Abstract for: Rewiring Leadership for Resilience: Mental Simulation and Neuroplasticity

In a rapidly changing and complex world, leaders are increasingly required to navigate uncertainty, emotional demands, and systemic challenges. Research in neuroscience shows that the brain remains capable of change throughout life through neuroplasticity, offering powerful opportunities to intentionally cultivate resilience, emotional regulation, and adaptive thinking. This experiential workshop explores how mental simulation and contemplative practices can support the development of resilient leadership. Drawing on insights from neuroscience and practices rooted in ancient contemplative traditions, participants will learn how intentional attention training and guided mental simulation can reshape habitual patterns of perception, stress reactivity, and decision-making. Through brief teaching segments and experiential exercises, participants will explore practical tools for strengthening emotional regulation, enhancing cognitive flexibility, and fostering well-being in themselves and the systems they lead. The workshop will introduce practices that help leaders cultivate greater awareness of internal states, recognize reactive patterns, and develop more skillful responses to complex challenges. By integrating scientific understanding of neuroplasticity with practices for training the mind, this session offers leaders practical strategies for cultivating resilience, clarity, and compassionate leadership in dynamic systems. Participants will leave with simple, evidence-informed practices they can apply in their personal and professional contexts.