Another implication of our findings is that learning about one’s brain and how to access its functions is valuable. We introduced a sizeable physical brain mat in one of the sessions, and participants stood on it, in addition to looking at visuals and identifying relevant brain areas and their approximate place in one’s head. This physical exercise increased the engagement and fun of learning about the brain’s role in goal achievement.
In summary, the NeuroStrollTM offers people a new approach to goal formation and accomplishment that they could apply to current and future leadership development goals. It also provides executive coaches a broader menu of interventions to employ when assisting clients in reaching important leadership development goals.
Future Research
There are several opportunities for future research. At least in the short-term, given the COVID-19 pandemic and the necessity for virtual experiences, there is an opportunity to create an online experiment, chunked by time limits, with more frequent, built-in, and required check-ins on progress. Once the pandemic has passed, there is an opportunity to test more flexible delivery options to ensure spacing and retention. For instance, running one or at most two of the exercises at a time might result in more robust results.
Because we intentionally included working with a “buddy” to enhance commitment and connection with another, we could also test whether running the exercise solely virtually, without face-to-face interaction and connection, makes a difference.
Some of the participants felt that some of the exercises went too quickly. Whether offered in person or virtually, lengthening the time of the whole experience, should also be tested.
A small number of survey participants were uncomfortable with face-to-face and group loving-kindness meditations. We don’t know if that discomfort detracted from the overall results. Still, others expressed a desire for more detailed explanations of each exercise and the science behind each of them.
In summary, to fully test the design, we will want to identify a larger sample, have more explicit follow-up procedures, and explore various options for timing and chunking of the delivery. Another consideration is whether the experience is best done in person and/or maintains its impact when adapted for virtual delivery.
The design purposefully and intentionally had several variables, which made measuring the impact more complex. Given the results, we are not clear which of the exercises was the most powerful. However, we have qualitative data that suggests that the sensing exercises were most impactful for some. On the other hand, participants cited several of the other activities as useful. Our individual biology may be so unique that it is possible no one path to change is universal for all.
Finally, there are now several apps on the market that aid in the accomplishment of goals. Still, another research opportunity is to link our exercise to a particular app and measure the impact.
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