Unlocking your brain's superpowers: How two models can help you make smarter decisions

Ever wondered why we sometimes make snap decisions or why emotions can completely take over our logical thinking? The answer lies in the way our brain operates in different states. In this post we’ll explore how two fascinating models: the Brain State Model by Dr. Becky Bailey and System 1 and System 2 thinking from Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman; explain how our brains react and make decisions. By understanding how these models work together, you can make better choices, regulate your emotions and boost your decision-making skills. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

Survival State and System 1: instant, automatic reactions

Picture this: You’re walking through the woods and suddenly you spot a snake. Without thinking, you jump back. That’s your survival state in action, as Dr. Becky Bailey would say, your brain’s top priority is keeping you alive! This state is quick, reactive and driven by instinct. Your brain doesn't have time to analyze the situation, it just acts.

Now, let’s bring in Kahneman’s System 1 thinking. System 1 is like the brain's autopilot: it's fast, automatic and intuitive. It's the I know this is dangerous! decision that happens in a split second. While this quick, gut-level thinking is great for survival, it doesn't always involve careful reasoning. So, while it keeps us safe from snakes, it can sometimes lead to snap judgments that aren't always right.

Emotional State and System 1: when feelings take over

Emotions are powerful. Ever found yourself snapping at someone when you're upset only to regret it later? That's your emotional state at play. When you're in this state, emotions like fear, anger or joy take the wheel and your decisions are more impulsive than rational. Dr. Bailey’s emotional state and Kahneman’s System 1 thinking are like best friends here, working together to trigger responses based on feelings and past experiences, not logic.

As Bailey puts it, when you’re in this state, you’re not thinking straight. That’s why you might make decisions based on how you feel instead of what’s best for you. Understanding this connection can help you realise why emotions sometimes overpower logic and guide you to slow down and think more clearly.

Executive State and System 2: thoughtful, deliberate decisions

Now, let’s flip to the executive state, the brain’s high-level decision-making mode. This state is all about conscious, logical thinking, problem-solving and self-control. This is where your prefrontal cortex comes in, helping you make careful and strategic choices. Dr. Becky Bailey describes this as the “thinking” state, where you're calm, in control and focused on your goals.

This aligns perfectly with System 2 thinking from Kahneman, which is slow, deliberate, and requires mental effort. It’s where you use reasoning to make well-thought-out decisions. Imagine you're planning a big presentation at work: this is where you’ll use your executive state to analyse data, weigh options and create a plan. Unlike the fast, emotional or instinctive responses, System 2 takes its time, relying on deep thought.

Bringing it all together: How to use these insights

When you understand how these brain states and thinking systems interact, you can start using them to your advantage. Here’s how:

1. Recognise Your State
   Am I reacting from fear, emotion, or calm, clear thinking? Asking yourself this simple question can help you get in touch with what’s driving your decisions. If you’re in a survival or emotional state, it’s time to pause.

2. Hit the Pause Button
   When you catch yourself in a knee-jerk reaction (like snapping at someone or making a rash decision), stop and breathe. Take a step back and engage your executive state, says Bailey. Whether it’s counting to 10, taking deep breaths or simply stepping away for a moment, slowing down can help you think more clearly.

3. Practice Self-Regulation
   Moving from emotional or survival states to your executive state takes practice. Try mindfulness, meditation or stress-reduction techniques to stay cool under pressure. The more you train your brain to shift gears, the better you’ll become at making thoughtful decisions.

4. Share the Knowledge
   These brain models aren’t just for you—they can be powerful tools for the people around you, too. By understanding these concepts, you can improve communication and decision-making in your workplace or social groups, says Dr. Bailey. Imagine how much smoother things could go if everyone knew when they were acting out of emotion or instinct and when they needed to bring in some logical thinking!

Why it matters

Understanding how the brain works in different states gives you an incredible superpower: the ability to control your reactions and make better decisions. When you can recognize when you're in a survival or emotional state and shift into the executive state, you’ll find yourself handling stress, conflict and decision-making with ease. And when you apply these concepts with others, you can improve teamwork, problem-solving, and collaboration.

So next time you’re faced with a tough decision or an emotional moment, remember: Your brain has the power to help you succeed. The key is knowing which part of it you’re tapping into.

I hope this post tickled your curiosity and created a gentle hunger for more. Let’s dive into this together.