The brain runs on algorithms (rules of thumb) all day long. It’s not a perfect system by any means but it gets us through most interactions and obstacles pretty smoothly. However, at every step in these internal brain programs something can go wrong. Below are the four steps our brains take in completing almost every task throughout our day.

• Step 1: Read internal body sensation (I.e. Body feels hungry)
• Step 2: Locate map of where to go to resolve body sensation (I.e Refrigerator is where food is)
• Step 3: Muster Motivation to follow map to resolve body sensation (I.e move from couch towards fridge)
• Step 4: Adapt to opportunities and dangers along route to resolve body sensation (I.e. Avoid barking dog that tries to distract you on voyage towards delicious treat)

It seems like such a simple process to follow, but so often we get stuck at roadblocks along the way. Listed below are the multiple ways you can make mistakes at each step in this process.

• Step 1 mistakes:
  • Misreading our internal sensation (I.e. Labeling a sensation as anger when it is really sadness that is our primary concern)
  • Completing ignoring the sensation (I.e using distractions such as alcohol or smartphones to ignore what our body is trying to tell us)
• Step 2 mistakes:
  • Reading the wrong maps of where to go (I.e Our internal maps direct us toward the bar to cope with our problems, instead of a friend’s house)
  • Never taught the right maps to follow (I.e Our family didn’t give us the tools to succeed)
• Step 3 mistakes:
  • Don’t take care of self so don’t have motivation (I.e Lack of sleep, crappy eating habits)
• Step 4 mistakes:
  • Mistakenly label everything as a danger and don’t see opportunities (I.e Run away from success at the first sign of danger)