May 5, 2025 • 48 mins
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In this groundbreaking episode, Dr. Jon Finn introduces Human-AI Performance Psychology, the revolutionary field he created and founded to address our most urgent challenge: optimizing human performance in the AI era.
As the originator and founder of this new discipline, Dr. Finn shares the pioneering frameworks he's developed through 25 years of research and work with over 20,000 people. His proprietary Three Brain States model explains why traditional approaches to performance improvement fail, especially in our AI-augmented world.
Discover how your brain's energy states—Recharge, Medium Charge, and High Charge—determine your success, and why 98% of human behavior comes from habits, not knowledge. Dr. Finn reveals his Success Cycle methodology that helps professionals transform their relationship with AI tools from overwhelming to empowering.
Whether you're a senior leader navigating digital transformation, a middle manager building high-performing teams, or an individual seeking to thrive amidst technological change, this episode provides the science-backed insights that only the founder of Human-AI Performance Psychology can deliver:
- Amplify High Charge thinking through AI collaboration
- Automate Medium Charge tasks efficiently
- Enhance recovery and reduce stress through optimized brain states
The gap between those who master their Brain States and those who don't is widening daily. Will you be one of the pioneers who leads in the AI era?Â
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hello, habit Mechanics, it's Dr John Finn
here.
I hope you're having a greatweek so far.
So yesterday we released ourfirst in-depth article about the
new field of psychology we havefounded, created and we are
(00:21):
driving forwards and leading on,which is human AI performance
psychology.
Anyone who's read Train yourBrain for the AI Revolution will
understand what we mean by that.
But we wrote an in-deptharticle about this that we sent
out to our database yesterday,so some of you may already have
(00:44):
been scrolling through that.
It's quite a long article, verydeliberately because we wanted
to be very robust in how weexplain this new field of
performance psychology.
Psychology is an evolvingscience, as all sciences are,
(01:05):
and personally I experienced inmy own development over 25 years
I've worked in this field Isuppose two core psychological
movements.
One was sports psychology,which is what I originally
trained in, and when I first didmy undergraduate and even
(01:29):
master's degree in sportpsychology you couldn't actually
become an accredited sportpsychologist.
It didn't exist as a field.
It was new.
And then I also saw the originsof positive psychology, which
(01:49):
sort of started or really gotmomentum in the mid-2000s.
So we're now at the beginningof a journey where we've got
technology that not only is away of us amplifying our
(02:19):
thinking, like you might on aWord document, for example, it's
actually a co-worker.
So we've got technology thatcan now do what only humans have
previously been able to dobefore, and that's why this is
so profound and we need a newapproach, and that's what we've
(02:40):
been working on for a while andstarted to release via Train
your Brain for the ai revolution.
And now we're going to godeeper.
Um, we're going to start to,after a successful pilot, we're
going to start to train morehuman ai performance psychology
(03:00):
coaches, and these will be thefirst in the world, first of
their kind.
So that's really exciting.
Um, and then we're just gonnabe doing our best to make it as
easy as possible for people tounderstand what this new
psychology is all about and howthey can use it for themselves
and for their people, theirteams, their families, to help
(03:21):
them thrive.
Um, so, yeah, this, this is.
I think this is just a reallyexciting period of human history
.
At the heart of psychology ishelping people to think more
effectively so they can behealthier, happier and at their
best, and actually, in order tobe able to do that, the core
(03:45):
currency, what we might call.
In science, the main effectvariable is learning, and you
will see, at the heart of ourapproach, in particularly in the
habit mechanic book, we goreally deep on the learning
piece because actually to getbetter at being at your best
more often, you have to learnhow to do that.
(04:07):
You have to change the neuronsin your brain, replace the
unhelpful ones with more helpfulones via that process called
neuroplasticity.
But at the heart of that islearning, and I think that's
what's so profound about aitechnology.
It can now be used to speed uphow we learn.
(04:30):
So he has.
There are two core types of ofai I think that we are seeing
one is more focused on theautomation of routine tasks.
So it can we can basicallyfully automate most of the
(04:52):
medium charge work that we doand we get paid to do, and what
businesses are doing is they arestopping paying humans to do
that work.
Um, it's not that public.
But there is a big, has been abig movement away, for example,
from high from from recruitinggraduates, because a lot of what
(05:16):
graduates do when they're firstemployed is is a lot of medium
charge work that can becompletely automated.
So you've got technology thatcan do that, but we've also got
technology now that can.
It's almost like a personalizedlearning process, um, where
working with the new generativeai tools have only been um
(05:41):
sophisticated for for months,you know, maybe six months or so
and they become moresophisticated every day.
It is like working with anexpert could be like an expert,
accountant or solicitor orwhatever you want it.
It knows quite a lot aboutthese things and you can access
it 24 7 and it costs maybe onepercent of what it would cost,
(06:05):
and probably less than that, ifyou were to actually engage with
those experts.
But it's been trained in allthe same material that those
experts have.
So we can accelerate ourlearning and completion of of
complex cognitive tasks usingthese ai tools and by being able
(06:31):
to offload more of our mediumcharge busy work that many
people are overwhelmed by, andbeing able to make more progress
faster on our high charge work,then that means that we're
going to get higher qualitydowntime and recharge time so
(06:53):
that, if we think about thethree core brain states, we've
got help now with the highcharge brain state.
Via generative AI helps us tomake progress faster.
We can outsource ourmedium-charge work through what
(07:13):
we now call agentic AI, so theAI agents.
Many of us have been using thistype of tech for a while, so
just think of something likeCalendly, which is a meeting
booking system.
It's almost like an agentic aiagent.
Something that used to be areal manual process is now just
(07:35):
done automatically, um.
But there are, you know,thousands of these tools that
are emerging for all differentaspects of of our lives.
And then we've got um.
By offloading more of our busywork and making more progress on
our mentally complex work,we're going to have better sleep
because we'll be less stressed,more time to do the things that
(07:56):
matter in our life.
But that isn't a given.
People need help to get thetheir brain states working well
and to um understand how tointegrate the tools.
And one high level metaphorthat we've been using, which I
(08:16):
really like and it's anextension of some of the things
we've been talking about foryears we talk about this in the
habit mechanic book it's thatour lives are a bit like a
mountain.
We're trying to get to the topof the mountain to achieve our
goals, and you'll see this inwhat we call the team power
model in the habit mechanic book.
That's the metaphor that we use.
(08:37):
It's the team model we've we'vecreated over the last 20 years,
and what the AI gives us theability to do is to move faster
and further up the mountain thanwe ever thought possible.
So the technology is like asnowmobile, but it isn't magic.
(09:01):
We have to learn how to buildit and how to drive it properly.
And in many cases, the AI toolsare having the opposite effect
on people.
We can see from big sets ofdata they are slowing people
down.
They are acting more like aheavy rucksack than a snowmobile
(09:24):
, and that's because we're notstarting with first principles,
and first principles of thrivingin the AI world are getting
your brain state sorted out.
So what human AI performancepsychology is all about is
helping people to get theirbrain states optimized so they
can actually integrate the newAI technologies into their daily
(09:47):
workflows and get the maximalbenefits from them for both
performing but also well-being.
And we can, of course, do thatindividually and collectively.
So we see there's a hugeopportunity, I think, probably
like we've never seen before tobe healthier, happier and at our
(10:08):
best.
That's what the AI tools giveus.
But in order to capitalize onthat, we need to increase our
brain state intelligence, andthat's why I wrote Train your
Brain for the AI Revolution.
But if we want to not just getbrain state intelligent but
(10:31):
actually put the things that weknow what we should be doing
into practice, we then need togo one step further and have
what we call brain stateintelligent cultures.
And this is where we help eachother to do this, and I talk
(10:52):
about that at the end of Trainyour Brain for the AI Revolution
.
