From idea generation and meetings to crunching numbers and copywriting, there are many different situations in which more focus and better cognitive function would prove beneficial. This will allow you to get more done in less time, and come up with unique solutions to problems you might not be able to do otherwise.
The good news is that there are many different ways to improve your brain power, especially if you’re willing to do certain things consistently over a long period of time. Let’s explore eight ways you can support your brain health.
1. Exercise.
We all know that we should keep on exercising regularly. However, most entrepreneurs lead busy, hectic lives, and don’t always find time to fit in physical activity. The trick may be to think the opposite: You can’t exercise if you want to live a long, healthy, productive life.
Not only does exercise benefit your brain health and cognition, but it can also improve your memory. In the long run, it can even protect your brain from degeneration. If that’s not reason enough to indulge in a regular workout routine, who knows what is?
2. Drink coffee.
Many people start their day with a cup of coffee, and it turns out that this ritual can actually benefit your cognitive function in the short term.
Of course, caffeine helps keep you alert. However, it can also help you focus on repetitive and tedious tasks, and will also boost your intelligence, including your reaction time and reasoning.
Obviously, the effects of coffee are not permanent. However, it can make your brain work more efficiently until the high caffeine is gone.
3. Get some sunlight.
Sunshine and exercise can sometimes go hand in hand. It mostly depends on what part of the world you live in, how much sunlight is available at different times of the year, and how realistic it is for you to spend time outside.
Getting too little sunlight is not good for your brain. The higher levels of vitamin D in your system allow you to perform better, and may even slow the aging of your brain.
Too much sunlight can be bad for your skin, but if you’re not getting enough, your brain function can be affected. Of course, you can always take vitamin D supplements if you find that you’re not getting out as much as you’d like. Just remember to take supplements in moderation.
4. Build strong connections.
It has often been said that the entrepreneurial journey is lonely. As it turns out, this may not be good for your cognitive functions.
If you often feel lonely, it may actually be the result of psychological and cognitive decline, as these feelings can have a negative effect on your sleep, raise your blood pressure, contribute to depression and even lead to depression. That can reduce your overall well-being as well.
Most entrepreneurs know how to communicate and make connections. The important thing is to build a strong support system around you, as this will enable you to stay mentally and psychologically healthy for a long time.
5. Meditate.
Meditation is a trending topic among many entrepreneurs right now, and its benefits are hard to argue about. Meditation not only lowers your stress levels, but it can also prevent age-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s or dementia.
It explains the importance of self-care. Taking just 10 to 15 minutes into your day to practice meditation can increase your cognitive longevity and allow you to reduce your overall stress levels as well.