Activate Your RAS: The Art and Science of Creating Your Reality from the Inside Out

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Have you ever noticed how once you set your sights on something—like buying a new car or planning a trip—you start seeing reminders of it everywhere? It’s not magic; it’s your brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS) at work.

I came across in a new book: Activate Your RAS: The Art and Science of Creating Your Reality from the Inside Out by Sian Hill who explained that this small yet powerful part of your brain acts like a filter, shaping what you notice and focus on. When used intentionally, the RAS can become your most valuable ally in creating the reality you desire.

What is the Reticular Activating System (RAS)?

The RAS is a network of neurons located in your brainstem, responsible for filtering sensory information and prioritizing what deserves your attention. With millions of stimuli vying for your focus at any given moment, the RAS ensures you don’t get overwhelmed. It decides what gets through based on what your brain deems important—whether it’s an immediate danger, a loved one’s voice, or something aligned with your goals.

The RAS in Action: Why You See What You Believe

Here’s how it works:

• Focus directs your filter: If you’re actively thinking about something—like buying a red car—your RAS starts filtering for anything related to that thought. Suddenly, red cars seem to appear everywhere.
• Beliefs shape your reality: If you believe you’re unlucky, your RAS highlights evidence to confirm that belief. Conversely, if you focus on opportunities, it will help you spot them in everyday situations.

This is where the art of consciously programming your RAS comes into play. By setting intentional goals and focusing on positive outcomes, you can train your brain to work in your favor, amplifying what matters most to you.

How to Activate and Program Your RAS

To harness the power of your RAS, you need to intentionally engage it. Here’s how:

1. Clarify Your Vision

Take a moment to define what you truly want. Whether it’s a personal goal, a career achievement, or a healthier lifestyle, specificity is key. Write down your goal in clear and vivid terms. For example:

• Instead of “I want to be healthier,” write, “I exercise three times a week, eat nourishing foods, and feel energized and strong.”
• Instead of “I want success,” try, “I am earning $5,000 per month doing work I love that positively impacts others.”

2. Use Visualization to Align Your Focus

Visualization is like a workout for your RAS. Close your eyes and imagine your goal as if it’s already achieved. Picture the details—what you see, hear, and feel. By doing this, you prime your RAS to notice opportunities and resources that align with your vision.

3. Affirm Your Reality

Affirmations are another powerful tool to activate your RAS. Repeat positive, present-tense statements that reflect your desired outcome. For example:

• “I am confident and attract opportunities that align with my goals.”
• “Every day, I move closer to my dreams with clarity and ease.”

These affirmations signal to your RAS that these beliefs and goals are significant, increasing your awareness of related possibilities.

4. Take Action with Intentionality

Your RAS works best when you combine focus with action. Pay attention to the small steps you can take daily. As you act on your goals, your brain reinforces their importance, creating a feedback loop that strengthens your motivation and perception of progress.

5. Reflect and Adjust Regularly

Spend time each day reflecting on your goals and what your RAS is bringing to your attention. Are you noticing patterns? Opportunities? Blocks? Use this insight to fine-tune your focus and adjust your actions.

The Science of Inner Reality Creation

The art of working with your RAS is deeply intertwined with the science of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. By focusing on what you want, your repeated thoughts and actions rewire your brain, making your desired reality feel not just possible, but inevitable.

What Are You Programming Your RAS For?

Take a moment to reflect: What are you unintentionally programming your RAS to focus on? Is it worry, fear, or self-doubt? Or is it abundance, growth, and resilience? You hold the power to reprogram this filter at any moment.

Your Call to Action

Start small. Today, write down one clear goal and spend five minutes visualizing it with intention. Notice how your awareness shifts in the days ahead. Share your experience in the comments—what did your RAS help you notice that you might have missed before?

Join our community on Patreon for more tips, meditations, and resources to help you activate your potential from the inside out. Together, let’s create the life you’ve always dreamed of, one focused thought at a time.

Thank you for being there and if you want to explore my world go here.

Cheers,

Gary