But we need help often to makechange in our lives in our lives
and that's why you know we aretraining up the world's first
certified human performancepsychology coaches, for example,
and it's why we're working withteams and businesses and we're
(11:16):
doing one-to-one coaching tohelp people.
So, anyway, that's a little bitof an overview of what's coming
up in this in-depthintroduction to human AI
performance psychology.
And, yeah, what you're going tohear now is essentially an audio
(11:40):
version of the article that wereleased yesterday.
So if it's helpful, you can goto that page and you can look
through the article at the sametime.
But, yeah, I hope this isinteresting.
I hope it helps us to to helpyou make sense of this complex
world that we're living in andgives you a sense of optimism
(12:01):
that this can actually be aforce for good and it can help
us to be healthier, happier andat our best more often.
But it won't happen by magic,um, and if you haven't already,
I'd really recommend readingtrain your brain for the ai
revolution.
You can get through it in threeto four hours and it shows you
(12:23):
the, the first system you needto implement to start improving
your brain state intelligence.
And then, of course, the habitmechanic is still the Bible and
everything that we it's ourBible, the Tougher Minds Bible,
if you like.
Everything that we say in therestill stands, but it just goes
(12:45):
much, much, much deeper than thenew book we've written.
So those two work incombination.
But read train your brain forthe revolution first, um, and
yeah, from our website now wecan you can actually get a free
copy of that um, just go totoughermindscouk.
So, yeah, I hope you enjoy thearticle, looking forward to
(13:06):
questions, thoughts, reflectionsand then working with people on
this in the near future,because I know people are really
excited about getting involvedin this movement, um, and we're
excited to go on that journeywith you.
So here comes the article EnjoyHuman AI, performance
(13:28):
Psychology An introduction, thenew brain science, redefining
how we work, lead and thrivewith AI.
Read by Dr John Finn.
Tougher Minds founder.
Introduction the humanperformance revolution.
For the first time in humanhistory, machines can automate
(13:53):
complex cognitive work.
This is more than atechnological revolution.
It's a human performancerevolution.
Despite the incredible promiseof AI tools, many professionals
today feel more overwhelmed,distracted and exhausted than
ever.
The problem isn't just learningthe tools.
The real key to thriving in theAI era is mastering the most
(14:16):
powerful technology in the knownuniverse your brain Key insight
.
While organizations focus on AIadoption, the critical factor
for success isn't the technologyitself, but how effectively
humans can collaborate withthese tools through optimized
cognitive performance.
(14:37):
The birth of human AIperformance psychology.
As a cognitive and behavioralscience expert witnessing the
collision of human psychologywith artificial intelligence, I,
dr John Finn, recognized anurgent need for a new framework.
Recognized an urgent need for anew framework.
That's why I established HumanAI Performance Psychology, a
(15:05):
pioneering discipline applyingfirst principles, insights to
optimize human brain states,subconscious behavioral patterns
and leadership capabilities inAI-augmented environments.
As the founder of this field,I've built human AI performance
psychology upon my 25 years ofresearch in cognitive science,
(15:25):
neurobiology and behavioralpsychology, adapting these
insights to the uniquechallenges of the AI era.
While artificial intelligencetechnologies are relatively new,
the human performancechallenges they amplify are not,
and through my work with over20,000 people, I've developed
(15:45):
the scientific frameworks tohelp people meet these
challenges head-on.
My approach optimises humanbrain states, subconscious
behavioural patterns andleadership capabilities in AI
augmented environments.
The capitalization of brainstates capital B for brain and S
(16:06):
for states is intentional.
It refers to my proprietarymodel that forms a cornerstone
of this new field.
Key insight Human AIperformance psychology addresses
the urgent need for asystematic approach to human
cognitive optimization in an erawhere AI tools are transforming
(16:29):
how we work, think andcollaborate, but also have the
potential to overwhelm andexhaust us rather than enhance
our capabilities.
Understanding the AI era beyondjust technology, to understand
what AI truly means for humanperformance, consider this
(16:51):
metaphor.
Imagine you're on a journey toreach the top of a mountain.
The conditions are increasinglystormy, making progress
difficult.
This mirrors our complex modernworld, where achieving our
goals feels increasinglychallenging.
In this landscape, ai has twopotential functions.
(17:14):
It can either serve as asnowmobile, a powerful tool that
allows us to go faster andfurther than previously possible
, or it can become a heavyrucksack, weighing us down,
adding to our burden rather thanlightening it.
People now fall into twodistinct groups the replaceable
(17:37):
and the unstoppable.
The replaceable those whoeither fail to adapt or are
failing to use AI toolseffectively.
They're either trudging up themountain without modern tools or
struggling under the weight ofpoorly implemented technology,
exhausted and overwhelmed.
The unstoppable those whomaster both technology and their
(18:01):
own cognitive performance,energetically speeding past
others on snowmobiles, operatingin high-charge mode, while
collaborating with AI to achievewhat others think impossible.
Becoming unstoppable doesn'thappen automatically.
Even though many AI tools arefree or inexpensive, simply
(18:22):
having access isn't enough.
We must understand both how touse these tools and how to
optimise our own cognitivefunction to work effectively
with them.
Key insight the differencebetween those who thrive and
those who struggle in the AI eraisn't access to technology, but
(18:42):
mastery of human AIcollaboration and, in some cases
, human AI teamwork.
The Lighthouse Brain yourcognitive foundation.
To understand how your brainworks with AI, we first need a
fundamental model of brainfunction.
The Lighthouse Brain Model,grounded in cutting-edge
(19:03):
neuroscience and behaviouralscience, that I've refined over
the past 25 years, provides thisessential foundation.
Imagine your brain contains alighthouse where two important
characters live Hugh and WillPower or Wilhelmina Power.
(19:23):
Hue H-U-E, which stands forHorribly Unhelpful Emotions,
works in the lighthouse'scontrol room, constantly
scanning for threats from yourpast memories of mistakes,
threats in the present immediateproblems, threats in the future
(19:43):
, worst case scenarios.
When no threats are present,hugh seeks easy, novel and
exciting activities that provideshort-term gratification.
Willpower Acts as Hugh's guideand mentor, helping you fulfil
(20:07):
your potential.
When Hugh notices problems orgets tempted by short-term
gratification, it can callWillpower for assistance.
This dynamic isn't a characterflaw.
Hugh's scanning behaviours arebuilt-in survival programming
that helped humans thrive forhundreds of thousands of years.
The problem is that in today'sAI-augmented world, these same
(20:28):
instincts often work against us.
When Willpower and Hugh work inharmony, you can leverage AI
tools strategically rather thanbeing constantly distracted by
them.
Understanding this relationshipexplains why we struggle to
maintain focus on complex,valuable work in an AI-augmented
(20:48):
environment.
Key insight your brain'sautomatic processes, represented
by Hugh, evolved for a verydifferent environment than
today's AI-augmented workplace.
Success requires understandingand optimising the relationship
between these automaticprocesses and your more
(21:10):
strategic cognitive functionswillpower Scientific foundation.
If you're curious about thedeeper neuroscience behind the
Lighthouse Brain Model, you'llfind detailed explanations in
Appendix A of my best-sellingbook Train your Brain.
For the AI Revolution, theproven four-step system to
(21:34):
become irreplaceable, no techskills required.
This model synthesizes researchfrom leading neuroscientists
and psychologists, combined withinsights from my 25 years of
practical experience andresearch.
The three brain statesframework your lighthouse brain
(21:58):
faces modern challenges that gobeyond just disrupting hue and
will powers relationship.
They drain the very energysource powering your entire
cognitive system.
Your brain functions like arechargeable battery with three
distinct power modes, similar toa solar powered lighthouse.
(22:18):
Power mode 1 recharge brainstate.
Power mode 2 medium chargebrain state.
Power mode 3 high charge brainstate recharge brain state more
details.
When your brain needs essentialrecovery and maintenance
(22:41):
Equivalent to a lighthouse onlow power during daylight hours
while recharging its batteries.
