In performance improvement, understanding the brain's inherent nature as a connection machine is crucial. As Thomas B. Czerner noted in 2001 the brain's endless quest for patterns plays a fundamental role in shaping our experiences and responses. It creates and reinforces neural pathways to predict outcomes and navigate the complexities of life. As an executive coach, I've seen firsthand how harnessing these neural pathways can guide individuals toward significant shifts in both mindset and performance among clients.
The Brain's Quest for Patterns and Maps
Our brains do not just process information, they seek to predict by continuously crafting mental maps. These maps are essentially circuits or neural pathways that help us quickly interpret and react to our surroundings. When faced with new information or concepts, for example when we are told what we ‘should’ do, unless that ‘should’ fits exactly with our existing wiring, which is very unlikely, the dissonance is clear, and acceptance becomes a struggle.
For example, confronting a manager about their poor performance means a new map must be created in their brain. To move from dissonance to resonance, they must think it through for themselves, and new neural pathways need to be formed and reinforced for a lasting effect.
Quote: Prediction is not just one of the things your brain does. It is the primary function of the neocortex and the foundation of intelligence. Jeff Hawkins (2004)
The Power of Self-Directed Thinking
The journey to transformative performance begins with the individual finding their own answers. Self-directed thinking is not just a method but the essence of learning, creating, and problem-solving. This process is about making personal connections and discoveries. As a coach, my role isn't to dictate but to guide this thought process, focusing more on the individual's thinking rather than the issue at hand. This approach is akin to the philosophy behind Google's interviews, where the interest lies in the problem-solving thought process rather than the actual answer.
My role as a coach is to be a catalyst for self-directed insights. The most impactful conversations leaders can have, around performance, involves resolving a dilemma, meaning various mental maps are in conflict. When someone arrives at an insight for themselves, their brain is giving off alpha-band brain waves¹, indicating a turning inward of focus and the potential for breakthroughs.
When these insights occur, our brain then emits Gamma-band waves, it’s like an energy punch, signifying a moment of illumination. This is the moment to act, harness the motivation, and commit to tangible actions.
Harnessing the 'Aha' Moment
An 'Aha' moment is a form of illumination. It is more than just an epiphany. It's a neurological event where disparate ideas suddenly coalesce, forming a new and vibrant mental map. This moment isn't just intellectually rewarding, it releases a burst of energy that fuels motivation and drive. When coaching, tapping into this energy is crucial, as it primes individuals for action and inspires enhanced performance.
Coaching Toward Solution-Focused Mindset
Transforming performance is about much more than following directives. The fastest way to transform performance, particularly with intelligent, knowledgeable high-performing people, is to ask them for solutions. Often, it’s easier to start something new, i.e. forming new mental wirings, than it is to stop an old habit or thinking pattern. By guiding individuals through a self-directed journey of thought and discovery, we not only solve immediate problems but also equip them with the tools and mindset for continuous growth and improvement.
Stretching Beyond Comfort Zones
Performance transformation is akin to physical training, it's about stretching beyond perceived limitations and residing at the edge of comfort to foster growth and engagement. It's not about changing what people think but improving how they think. This means guiding them through a clear process that stretches their mental faculties, asking them about solutions, and encouraging them to venture beyond their comfort zones.
The journey may not be linear, but the process of self-discovery, moving from unconscious incompetence to conscious incompetence, from conscious competence to unconscious competence or mastery, is profoundly rewarding for the client and the coach. It's through understanding and harnessing our brain’s neural pathways that we can guide individuals toward a transformative journey of personal and professional growth.
Superscript 1: Alpha-band waves correlate with people shutting down external senses and inputs, and focusing on internal stimuli. They are also correlated with releasing serotonin, a chemical messenger that increases relaxation and eases pain. Alpha-band waves decrease by doing math or logical deduction or thinking and analyzing data.
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