Learning is not a linear process - where you absorb the information in regular portions. There are various factors that effect, whether the information sinks in or bounce off. (related: Ingredients for Learning)
Right state of mind
A tranquil mind is more receptive to new information than an chaotic one.
- Tranquil state of mind is high ATP brain (generally during sunrise and sunset)
- Dopaminergic/emotional activities during the day makes the mind more chaotic (more ADP as ATP gets used up)
- When you are unable to focus, you use willpower; further draining your “ATP mana pool”.
How do we learn?
- Learning is the process of putting ideas from conscious to subconscious mind.
- Once a samskara or an idea (with or without tied emotions) sinks in your subconscious mind, related thoughts can bubble-up on its own.
- {Its the core concept of the movie “Inception”}.
- Those thoughts will steer you into action, without the use of willpower.
It’s like an automatic thought generating machine planted in your subconscious.
Examples of common thought generating machines: Laziness, Social Anxiety, Perfectionism, Competitiveness and High/Low self-esteem. (related: Function of the ego)
How to have positive thoughts?
You should control what goes into your subconscious and build positive thought generating machines.
- Reframe your thoughts: Thoughts you spend time thinking, reinforces their respective thought generating machines.
- Structure your environment: Choose your surroundings wisely and regulate the stimulus for those thoughts.
- Build mental resistance: Be super aware of thoughts bubbling-up while indulging in a bad habit.
Source: Study Tips from Dr. K, 2.5 GPA to Medical School to Harvard Residency । Dr. K Explains