Our brains are extraordinary, capable of processing complex information and guiding us through life’s challenges. But what if I told you that we have two distinct "brains" within our brain—two operating systems that influence how we think, act, and perform? Understanding these two systems can transform not only how we approach challenges but also how we coach and empower others.
The Two Operating Systems
Cognitive neuroscience explains that our brain operates with two distinct systems:
The Thinking Brain
Logical, reflective, and critical.
Operates in a slow, deliberate, and conscious way.
Ideal for planning, analysing, and problem-solving.
The Being Brain
Intuitive and hardwired to our motor cortex.
Processes information quickly and in parallel.
Lacks conscious, reflective thinking but excels in intuitive, automatic action.
These systems are often referred to by different names across disciplines—System 1 and System 2, implicit and explicit systems, or fast and slow brains. For simplicity, let’s call them the Being Brain and the Thinking Brain.
How These Brains Impact Performance
When clients face challenges—whether it’s a high-stakes presentation, a heated conversation, or a performance under pressure—they often rely too heavily on their Thinking Brain. While logical analysis can be helpful in specific contexts, overthinking in high-pressure situations often leads to clunky, overcomplicated performances.
The Being Brain, on the other hand, taps into muscle memory, intuitive wisdom, and trained expertise. It allows for smooth, natural execution—essential for flow and peak performance.
Recognising Which Brain is in Charge
One key question to explore with clients is: Which brain are you using to approach this situation?
When clients explain a challenge, they’re often stuck in their Thinking Brain, analyzing every detail and seeking logical solutions. By helping them shift into their Being Brain, you enable them to:
Trust their training and natural instincts.
Access intuitive, effortless action.
Reduce overthinking and enhance their performance.
Making the Shift: Trusting the Being Brain
Here’s how to guide clients toward empowering their Being Brain:
Acknowledge the Thinking BrainEncourage clients to thank their Thinking Brain for its input but explain that it’s not needed for specific tasks. This acknowledgement helps them mentally step back from overthinking.
Activate the Being BrainSuggest practices that allow clients to trust their intuitive actions. These might include visualisation, mindfulness, or engaging in a familiar activity that shifts their focus from thinking to being.
Build Confidence in the Being BrainReassure clients that their Being Brain is equipped with years of training, muscle memory, and subconscious wisdom. Trusting this system often leads to smoother and more effective outcomes.
Coaching for Cognitive Mastery
When coaching, consider whether a client’s struggle stems from a mismatch between their two brains. Ask:
Are they aware of these two operating systems?
Are they relying on the Thinking Brain for tasks better suited to the Being Brain?
How can they consciously choose the right brain for the right job?
By guiding clients to recognise and utilise the appropriate brain, you empower them to be masters of their cognition. They’ll not only perform better in specific tasks but also gain confidence in their ability to navigate life’s challenges.
The Power of the Right Brain for the Right Task
Helping clients understand their two brains is a game-changer. It allows them to:
Leverage the Thinking Brain for strategic, reflective tasks.
Trust the Being Brain for intuitive, performance-driven actions.
This shift simplifies challenges, reduces stress, and fosters flow—a state of effortless focus and performance.
So next time you coach, explore whether the struggle is between the two brains and guide your clients to use the right tool for the right job. You might be surprised by the transformations that follow!
