Our brains are remarkable, complex organs that continuously process an overwhelming amount of information every second. Amidst this sea of data, there's a powerful ally working behind the scenes acting as a filtering system to the things we notice and observe – the Reticular Activation System (RAS). Understanding how to harness the potential of the RAS can be a game-changer in training your brain to work for you, helping you achieve your goals and aspirations. In this blog post, we will explore what the Reticular Activation System is, its primary focuses, and how you can capitalize on it to shape your reality.

What is the Reticular Activation System (RAS)?

The Reticular Activation System is a network of neurons located in the brainstem that filters and processes information. Its primary function is to decide which information is essential for you to be consciously aware of at any given moment. Think of it as a gatekeeper that sifts through the vast array of stimuli bombarding your senses, allowing only the most relevant information to reach your conscious mind.

Four Primary Focuses of the Reticular Activation System

1. Hearing Your Name

One of the primary focuses of the RAS is to ensure you are aware when someone calls your name. This is a fundamental survival mechanism, allowing you to respond quickly to important cues in your environment.

2. Ensuring Safety

The RAS is constantly scanning the environment for potential threats to your safety. Whether it's a sudden loud noise or a movement in the corner of your eye, the RAS is on high alert to keep you out of harm's way.

3. Detecting Sexual Interest

Another intriguing aspect of the RAS is its ability to pick up on cues related to sexual interest. This serves as a biological imperative for reproduction and the continuation of the species. Such a fun little fact.

4. Prioritizing Importance

The RAS is also responsible for determining what information is deemed important based on your thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. It plays a crucial role in filtering and highlighting information that aligns with your current focus.

So knowing that lets train your brain capitalizing on the RAS. Understanding the functions of the Reticular Activation System is pivotal in taking control of your thought processes and directing your brain's attention toward your goals. By consciously sending specific messages to your brain, you can train it to focus on the things that matter most to you. Give the below a try and take inventory on where you stand currently in these areas. They are game changers.

1. Repeatedly Think About Your Goals

The RAS responds well to repetition. By consistently thinking about your goals, you send a clear message to your brain that these objectives are essential. Whether it's a career aspiration, a fitness target, or personal development goals, the more you focus on them, the more your RAS will prioritize information related to these objectives. Just make sure the thought is a positive one or signals may be crossed and you may get the opposite of what you want.

2. Visualize Success

In addition to repetitive thoughts, visualization can significantly impact the RAS. Create mental images of yourself succeeding in your goals. Whether it's acing a presentation, achieving a fitness milestone, or excelling in a relationship, vividly imagining success enhances the likelihood of the RAS recognizing opportunities that align with these positive outcomes. Studies have shown that your mind does not have the ability to distinguish between visualization and reality so this is a key component to wiring the RAS to be on the lookout for more of the same visualizations in our real day-to-day lives. 

3. Positive Affirmations

Engage in positive self-talk and affirmations to reinforce your beliefs and aspirations. By using language that is affirming and constructive, you communicate to your RAS the importance of positive outcomes. This can help counteract any negative thoughts that may hinder your progress. Make it a practice to combat any negative thought that comes up with a list of positive ones that you have at the ready, whether it be a list on a piece of paper or a note on your phone. Anytime a bad thought comes through read your list of 20+ positive thoughts and phrases to overpower the negative self-talk. This may seem cheesy or silly but this practice is remarkably effective and the changes you will have in your thoughts, emotions and beliefs will change your life. Talk about empowerment.

4. Stay Mindful of Your Thoughts

Riding the coattails of #3 just to really drive it home...The RAS is constantly at work, filtering information based on your thoughts and beliefs. Be mindful of the narratives you create in your mind and as mentioned above build an artillery to obliterate them from your mind. If you find yourself dwelling on negative thoughts or doubts, consciously redirect your focus towards positive and constructive thinking. Dwell in how amazing life is and remind yourself that the universe is on your side and is conspiring in ways you couldn't even imagine to bring your goals and dream life to you.

Aligning Your Brain with Your Goals through Scripting

In another article on this blog, we delved into the power of scripting – a technique that involves writing down your goals in a detailed and affirmative manner. Scripting serves as a powerful complement to training your brain with the Reticular Activation System.

When you engage in scripting, you are not only sending powerful messages to your RAS through thought but also reinforcing them through the written word. The combination of visualization, positive affirmations, and the act of physically writing down your goals and repeating them morning and night for at least 30 days enhances the effectiveness of training your brain to align with your aspirations.

To wrap it up, in the journey of self-improvement and goal achievement, understanding the intricacies of your brain's functioning is a crucial step. The Reticular Activation System, with its innate abilities to filter information and prioritize stimuli, can be harnessed to work in tandem with your goals.

By consciously directing your thoughts, visualizing success, and engaging in positive affirmations, you send clear signals to your RAS about what truly matters to you. Combine this with the powerful technique of scripting, and you have a comprehensive strategy to train your brain to be a cooperative partner in your pursuit of success.

Remember, the key lies in consistency and mindfulness. As you cultivate a positive and goal-oriented mindset, you'll find your Reticular Activation System working diligently to bring opportunities and experiences into your life that align with your desires. How fun!