Healthy Brain and Career Change.

Embarking on a career change is a deep,?transformative journey that goes beyond updating your CV; it's an important shift that can impact your overall well-being. Change is the movement from what we know to what we don't know. That space in between is the space where possibilities of endless paths and perspectives exist. It's a magic place where there's a chance for us to investigate ourselves along the path we have been with a curious approach, and unlock doors to a more enriched work experience, a new way of seeing the world, ourselves. A re-invention, a re-commitment, or perhaps even a total re-birth of ourselves.

As beautiful as it may sound, it doesn't often feel this way. Navigating a career transition can feel quite chaotic, nerve racking, keeping us up at night, filled with anxiety and questions such as "what if", "should I" "is that the right decision". We may end up questioning everything we want, have done, our skills, ourselves. This is normal. In times of transition our brain is more likely to kick into a fight, flight or freeze response because it wants to make sure we survive. Anything that might jeopardise our survival will activate these responses. Changes, especially career transitions, as they are so closely linked to our economic security will most often activate our survival response. As human beings, we have an innate aversion to uncertainty.

So, how do we move from that experience of anxiety and survival response towards that magic space of nourishment which a change can provide?

The connection between a healthy brain and a successful career change is more profound than we might think. In my brain coach training I have learned a framework that I would invite you to apply as you go through your career change journey. The framework is about the 6 pillars of a healthy brain.

LOVE. It's all about social connection. Social connection is crucial during a career transition for several reasons. Firstly, it provides emotional support, helping navigate the challenges and uncertainties that often come with a career change. Building new relationships? and maintaining connections can open up new opportunities, whether through job referrals, industry insights, or mentorship. Additionally, being connected socially fosters a sense of belonging and community, reducing feelings of isolation that can accompany career transitions. These connections may offer valuable advice, guidance, and perspectives that contribute to a smoother and more successful transition.

MOVEMENT. Physical movement, exercise increases? blood flow, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the brain. It also promotes the release of chemicals that support cognitive function and reduces stress hormones.

NOVELTY. The brain awakens in the new, whether it's formal learning or new experiences. If we constantly stay in our comfort zone, our brain will shrink.

NATURE. It has a soothing effect on the limbic amygdala. The limbic system plays a crucial role in emotions, and the amygdala, in particular, is involved in processing emotional responses, including fear and stress. Studies suggest that spending time in natural environments can lead to reduced activity in the amygdala, indicating a potential decrease in stress and anxiety levels.

OMEGA 3. The brain is a block of fatty acids. Omega 3 is the best fatty acid around (fish, nuts, seeds, fresh vegetables, etc.)

PAUSES. Taking breaks and allowing for pauses can enhance overall mental performance and well-being. Pauses provide an opportunity for the brain to relax and reduce stress. Deep breathing or mindful pauses activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of calmness. Brief breaks or pauses can stimulate creative thinking. Allowing the mind to wander during a pause may lead to new insights and solutions. Regular breaks, especially short ones during longer tasks, can help sustain attention and prevent mental fatigue. They allow the brain to reset, making it easier to return to a task with renewed focus. Pauses play a role in memory consolidation. Taking breaks between learning sessions allows the brain to process and solidify new information, improving retention. Strategic pauses can contribute to better decision-making. They offer a chance to step back, consider options, and approach problems with a fresh perspective, leading to more thoughtful choices. Pauses provide a moment for emotional self-regulation. Taking a breath before responding to a situation can help manage emotions and promote more thoughtful and measured reactions.

We all have a baseline. When we take care of our brain, more brain cells are created. Neuroscientists have shown that higher neurogenesis means more focus, a better memory, and more importantly, a more resilient brain. A lower neurogenesis rate is linked to depression, anxiety, low mood, burnout, etc.

In the dynamic landscape of career changes, the link between a healthy brain and success is evident. Which pillar are you going to focus on? What difference would it make to your effectiveness in relation to your career change??