Brain Quote by Michael Merzenich
“Rather marvelously, the older brain only permits change when it judges that change to be important, rewarding or good for it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Brain's Way of Healing by Norman Doidge, 2015
The brain resists change unless it perceives the change as beneficial or rewarding.
In simple terms: Brain changes only when it sees benefit.
Key Takeaway
Make change meaningful and rewarding.
Themes
neuroscience
behavior change
motivation
learning
plasticity
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
motivational
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education reform
- personal habit formation
- therapy
- organizational change
Key Concepts
Neuroplasticity
reward systems
cognitive appraisal
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you frame change to appear beneficial?
- What rewards can you attach to new habits?
A Different Perspective
If perceived benefit is low, resistance persists.
