Magic Mirror Neurons: Using brain science to create positive relationships

 

 

 

 

 

If you really want to create  positive relationships at work then tap into what nature has already given us – our brains!

Brain Science

There are mirror neurons in our brains that mimic what they “see”. For example, if you are with a group of people and one person starts to yawn over and over again, within a matter of minutes, others in the group will do the same. Before you know it and without control, the entire group will be yawning!

Understanding this science can also help you create a positive work environment even in the crustiest place. All it takes is for one person (you) to start a positive behavior, consistently, over and over again for that behavior to spread to others.

Here are few examples of behaviors you can start today to make positive connections with others:

Smile

When you walk into your place of work, make it a point to say good morning (if it’s morning) with a smile.

Never underestimate the power of a simple smile. When your brain “sees” a smile, it can’t help but to smile in return. Smiling sends happy chemical messages throughout your brain. Over time, the more you smile, the more others smile, and the happier you and they are!
Joke

Tell a “joke of the day”. You don’t have to be a comedian to tell a joke. There are a lot of websites and “apps” that send you jokes. Even if the joke makes one person laugh, others will laugh too!

Fake it till you make it

Act “as if” you are the happy person. Do this even if you’re not. Why? Because brain science tells us that if we pretend to be happy, our brain starts to think we are and can become happy. Over time, you will BE happier and so will the rest of your co-workers!

Celebrate

Celebrate everything. Birthdays, accomplishments, Fridays, Mondays, etc. Find a reason to celebrate even the mundane activities.

Compliment a co-worker

Find one reason to compliment someone at work. Be specific and be positive. Example: “Brian. Thank you for volunteering and taking on more work when your plate was already full. You never shirk from responsibility or hard work." Not only does this make Brian feel good, but complimenting someone makes YOU feel good too!

Remember, you can make meaningful connections with others by tapping into the positive power of mirror neurons. Try these examples as your own science experiment. 

Check out a related post: Ignite Customer and Employee Engagement with Positive Energy  (You'll love the analogy of the personal energy thermostat)

Stay curious and hungry,

Peter Mclees, Leadership Coach, Trainer and Performance Consultant

SMART DEVELOPMENT

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