Medium charge brain state Moredetails when your brain handles
routine tasks efficiently.
When your brain handles routinetasks efficiently, similar to a
(23:01):
lighthouse running low-levellights at dusk.
High-charge brain state moredetails when your brain performs
sophisticated thinking andtackles demanding tasks
comparable to a lighthouseoperating at full power, sending
its bright beam across thewaters.
Four key sources either chargeor drain your brain battery
(23:24):
Sleep the equivalent of directsunlight for your brain's
battery Quality sleep rechargesyour system, allowing willpower
to guide hue effectively.
Brain-friendly nutrition, thespecial fuel that keeps your
brain's battery running.
Stress often leads to poornutritional choices that give
(23:46):
brief energy spikes but lead todeeper crashes.
Movement, particularly walking,which acts like a supercharger
for your brain's battery.
Being desk-bound drains yourbattery and makes quality sleep
more difficult.
Relationships, socialconnections, can either energise
(24:08):
your battery or deplete it.
Digital overload and strainedrelationships turn potential
energy sources into energydrains.
When your battery is low,hughes threat scanning becomes
erratic.
Turn potential energy sourcesinto energy drains when your
battery is low, hugh's threatscanning becomes erratic, seeing
dangers everywhere.
Willpower lacks energy tomaintain its mentoring role.
(24:28):
Their relationship becomesstrained.
The whole system operates insurvival mode.
This creates a downward spiralwhere it becomes increasingly
difficult to make good decisionsabout sleep, nutrition,
movement and relationships thevery things that would recharge
your battery.
(24:49):
Key insight understanding yourbrain's three power modes gives
you a unique advantage intoday's workplace.
While others struggle to adaptto AI tools, you can match your
brain's natural rhythms todifferent types of work and
reset these rhythms to workbetter for you.
Scientific Foundation.
(25:10):
If you're curious about thedeeper neuroscience behind the
brain states model, you'll finddetailed explanations in
Appendix B of my best-sellingbook Train your Brain for the AI
Revolution, the provenfour-step system.
To become irreplaceable, notech skills required.
(25:31):
This framework is grounded incutting-edge research, verified
through our work with thousandsof professionals.
Why traditional solutions fallshort.
Brain state optimisation isn'ta new challenge.
Even before AI entered ourworkplaces, professionals
(25:51):
struggled to perform at theirbest.
Traditional approaches toimproving human performance have
consistently fallen short ofdelivering lasting results, and
if these approaches are alreadyfailing in a pre-AI world, they
have virtually no chance ofsucceeding in the far more
(26:11):
complex AI-augmented environment.
Consider this striking evidence.
Environment.
Consider this striking evidence.
The largest peer-reviewedanalysis ever conducted on
cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, the gold standard for behavior
change was published byProfessor Pim Kuipers and
colleagues in 2023.
(26:32):
Examining over 50,000 peopleacross 409 studies, the results
showed 58% of people whoreceived CBT showed no
meaningful improvement.
Of the 42% who did improve, 19%would likely have gotten better
without treatment.
(26:53):
In simple terms, only about onein five people benefit from CBT
.
Specifically.
Remember, this is consideredthe gold standard treatment.
Even more concerning, whenresearchers followed up a year
or two later, they found no realdifference between people who
(27:14):
had received CBT and those whohadn't.
This reveals somethingfundamental about how our brains
work, even when peopleunderstand exactly what they
need to change and are givenspecific techniques to make
those changes.
Lasting transformation remainselusive.
(27:34):
If traditional approachesstruggle to create lasting
change in relativelystraightforward behaviours, how
can they possibly help us masterthe complex demands of our AI
augmented workplaces?
We're not just trying to changea few specific thoughts or
(27:55):
behaviours.
We're aiming to fundamentallytransform how our brain operates
throughout the day.
Let's look at four commonapproaches organisations are
currently using to helpemployees adapt to AI tools.
Each of these approachesillustrates why we need
(28:16):
something fundamentallydifferent, an approach that
aligns with how our brainactually works, not just what we
think should work.
Technical training Companiesinvest heavily in teaching
employees how to use AI tools,but knowing how to operate a
tool doesn't mean yourlighthouse brain is optimized to
(28:39):
work with it.
It's like having asophisticated new lens for your
lighthouse, but never learninghow to keep your beam steady.
Traditional performancecoaching and leadership
development programs these focuson time management, goal
setting, productivity techniques, leadership development and
(29:01):
team performance.
They provide valuable knowledgeabout what to do differently,
but knowing what to do isn't thesame as doing it consistently.
It's like knowing exactly how alighthouse should work, but
never mastering the day-to-daypractices to maintain peak
performance.
This applies not just toindividual performance, but also
(29:24):
to leadership capabilities andteam dynamics.
Wellness programs Whilewell-intentioned, these
typically focus on stressmanagement or better sleep.
Again, they provide knowledge,not the system for turning that
knowledge into lasting habits.
It's like knowing yourlighthouse needs a steady power
(29:46):
supply but never establishingthe routines to keep the
batteries charged.
Flow-based performanceapproaches Flow training focuses
on achieving rare moments whenwe operate on autopilot,
executing well-practiced skillseffortlessly.
But in our AI augmented workday, optimising for autopilot
(30:09):
moments misses the pointentirely.
Our work now demands continuousadaptation rather than
perfection of existing abilities.
The root problem knowledgeversus habits.
All these approaches share thesame fundamental limitation they
(30:29):
focus on providing knowledgerather than building habits.
This misses a crucial insightfrom neuroscience 98 to 100% of
human behaviour comes from ourhabits, not from knowing what we
should do.
Your brain contains over 1trillion microscopic biological
(30:50):
moving parts, including neurons,synapses and neural pathways,
all working together to driveyour automatic behaviours.
This vast network isn'tcontrolled by conscious
knowledge or willpower, but bydeeply embedded patterns.
Current approaches are liketrying to learn to drive by
(31:11):
reading the driver's manual,without ever getting behind the
wheel.
Understanding what you shoulddo differently isn't enough.
You need to rewire your brain'sautomated patterns.
Key insight Traditionalapproaches fail because they
provide information withoutaddressing the fundamental habit
(31:31):
patterns that drive 98 to 100percent of human behavior.
Real transformation requiressystematically rewiring these
neural pathways.
How AI transforms work acrossyour brain states Understanding
how AI impacts each of yourthree brain states reveals both
(31:56):
the challenges and opportunitiesof this transformation.
High-charge brain state AI'srole and impact.
While AI can't replicate mostpremium cognitive work, it can
dramatically amplify it.
It can dramatically amplify it.
(32:17):
Ai tools function like expertconsultants who are instantly
available, helping you completechallenging work faster and at
lower cost.
Medium charge brain state AI'srole and impact.
Ai can now handle most taskshumans have traditionally done
in medium charge states fasterand more efficiently.
Recharge brain state AI's roleand impact.
(32:40):
When used properly, ai reducesoverwhelm by handling routine
work and increases dailyprogress through amplified
high-charge thinking, resultingin more downtime and better
sleep due to reduced stress.
Medium-charge brain statetransformation.
Your medium-charge brain statehandles simple, routine tasks
(33:04):
like sending standard emails oradministrative work.
These activities have consumedmore of our working hours over
time, leaving little capacityfor premium thinking.
Consider this prediction fromWinning by Design, a leading
sales training company Within 12months, ai will enable
(33:26):
companies to operate many salesand marketing functions at just
2% of current costs, whileachieving better results and 98%
reduction with improvedperformance.
This transformation occursbecause a I can handle most
medium-charge tasks moreefficiently than humans.
(33:51):
High-charge Brain StateAmplification your high charge
brain state enables your mostsophisticated thinking, from
complex problem solving tostrategic planning.
This is your brain's premiumoperating mode where uniquely
human capabilities shine.
Our research shows mostprofessionals can only maintain
(34:14):
one to two hours of high-chargethinking daily due to cognitive
challenges and what we callinvisible brain damage.
