We have some exciting things coming up on Read It For Me, although it’s going to be hard to top having Seth Godin join us for a free webinar in less than a month (check out the Linchpin summary preview). One of the new features you’ll be seeing here is a new post everyday full of insights taken from the books we are reviewing here. So, without further adieu, here is the very first post in this series. Oh yes, don’t forget to sign up for the Linchpin Webinar (space is limited and is filling up quickly).
What the lizard brain does to you
You have a lizard brain. Don’t worry, you are in good company because the rest of the human race has one too. It’s the part of the brain that we’ve had for millions of years and it developed in the time when we (us humans) were living in the jungle trying to survive against bigger, faster and dangerous animals. It’s the part of the brain that makes us instantly run in the opposite direction when a tiger jumps out of the bush and charges us. It’s an instinct for survival. The problem with the lizard brain, as Seth explains it, is that it isn’t very well suited for the demands of the 21st century. It isn’t very helpful when you have a blog post to finish, or a project deadline looming, or are about to propose marriage to your long-time girlfriend.
Why? Because it’s constantly telling you all the reasons why you can’t accomplish what you’ve set out to accomplish. “Maybe they won’t like your writing style”, it will say. “Maybe she will say no”, it will remind you. We face these types of hurdles everyday. In fact, I just had one right now: this post didn’t save correctly, and I thought I had to start again. The lizard brain told me “you are tired, there’s always tomorrow”. Nope, not this time, lizard brain.
What you can do about it
Seth tells us that we can’t try and destroy the lizard brain – it’s simply part of who we are. Ignoring it doesn’t work either. What works is acknowledging it for it’s thoughtful contribution, and then moving on with whatever you had planned to do. I’ve found that in practice this is easier said than done (way easier!). However, it’s these small victories that eventually lead up to the big victory that you are seeking. Sometimes you’ll fail and the lizard brain will get the better of you. Don’t worry, because there will be a rematch coming soon.
You can read more about the lizard brain on Seth’s blog.
