7 Secrets To High Performance Thinking - Part 7

Introduction to High-Performance Thinking

High-performance thinking isn't just about intelligence or knowledge; it's about harnessing the full capabilities of your mind, including the often-underestimated power of the subconscious. The first six secrets serve as building blocks, setting the stage for the ultimate revelation: the transformative power of the subconscious mind. These strategies include:

1. Relaxation - Calming the mind to prepare it for peak performance.
2. Visualization - Using mental imagery to envision success and program the mind towards achieving it.
3. Autosuggestion - Employing positive self-talk to reinforce beliefs and outcomes.
4. Goal Setting - Defining clear, actionable objectives to direct mental resources.
5. Whole-Brained Thinking - Integrating both creative and analytical thinking styles.
6. Humor - Leveraging laughter to reduce stress and enhance cognitive function.

The Power of the Subconscious Mind

The subconscious mind is often likened to a "sleeping giant," holding immense potential that, once awakened, can dramatically enhance mental performance. It operates continuously, even when we are not consciously aware, influencing everything from our automatic bodily processes to the complex decision-making and creative ideas that seem to 'come out of nowhere'.

The Role of the Subconscious in Everyday Life

Every day, our subconscious mind processes vast amounts of information, much more than our conscious mind could handle. According to research, the subconscious mind can process about 20,000,000 bits of information per second, whereas the conscious mind processes approximately 40 bits per second (Source: Inc.com). This incredible processing power explains why subconscious insights often appear as sudden hunches or intuition.

Techniques to Harness Subconscious Power

Various systems and traditions aim to tap into this subconscious power, transcending our usual patterns of thinking that are shaped by cultural conditioning. Techniques from Silva Mind Control, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Yoga, and Martial Arts all provide pathways to access and utilize the deeper cognitive resources of the subconscious mind.

Case Studies and Evidence

Studies have shown that techniques like meditation and visualization can significantly affect brain function and structure. For instance, a study published in the journal Neuroscience Letters found that regular meditation leads to changes in brain areas related to attention, anxiety reduction, and positive emotions. This neuroplasticity shows our ability to influence subconscious processes consciously (Source: Neuroscience Letters).

Awakening the Sleeping Giant

Maxwell Maltz famously said, "Within you right now is the power to do things you never dreamed possible. This power becomes available to you just as you can change your beliefs." This encapsulates the essence of high-performance thinking - recognizing and activating the subconscious mind's potential.

Practical Steps to Engage the Subconscious Mind

1. Regular Meditation: Quiets the conscious mind and allows subconscious insights to surface.
2. Affirmations and Autosuggestions: Repeatedly affirming your goals and visions helps embed them in the subconscious.
3. Hypnotherapy: Can be used to directly alter subconscious beliefs and remove barriers to success.

Conclusion: Putting It All Together

The journey to high-performance thinking involves more than just sharpening your analytical skills; it requires a deep dive into the subconscious mind's vast capabilities. By understanding and applying the seven secrets, especially the power of the subconscious, you can significantly enhance your cognitive functions, leading to greater creativity, intuition, and overall mental performance. Now may be the perfect time to awaken your own sleeping giant and harness its power for personal and professional growth.