Growth Disguised
Why Cognitive Flexibility and Executive Function Matter in an AI-Shaped Future
Back around 2005, I received a palm sander as a gift at an auspicious time of year.
Now I do enjoy a good furniture refinishing project. But at this particular moment, in the thick of parenting littles, a cross-continent move, and a “where is home” remake, my heart didn’t take well.
Gift giving has never ranked highly for either my husband or myself, but along the way (perhaps on the road to more maturity), this variety of gift became deeply appreciated.
The circa 2020 chainsaw meant The Forest would be tended to.
The 2024 refresh of our 1940s outhouse meant a less drafty experience, complete with a transparent roof for stargazing.
And this year’s much-anticipated leaf blower makes for safer roof cleaning and far more efficient clearing of patios and paths.
Best of all, most steps are handled by others while being thoroughly appreciated by me.
A change of thinking becomes a change of heart.
The world of learning comes with its own assumptions: quietness, sitting still, grade-level pacing, cyclical progression. But what happens when those expectations aren’t actually producing growth?
I often encourage parents—not always in so many words—to suspend disbelief for a time.
What if strengthening the brain, instead of compensation or compliance, could move students farther ahead?
What if improving cognitive flexibility and executive function better prepares students for the kind of critical thinking that will become even more valuable in a world increasingly shaped by AI?
As AI reorients education and work, the premium on adaptable thinking, problem solving, and neuroplasticity will only deepen.
Choosing a different path usually requires courage before it produces clarity.
You may need new language to explain your decisions—to your child, extended family, educators, or even yourself. Transitional seasons often ask us to work differently for a time. But as cognitive capacity grows, so does freedom. Eventually, you’ll be off to things loved best.
I’ll continue to keep an eye on mechanical things on my doorstep at this time of year.
And you, brave one, keep an eye on the future gift of growth that comes from taking a difficult but worthwhile next step.