The rest gets consumed byinterruptions, routine tasks and
mental fatigue.
When people optimise theirbrain states, they can maintain
four to five hours ofhigh-charge thinking each
(34:36):
workday.
But here's what makes thismoment extraordinary AI
dramatically amplifies thiscapacity, allowing professionals
with optimised brain states tocomplete five to six plus hours
of high-charge thinking daily.
A real-world example producingthe audiobook for Train your
(34:59):
Brain for the AI Revolution tookone person with optimized brain
states just three days using AItools.
The same task for a previousbook required two people working
for 10 days, so 20 days intotal, and cost nine times as
much.
So we were able to create thenew audiobook using optimized
(35:21):
brain states and AI tools 17working days faster with a 90%
cost reduction.
Recharge, brain stateenhancement by handling routine
tasks that previously consumedcognitive energy, ai tools free
up mental space for truerecovery.
One senior legal professionalreported when I first started
(35:44):
habit mechanic AI edge coaching,I was working on my laptop till
10 to 11 every night.
Now I get out of the officebefore five almost without fail
every day.
For the first time in my careerI'm definitely saving at least
one to two hours daily.
Key insight AI's greatestimpact isn't replacing humans,
(36:06):
but transforming how we workacross all three brain states
Automating medium charge work,amplifying high charge
capabilities and enhancingrecharge quality.
The success cycle your four-stephabit mechanic AI edge system.
The key to achievingtransformative results isn't
(36:28):
working harder, it's aligningyour brain's natural patterns
with AI's capabilities throughour systematic success cycle.
Step 1.
Measurement your brain stateanalysis.
Map your brain's energypatterns to reveal your biggest
opportunities for transformation.
This establishes your currentbaseline and identifies specific
(36:53):
leverage points for improvement.
Step 2.
Planning with the task directorsystem Match each task to the
right type of energy andidentify where AI tools can
enhance your capabilities.
This creates clarity about whatwork should be done in which
brain state and how AI cansupport each type of work.
(37:15):
Step 3.
Optimization with the daydesigner system.
Structure your day to maintainpeak energy for what matters
most professionally andpersonally.
This aligns your schedule withyour natural brain state cycles
and creates protected time forhigh charge work.
Step four automation with theroutine engineer system.
(37:39):
Develop triggers and systemsthat make optimal performance
automatic, using AI tools toenhance rather than drain your
energy.
This transforms consciouspractices into unconscious
habits that sustain performance.
This system functions likesports science for your brain,
(38:02):
just as elite athletes usesophisticated systems to
optimise physical performance,the success cycle helps you
optimise cognitive performancewith AI tools.
Key insight the success cycleprovides a systematic approach
to measuring, planning,optimizing and automating your
(38:24):
cognitive performance with AI,leading to more quality recharge
time, less routine work andsignificantly more hours in your
peak, high-charge state.
Brain State Intelligence theperformance multiplier.
Most organisations are alreadyinvesting in artificial
(38:46):
intelligence tools andautomation leadership
development and performancecoaching, change and
transformation programmes,deaching, change and
Transformation Programs, dei,wellness and Engagement
Initiatives, digital SkillsTraining.
However, none of theseinitiatives can deliver their
full potential unless peoplehave the cognitive capacity to
(39:11):
absorb, apply and sustain them.
Have the cognitive capacity toabsorb, apply and sustain them.
That's where brain stateintelligence becomes the
critical multiplier for yourexisting investments.
Existing investment AI toolsand digital transformation.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Reduces cognitive
(39:35):
overload so people can adopt anduse tools effectively.
Existing investment leadershipdevelopment and performance
coaching.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Embeds lasting
behaviour change by aligninghabits with brain energy states.
(39:56):
Existing investment well-beingand resilience programmes.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it turns awareness into
action with daily rechargetools and recovery routines.
Existing investment trainingand skills development.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Increases learning
(40:18):
capacity by optimising focus,attention and brain rhythm.
Existing investment team andculture initiatives.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Builds shared
language and systems systemssupporting collective peak
performance.
Brain state intelligencedoesn't replace existing
(40:41):
programs.
It unlocks their full potentialby helping people operate at
their cognitive best.
It functions as the engine oilthat makes every other
organisational initiative runmore smoothly.
Key Insight Brain stateintelligence serves as a
(41:02):
performance multiplier forexisting organisational
investments by ensuring peoplehave the cognitive capacity to
implement and sustain newpractices and technologies.
Creating brain state intelligentcultures.
Organizations excelling in theAI era are creating brain state
(41:22):
intelligent cultures, our SixSigma for human performance in
the AI world.
These cultures transformperformance across everyational
level.
Young professionals Becomeproductive revenue drivers
faster by mastering complexskills and AI tools in months
(41:43):
instead of years.
Build sustainable highperformance by managing stress
effectively.
Stay engaged and grow withinthe company, improving retention
.
Middle managers Drive faster AIadoption and ROI by confidently
leading change.
Deliver on strategicinitiatives while maintaining
(42:06):
team performance.
Create high-performing teamsthat consistently hit targets.
Senior leaders make sharperstrategic decisions for longer,
using science-backed strategies.
Drive successful AItransformation by mastering the
human factors.
(42:27):
Create lasting cultural changethat turns resistance into
enthusiasm.
Teams.
Deliver complex projects over200% faster by optimizing
collective brain function.
Maintain peak productivityduring AI transformation by
(42:47):
aligning work patterns withnatural energy cycles.
Drive faster innovation throughenhanced collaboration.
These improvements createpowerful organisational outcomes
reduced burnout, lower turnover, enhanced innovation, better
talent retention and improvedcustomer solutions.
(43:08):
Most importantly, they createenvironments where people
genuinely want to stay and growbecause they can consistently
perform at their best withoutsacrificing well-being.
Key insight Brain stateintelligent cultures transform
performance at everyorganisational level by aligning
(43:30):
individual cognitiveoptimisation with collective
work patterns and technologyadoption.
Why it matters?
Now we are living through themost rapid and profound shift in
human history.
Ai is automating routinecognitive tasks medium-charge
(43:51):
work and increasinglyaccelerating complex cognitive
tasks high charge work andincreasingly accelerating
complex cognitive tasks, highcharge work, distraction, stress
and cognitive overload areskyrocketing.
Traditional coaching andleadership methods are falling
behind.
Without a system for optimizingbrain states and subconscious
(44:14):
behaviour, professionals andorganisations will fall
dangerously behind.
Human AI performance psychologyprovides the necessary roadmap
Optimise brain energy for whatmatters most.
Build habits that enhance focus, resilience and wellbeing.
Equip leaders and teams to worksmarter with AI.
(44:37):
In short, it's about achievingmore with greater energy,
clarity and humanity.
Key insight the AItransformation is happening now
and the gap between those whooptimise their cognitive
performance and those who don'tis widening rapidly.
(44:58):
Organisations that address thehuman side of AI adoption will
gain significant competitiveadvantage.
About the founder and creator ofhuman AI performance psychology
.
Dr John Finn is the founder ofthe award-winning Tougher Minds
Consultancy and creator of thefield of Human AI Performance
(45:22):
Psychology.
With 25 years specialising inbehavioural science and
psychology of resilience,performance and leadership, he
has completed three degrees,including a PhD in these fields.
His expertise lies in helpingindividuals, teams and leaders
(45:44):
optimise cognitive performanceduring periods of significant
change.
Dr Finn has personally coachedand trained over 20,000 people
and developed the firstintegrated, science-based system
for human excellence in the AIera the Habit Mechanic AI Edge
(46:06):
system high performancepsychology.
Dr Finn has pioneered theapplication of cognitive and
behavioral science to the uniquechallenges presented by
artificial intelligence inprofessional environments,
establishing the foundationalframeworks that define this
(46:28):
emerging field.
Take your next steps, ready tobring brain state intelligence
to your life and organisation?
