Brain anatomy varies between us all, meaning awareness of your own individual cognitive profile allows you to truly utilise and enhance what your brain is capable of.
Just like our physical fitness, each person has a unique cognitive profile composed of strengths and areas for improvement. The benefits for professionals llie in identifying where you naturally excel, recognizing areas that may need support, and implementing long-term strategies to protect and enhance overall brain function.
Think of your cognitive profile as a map of how your brain processes information—how you solve problems, manage stress, collaborate, and think creatively. Gaining a deep understanding of these traits unlocks greater self-awareness leading to sharper decision-making and more purposeful leadership.
Here’s how you can tap into this to become the best leader.
1. Request Feedback from Trusted Peers
Mentors, advisors and colleagues can offer valuable perspectives on how your cognitive patterns play out in your business. Don’t underestimate the importance of this outside input – trusted peers can often spot blind spots in your leadership that you may miss. Actively seek their feedback, especially in areas like communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
2. Practise Mindful Leadership
Mindful leadership means leading with presence and intention. By pausing to observe your thoughts before reacting, you gain more control over impulsive or emotionally driven decisions. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or focused breathing, into your daily routine can help you build this skill. This is also where partnering with a strategist who understands cognitive functioning can be an invaluable asset.
3. Undertake a Cognitive Audit
Set aside time to reflect on your mental habits and behavioral patterns. Practices like journaling or mindfulness can reveal recurring themes in how you make decisions and handle challenges. For a more structured approach, consider cognitive health assessments or executive coaching with strategists who specialize in this field. The goal here goes beyond stress relief or general wellness—it’s about gaining deep insight into your cognitive strengths and vulnerabilities to lead more effectively.
4. Identify and Address Cognitive Biases
Learn to notice common cognitive biases as they arise. For example, if you find yourself in favour of information that supports your existing beliefs (confirmation bias), consciously challenge yourself to explore contrasting views or seek information that opposes your assumptions. An objective mindset delivers a significant competitive edge in decision-making. Knowing how your brain makes decisions and leans into its biases is crucial here.
5. Regularly Educate Yourself
Understanding your cognitive function is a continuous process. Staying current with neuroscience, psychology, and leadership research is a great way to do this. Consider attending workshops or seminars and widen your reading. It all helps you to apply evidence-based strategies in your startup.
It’s important to know that your cognitive profile isn’t fixed; it evolves with experience and lifestyle. By exploring how your brain works, you build self-awareness and become a more effective, resilient leader who better equipped to guide your startup through growth and change.
Equally important are daily habits that support brain health. Prioritizing sleep, movement, stress management, and nutrition creates the foundation for peak cognitive performance.
Your brain is your greatest business asset—investing in its function and health isn’t optional, it’s strategic.
Natalie Mackenzie
Natalie Mackenzie is a Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist with over 20 years experience providing support and education to those living with brain injury. As a certified brain injury specialist training she provides training and education to survivors, families, health professionals, employers and schools. Natalie also provides cognitive health assessments for those looking to understand and maintain their cognitive health, as well as programs to promote cognitive wellbeing.