The Brain and Me

Photo by Greg Rakozy on Unsplash

The Brain and Me - Neuroplasticity

I’m always on the lookout for secrets to getting more writing done, or to be honest, any writing that doesn’t involve an email to a client or the shopping list.  And over the last few years I’ve learnt that forming a habit is my key.  So when I came across REFIRE over the weekend (more on the fantastic Winter Write-In at Studio One on Sunday later) I loved the simple process for us, gentle readers, of what can be a complex subject; neuroplasticity.

The REFIRE process was created by Dr. Sarah McKay and is six easy steps to implement and rewire the brain so you can change your mindset, learn new skills, and create habits. Perfect, I hear you say!

Reason – You need to find your ‘why’. When you have your ‘why’ and it’s something you value, you’ll find a way to do it, no matter what.

Engage – Immerse yourself into your goal, taking action, engaging in your habit, task, or behaviour.  Use yourself or someone else to get on your case, motivating you.

Feel – Find your sweet spot of emotions, then set these emotions behind your goal.  Start taking action but don’t let fear or boredom slip in.

Imagine – Visualisation.  For me, that’s my novel with a gorgeous cover, on the shelf of my local bookshop.

Repeat – Practice!  Daily!  Even when you don’t feel like it. This is important when you are trying to learn a new habit.

Extend – Extension beyond your comfort zone once all the above steps are reached.

So, there we have it gentle reader.  REFIRE - Six steps to neuroplasticity from the sanctuary of your home.  Please do delve further for a more comprehensive study.

And, because I WHOLEHEARTEDLY AGREE with the ‘nana nap’ concept, here’s a clip of Dr McKay giving an excellent presentation on why we all should indulge in this pastime.

This wet and wild Sunday I participated in a Write-In at the perfectly situated Studio One in Ponsonby.  I was one of about 30 like-minded individuals, who all needed some time out and away from their normal routine to write the day away.  I managed to edit over 50 pages of the manuscript so I was thrilled. It was hosted by the ever-helpful and knowledgeable Kathryn Burnett, and I can’t wait for the next one. 

Happy writing everyone!

Bedside reading:  Behold The Dawn by K.M. Weiland

What's on Audible:  Dune by Frank Herbert

What's on Podcast: Nobody Panic by Tessa Coates and Stevie Martin