Here's how to get started.
Download your free copy ofTrain your Brain for the AI
Revolution at tuffermindscouk.
Become one of the world's firstcertified human AI performance
(46:53):
psychology coaches.
Get one-to-one coaching andbecome an AI era leader.
Explore how we helporganisations build brain state
intelligent cultures.
Contact us at contact attoughermindscouk or via our
website, toughermindscouk, orvia our website,
(47:15):
toughermindscouk.
The AI era will not wait.
Those who master human AIperformance psychology will
shape the future, while othersstruggle to keep up.
Will you be one of the pioneerswho lead?
Hello, habit Mechanics, it's Dr John Finn
here.
I hope you're having a greatweek so far.
So yesterday we released ourfirst in-depth article about the
new field of psychology we havefounded, created and we are
(00:21):
driving forwards and leading on,which is human AI performance
psychology.
Anyone who's read Train yourBrain for the AI Revolution will
understand what we mean by that.
But we wrote an in-deptharticle about this that we sent
out to our database yesterday,so some of you may already have
(00:44):
been scrolling through that.
It's quite a long article, verydeliberately because we wanted
to be very robust in how weexplain this new field of
performance psychology.
Psychology is an evolvingscience, as all sciences are,
(01:05):
and personally I experienced inmy own development over 25 years
I've worked in this field Isuppose two core psychological
movements.
One was sports psychology,which is what I originally
trained in, and when I first didmy undergraduate and even
(01:29):
master's degree in sportpsychology you couldn't actually
become an accredited sportpsychologist.
It didn't exist as a field.
It was new.
And then I also saw the originsof positive psychology, which
(01:49):
sort of started or really gotmomentum in the mid-2000s.
So we're now at the beginningof a journey where we've got
technology that not only is away of us amplifying our
(02:19):
thinking, like you might on aWord document, for example, it's
actually a co-worker.
So we've got technology thatcan now do what only humans have
previously been able to dobefore, and that's why this is
so profound and we need a newapproach, and that's what we've
(02:40):
been working on for a while andstarted to release via Train
your Brain for the ai revolution.
And now we're going to godeeper.
Um, we're going to start to,after a successful pilot, we're
going to start to train morehuman ai performance psychology
(03:00):
coaches, and these will be thefirst in the world, first of
their kind.
So that's really exciting.
Um, and then we're just gonnabe doing our best to make it as
easy as possible for people tounderstand what this new
psychology is all about and howthey can use it for themselves
and for their people, theirteams, their families, to help
(03:21):
them thrive.
Um, so, yeah, this, this is.
I think this is just a reallyexciting period of human history
.
At the heart of psychology ishelping people to think more
effectively so they can behealthier, happier and at their
best, and actually, in order tobe able to do that, the core
(03:45):
currency, what we might call.
In science, the main effectvariable is learning, and you
will see, at the heart of ourapproach, in particularly in the
habit mechanic book, we goreally deep on the learning
piece because actually to getbetter at being at your best
more often, you have to learnhow to do that.
(04:07):
You have to change the neuronsin your brain, replace the
unhelpful ones with more helpfulones via that process called
neuroplasticity.
But at the heart of that islearning, and I think that's
what's so profound about aitechnology.
It can now be used to speed uphow we learn.
(04:30):
So he has.
There are two core types of ofai I think that we are seeing
one is more focused on theautomation of routine tasks.
So it can we can basicallyfully automate most of the
(04:52):
medium charge work that we doand we get paid to do, and what
businesses are doing is they arestopping paying humans to do
that work.
Um, it's not that public.
But there is a big, has been abig movement away, for example,
from high from from recruitinggraduates, because a lot of what
(05:16):
graduates do when they're firstemployed is is a lot of medium
charge work that can becompletely automated.
So you've got technology thatcan do that, but we've also got
technology now that can.
It's almost like a personalizedlearning process, um, where
working with the new generativeai tools have only been um
(05:41):
sophisticated for for months,you know, maybe six months or so
and they become moresophisticated every day.
It is like working with anexpert could be like an expert,
accountant or solicitor orwhatever you want it.
It knows quite a lot aboutthese things and you can access
it 24 7 and it costs maybe onepercent of what it would cost,
(06:05):
and probably less than that, ifyou were to actually engage with
those experts.
But it's been trained in allthe same material that those
experts have.
So we can accelerate ourlearning and completion of of
complex cognitive tasks usingthese ai tools and by being able
(06:31):
to offload more of our mediumcharge busy work that many
people are overwhelmed by, andbeing able to make more progress
faster on our high charge work,then that means that we're
going to get higher qualitydowntime and recharge time so
(06:53):
that, if we think about thethree core brain states, we've
got help now with the highcharge brain state.
Via generative AI helps us tomake progress faster.
We can outsource ourmedium-charge work through what
(07:13):
we now call agentic AI, so theAI agents.
Many of us have been using thistype of tech for a while, so
just think of something likeCalendly, which is a meeting
booking system.
It's almost like an agentic aiagent.
Something that used to be areal manual process is now just
(07:35):
done automatically, um.
But there are, you know,thousands of these tools that
are emerging for all differentaspects of of our lives.
And then we've got um.
By offloading more of our busywork and making more progress on
our mentally complex work,we're going to have better sleep
because we'll be less stressed,more time to do the things that
(07:56):
matter in our life.
But that isn't a given.
People need help to get thetheir brain states working well
and to um understand how tointegrate the tools.
And one high level metaphorthat we've been using, which I
(08:16):
really like and it's anextension of some of the things
we've been talking about foryears we talk about this in the
habit mechanic book it's thatour lives are a bit like a
mountain.
We're trying to get to the topof the mountain to achieve our
goals, and you'll see this inwhat we call the team power
model in the habit mechanic book.
That's the metaphor that we use.
(08:37):
It's the team model we've we'vecreated over the last 20 years,
and what the AI gives us theability to do is to move faster
and further up the mountain thanwe ever thought possible.
So the technology is like asnowmobile, but it isn't magic.
(09:01):
We have to learn how to buildit and how to drive it properly.
And in many cases, the AI toolsare having the opposite effect
on people.
We can see from big sets ofdata they are slowing people
down.
They are acting more like aheavy rucksack than a snowmobile
(09:24):
, and that's because we're notstarting with first principles,
and first principles of thrivingin the AI world are getting
your brain state sorted out.
So what human AI performancepsychology is all about is
helping people to get theirbrain states optimized so they
can actually integrate the newAI technologies into their daily
(09:47):
workflows and get the maximalbenefits from them for both
performing but also well-being.
And we can, of course, do thatindividually and collectively.
So we see there's a hugeopportunity, I think, probably
like we've never seen before tobe healthier, happier and at our
(10:08):
best.
That's what the AI tools giveus.
But in order to capitalize onthat, we need to increase our
brain state intelligence, andthat's why I wrote Train your
Brain for the AI Revolution.
But if we want to not just getbrain state intelligent but
(10:31):
actually put the things that weknow what we should be doing
into practice, we then need togo one step further and have
what we call brain stateintelligent cultures.
And this is where we help eachother to do this, and I talk
(10:52):
about that at the end of Trainyour Brain for the AI Revolution
.
But we need help often to makechange in our lives in our lives
and that's why you know we aretraining up the world's first
certified human performancepsychology coaches, for example,
and it's why we're working withteams and businesses and we're
(11:16):
doing one-to-one coaching tohelp people.
So, anyway, that's a little bitof an overview of what's coming
up in this in-depthintroduction to human AI
performance psychology.
And, yeah, what you're going tohear now is essentially an audio
(11:40):
version of the article that wereleased yesterday.
So if it's helpful, you can goto that page and you can look
through the article at the sametime.
But, yeah, I hope this isinteresting.
I hope it helps us to to helpyou make sense of this complex
world that we're living in andgives you a sense of optimism
(12:01):
that this can actually be aforce for good and it can help
us to be healthier, happier andat our best more often.
