The Brain: Your Personal CPU

Have you ever considered the idea that your brain functions like a central processing unit (CPU)?

This implies that when you feed your brain information, it actively seeks out ways to validate that information.

The brain is a remarkable instrument that processes everything we tell it, whether it's uplifting or discouraging.

It's perfectly normal to experience a whirlwind of thoughts—our minds often feel like a continuous comedic performance where we play both the role of comedian and audience.

However, if a fleeting thought takes root and evolves into a deeply held belief, it can lead to distress—especially if that belief is negative.

Core beliefs are the foundational views we hold about ourselves, others, and the world around us.

For instance, if you convince yourself that you’re unintelligent, your brain will search for evidence to support this notion.

Examples of such evidence might include:

• Making an error during a meeting
• Feeling awkward in social situations
• Receiving constructive criticism from a supervisor
• Accidentally dropping something in public
• Struggling to meet a deadline
• Not getting a job after an interview
• Witnessing someone else receive praise

None of these instances inherently prove you're lacking in intelligence; they are isolated incidents that can occur to anyone and do not define who you are.

Yet, your brain, akin to a child, may fail to grasp this nuance.

It simply seeks evidence to affirm your existing beliefs about yourself—this is known as confirmation bias.

Reframing Your Thoughts

The brain's tendency to find evidence can also be harnessed positively.

By consciously altering your negative beliefs and supplying your brain with constructive affirmations, you can reshape its narrative.

For example, consider these affirmations:

• I am intelligent
• I contribute positively to others
• I am a valuable friend
• People enjoy my company
• I am a good person

By repeating these phrases, your brain will begin to seek out supportive evidence, thereby reinforcing your positive self-image.

Even if you don’t initially believe these statements, consistency is key; over time, as your brain identifies supporting evidence, you will witness a shift in your self-perception and emotional state.

This method can also help dismantle previously held negative beliefs.

If you challenge the notion of being unintelligent, you can counter the negative evidence your brain has gathered.

Let’s explore evidence that you are, in fact, smart:

• You often volunteer to speak up in meetings, even when it's uncomfortable, demonstrating courage.
• You attend social gatherings despite feeling uneasy, engaging in conversations with others.
• Constructive feedback is a tool for growth; it shows your manager's investment in your development.
• Dropping items is a common human experience and doesn't reflect on your intellect.
• Meeting deadlines is challenging, but communicating with your manager about your workload shows responsibility.
• Not securing a job isn’t a reflection of your intelligence; many factors influence hiring decisions.
• Observing someone receive praise doesn’t diminish your worth; everyone has their moments to shine.

Key Takeaways

The brain is an extraordinary and powerful entity.

It has the capacity to elevate our mood or lead us into despair.

If we allow our minds to dictate our self-worth, we may fall into negativity.

We must take charge and nurture our mental landscape, which involves:

• Stopping negative self-talk and replacing it with positive affirmations
• Transforming negative core beliefs
• Seeking evidence that supports positive statements
• Rationally dismantling negative narratives presented by our minds

Some individuals, like Mo Gawdat, a recognized 'Happiness Expert,' even assign a name to the part of their brain that generates negative self-talk—like "Becky."

He shares that when Becky intrudes with unhelpful thoughts, he responds, “Not right now, Becky; I’ll address you later.”

This strategy allows him to focus on his work without disruption, knowing he will confront these thoughts at a designated time.

When the moment arrives, he can effectively counter Becky's negative assertions with rational arguments.

The more you practice this approach, the quicker you will become at dismissing negative self-talk, leading to a more resilient mindset.

Mastering the art of dismantling harmful self-talk while reinforcing positive beliefs can empower you to take charge of your own happiness.

Medical Disclaimer:

If you find that your negative self-perceptions are becoming too overwhelming to manage, seek guidance from your GP or refer yourself to Talking Therapy for support. Talking Therapy may include various approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relational attachment therapy.

Signs it may be time to seek help include:

• Disruption of daily activities
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Prolonged feelings of anxiety or depression
• Changes in social interactions with friends

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This video, "How to Become the Master of Your Own Life," explores actionable strategies for taking charge of your happiness and mental well-being.

In "Become the Master of Your Own Destiny Feat. Sadhguru," learn insights from Sadhguru on cultivating a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Explore the research on negative core beliefs in the study "The Negative Core Beliefs Inventory: Development and Psychometric Properties."