Myth vs. Mind #1: Do We Really Use Only 10% of Our Brain?
Psychology Myth Uncovered
Have you ever heard someone say, “We only use 10% of our brain”?
It’s one of those phrases that slips into conversations, self-improvement books, and even movies.
The idea is tempting: imagine having a hidden 90% brainpower, just waiting to be unlocked. It inspires us to dream of possessing superhuman memory, perfect creativity, or limitless intelligence.
However, here’s the truth: the notion that we use only 10% of our brains is a myth.
Why This Myth Spread So Easily
It’s not hard to see why this story caught on.
The thought of unused brainpower makes us feel like there’s potential inside us we haven’t yet reached. It also gives a hopeful excuse: “If I’m struggling, maybe it’s just because I haven’t tapped into that other 90% yet.”
Some historians believe that the myth may have originated in the early 1900s when psychologists like William James suggested that humans only utilise a small fraction of their mental capacity. Over time, that idea was twisted into a catchy (but false) “10% rule.” Hollywood later helped by turning it into a plot device in films where characters suddenly unlock their “hidden” brain capacity.
What Science Actually Shows
Modern neuroscience paints a very different picture.
Brain scans (fMRI and PET) show that nearly all parts of the brain have some function and are active throughout the day, even when we’re resting, sleeping, or daydreaming.
The brain makes up only about 2% of our body weight, yet it consumes, on average, about 20% of our energy. I do believe evolution wouldn’t waste so much energy on a massive organ if 90% of it were just sitting idle.
Different regions have specialised roles: movement, language, vision, memory, emotions, and so on. Damage to even tiny areas can have major consequences. This proves that no large dollop of the brain is “unused.”
In other words, you’re already using 100% of your brain, just not all at once.
The Deeper Truth Behind the Myth
Even though the 10% claim is false, the feeling behind it is real: we often sense that we’re not living up to our full potential. That’s not about unused brain areas, but about how we use the brain we have.
We fall into routines. We get stressed. We don’t always take care of our minds the way we do our bodies. And that’s okay. Life is demanding. But the hopeful part is that our brains can change. It can grow, adapt, and strengthen with the right care.
Gentle Ways to Care for Your Brain
Think of these not as big challenges, but as small, loving reminders for your mind.
Learn something new. Even tiny steps, like trying a new recipe, reading about an unfamiliar topic, or picking up a hobby, help your brain form fresh connections.
Move your body. A short walk, a stretch, yoga exercises, or dancing in your living room gives your brain more oxygen and boosts your mood. Remember: your brain loves movement.
Feed it well. Stay hydrated, eat leafy greens and colourful foods, and don’t underestimate the power of omega-3s from nuts, seeds, and fish. Your brain is what you eat, too.
Prioritise rest. Sleep is not wasted time. It’s when your brain clears clutter and builds memory, putting it in separate drawers, like I like explaining to my son. Try to give yourself those 7 to 9 hours without guilt.
Manage stress gently. Stress is a big part of life, but your brain needs calm. A few deep breaths, journaling about your encounters/ emotions or five quiet minutes without your phone can make a difference.
Stay connected. Talk, laugh, or share your day with a dear person. Even brief conversations with loved ones are food for your brain. Connection protects memory and lifts mood.
Stretch both sides of yourself. Solve a puzzle one day, doodle the next, listen to music or play an instrument. Logic and creativity are both vital workouts for your brain.
In Conclusion
The 10% myth is comforting, but it underestimates us. We’re not walking around with a mostly unused brain; we’re already engaging the whole thing in beautifully complex ways.
Instead of waiting for a magical “unlock,” the real challenge is this:
How can we nurture the brain we already have, so it serves us better every day?
Maybe it’s one new habit, one better night’s sleep, or one meaningful conversation. The small steps add up, and your brain will thank you.
Gentle Reflection For You
If you were to choose just one small way to care for your brain this week, what would it be?
I’m Andi.
I'm endlessly captivated by the quiet dance between mind, body, and behaviour. With roots in economics and psychology, I listen for what’s felt but not always spoken: the gestures, the silences, the emotions we bear in our skin.
My writing is where science meets soul, a space to give shape to what we hold inside. I hope you’ll find something here that makes you feel seen, and I’d love to hear what you carry, too.
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