But it won't happen by magic,um, and if you haven't already,
I'd really recommend readingtrain your brain for the ai
revolution.
You can get through it in threeto four hours and it shows you
(12:23):
the, the first system you needto implement to start improving
your brain state intelligence.
And then, of course, the habitmechanic is still the Bible and
everything that we it's ourBible, the Tougher Minds Bible,
if you like.
Everything that we say in therestill stands, but it just goes
(12:45):
much, much, much deeper than thenew book we've written.
So those two work incombination.
But read train your brain forthe revolution first, um, and
yeah, from our website now wecan you can actually get a free
copy of that um, just go totoughermindscouk.
So, yeah, I hope you enjoy thearticle, looking forward to
(13:06):
questions, thoughts, reflectionsand then working with people on
this in the near future,because I know people are really
excited about getting involvedin this movement, um, and we're
excited to go on that journeywith you.
So here comes the article EnjoyHuman AI, performance
(13:28):
Psychology An introduction, thenew brain science, redefining
how we work, lead and thrivewith AI.
Read by Dr John Finn.
Tougher Minds founder.
Introduction the humanperformance revolution.
For the first time in humanhistory, machines can automate
(13:53):
complex cognitive work.
This is more than atechnological revolution.
It's a human performancerevolution.
Despite the incredible promiseof AI tools, many professionals
today feel more overwhelmed,distracted and exhausted than
ever.
The problem isn't just learningthe tools.
The real key to thriving in theAI era is mastering the most
(14:16):
powerful technology in the knownuniverse your brain Key insight
.
While organizations focus on AIadoption, the critical factor
for success isn't the technologyitself, but how effectively
humans can collaborate withthese tools through optimized
cognitive performance.
(14:37):
The birth of human AIperformance psychology.
As a cognitive and behavioralscience expert witnessing the
collision of human psychologywith artificial intelligence, I,
dr John Finn, recognized anurgent need for a new framework.
Recognized an urgent need for anew framework.
That's why I established HumanAI Performance Psychology, a
(15:05):
pioneering discipline applyingfirst principles, insights to
optimize human brain states,subconscious behavioral patterns
and leadership capabilities inAI-augmented environments.
As the founder of this field,I've built human AI performance
psychology upon my 25 years ofresearch in cognitive science,
(15:25):
neurobiology and behavioralpsychology, adapting these
insights to the uniquechallenges of the AI era.
While artificial intelligencetechnologies are relatively new,
the human performancechallenges they amplify are not,
and through my work with over20,000 people, I've developed
(15:45):
the scientific frameworks tohelp people meet these
challenges head-on.
My approach optimises humanbrain states, subconscious
behavioural patterns andleadership capabilities in AI
augmented environments.
The capitalization of brainstates capital B for brain and S
(16:06):
for states is intentional.
It refers to my proprietarymodel that forms a cornerstone
of this new field.
Key insight Human AIperformance psychology addresses
the urgent need for asystematic approach to human
cognitive optimization in an erawhere AI tools are transforming
(16:29):
how we work, think andcollaborate, but also have the
potential to overwhelm andexhaust us rather than enhance
our capabilities.
Understanding the AI era beyondjust technology, to understand
what AI truly means for humanperformance, consider this
(16:51):
metaphor.
Imagine you're on a journey toreach the top of a mountain.
The conditions are increasinglystormy, making progress
difficult.
This mirrors our complex modernworld, where achieving our
goals feels increasinglychallenging.
In this landscape, ai has twopotential functions.
(17:14):
It can either serve as asnowmobile, a powerful tool that
allows us to go faster andfurther than previously possible
, or it can become a heavyrucksack, weighing us down,
adding to our burden rather thanlightening it.
People now fall into twodistinct groups the replaceable
(17:37):
and the unstoppable.
The replaceable those whoeither fail to adapt or are
failing to use AI toolseffectively.
They're either trudging up themountain without modern tools or
struggling under the weight ofpoorly implemented technology,
exhausted and overwhelmed.
The unstoppable those whomaster both technology and their
(18:01):
own cognitive performance,energetically speeding past
others on snowmobiles, operatingin high-charge mode, while
collaborating with AI to achievewhat others think impossible.
Becoming unstoppable doesn'thappen automatically.
Even though many AI tools arefree or inexpensive, simply
(18:22):
having access isn't enough.
We must understand both how touse these tools and how to
optimise our own cognitivefunction to work effectively
with them.
Key insight the differencebetween those who thrive and
those who struggle in the AI eraisn't access to technology, but
(18:42):
mastery of human AIcollaboration and, in some cases
, human AI teamwork.
The Lighthouse Brain yourcognitive foundation.
To understand how your brainworks with AI, we first need a
fundamental model of brainfunction.
The Lighthouse Brain Model,grounded in cutting-edge
(19:03):
neuroscience and behaviouralscience, that I've refined over
the past 25 years, provides thisessential foundation.
Imagine your brain contains alighthouse where two important
characters live Hugh and WillPower or Wilhelmina Power.
(19:23):
Hue H-U-E, which stands forHorribly Unhelpful Emotions,
works in the lighthouse'scontrol room, constantly
scanning for threats from yourpast memories of mistakes,
threats in the present immediateproblems, threats in the future
(19:43):
, worst case scenarios.
When no threats are present,hugh seeks easy, novel and
exciting activities that provideshort-term gratification.
Willpower Acts as Hugh's guideand mentor, helping you fulfil
(20:07):
your potential.
When Hugh notices problems orgets tempted by short-term
gratification, it can callWillpower for assistance.
This dynamic isn't a characterflaw.
Hugh's scanning behaviours arebuilt-in survival programming
that helped humans thrive forhundreds of thousands of years.
The problem is that in today'sAI-augmented world, these same
(20:28):
instincts often work against us.
When Willpower and Hugh work inharmony, you can leverage AI
tools strategically rather thanbeing constantly distracted by
them.
Understanding this relationshipexplains why we struggle to
maintain focus on complex,valuable work in an AI-augmented
(20:48):
environment.
Key insight your brain'sautomatic processes, represented
by Hugh, evolved for a verydifferent environment than
today's AI-augmented workplace.
Success requires understandingand optimising the relationship
between these automaticprocesses and your more
(21:10):
strategic cognitive functionswillpower Scientific foundation.
If you're curious about thedeeper neuroscience behind the
Lighthouse Brain Model, you'llfind detailed explanations in
Appendix A of my best-sellingbook Train your Brain.
For the AI Revolution, theproven four-step system to
(21:34):
become irreplaceable, no techskills required.
This model synthesizes researchfrom leading neuroscientists
and psychologists, combined withinsights from my 25 years of
practical experience andresearch.
The three brain statesframework your lighthouse brain
(21:58):
faces modern challenges that gobeyond just disrupting hue and
will powers relationship.
They drain the very energysource powering your entire
cognitive system.
Your brain functions like arechargeable battery with three
distinct power modes, similar toa solar powered lighthouse.
(22:18):
Power mode 1 recharge brainstate.
Power mode 2 medium chargebrain state.
Power mode 3 high charge brainstate recharge brain state more
details.
When your brain needs essentialrecovery and maintenance
(22:41):
Equivalent to a lighthouse onlow power during daylight hours
while recharging its batteries.
Medium charge brain state Moredetails when your brain handles
routine tasks efficiently.
When your brain handles routinetasks efficiently, similar to a
(23:01):
lighthouse running low-levellights at dusk.
High-charge brain state moredetails when your brain performs
sophisticated thinking andtackles demanding tasks
comparable to a lighthouseoperating at full power, sending
its bright beam across thewaters.
Four key sources either chargeor drain your brain battery
(23:24):
Sleep the equivalent of directsunlight for your brain's
battery Quality sleep rechargesyour system, allowing willpower
to guide hue effectively.
Brain-friendly nutrition, thespecial fuel that keeps your
brain's battery running.
