verge' signs?

• You feel scattered and unable to concentrate?
• You forget things easily?
• You never seems to be able to get anywhere on time?
• You no longer have the energy to do the things you love to do because they just feel lke more items on your to-do list?
• You use your vacations, holidays and weekends "to catch up."
• Your breathing is shallow.
• You no longer think there's a better way to deal with the constant overload that keeps you in overdrive.

Good News

In his book Brain Rules Dr. John Medina presents 12 brain rules. Let's focus on the 3 he discussed in his talk at Google.

1. Aerobic fitness boosts brain power. 20 minutes of aerobic exercise 2-3 times a week increases our ability to problem solve, make better decisions, and manage our emotions.
2. Being and feeling out of control is not a healthy option. Get the help you need to figure out what you can control and how to use that as a natural buffer for what you cannot control. For instance, when constantly dealing with negative stress, ask yourself with genuine curiosity: What can I learn from this right now? Then focus on what you're learning and don't give the stress any more of your precious energy.
3. Multi-tasking is a myth. It's not the way our brains are wired. In the words of brain scientist Dr. John Medina: "You can't do it!"

Brain Rules