ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Trying something new can feel uncomfortable—especially when you’re used to being good at what you do. But there’s a reason your brain benefits when you step outside the familiar.
In this episode, we look at what happens in your brain when you learn something new, why neuroplasticity matters, and how trying new things can help you build adaptability. We’ll also talk about why you don’t have to be good at something for it to be good for your brain.
What We’ll Discuss- Why your brain has to pay attention when you do something new
- How learning something new engages neuroplasticity
- What happens when your brain creates and strengthens new neural connections
- Why learning is good for cognitive health
- How trying new things helps you practice adaptability
- Why discomfort doesn’t necessarily mean you’re incapable—it may mean you’re learning
- How trying something new can lead to unexpected opportunities, discoveries, and connections
- Why you don’t have to become an expert for your brain to benefit
- Trying something new gets your brain engaged. When you can’t rely on familiar patterns, your brain has to pay attention, process information, and figure things out.
- Learning changes your brain. Neuroplasticity allows your brain to change and adapt as you learn and experience new things.
- The learning itself is the workout. You don’t have to master a new skill for your brain to benefit from learning it.
- You’re practicing adaptability. Every time you adjust, solve a problem, or try a different approach, you’re practicing how to respond when things don’t go according to plan.
- Discomfort isn’t the same as inability. Being a beginner can feel awkward and uncomfortable. That doesn’t mean you can’t do it.
- You don’t have to be good at something for it to be good for your brain. You simply have to be willing to begin.
If this conversation encouraged you to embrace a new challenge or rediscover a passion, I'd love for you to:
- Follow RenewHer so you never miss an episode.
- Leave a rating and review—it helps more women discover the show.
- Share this episode with a friend who may be wondering what's next after 50.
Remember, it's never too late to learn something new, chase a dream, or begin again. Your next chapter may be your most fulfilling one yet.
Connect with Genell
- Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters.
- Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell
- Schedule a free Discovery Session with me.
- Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge
- Check out my website: RenewHer Wellness
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/
- Email: genell@renewherwellness.com
English
United States
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