That got your attention, but it may not be in line with your thought process. When I say K.I.S.S. I am referring to the acronym “keep it simple, stupid”. The general principal is meant to imply systems perform best when they have simple designs rather than complex ones. Nothing about it implies stupidity as it was associated with advanced intelligent systems with simple designs.
This concept may have been used by many since the 1900’s in regard to complex machines and our military; but it is a concept that still serves us well when talking about the human brain. A prime example of an advanced intelligent system. When we get right down to it, the human brain is so complex that scientists and doctors don’t actually grasp all that it can do or does. At one point in time scientists thought the brain was not capable of healing. Now we have learned that parts may be damaged, missing or destroyed and other parts can take over and function in place of that part.
In today’s world, we can go in so many directions and feel the pull to do so. We fall into our standard operating mode also known as auto pilot, to get through the day. This may seem okay if you are just trying to survive, but what if you want a greater level of happiness and more from life? It is time to bring awareness back by creating environments with K.I.S.S. in mind. This is not about giving up a busy life; it is more about awareness and working towards being focused and present right where we are. Attention is easily broken and leads to overwhelm, stress, poor memory and distraction.
You can start with a few simple steps below to embrace the K.I.S.S. concept with your technology.
- Turn off the sound notifications on your apps (email, text, social media) while you are working. Sound is enticing, and the subconscious brain focuses on the sound of an arriving email, text that is sitting unopened… Studies show this can drop your IQ by 10%.
- Just because you have your phone doesn’t mean you have to check it continuously. Limit yourself to a specific number of times and at specific times. Utilize the do not disturb on your phone if you need accountability.
- If you find your thoughts all over the place, stop and focus on slow breathing. Clear your brain as best you can, focusing on the breath coming and going. Meditation is a great tool here as well.
- If you sleep in the same room with your phone turn off the sounds of email, text and other notifications from apps. If you don’t want to go to the trouble of turning it off and on, set a time frame on your do not disturb that will activate every day on its own.
- Don’t use your phone as a default activity when you aren’t actively doing something. For example, while standing in line, a passenger in the car, in a restaurant, or when you are with family and friends.
If the K.I.S.S. concept could help you with being more present and focusing on what is important what other areas of life could use a K.I.S.S.? If you aren’t finding the results you seek, coaching with Brain Basics may be the partner you are looking for. Please contact us today to learn more about coaching and being the best leader you can be in the office and out.
