Unlock Your Brain’s Hidden Power: From Monty Python to Your Finances
Imagine waking up with the solution to a problem that plagued you the night before. This isn’t just a lucky coincidence. John Cleese, of Monty Python fame, swears by it: he sleeps on a problem and wakes up with the answer. You can too. This fascinating phenomenon highlights the power of our subconscious mind, a power that extends far beyond creative problem-solving, impacting even our most crucial financial decisions.
“One of the most stunning things is that the degree to which you act is driven by mechanisms running under the hood,” explains neuroscientist Dr. David Eagleman. This “under the hood” driver is our subconscious, the silent architect of our choices, especially when it comes to money.
Contrary to popular belief, willpower alone isn’t enough to guarantee sound financial decisions. Neuroscience reveals the immense influence of our unconscious mind. Ignoring it can lead to repeated, costly mistakes. So, how do we harness this power and “hack” our subconscious for financial success?
The key lies in setting clear, specific goals. Many of us create lists, but vague aspirations won’t effectively train our subconscious. Instead, ask yourself:
“What does success look like to me?”
“What specific actions can I take now?”
“What do I truly want from life?”
Translate these questions into detailed, prioritized goals. For example:
Complete a business degree.
Achieve a credit score of 750+ for better loan rates.
Eliminate all credit card debt.
Secure a location for my [your business name] business.
Engage a business coach.
Limit your list to 5-10 focused goals to make the process less overwhelming.
Training Your Subconscious to Obey
Your list represents the decisions that will lead to your dreams. However, your subconscious, prone to distraction and self-sabotage, will resist. This is where conscious effort comes in.
Psychologists recognize “confirmation bias,” where the subconscious interprets information based on existing beliefs. To counter this, employ positive affirmations throughout the day, reinforcing your desired outcomes. While it might sound like “woo-woo,” neuroscience confirms its effectiveness.
Embrace Problems, Cultivate Solutions
Our subconscious often steers us away from discomfort and challenges. Yet, successful individuals understand that problem-solving is a powerful training ground.
Create a list of 5-10 recurring problems and outline potential solutions. Discoveries and progress arise from addressing these challenges. Train your brain to actively seek and resolve complex issues.
Mastering the Submerged Universe
The subconscious mind is a complex and influential force. While we can’t simply turn it off, understanding its mechanisms empowers us to take control. By setting specific goals, using positive affirmations, and embracing problem-solving, we can harness its power to achieve better financial outcomes and live a more fulfilling life.
Dave Mello, a native Nevadan, is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management. Syndicated Columnists is the sole provider of this material, both written and conceptual, for this column. All rights reserved.
