F.O.C. n' Slides: Our Visual Belonging System

This graphic "Our Visual Belonging System" explains the neurological and biological foundations of how humans are wired for belonging and the role of our visual system in fostering connection and performance. Here's an explanation of its key components:

1. How We're Built

Visual Cortex:

• It highlights that 50% of the cerebral cortex is dedicated to visual processing. This emphasizes the importance of vision in human interaction.
• 2 Competing Foci: We often face a focus conflict between being locked on a target (task, goal, etc.) versus responding to movement (dynamic changes, interactions). The graphic notes that movement always wins due to our evolutionary wiring.

2. We're Wired for Belonging

• Feel, Own, and Care: Humans thrive in synchronous relational communication, which involves empathy, accountability, and compassion (Feel, Own, Care model).
• Mirror Neurons (Eyes on Face & Hands): This section highlights that observing others’ faces and hands triggers mirror neurons, fostering connection and understanding. This process releases key neurochemicals in belonging:
• Oxytocin: Supports trust, bonding, and social motivation.
• Serotonin: Promotes steadiness, emotional regulation, and a sense of well-being.

These neurochemicals create what the graphic calls a "Team OS" (Oxytocin & Serotonin Operating System), enabling synchronized collaboration.

3. Brain on Belonging

Oxytocin Effects:

In a state of belonging, the brain experiences elevated levels of oxytocin, leading to:

• Enhanced empathy, generosity, and cooperation
• Increased trust, recognition of emotions, and motivation
• Performance improvements like faster learning, fewer errors, and greater adaptability

Serotonin's Effects:

• It contributes to calmness under pressure
• better recall in high-stress situations
• clearer decision-making

This optimal state of TeamOS is sustained in belonging and boosts team cohesion and performance.

4. Unite & Fight Us Story

Group Connection:

• Shared stories and purposes create a unified narrative in belonging

Brain’s Energy Battery:

• When people belong (“you belong here”), their mental energy is replenished, enhancing their capacity to contribute and thrive.

Takeaway

This system integrates neuroscience and psychology to show how humans are visually and neurologically programmed to connect, belong, and perform better together. The combination of visual engagement, shared purpose, and neurochemicals creates a strong foundation for thriving relationships and teams.