Dear Monsters,

I am sure you have heard the phrase “you cannot teach an old dog new tricks”…

As we always do in this blog, the time has come to challenge another limiting belief. For way too long we have been led to believe that older people have a diminished ability to acquire new skills, learn and adjust. But how much of it is true?

Traditional views on aging and learning are being challenged by a fascinating scientific discovery: neuroplasticity. This groundbreaking concept not only reshapes our understanding of the human brain but also has profound implications for dismantling age-related stereotypes and fostering a culture of lifelong learning and skill acquisition.

So join me on this journey and let’s learn how to rewire our brains to foster for long-term employability. 

What is Neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity, refers to the brain’s remarkable ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This capability enables the brain to adapt to new experiences, learn new information, and even recover from injuries. Contrary to the long-held belief that the brain’s development is fixed after a certain age, neuroplasticity reveals that our brains remain dynamic and capable of growth and change well into adulthood and beyond. This is a revolutionary discovery that can help us redefine the concept of age both in business and in life. 

The Science Behind Neuroplasticity

At the core of neuroplasticity are the brain’s neurons—nerve cells that communicate with each other through synapses. These synapses strengthen or weaken over time based on how frequently they are used. This means that when we learn a new skill or adapt to a new environment, our brain’s neural pathways adjust accordingly. This continuous process of rewiring is what allows us to acquire new skills, adapt to changes, and recover from setbacks. The research shows that it is still easier for a developing brain to form new synapses compared to an ageing brain, but the ability does not completely diminish, but rather slows down in pace.

So, regardless of age, the key to making the most of our neuroplasticity lies in making an effort to learn new skills, trying something new, and getting out of our comfort zones. This is more than just a phrase, but it is a scientifically proven fact.

Challenging Age Stereotypes in the Workplace

It doesn’t matter what age you are now; we have all been beginners in life and at work once. And I am sure that we have all had specific misconceptions about a specific cohort: our older coworkers. One of the most pervasive stereotypes in the workplace is that older employees are less capable of learning new skills or adapting to new technologies compared to their younger counterparts. This assumption often leads to age discrimination and underutilization of the valuable experience and knowledge that older workers bring to the table. And no wonder that most of the unemployed in the western economies are 50 years old or more. 

That is why this discovery is so exciting and needs to gain more prevalence in the world of business. Neuroplasticity debunks this myth by demonstrating that the brain’s ability to learn and adapt does not diminish with age. Here’s how embracing the concept of neuroplasticity can transform workplace dynamics:

• Promoting Lifelong Learning:

Understanding neuroplasticity encourages a culture of continuous learning, where employees of all ages are motivated to acquire new skills and knowledge. This can lead to more dynamic and versatile teams capable of tackling a wider range of challenges.

• Valuing Experience:

Older employees bring a wealth of experience and perspective that, when combined with a willingness to learn new skills, can drive innovation and creative problem-solving. By recognizing the neuroplastic potential of all employees, organizations can foster a more inclusive and effective work environment.

• Designing Inclusive Upskilling Programs:

Training and development programs can be designed with the understanding that all employees, regardless of age, have the potential to learn and grow. This approach ensures that older workers are given equal opportunities to upskill and reskill, leading to a more equitable workplace.

• Reducing Ageism and Increasing Engagement:

Emphasizing the neuroplastic capabilities of older workers can help reduce ageist attitudes and stereotypes. When employees feel valued for their potential to contribute and grow, it enhances their engagement and commitment to the organization.

Practical Steps for Organizations

So what does this mean for organizations worldwide? It is safe to say that no business is immune to ageism and age discrimination, so to harness the power of neuroplasticity and combat age-related stereotypes, organizations can implement several practical strategies:

1. Encourage Cross-Generational Collaboration: Create opportunities for younger and older employees to work together on projects, fostering mutual learning and respect.
2. Invest in Training Programs: Provide ongoing training and development opportunities that are accessible to employees of all ages, aiming to increase the employability of workers aged 50 and above.
3. Adopt a Growth Mindset: Cultivate a workplace culture that values continuous improvement and learning, emphasizing that everyone has the capacity to develop new skills. This also includes a workplace where it is acceptable to fail at something or to redefine a career path at a later stage of life. 
4. Recognize and Reward Effort: Recognition is key, as emplyees need to have an incentive to take advantage of their plastic brains. Acknowledge the efforts of employees who take on new challenges and learn new skills, regardless of their age.

Dear Monsters, isn’t this exciting? Neuroplasticity is a powerful concept that has the potential to revolutionise our understanding of aging and learning in the workplace.

By embracing the idea that the brain can continue to grow and adapt throughout life, we can break down harmful stereotypes and create more inclusive, dynamic, and innovative work environments.

It’s time to recognise that every employee, regardless of age, has the potential to contribute, learn, and thrive in today’s ever-changing world.