Joff Williams
1y ago
Most people don't know this incredible new research on the brain.
It's called the Anterior Mid-Cingulate Cortex (AMCC).
And it responds similarly to a muscle when put under strain.
The implications are fascinating. 🧵👇
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Joff Williams
1y ago
When we do something WE DON'T WANT TO DO, such as:
• Sticking to a diet
• High-intensity exercise
• Resisting addictive behaviours
This area of the brain gets bigger.
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Joff Williams
1y ago
In other words, in the same way muscles grow by when put under strain through resistance training (hypertrophy).
The AMCC literally grows in size when we do hard things.
It plays a key role in tenacity and willpower.
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Joff Williams
1y ago
The AMCC is smaller in people with:
• OCD
• Obesity
• Anxiety
• Depression
It is larger in:
• Athletes
• People who overcome a challenge
• People that live a very long time
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Joff Williams
1y ago
Scientists are beginning to think of the AMCC not just as the seat of willpower.
But perhaps even of the WILL TO LIVE.
And the most fascinating part?
Due to neuroplasticity, it's possible to grow this part of the brain.
How?
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Joff Williams
1y ago
DO HARD THINGS.
What's the one thing that scares you the most?
The one thing you've been putting off?
Pick one thing you'd find most challenging in your:
• Work
• Fitness
• Relationships
• Personal goals
And lean into it.
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Joff Williams
1y ago
Dr Andrew Hubman called this "One of the most important new discoveries that neuroscience has ever made".
Watch the full clip from the Huberman Lab Podcast here:
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