What is Physical Intelligence?

We spent decades believing that our ability and success were tied in large part to our IQ. In 1994, a definition of Cognitive Intelligence first appeared in the Wall Street Journal with endorsement from over 50 intelligence researchers. Cognitive Intelligence is a general mental capability that involves the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly and learn from experience. It is measured via the Intelligence Quotient (IQ). IQ is not merely book learning, a narrow academic skill or test-taking smarts. Rather, it reflects a broader and deeper capability for comprehending our surroundings—catching on, making sense of things or figuring out what to do.

 In 1990 a different intelligence was proposed that started a revolution in how intelligence was regarded, especially for evaluation of performance in the workplace. Peter Salovey and John D. Mayer proposed a model of emotional intelligence to address a growing need in psychology for a framework to organize the study of individual differences in abilities related to emotion. In Emotional Intelligence Professors Salovey and Mayer define emotional intelligence (EI) as “the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and actions.” Daniel Goleman played an important role in demonstrating the importance of EI for success in the workplace.

And yet, IQ and EQ are not the only factors defining our success in business and life. Our physiology, determined by our genetic disposition and our life experiences has a fundamental influence over every intelligence we possess. Our Physical Intelligence is intrinsic to the network of mental, emotional and physical patterns of our brain and body harboring our personal traits and life experiences. The non-cognitive aspects of this landscape of patterns bear a texture that deeply influences the clarity of our thinking, emotions and physical states. This fundamental level of intelligence has a profound impact on our cognitive, physical and emotional capabilities defining the “how” of the way we function and behave.

 Tapping into our Physical Intelligence allows us to make directed changes in our mental, emotional and physiological architecture. This, in turn, allows us to naturally enhance current skills and traits, while acquiring new ones. We will be able to tap into these new skills effortlessly, just as we access the ones we already possess. Most importantly it allows us to re-establish the connection with our center, our source of confidence, purpose, balance, motivation and well-being.

Neuroplasticity, the capability of the brain to change and adapt, is at the core of the Physical Intelligence paradigm.

Our unique approach leverages the strong interrelation of mind and body, tapping into the physical body’s ability to stimulate, shape and change the mental patterns we possess. Taking advantage of the innate plastic properties of the brain, we use structured physical movement to drive change. Our Physical Intelligence becomes the lever to establish a new foundation for a host of critical skills that impact our mental performance, clarity of thought, creative abilities, stamina, self-awareness and emotional control.

 Establish new mind qualities that enable powerful and purposeful actions.

• Enhance key management and leadership skills through developing personal mastery and capabilities that promote leadership excellence, agility, personal motivation and satisfaction
• Shape non-cognitive competencies to gain a competitive edge at work
• Gain deeper insights into making the right choices, a sense of one’s purpose; find the path to a meaningful, balanced and satisfying life.
• Control and balance the impact of modern life on the mind and body; reduce stress and achieve wellness.
• Establish a disciplined and effective mindset to overcome bad habits, support efforts to  eat right, become fit and maintain a healthy weight.
• Explore the depth of our minds, the process of thinking, consciousness and insights about our lives and existence.

Physical Intelligence can matter even more than IQ and EQ, because it helps us address limitations and evolve in a constructive way.  Physical intelligence redefines the intelligence we bring to the workplace and our lives. We have the opportunity to transform our lives giving us an opportunity to living from a pillar of strength, enjoying peak performance, emotional balance and achieve personal and professional satisfaction.

 It is a life-changing journey.

Sources:

Gottfredson, LS. "Mainstream Science on Intelligence: An Editorial With 52 Signatories, History, And Bibliography". Intelligence 24.1 (1997): 13-23. Web. 14 June 2017.

En.wikipedia.org. (2017). “Intelligence Quotient.” [online] Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intelligence_quotient [Accessed 4 Oct. 2017].

Barsalou LW. "Introduction to 30th Anniversary Perspectives On Cognitive Science: Past, Present, And Future". Topics in Cognitive Science 2.3 (2010): 322-327. Web.

 Salovey P, Mayer J, Caruso D. “Emotional intelligence: Theory, Findings, and Implications.” Psychol Inq 2004; 15:197-215.

Goleman D. “Working with Emotional Intelligence.” New York, NY: Bantam Books; 1998.

Bradberry T., “Emotional Intelligence – EQ”. Forbes Leadership. com. N.p., 2014. Web. 14 June 2017.

 Topics: Cognitive and Emotional Intelligence, Physical Intelligence, Leadership Development, Neuroplasticity