How Can I Trick My Brain into Doing What I Want?

Have you ever found yourself procrastinating, leaving your studies or work for later, simply because you had 'plenty of time'? I remember such instances vividly. One week, I meticulously wrote all my homework due dates and exam dates in my planner weeks before they were actually due. Surprisingly, I almost completely forgot I had tricked myself, leading to a close call with a nervous breakdown. However, it worked! I managed to complete all my homework, proving that these tactics can be effective.

The human brain is incredibly malleable, and with practice, it can follow your instructions. Much like any skill, it requires consistent effort and dedication. Let's explore some strategies to 'trick' your brain into aligning with your goals and habits.

Shaping Your Productive Habits

To improve productivity, you must change your mindset and behaviors. For instance, March 15, 2019, was a significant moment for me. I drank a cup of tea and coffee, paid attention to my nutrition, and even experimented with herbal supplements. These small steps also involved organizing tasks and prioritizing interesting subjects according to my personal interests. This approach led to a period of heightened productivity from 2017 to 2019, which, although somewhat interrupted, still demonstrates the power of these practices.

The Brain: A Toolbox for Life

Think of your brain as a toolbox, complete with various tools to accomplish tasks. When a bolt needs disengagement, you might use a ratchet, or if that’s unavailable, a wrench. Sometimes, even a pair of pliers might be the best tool for the job. Similarly, your brain operates various systems, and each piece is crucial. Just like a skilled craftsman finds the best tool for the job, your brain finds the most effective way to accomplish tasks. The subconscious mind plays a significant role, extending beyond our conscious control to shape our lives in profound ways.

Tricking Your Brain: A Gentle Approach

While you can't directly command your brain to do what you want, you can train it over time to follow your instructions. One effective method is to gradually introduce tasks into your routine. For example, if you want to start doing push-ups but your brain is resisting, create a gentle plan. Tell yourself, 'I won't do push-ups now, but let's just do a couple.' After a few, your brain will agree. Slowly increase the number to make it a habit. I find this technique works well for building new habits, like meditation. When I don't feel the urge, I remind myself, 'Let's just meditate for a few minutes' rather than forcing it. Soon, it becomes easier to do.

Conclusion

Tricking your brain into doing what you want is not about commanding it to change. Instead, it involves understanding and working with its nature. Whether it's improving productivity, adopting healthy habits, or achieving your goals, this approach can be incredibly powerful. Start with small steps and be patient. With persistence, you can train your brain to align with your vision.