“The brain is a far more open system than we ever imagined. It survives in a changing world by changing itself” - Norman Doidge
In the fast-evolving world of tech, keeping your mind sharp is a bit like tending to a garden. If you’re not cultivating it, you’re missing out on the opportunity to grow. Staying relevant requires more than just learning new coding languages or following the latest product releases. It’s about nurturing an environment where ideas can flourish, grow, and, importantly, die.
Neuroplasticity is your brain’s secret weapon, and it doesn’t quit on you just because you’ve passed a few more birthdays. Contrary to popular belief, you’re not stuck in a fixed mindset. Your brain is always up for a bit of renovation. Plant new ideas. Cultivate them by reading widely, experimenting with different tools, and embracing creativity even in unexpected places. If an idea isn’t working, snip it off — there’s no shame in pruning. It’s like weeding out the clutter to make space for something better.
Experimentation is critical. If you’re not trying new things, you’re just letting weeds take over your mental landscape. Take a tool you’re unfamiliar with, or a concept you haven’t quite wrapped your head around yet, and just go for it. Sure, some things will fail spectacularly (like some aspects of my career) but that’s how you find out what thrives. Your brain is wired to adapt, so let it.
Now, why not ask yourself: What ideas in my mental garden could use a bit of pruning?
What can you do? Pick one area in your mental “garden” today to tend to. Try a new tool, read something outside your usual scope, or ditch a preconception that’s been holding you back.
Interesting Links
-
Why Data Centers Should Move to Space
Lumen Orbit proposes launching data centers into orbit to take advantage of 24/7 solar energy and passive cooling. This could rapidly scale AI capabilities while bypassing terrestrial constraints like energy consumption and permitting. This concept could be game-changing for large-scale AI operations. -
Doctors + AI: Better Together?
LinkedIn Post by Ethan Mollick highlights research showing that AI combined with doctors results in similar diagnostic accuracy, but AI alone outperforms doctors. This raises questions about the future role of human professionals that can’t sidestep their ego, perhaps? -
AI for Website Personalisation
Algomo customises landing pages and engages in personalised conversations instantly for each visitor based on multiple data sources and an array of personalisation tools.