Executive Function

Managing time. Prioritizing tasks. Adapting to changes constantly. Thinking critically. We do these things every single day whether we are aware of them or not. Though this remains a constant, what varies is how well individuals perform these activities. Over time, the ability to effectively execute on these can be the difference between reaching your full potential and a life being wasted.

These certain set of skills can be grouped under the concept known as Executive Function. Whenever someone begins to plan their day, tries to remember a set of instructions, or even attempts to juggle multiple tasks that need to be done on the same day, they are utilizing the Executive Function to make it happen. These skills can be grouped into one of three brain functions:

1. Working Memory

The ability to retain and utilize information that was given to you over a certain period of time is considered working memory. This is what allows someone to be able to remember so many pieces of info at once and act on them.

2. Mental Flexibility

When things don’t go according to plan, people learn to adjust. That is the basis behind mental flexibility: adapting to changes in priorities, demands, and environments.

3. Inhibitory Control

One of the more difficult concepts to master is the idea of filtering out constant distractions and temptations. It is quite easy to let impulses take over and to speak before we think, to eat that marshmallow, and to not set priorities.

Venture capitalists rely upon these skills even more so to navigate through the chaotic world in which they function. VCs must learn to prioritize ruthlessly, reduce the temptation to invest in companies emotionally, and not plan ahead or manage time. Every VC must do their homework on industries and startups in order to utilize their Executive Function effectively.

Startup founders are on the same boat as well. With multiple fires needing to be put out and dozens of tasks that need to be executed, they have to know what demands their attention and what can be removed or delegated. Each day brings with it new challenges and screwballs so the need to constantly adapt mentally is a must. Getting carried away with urgent but not important things can be a startup killer.

The good news about all this is that even if an individual lacks the skills now, it can always be learned. Although children who are still developing are in the best position to do so, it doesn’t mean that adults can’t take advantage of it. The best thing to do here is to identify your strengths and weaknesses where Executive Functions can help and dedicate time to learning the right way of doing things. This could be the difference in landing the next great investment or doubling the ARR of your startup.