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Published Apr 18, 2022

Cognitive Neuroscientist MAYA SHANKAR On The Power of Change | Rich Roll Podcast

Cognitive neuroscientist Maya Shankar delves into the transformative power of vulnerability and personal storytelling, explores the applications of behavioral science in shaping public policy, and shares her journey from violinist to cognitive scientist, offering profound insights into embracing change and understanding biases for personal growth and resilience.
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  • Violin Beginnings

    Maya Shankar's early encounter with the violin was a pivotal moment that shaped her identity as a musician. Her grandmother's Indian classical violin inspired a deep connection, leading Maya to pursue her own path in music. Despite her family's scientific background, Maya's passion for the violin was undeniable, as she practiced diligently without prompting 1. Her mother's fearless support allowed Maya to explore her musical talents freely, fostering an environment where she could thrive without pressure 2.

    I was very emotionally close with my grandmother. We would visit India for weeks and weeks and weeks on end in the summertime, and I felt a kind of intimacy with her that was very rare.

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    This nurturing environment was crucial in Maya's development as a musician, setting the stage for her future endeavors.

       

    Adversity

    Facing adversity, Maya experienced a profound identity crisis when an injury ended her violin career. At 15, a finger injury abruptly halted her dreams, leaving her shattered and questioning her self-worth 3. This sudden loss forced Maya to confront the concept of identity foreclosure, where one's self-identity becomes rigid and resistant to change 4.

    I did not anticipate what a profound loss of identity I would feel. Truly like the rugs pulled out from underneath you and the thing that you've defined yourself by for so long is no longer existent.

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    Her journey through this challenging period highlighted the importance of a flexible self-concept, allowing for growth and adaptation in the face of unexpected changes.

       

    New Passions

    Transitioning from her identity as a violinist, Maya discovered new passions in cognitive science. A chance encounter with Steven Pinker's "Language Instinct" ignited her curiosity about the mind's complexities, leading her to explore cognitive science 5. This newfound interest helped Maya realize that her true passion lay in human connection, a theme that persisted throughout her varied career paths 6.

    All we need at these moments of inflection is just a seedling, just like a little something.

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    Maya's story underscores the power of following one's interests and the potential for personal growth through embracing change.

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