Day 1: Gold Standards

The human brain is a remarkable feat of nature, containing approximately 100 billion neurons that form trillions to quadrillions of connections known as synapses. These connections are constantly adapting and changing in response to the stimuli in our environment. This complex network of neurons operates at full capacity throughout our lives, constantly creating and processing information. Every day, we are immersed in a complex web of electrical and chemical activity that is the environment of our brain. Within this environment, we play multiple roles: leader, creator, teacher, and user:

• As a leader, you give your brain instructions for each day.
• As a creator, you are creating new pathways and connections within the brain that didn’t exist yesterday.
• As a teacher, you are teaching your brain new skills.
• As a user, you are responsible for keeping your brain in good condition.

The difference between an ordinary brain and a superbrain lies in these four roles. A superbrain is one that is fully self-aware and utilizing its brain to its fullest potential. The human brain is capable of constant adaptation and anyone can effectively fulfill the roles of leader, creator, teacher, and user to a greater extent than before.

Your instructions to the brain are not like computer commands, they are received by a living organism that changes with every directive you give it. Creativity is a unique and dynamic source of inspiration that can never be replicated by a computer. Make the most of your brain’s ability to give more the more you ask of it. Take a look at the following list and see which one you identify with.

Basic Brain:

• Today I do not aspire to act differently than I did yesterday.
• I am a man of habit.
• I rarely stimulate my brain with something new.
• Everything that happens in my life is monotonous.

Super Brain:

• I look at each day as a new world opening up.
• I try not to indulge in bad habits.
• I like to improvise.
• I do not like routine, repetition, monotony.

The human brain has the ability to continuously adapt and grow throughout life. Engaging in new activities can lead to the acquisition of new skills. The concept of “ten thousand hours” suggests that with sufficient practice, one can become an expert in anything. Our lives are a collection of skills that we develop, ranging from basic skills such as walking and speaking to more complex ones. It is important to not limit ourselves and instead, continuously strive to learn and improve. This keeps the brain active and sharp. Learning something new every day challenges the brain and keeps it growing. Who do you want to be?

Basic Brain:

• I can’t say that I am growing like in my youth.
• If I learn any new skill, I will stop there.
• I resist change and sometimes fear it.
• I’m not looking to go beyond what I’m already good at.

Super Brain:

• I will develop all my life.
• If I learn something new, I strive to improve in it endlessly.
• I adapt quickly to change. I love challenges.
• I prefer an active life and have a rest only sometimes.

True knowledge stems not from memorizing facts, but from a sense of awe and wonder about the world. A single passionate teacher has the power to ignite a student’s curiosity, transforming their life forever. Similarly, in your relationship with your brain, you are both the student and the teacher. Inspiration comes from within and can trigger a chain reaction in the brain. Curiosity keeps the brain awake and active. To be an effective teacher, you must recognize your own strengths and weaknesses, provide opportunities for growth, and encourage new challenges. As a skilled student, you must remain open to learning and be receptive to new experiences. Who do you see yourself as?

Basic Brain:

• I have a well-established outlook on life.
• Let others be experts.
• I rarely watch educational TV shows and attend lectures.
• I haven’t been really surprised by something for a long time.

Super Brain:

• I like to updated.
• I recently changed one of my old beliefs.
• I am attracted to educational programs on television.
• My life inspires me every day.

The human brain is complex and does not come with a manual, but it requires proper care and nourishment. While a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and enzymes is important, the brain also needs mental stimulation. Substance abuse such as alcohol and tobacco can be detrimental to brain health. Negative emotions like anger, fear, stress, and depression can also be harmful. It’s important to maintain control over your own thoughts and emotions, rather than letting them control you. Examples of this include road rage or being dominated by past experiences and unhealthy habits. Addictions can also have a negative impact on the brain. Understanding the importance of brain health is crucial. Who do you see yourself as?

Basic Brain:

• I recently lost control in one area of my life.
• My stress level is very high, but I put up with it.
• I’m worried about depression or I’m in it.
• My thoughts are intrusive, frightening or restless.

Super Brain:

• I feel a pleasant feeling of control over my life.
• I actively avoid stressful situations.
• I am almost always in a good mood.
• I like my way of thinking.

While our brains don’t come with a manual, we have the power to harness them to achieve spiritual growth, personal success, self-fulfillment, and learn new skills. We can elevate our brain’s capabilities to new heights. The ultimate goal is to have an awakened brain that transcends the typical four roles we play. Achieving this state of enlightenment involves becoming a silent observer to everything the brain does, free from confusion and distraction. When one desires to push beyond limitations, the brain is willing to follow. This aspect of life is real and attainable.