Combatting Cognitive Slumber
In recent months, as is often the case when you drive organizational change, I sometimes hear the age-old cliché’ – “It’s the way we have always done it.” As I started to research this mindset, I learned that there is a formal word for it – Cognitive Slumber.
Cognitive Slumber is when you follow the norms you grew up to know without challenging these narratives. For example, someone may feel they are bad at science only because they have been conditioned by their experience to think science is not for them. Over time, they gather evidence from their grades that reinforces this belief. Shifting their thinking or belief about science creates a new reality for them.
In the professional workplace, several reasons can cause cognitive slumber:
Routine: When we don’t expose ourselves to new experiences or challenges, our brains often enter a state of cognitive slumber.
Multitasking: Dividing our attention between tasks diminishes our ability to focus intensely on one thing, leading to decreased cognitive performance.
Sleep deprivation: Chronic sleep deprivation can result in cognitive slumber, impairing our ability to think clearly and make rational decisions.
Information Overload: Overwhelming influx of data in this digital age can lead to cognitive overload, making it hard to process information effectively.
DeServing leaders must be consistently present, attentive and push themselves and their teams to think outside the box. It is fundamental to the growth of their teams. So how do you combat Cognitive Slumber?
Here are a few ways:
Continuous Learning: Prioritizing learning stimulates the brain and prevents it from falling into cognitive slumber.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise can enhance cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain.
Cognitive Challenges: Engaging in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, learning a new skill, or exploring creative hobbies, can stimulate neural pathways and awaken your cognitive faculties.
Sleep: Prioritize sleep by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Quality sleep is essential for optimal cognitive performance.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness and meditation can help clear mental clutter and enhance focus.
Digital Detox: Taking regular breaks from digital devices and social media can relieve information overload. Disconnecting allows your brain to recharge and regain its cognitive agility.
Identifying and recognizing Cognitive Slumber’s causes and implementing strategies to combat it can lead to enhanced mental clarity, improved problem-solving skills, and a greater capacity for personal growth. The above tips and techniques can awaken us from Cognitive Slumber and embrace a more vibrant, agile, and productive mental state.