Imagine if you could reclaim half of your life that slips by unnoticed. According to Dr. Amishi Jha, you can—and it all starts with your attention. In Peak Mind, Jha draws on decades of neuroscience research to reveal that our attention is the currency of our experience. Every day, we lose precious moments to distraction, but with a simple, science-backed routine, we can train our minds to be sharper, calmer, and more resilient.
Jha’s journey began in the lab, where she discovered that even elite professionals—surgeons, soldiers, athletes—struggle with focus under stress. But the breakthrough came when she tested mindfulness training: just 12 minutes a day of guided practice led to dramatic improvements in attention, memory, and emotional regulation. The brain, it turns out, is not fixed. Through neuroplasticity, it adapts and grows stronger with use, much like a muscle.
But why is focus so hard? Jha explains that our brains are wired for distraction, constantly scanning for novelty and threat—a useful trait in the wild, but a liability in today’s digital world. Tech companies exploit this, designing apps and platforms that hijack our attention for profit. Yet, Jha reassures us, there is nothing wrong with our minds; they’re working exactly as evolution intended. The key is to harness this power, rather than fight it.
Throughout the book, Jha shares compelling stories—from military units using mindfulness to reduce errors and trauma, to parents deepening bonds with their children through present-moment awareness. She offers step-by-step routines: start small, with just three minutes a day, and build up to 12. Track your progress, expect setbacks, and embrace community support.
What sets Peak Mind apart is its optimism. Jha doesn’t promise perfection, but progress. Each gentle return to the present moment is a victory, a push-up for your mind. Over time, these moments add up—leading to greater clarity, compassion, and even a legacy of presence in the lives of those around you.
Ready to unlock your brain’s hidden superpower? Start with a breath. Start with a minute. The journey to your peak mind begins now.
Want to explore more insights from this book?
Read the full book summary