Use it or lose it

“The important thing is not to stop questioning; curiosity has its own reason for existing.” - Albert Einstein

Recently, I attended a training day to learn more about neuroscience, a fascinating and vast area looking at the science behind how different parts of our brains work and interact, and its impact on our learning, behaviour and cognitive functions.

What became clear is that the more we understand about how our brain works, the more able we may be to create helpful conditions for learning and development. Neuroscience can support the work I do in coaching and personal development by offering insight into why some tools, strategies and approaches can be effective.

There is much to gain from this immense subject area, but a key message I wanted to share with you today is the truth behind the phrase “use it or lose it”.

• Neurons, or nerve cells, are the building blocks of the brain.
• Each brain cell, or neuron, has receptive branches called dendrites, which are extensions that connect to other neurons and help form networks of pathways.
• These pathways are formed and strengthened through brain activity. When you think, signals travel between neurons, helping form patterns of understanding and trains of thought.
• These pathways can strengthen the more they are used, and may weaken with disuse. In this sense, the phrase “use it or lose it” can apply.

It is true that there are periods in life where brain development is especially active, such as early childhood and adolescence. But it is also true that, even in later life, we can continue to learn and form new connections when we keep enriching our minds.

Naturally, we are all different, and the range of inspiring and challenging activities for us individually will be endless. Whether you enjoy research or problem-solving, creative ideas or interacting physically with objects, what is important is your active engagement with your environment to support learning, development and growth.

One way to support continued development is to stimulate and maintain curiosity throughout life.