Mental flexibility can be defined as our ability to shift perspective and encounter new problems with fresh eyes.
I’ve been researching this topic for one of my upcoming corporate workshops, which fits into a month-long Mindset Journey supporting employees in their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Why do we need mental flexibility? When we train the mind to overcome old habits and adapt to new circumstances, we become smarter problem-solvers and more creative in our solutions. If this past year has taught us anything, it’s that change is inevitable and in order to ‘go with the flow’ we’re better off hitting refresh on our mindset than banging our head against a wall (although I’m sure the latter option has felt tempting at times).
So what can we do develop this cognitive function? How do we become more mentally flexible?
1. Adopting a beginner’s mind
Letting go of what we think we know - can help us to let go of habitual patterns and rather see new situations with fresh eyes. Meditation and mindfulness practices help us notice habitual thought patterns and consciously train the mind to take a fresh perspective, starting from a place of genuine curiosity.
2. Changing our scenery
Perhaps more straightforward than the first option, getting ourselves into new environments - in the days of restricted travel this can be as simple as taking a new route on afternoon walks, rearranging the furniture (did this one this week and it was like a holiday at home!) or diving into a documentary from an unfamiliar genre, culture or decade.
3. Making time for play & creativity
The brain thrives when we mix things up. Taking a break from work with some kind of playful or creative activity (dancing to feel-good music, drawing, photography, cooking your favourite childhood dishes) can be a great way to add variety to the brain’s ways of working and ideally inspire some new ideas when you return to the desk.
If you’re interested in training your team for more mental flexibility, get in touch. Email hello@stephcusackyoga.com for workshop details.