Sir Dave Brailsford, the performance director who transformed British cycling, built his approach around the idea of “marginal gains” — the belief that improving many small things by just one percent can combine to create a dramatic overall improvement. The same principle applies here. My blog isn’t about grand, sweeping solutions, but about small, workable strategies for coping with the daily realities of life after brain injury. Each post offers a modest idea — perhaps trivial on its own — yet together they can make life that little bit easier, steadier, and more manageable over time.
Tag: insight
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A Healing Brain (Insight 018)
My brain is in the process of healing and repurposing. For years, people believed that once the brain was damaged, that was that — a closed door, a full stop. But the truth, as we now know, is much more hopeful. The brain has a quiet talent for repair. Through neurogenesis (growing new nerve cells) and neuroplasticity (forming new connections), it can rewire itself — not perfectly, but well enough to find new ways of doing old things.
After something like brain surgery or a stroke, this means recovery isn’t simply about waiting. The brain is busy listening, watching, and learning from whatever we do. Every attempt — whether it’s trying to take an even step or coaxing a stubborn hand into movement — sends a message. But beware the catch …
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The Power of Smart Devices (Insight 031)
Almost everybody has become used to the power of the smartphone in their pocket. Yet many people could benefit even more from using a smart watch alongside it, if they only knew how much it can help — particularly those coping with disabilities or recovering from brain injury.
For me, the combination of iPhone and Apple Watch has been revolutionary. Together, they help me several times every hour, every day.
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Half a Mind to .. 