Imagine scientists say they’ve built a basic computer out of meat that can solve a maze or do simple math. Sounds crazy, right? Even crazier is that you’re reading this with a “computer” made of meat—your brain. It’s mostly protein and fat but can understand the world perfectly. It even runs on electricity in a wet environment, which is quite bizarre, yet it works. Your brain, a “meat computer,” has helped create the devices we use and the networks that connect us, whether you’re in Juno or Johannesburg, La Paz or Lhasa. It’s the same brain that’s using robots to explore space and other planets.
Our brains are incredible, but we often expect too much from them. We want to meditate and feel calm but end up bombarded with thoughts. We try to remember things but forget. We aim for patience but lose our tempers and strive for happiness but often feel less than satisfied.
Expecting perfection sets us up for failure because our brains are quirky, fragile, and unreliable—even in the best conditions. They malfunction when low on fuel, overloaded with information, or deprived of sleep. Under these conditions, they underperform and create feelings of inadequacy.
You’re going to forget things, lose your temper, misinterpret words, believe false information, and make poor decisions. These things happen because our brains aren’t perfect.
When we expect perfection, we get upset with ourselves. We might criticize ourselves (“How could I forget that?”), deny our mistakes (“I was just about to do it!”), or deflect blame (“Well, you lost your keys three months ago!”). Life is easier when we accept our brain’s limitations and understand we’re bound to slip up.
When I yell because I’m overloaded—say, if I’m cooking, helping my kids with homework, and reading texts—I feel relieved to recognize it’s not because I’m a bad dad. My brain is low on glucose and overtasked. Realizing this helps me forgive myself, manage my emotions, and adapt my behavior to reduce stress.
I’m not saying to keep losing your temper. I’m saying don’t beat yourself up for being imperfect. You can manage your brain’s weaknesses once you understand them. Take steps to better care for your brain: ensure it gets enough sleep, keep it fueled, give it regular breaks, mute notifications on your phone, and meditate daily for better efficiency.
Apply these ideas to others too. When someone forgets something, remember it’s normal. If a child or spouse is moody or misbehaves, consider that their brains might not be in the best condition. With understanding, we can be kinder and more supportive.
I hope you find something here that helps make your brain’s environment more stable and efficient, leading to better interactions with others. In simple terms, I hope you find this useful for a happier life and better relationships with patience, kindness, and empathy.