Episode 69

69 - Let the Reticular Activating System Fill Your Thoughts

69 - Let the Reticular Activating System Fill Your Thoughts

Today, I talk about the Reticular Activating System (RAS). I've been doing some research on this bundle of nerves in the brainstem that filters out important information and boosts things that it thinks we want to pay attention to. It's fascinating how it can cause dysfunctions like attention deficit or PTSD and even validate negative self-messages.

But here's the thing: we can break out of what RAS decides to filter. We can define what success means to us and use the word “intend” instead of “hope” or “want.” By focusing on what we’re good at and what we want to achieve, and setting goals to reinforce it even further, we can strengthen our RAS system.

And you know what's even better? The RAS system can be programmed to target something visual or active that we intend to do. So, if we infiltrate our brain with imagery, success, and visualization, we can help ourselves notice that thing more often.

So, let's take control of our Reticular Activating System and start achieving our goals!

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3046


https://extension.umn.edu/two-you-video-series/ras

https://www.lifeonyx.com/understanding-the-reticulating-activity-system-ras-and-how-it-relates-to-success/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kF-RZlaPMpU - RAS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsrkOSTyWCU – WYTAYBA

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

Twitter startwithsmallsteps

Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

About the Podcast

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Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.