Brainflix: Our unconscious decision making machine

Brainflix is like an app that starts running from birth. Comparing the program in our unconscious mind to Netflix is fitting. Just as Netflix offers a vast array of movies and series, Brainflix is a platform of habits, routines and actions controlled by our unconscious mind. Our mind runs numerous programs simultaneously. For instance, right now, it's managing your heartbeat, overseeing the environment, regulating emotions, and carrying out cognitive tasks without us even realising it. The capabilities of our brain are truly remarkable.?

??? Our brain consists of a very large database of Brainflix series ??

One of the popular programs on Brainflix is the morning ritual. It all starts with the alarm clock going off, triggering the next action. For me, it is hitting the snooze button, then getting out of bed, grabbing a cup of coffee or tea, heading to the shower, and having breakfast. This morning ritual will probably differ from person to person but chances are quite big that the flow will be the same on most days, although there might be a difference between weekdays and weekend days.?

This daily ritual is interesting because each action triggers the next one. In the app Netflix, you have a few seconds to stop watching before the next episode starts, but in Brainflix, the activities are intertwined much faster. Many psychologists and neuroscientists believe that a significant portion of human behaviour and decision-making is influenced by unconscious processes. While it's hard to measure, some sources suggest it could be as high as 95-98%.?

?? Driving: A Tale of Unconscious Mastery ??

A nice example to explain the difference between our conscious and unconscious mind is the activity of driving a car. For somebody who's just starting to learn this process, it's an enormous complex activity which initially demands a lot of energy and brain capacity. Driving a car involves coordinating multiple tasks simultaneously. You must steer, accelerate, brake, and check mirrors all at once while learning and reacting to traffic rules. It also requires risk assessment, decision-making, and staying calm to reduce anxiety. With repetition, these tasks become habits, making driving easier. Some drivers can even multitask, like doing makeup or having meals, relying on their unconscious brain to control the actions. We don't support this kind of behaviour, but it's a great example that repetition will lead to a habit and the task will be easier to perform.

Our unconscious brain plays a dominant role due to its efficiency in processing information. The brain prioritises energy conservation, allowing the unconscious mind to make decisions effortlessly. According to T?r N?rretranders book "The User" our conscious awareness is just the tip of the iceberg, with the unconscious mind handling the bulk of cognitive processing. Studies suggest that the conscious brain processes 40 to 50 bits per second, while the unconscious mind can process 11 million bits per second. This vast difference in processing speed explains why the brain relies on the unconscious mind for decision-making. Repeated use of a program strengthens the connection between neurons, making habits harder to change. For instance, try to brush your teeth with your non-dominant hand. It might be quite a challenge.

?? Sssss ... A moment of reflection ??

Take a moment to step back and reflect on the concept of Brainflix introduced in this newsletter. Consider how your unconscious mind, like a well-programmed streaming service, influences your daily habits and decision-making. Think about your own "morning ritual" or other routines. How much of your behaviour is guided by unconscious processes? By understanding the power of your Brainflix, you can begin to unlock new possibilities for personal and professional growth.

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