I am a leadership and neuroscience geek. One of our most valuable tools is our mindset, and you guessed it—our brain. Our brain is a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs exercise (stay tuned for my next newsletter on brain exercises!).

When I started in this space 17 years ago, I went to construction sites to teach engineers and teams about leadership. Some were intrigued, and some were scared. I get it; learning leadership and EQ are scary, and when I mentioned “neuroscience,” their eyes lit up with excitement!

This is why we teach and coach in this space in our leadership programs, and the difference and impact are indescribable. It has helped our leaders and teams be great. It has changed lives. It has changed my life.

Would you love to know more? Yes…!

Neuroscience offers valuable insights into human behaviour and cognition, which can be applied to leadership development. Here are some neuroscience-backed tips for becoming a better leader:

1. Practice Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Emotional intelligence, which involves awareness of your emotions and those of others, is crucial for effective leadership. Neuroscience research has shown that the brain regions involved in emotional regulation and empathy can be developed through practice. Engage in activities such as mindfulness meditation to enhance your EI skills.
2. Build Trust: Trust is essential for effective leadership, collaboration, and cooperation. Neuroscience studies have found that trust is associated with releasing oxytocin, a hormone linked to bonding and social connection. To build trust, demonstrate reliability, honesty, and integrity in your actions and communications.
3. Provide Feedback Constructively: Neuroscience research suggests that Feedback is most effective when it is specific, timely, and framed positively. When giving Feedback to your team members, focus on highlighting strengths and offering actionable suggestions for improvement. Avoid using language that triggers threat responses in the brain, as this can hinder learning and motivation.
4. Promote Psychological Safety: Creating a psychologically safe environment where team members feel comfortable taking risks and expressing their ideas is essential for innovation and productivity. Neuroscience studies have shown that when individuals feel safe, the brain’s threat response is reduced, allowing for better cognitive functioning and creativity. Encourage open communication, active listening, and respect for diverse perspectives within your team.
5. Encourage Growth Mindset: A growth mindset, which involves believing that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and practice, is associated with resilience and learning agility. Neuroscience research indicates that individuals with a growth mindset have more active neural connections related to learning and memory. Encourage your team members to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and persist in facing obstacles.
6. Practice Inclusive Leadership: Inclusive leadership involves valuing and leveraging the diversity of perspectives and experiences within your team. Neuroscience studies have shown that exposure to diverse viewpoints can enhance problem-solving and decision-making by stimulating cognitive flexibility and creativity. Actively seek input from all team members and create opportunities for everyone to contribute to discussions and decision-making processes.
7. Manage Stress Effectively: Leadership roles often come with high levels of Stress, which can impair cognitive functioning and decision-making abilities. Neuroscience research suggests that stress management techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and regular exercise can help regulate the body’s stress response and promote resilience. Prioritise self-care practices that support your physical and mental well-being.

Incorporating these neuroscience-based principles into your leadership approach can enhance your leadership effectiveness and create a positive and productive work environment for your team.

Which Brain Chemicals Are Best in Leadership

Several brain chemicals play essential roles in leadership by influencing behaviour, cognition, and social interactions. Here are some key neurotransmitters and hormones that are particularly relevant to effective leadership:

1. Dopamine: Dopamine is often called the “reward neurotransmitter” because it plays a central role in motivation, goal-directed behaviour, and reinforcement learning. Leaders who provide meaningful recognition and rewards for their team members can boost dopamine levels, increasing motivation and engagement.
2. Oxytocin: Oxytocin is sometimes called the “love hormone” or “bonding hormone” because it is associated with social bonding, trust, and empathy. Leaders who foster a supportive and inclusive work environment can promote the release of oxytocin, strengthening interpersonal connections and collaboration within teams.
3. Serotonin: Serotonin regulates mood, emotions, and social behaviour. Higher serotonin levels are associated with confidence, assertiveness, and resilience. Leaders who effectively manage their feelings and inspire confidence in others can promote serotonin release, enhancing team morale and cohesion.
4. Endorphins: Endorphins are neurotransmitters that act as natural pain relievers and mood enhancers. They are released in response to Stress, exercise, and social bonding. Leaders who promote a culture of resilience and well-being, encourage physical activity, and foster positive social interactions can stimulate endorphin release, helping their team members cope with challenges and stay motivated.
5. Cortisol: Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone” because it is released in response to perceived threats or stressors. While moderate cortisol levels can enhance alertness and focus, chronically high levels can impair cognitive functioning and decision-making abilities. Influential leaders prioritize stress management techniques to keep cortisol levels in check and create a calm and supportive work environment.
6. Acetylcholine: Acetylcholine involves cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and learning. Leaders who provide clear direction, communicate effectively, and promote a culture of continuous learning can support acetylcholine release, enhancing cognitive flexibility and problem-solving abilities within their teams.

While these brain chemicals play important roles in leadership, it’s essential to recognize that effective leadership involves various factors, including personality traits, skills, and situational context. By understanding how these neurotransmitters and hormones influence behaviour and motivation, leaders can adopt strategies to promote a positive and productive work environment for their teams.