Stress often leads to poornutritional choices that give
(23:46):
brief energy spikes but lead todeeper crashes.
Movement, particularly walking,which acts like a supercharger
for your brain's battery.
Being desk-bound drains yourbattery and makes quality sleep
more difficult.
Relationships, socialconnections, can either energise
(24:08):
your battery or deplete it.
Digital overload and strainedrelationships turn potential
energy sources into energydrains.
When your battery is low,hughes threat scanning becomes
erratic.
Turn potential energy sourcesinto energy drains when your
battery is low, hugh's threatscanning becomes erratic, seeing
dangers everywhere.
Willpower lacks energy tomaintain its mentoring role.
(24:28):
Their relationship becomesstrained.
The whole system operates insurvival mode.
This creates a downward spiralwhere it becomes increasingly
difficult to make good decisionsabout sleep, nutrition,
movement and relationships thevery things that would recharge
your battery.
(24:49):
Key insight understanding yourbrain's three power modes gives
you a unique advantage intoday's workplace.
While others struggle to adaptto AI tools, you can match your
brain's natural rhythms todifferent types of work and
reset these rhythms to workbetter for you.
Scientific Foundation.
(25:10):
If you're curious about thedeeper neuroscience behind the
brain states model, you'll finddetailed explanations in
Appendix B of my best-sellingbook Train your Brain for the AI
Revolution, the provenfour-step system.
To become irreplaceable, notech skills required.
(25:31):
This framework is grounded incutting-edge research, verified
through our work with thousandsof professionals.
Why traditional solutions fallshort.
Brain state optimisation isn'ta new challenge.
Even before AI entered ourworkplaces, professionals
(25:51):
struggled to perform at theirbest.
Traditional approaches toimproving human performance have
consistently fallen short ofdelivering lasting results, and
if these approaches are alreadyfailing in a pre-AI world, they
have virtually no chance ofsucceeding in the far more
(26:11):
complex AI-augmented environment.
Consider this striking evidence.
Environment.
Consider this striking evidence.
The largest peer-reviewedanalysis ever conducted on
cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, the gold standard for behavior
change was published byProfessor Pim Kuipers and
colleagues in 2023.
(26:32):
Examining over 50,000 peopleacross 409 studies, the results
showed 58% of people whoreceived CBT showed no
meaningful improvement.
Of the 42% who did improve, 19%would likely have gotten better
without treatment.
(26:53):
In simple terms, only about onein five people benefit from CBT
.
Specifically.
Remember, this is consideredthe gold standard treatment.
Even more concerning, whenresearchers followed up a year
or two later, they found no realdifference between people who
(27:14):
had received CBT and those whohadn't.
This reveals somethingfundamental about how our brains
work, even when peopleunderstand exactly what they
need to change and are givenspecific techniques to make
those changes.
Lasting transformation remainselusive.
(27:34):
If traditional approachesstruggle to create lasting
change in relativelystraightforward behaviours, how
can they possibly help us masterthe complex demands of our AI
augmented workplaces?
We're not just trying to changea few specific thoughts or
(27:55):
behaviours.
We're aiming to fundamentallytransform how our brain operates
throughout the day.
Let's look at four commonapproaches organisations are
currently using to helpemployees adapt to AI tools.
Each of these approachesillustrates why we need
(28:16):
something fundamentallydifferent, an approach that
aligns with how our brainactually works, not just what we
think should work.
Technical training Companiesinvest heavily in teaching
employees how to use AI tools,but knowing how to operate a
tool doesn't mean yourlighthouse brain is optimized to
(28:39):
work with it.
It's like having asophisticated new lens for your
lighthouse, but never learninghow to keep your beam steady.
Traditional performancecoaching and leadership
development programs these focuson time management, goal
setting, productivity techniques, leadership development and
(29:01):
team performance.
They provide valuable knowledgeabout what to do differently,
but knowing what to do isn't thesame as doing it consistently.
It's like knowing exactly how alighthouse should work, but
never mastering the day-to-daypractices to maintain peak
performance.
This applies not just toindividual performance, but also
(29:24):
to leadership capabilities andteam dynamics.
Wellness programs Whilewell-intentioned, these
typically focus on stressmanagement or better sleep.
Again, they provide knowledge,not the system for turning that
knowledge into lasting habits.
It's like knowing yourlighthouse needs a steady power
(29:46):
supply but never establishingthe routines to keep the
batteries charged.
Flow-based performanceapproaches Flow training focuses
on achieving rare moments whenwe operate on autopilot,
executing well-practiced skillseffortlessly.
But in our AI augmented workday, optimising for autopilot
(30:09):
moments misses the pointentirely.
Our work now demands continuousadaptation rather than
perfection of existing abilities.
The root problem knowledgeversus habits.
All these approaches share thesame fundamental limitation they
(30:29):
focus on providing knowledgerather than building habits.
This misses a crucial insightfrom neuroscience 98 to 100% of
human behaviour comes from ourhabits, not from knowing what we
should do.
Your brain contains over 1trillion microscopic biological
(30:50):
moving parts, including neurons,synapses and neural pathways,
all working together to driveyour automatic behaviours.
This vast network isn'tcontrolled by conscious
knowledge or willpower, but bydeeply embedded patterns.
Current approaches are liketrying to learn to drive by
(31:11):
reading the driver's manual,without ever getting behind the
wheel.
Understanding what you shoulddo differently isn't enough.
You need to rewire your brain'sautomated patterns.
Key insight Traditionalapproaches fail because they
provide information withoutaddressing the fundamental habit
(31:31):
patterns that drive 98 to 100percent of human behavior.
Real transformation requiressystematically rewiring these
neural pathways.
How AI transforms work acrossyour brain states Understanding
how AI impacts each of yourthree brain states reveals both
(31:56):
the challenges and opportunitiesof this transformation.
High-charge brain state AI'srole and impact.
While AI can't replicate mostpremium cognitive work, it can
dramatically amplify it.
It can dramatically amplify it.
(32:17):
Ai tools function like expertconsultants who are instantly
available, helping you completechallenging work faster and at
lower cost.
Medium charge brain state AI'srole and impact.
Ai can now handle most taskshumans have traditionally done
in medium charge states fasterand more efficiently.
Recharge brain state AI's roleand impact.
(32:40):
When used properly, ai reducesoverwhelm by handling routine
work and increases dailyprogress through amplified
high-charge thinking, resultingin more downtime and better
sleep due to reduced stress.
Medium-charge brain statetransformation.
Your medium-charge brain statehandles simple, routine tasks
(33:04):
like sending standard emails oradministrative work.
These activities have consumedmore of our working hours over
time, leaving little capacityfor premium thinking.
Consider this prediction fromWinning by Design, a leading
sales training company Within 12months, ai will enable
(33:26):
companies to operate many salesand marketing functions at just
2% of current costs, whileachieving better results and 98%
reduction with improvedperformance.
This transformation occursbecause a I can handle most
medium-charge tasks moreefficiently than humans.
(33:51):
High-charge Brain StateAmplification your high charge
brain state enables your mostsophisticated thinking, from
complex problem solving tostrategic planning.
This is your brain's premiumoperating mode where uniquely
human capabilities shine.
Our research shows mostprofessionals can only maintain
(34:14):
one to two hours of high-chargethinking daily due to cognitive
challenges and what we callinvisible brain damage.
The rest gets consumed byinterruptions, routine tasks and
mental fatigue.
When people optimise theirbrain states, they can maintain
four to five hours ofhigh-charge thinking each
(34:36):
workday.
But here's what makes thismoment extraordinary AI
dramatically amplifies thiscapacity, allowing professionals
with optimised brain states tocomplete five to six plus hours
of high-charge thinking daily.
A real-world example producingthe audiobook for Train your
(34:59):
Brain for the AI Revolution tookone person with optimized brain
states just three days using AItools.
The same task for a previousbook required two people working
for 10 days, so 20 days intotal, and cost nine times as
much.
