Neuroscience for

CoachesWhat is really going on in those brains?

Checklist for Coaches2012-2013

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Why is Neuroscience Essential?

Improves our accuracyThe brain itself is very complex, however there are some things to know about it that are quite straightforward. Today there is no excuse to not be aware of the very foundation that drives everything we do. By understanding our brain and mind we are better positioned to act in a way that produces desired results.

Gives us flexibilityRather than having to follow a prescriptive formula, which may or may not work for us, by understanding how we work we can tweak things to fit us. This results in more flexible individuals more easily achieving their ideal outcomes.

Next generation of achievementAlthough we have been rapidly advancing our understanding of the brain for the last twenty years, it only now seems inescapable. In five years time, not knowing the basics about what is inside our heads will put you at a serious disadvantage. The growth individuals and society as a whole could go through as a consequence of being aware about how they work is huge. It is time to ensure you’re at the forefront of these developments.

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Checklist

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Brain / Mind DifferenceSome describe the brain as the hardwear and the mind as the softwear. They each have different functions and different ways of being engaged and optimised. Are you maximising their potential?

Brain Areas

The brain is made up of various different

components which interact in specific

ways. One area, like the amygdala, can

have a profound impact on the functions of

another area, like the prefrontal cortex. Do

you know your brain areas?

Brain ChemicalsThe cells in the brain communicate both electrically and chemically. The chemicals act like drugs on us creating big effects on our mind and body. They can help or hinder us achieving our goals. Do you know which chemicals create which effects, and how to manipulate them?

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Quantum Nature of BrainSome scientists believe the brain is quantum in nature. If this is the case it has profound implications. Many exercises Coaches do would have a scientific underpinning if this is the case. Do you know how to capitalize on the quantum brain?

Goals

Goals, and the ability of a person to achieve

them, depend heavily on the brain and

mind. Neuroscience studies give us huge

insights into how best to work with goals to

set a person best up for success. Are you

familiar with these studies?

BeliefsBeliefs are powerful and when clients understand the science of what is really occurring in their brains they are more empowered to make changes in a way that works for them. Do you understand the fundamental science?

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MotivationProcrastination is one of the biggest time wasters out there. Equipping people to effectively motivate themselves is worth a lot to individuals and organisations. The science behind it is strong, are you utilising the latest research?

Decision making

How we make decisions underpins a lot of

our everyday success. Understanding the

decision making process gives people an

advantage. Knowing the pitfalls and how

to avoid them can make the difference, are

you aware of them?

HappinessThe science of happiness (not all strictly neuroscience) can easily be built into most forms of Coaching with immediate positive benefits. Are you using it with your clients?

My Checklist

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Next StepsHas this checklist wetted your appetite? If so be aware that it is just the beginning, designed to introduce you to some of the things that could enrich your Coaching. It is our belief that within five years all Coaches will be expected to have a strong neuroscience foundation to their practice. Getting the right information is important. Accessing resources that cover surface level concepts, all be it interesting, doesn’t

equip Coaches to best serve the people they work with, and can at time be detrimental. Neuroscience for Coaches is working with neuroscientists to develop a range of resources that layer in the fundamentals essential to Coaches who want to take their practice to the next level. We hope they serve you well.

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