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Brain seeks to conserve energy from "summary" of Your Brain at Work by David Rock
The brain, in all its complexity, is a master at finding ways to save energy. This may sound counterintuitive, given the brain's reputation as a powerhouse of activity. However, the brain's primary goal is not to work harder but to work smarter. By conserving energy, the brain can allocate its resources efficiently and effectively to ensure survival and success. One way the brain conserves energy is by creating habits and routines. When a task becomes familiar, the brain can automate the process, requiring less cognitive effort. This is why we often find ourselves going through the motions without even thinking about it – our brains have found a way to conserve energy by relying on established patterns. Another way the brain saves energy is by avoiding unnecessary multitasking. While it may seem like we are being more productive by juggling multiple tasks at once, the brain actually expends more energy trying to switch back and forth between tasks. By focusing on one task at a time, the brain can conserve energy and perform more efficiently. The brain also seeks to conserve energy by relying on heuristics and shortcuts when making decisions. Instead of analyzing every possible outcome, the brain will often take mental shortcuts based on past experiences or social cues. While this may not always lead to the most accurate decisions, it allows the brain to conserve energy and make quick judgments when needed.- The brain is constantly looking for ways to work smarter, not harder. By conserving energy through habits, focused attention, and mental shortcuts, the brain can operate more efficiently and effectively in a world full of challenges and opportunities. Understanding this fundamental aspect of the brain can help us optimize our cognitive performance and achieve our goals with greater ease and success.
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