Why We Do What We Do

Practical tools and tips to lead a healthy and productive life

The brain is the basis of everything we do: how we behave, communicate, feel, remember, pay attention, create, influence and decide.

Why We Do What We Do combines scientific research with concrete examples and illustrative stories to clarify the complex mechanisms of the human brain. It offers valuable insights into how our brain works every day, at home and at work, and provides practical ideas and tips to help us lead happy, healthy and productive lives.

• Learn about how your brain functions

• Find out how emotions can be overcome or last a lifetime

• Access your brain’s natural ability to focus and concentrate

• Think creatively

The thoughts you have and the words that you speak all have an effect on your neural architecture — and this book explains what that means in a way you can understand.

About the Author ix

About Lansons xi

Acknowledgements xiii

Preface xv

Chapter 1 Our Brain 3

Chapter 2 Our Brain and Emotion 25

Chapter 3 Our Brain and Memory 49

Chapter 4 Our Brain and Attention 75

Chapter 5 Our Brain and Language 93

Chapter 6 Our Brain and Visual Perception 123

Chapter 7 Our Brain and Biases 143

Chapter 8 Our Brain and Creativity 171

Chapter 9 Our Brain and Change 197

Chapter 10 Our Brain and Stress 221

Chapter 11 Our Brain and Leadership 245

Chapter 12 Our Brain and Lifestyle 275

And finally . . . 311

A Note on Neurocomms 313

Index 315

DR. HELENA BOSCHI is a psychologist focusing on applied neuroscience in the workplace. Her work with her clients all over the world involves designing new and creative learning initiatives, particularly in the areas of leadership and team development, intercultural communication and organisational change.

THE ACCESSIBLE GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING WHY NEUROSCIENCE IS CRITICAL TO THE SUCCESS OF YOUR BUSINESS!

Written in understandable language, Why We Do What We Do offers a guide to the neuroscience of how our brain works and includes insights into how we can apply the information to our everyday activities in the workplace and at home. The author – a noted speaker in the field of applied neuroscience – reveals how we can change just a few habits that can make a significant difference to the way we feel and behave with the people around us. The book is filled with practical tools and suggestions that can lead to a more healthy and productive life.

Why We Do What We Do highlights how we behave, communicate, feel, remember, pay attention, create, influence, lead others and make decisions. The book explores the role emotions play and considers the enduring power of storytelling. The author also examines a wide range of topics such as how habits are formed and what we can do to minimise the pain of change. In addition, the book offers methods for dealing with today's stressful modern world and helps to identify symptoms of stress.

Filled with vivid illustrations, helpful charts and diagrams, the book explains how our brain helps us respond to the world around us and keeps our physical system in balance. Why We Do What We Do combines scientific research with concrete examples and illustrative stories. Why We Do What We Do clearly shows how an understanding of neuroscience is critical to our success in business.