So we were able to create thenew audiobook using optimized
(35:21):
brain states and AI tools 17working days faster with a 90%
cost reduction.
Recharge, brain stateenhancement by handling routine
tasks that previously consumedcognitive energy, ai tools free
up mental space for truerecovery.
One senior legal professionalreported when I first started
(35:44):
habit mechanic AI edge coaching,I was working on my laptop till
10 to 11 every night.
Now I get out of the officebefore five almost without fail
every day.
For the first time in my careerI'm definitely saving at least
one to two hours daily.
Key insight AI's greatestimpact isn't replacing humans,
(36:06):
but transforming how we workacross all three brain states
Automating medium charge work,amplifying high charge
capabilities and enhancingrecharge quality.
The success cycle your four-stephabit mechanic AI edge system.
The key to achievingtransformative results isn't
(36:28):
working harder, it's aligningyour brain's natural patterns
with AI's capabilities throughour systematic success cycle.
Step 1.
Measurement your brain stateanalysis.
Map your brain's energypatterns to reveal your biggest
opportunities for transformation.
This establishes your currentbaseline and identifies specific
(36:53):
leverage points for improvement.
Step 2.
Planning with the task directorsystem Match each task to the
right type of energy andidentify where AI tools can
enhance your capabilities.
This creates clarity about whatwork should be done in which
brain state and how AI cansupport each type of work.
(37:15):
Step 3.
Optimization with the daydesigner system.
Structure your day to maintainpeak energy for what matters
most professionally andpersonally.
This aligns your schedule withyour natural brain state cycles
and creates protected time forhigh charge work.
Step four automation with theroutine engineer system.
(37:39):
Develop triggers and systemsthat make optimal performance
automatic, using AI tools toenhance rather than drain your
energy.
This transforms consciouspractices into unconscious
habits that sustain performance.
This system functions likesports science for your brain,
(38:02):
just as elite athletes usesophisticated systems to
optimise physical performance,the success cycle helps you
optimise cognitive performancewith AI tools.
Key insight the success cycleprovides a systematic approach
to measuring, planning,optimizing and automating your
(38:24):
cognitive performance with AI,leading to more quality recharge
time, less routine work andsignificantly more hours in your
peak, high-charge state.
Brain State Intelligence theperformance multiplier.
Most organisations are alreadyinvesting in artificial
(38:46):
intelligence tools andautomation leadership
development and performancecoaching, change and
transformation programmes,deaching, change and
Transformation Programs, dei,wellness and Engagement
Initiatives, digital SkillsTraining.
However, none of theseinitiatives can deliver their
full potential unless peoplehave the cognitive capacity to
(39:11):
absorb, apply and sustain them.
Have the cognitive capacity toabsorb, apply and sustain them.
That's where brain stateintelligence becomes the
critical multiplier for yourexisting investments.
Existing investment AI toolsand digital transformation.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Reduces cognitive
(39:35):
overload so people can adopt anduse tools effectively.
Existing investment leadershipdevelopment and performance
coaching.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Embeds lasting
behaviour change by aligninghabits with brain energy states.
(39:56):
Existing investment well-beingand resilience programmes.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it turns awareness into
action with daily rechargetools and recovery routines.
Existing investment trainingand skills development.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Increases learning
(40:18):
capacity by optimising focus,attention and brain rhythm.
Existing investment team andculture initiatives.
How brain state intelligenceenhances it Builds shared
language and systems systemssupporting collective peak
performance.
Brain state intelligencedoesn't replace existing
(40:41):
programs.
It unlocks their full potentialby helping people operate at
their cognitive best.
It functions as the engine oilthat makes every other
organisational initiative runmore smoothly.
Key Insight Brain stateintelligence serves as a
(41:02):
performance multiplier forexisting organisational
investments by ensuring peoplehave the cognitive capacity to
implement and sustain newpractices and technologies.
Creating brain state intelligentcultures.
Organizations excelling in theAI era are creating brain state
(41:22):
intelligent cultures, our SixSigma for human performance in
the AI world.
These cultures transformperformance across everyational
level.
Young professionals Becomeproductive revenue drivers
faster by mastering complexskills and AI tools in months
(41:43):
instead of years.
Build sustainable highperformance by managing stress
effectively.
Stay engaged and grow withinthe company, improving retention
.
Middle managers Drive faster AIadoption and ROI by confidently
leading change.
Deliver on strategicinitiatives while maintaining
(42:06):
team performance.
Create high-performing teamsthat consistently hit targets.
Senior leaders make sharperstrategic decisions for longer,
using science-backed strategies.
Drive successful AItransformation by mastering the
human factors.
(42:27):
Create lasting cultural changethat turns resistance into
enthusiasm.
Teams.
Deliver complex projects over200% faster by optimizing
collective brain function.
Maintain peak productivityduring AI transformation by
(42:47):
aligning work patterns withnatural energy cycles.
Drive faster innovation throughenhanced collaboration.
These improvements createpowerful organisational outcomes
reduced burnout, lower turnover, enhanced innovation, better
talent retention and improvedcustomer solutions.
(43:08):
Most importantly, they createenvironments where people
genuinely want to stay and growbecause they can consistently
perform at their best withoutsacrificing well-being.
Key insight Brain stateintelligent cultures transform
performance at everyorganisational level by aligning
(43:30):
individual cognitiveoptimisation with collective
work patterns and technologyadoption.
Why it matters?
Now we are living through themost rapid and profound shift in
human history.
Ai is automating routinecognitive tasks medium-charge
(43:51):
work and increasinglyaccelerating complex cognitive
tasks high charge work andincreasingly accelerating
complex cognitive tasks, highcharge work, distraction, stress
and cognitive overload areskyrocketing.
Traditional coaching andleadership methods are falling
behind.
Without a system for optimizingbrain states and subconscious
(44:14):
behaviour, professionals andorganisations will fall
dangerously behind.
Human AI performance psychologyprovides the necessary roadmap
Optimise brain energy for whatmatters most.
Build habits that enhance focus, resilience and wellbeing.
Equip leaders and teams to worksmarter with AI.
(44:37):
In short, it's about achievingmore with greater energy,
clarity and humanity.
Key insight the AItransformation is happening now
and the gap between those whooptimise their cognitive
performance and those who don'tis widening rapidly.
(44:58):
Organisations that address thehuman side of AI adoption will
gain significant competitiveadvantage.
About the founder and creator ofhuman AI performance psychology
.
Dr John Finn is the founder ofthe award-winning Tougher Minds
Consultancy and creator of thefield of Human AI Performance
(45:22):
Psychology.
With 25 years specialising inbehavioural science and
psychology of resilience,performance and leadership, he
has completed three degrees,including a PhD in these fields.
His expertise lies in helpingindividuals, teams and leaders
(45:44):
optimise cognitive performanceduring periods of significant
change.
Dr Finn has personally coachedand trained over 20,000 people
and developed the firstintegrated, science-based system
for human excellence in the AIera the Habit Mechanic AI Edge
(46:06):
system high performancepsychology.
Dr Finn has pioneered theapplication of cognitive and
behavioral science to the uniquechallenges presented by
artificial intelligence inprofessional environments,
establishing the foundationalframeworks that define this
(46:28):
emerging field.
Take your next steps, ready tobring brain state intelligence
to your life and organisation?
Here's how to get started.
Download your free copy ofTrain your Brain for the AI
Revolution at tuffermindscouk.
Become one of the world's firstcertified human AI performance
(46:53):
psychology coaches.
Get one-to-one coaching andbecome an AI era leader.
Explore how we helporganisations build brain state
intelligent cultures.
Contact us at contact attoughermindscouk or via our
website, toughermindscouk, orvia our website,
(47:15):
toughermindscouk.
The AI era will not wait.
Those who master human AIperformance psychology will
shape the future, while othersstruggle to keep up.
Will you be one of the pioneerswho lead?
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