The Reticular Activating System (RAS)

The Reticular Activating System (RAS) is a part of the brain that acts as a filter for information. It is the "gatekeeper" of your conscious awareness, and it is responsible for focusing your attention on what it deems to be important.

How the RAS Works

The RAS is constantly scanning your environment and filtering out irrelevant information. It is the reason you can be in a crowded room and not hear any of the conversations around you, but you will immediately hear your name if someone says it.

You can consciously program your RAS by focusing on what you want to achieve. When you set a goal or focus on a particular thought, you are telling your RAS that this is important. Your RAS will then begin to filter your reality to show you more of what you are focused on.

Harnessing the Power of the RAS

• Focus on What You Want, Not What You Don't Want: Your RAS does not distinguish between positive and negative. If you are constantly thinking about your problems, your RAS will show you more problems. If you focus on solutions and opportunities, you will see more of them.
• Use Affirmations: Positive, present-tense affirmations can help to program your RAS for success.
• Set Clear Goals: Setting clear goals is one of the most powerful ways to direct your RAS.

By consciously directing your RAS, you can turn your brain into a powerful success-generating machine.