The Feedback Loop That Changed Everything

hellooo!! I’ll get right into it. This one has been huge for me. I’ve built a regular feedback loop with myself. I constantly question my thoughts and actions, kind of like doing a personal check-in.

I ask myself things like, ‘Why did I say that? Why am I feeling this way? Is there something deeper going on?’ These questions have led to so much clarity in how I approach situations and manage my emotions. I didn’t just stumble onto this idea; there’s actual science behind it.

Neuroscience shows that we can rewire our brains by questioning our beliefs. This concept is called neuroplasticity, and it means our brains are far more adaptable than we give them credit for. Every time we reflect on why we think or feel a certain way, we create new neural pathways that make us more self-aware and less stuck in old patterns.

Let’s See How It Works

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Now, let’s dive in!

When we repeat thoughts, behaviors, or reactions, our brain reinforces those pathways—kind of like carving a groove in the road. If you’re used to reacting with frustration or anxiety in certain situations, that reaction becomes automatic because the brain is used to following that path. But when you take a moment to question why you’re reacting that way, you interrupt the usual flow.

That’s when the magic happens. The more you challenge those automatic responses, the more you weaken the old pathways and start creating new ones. In time, you start to feel more in control of your emotions, and your reactions become intentional, not automatic.

I talked about this in my video that just dropped today!

The Science Behind It

Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself. When we intentionally focus on new thoughts and behaviors, we encourage the brain to form new connections. Over time, these new neural pathways become stronger, replacing the old, unhelpful ones.

This self-directed change can lead to improved emotional regulation, a clearer sense of purpose, and better decision-making.

For example, let’s say you often find yourself getting defensive during feedback. By questioning why you feel the need to defend yourself, you bring awareness to the thought pattern driving that reaction. You might realize it stems from a fear of being wrong or not wanting to appear less competent. Simply acknowledging that underlying fear sort of weakens its hold on you.

Each time you choose a more mindful, measured response, you're actively creating a new pathway. And the more you repeat this, the stronger that pathway becomes, eventually turning into your new default mode.

Finding Peace

The biggest shift I’ve noticed since starting this feedback loop is a deeper sense of peace. It’s amazing how much calmer I feel in situations that would have normally triggered stress.

How You Can Start Your Own Feedback Loop

1. Pause and Reflect: Whenever you feel an emotional response, pause and ask yourself: Why am I feeling this way? What’s the real reason behind this reaction?

2. Write It Down: Journaling these thoughts can be powerful. It helps you recognize patterns and brings clarity to what triggers certain emotions. Writing strengthens the process of self-reflection and helps solidify the changes you’re trying to make.

3. Be Consistent: This process isn’t a one-off. The more you practice, the more your brain gets used to this new way of thinking. Soon, you'll find yourself automatically reflecting before reacting.

We’ve got the power to reshape our minds, and by questioning our thoughts, we can take control of our emotions and reactions, leading to a more peaceful, balanced life.

Happy Sunday and here’s to a productive and balanced week ahead!

Until Thursday,

Anusha Kannan

THIS WEEK ON The Pivot to Balance Podcast

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