At Four Streams Coaching, we use several different science-backed assessment tools to facilitate self-discovery and understanding, as we drive towards assisting our clients in becoming the best versions of themselves.

To that end, while neuroscience is not the first word most people think of when they think of becoming a coach, we believe that understanding how the brain works is crucial for helping our clients reach their full potential.

What is Neuroscience?

In simple terms, neuroscience is the study of how the brain develops, functions, and evolves.

Neuroscientists study the brain and nervous system, as well as how these systems function physiologically to convert sensory input into output—thought, action, or reaction.

Looking at the juxtaposition of these two fields provides insights about how one’s brain is wired to process information, learn and create habits while simultaneously using that awareness to dismantle self-limiting beliefs, doubts, anxieties, narrow perspectives and biases.

Neuroscience-based coaching can effectively redirect the client’s brain to minimize (and eventually negate) the pathways that are holding them back, and even better, help to form fresh, positive, productive pathways that override the old negative ones.

Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences. This means that new ways of thinking and acting can create new neural pathways in the brain.

This is an incredible ability that we have as humans, and it provides us with the potential to learn and grow throughout our lives.

Studying how we are wired can be a lifelong journey that leads to greater self-awareness and understanding.

By learning more about ourselves, we can develop greater insight into our own behaviors and motivations.

This knowledge can help us make more informed decisions, set healthy boundaries, and find fulfillment in life.

Some of the findings in the field of neuroscience in recent years demonstrate that the brain is even more “plastic” than we had ever thought possible. Our thoughts and actions can go beyond minor shifts in behavior—actually changing the structure and function of our brains.

It’s important to know that as humans, we are never truly “stuck.”

We are always learning, always growing, and always evolving.

We are capable of successfully making drastic changes—if we so desire.

This is great news for coaches.

Since coaching is all about helping people make lasting changes in their lives, it’s wonderful to know—definitively, beyond the shadow of any doubt—that the changes we support our clients in making are creating lasting changes in their brains.

Conclusion

As coaches, we are always looking for ways to improve our practice and support our clients the best ways that we can.

Neuroscience and coaching are ever-evolving fields, and we stay up to date on the latest developments so that we can offer our clients the most effective support we can. When science and coaching work hand in hand, we as coaches can create an environment for lasting change and sustainable success for our clients.

The study of neuroplasticity is still in its infancy, and we will always be learning more as research in the field continues. However, what has been discovered thus far should be incredibly exciting for all of us in the coaching profession.

It gives us concrete evidence that our work is making a difference in people’s lives and changing their brains for the better.

This knowledge should give us even greater confidence as we continue on our journeys of helping others change their lives for the better.

How will this information impact your coaching practice?