In the cloud forests of Ecuador live the plain-tailed wren. These chubby little birds are, as it turns out, a model of sophisticated cooperation that can duet better than Donnie and Marie.
Bigwigs from John Hopkins University have studied the way these wrens create their birdsongs. Each song requires one female and male bird alternating syllables to create musical notes in a way that sonds like a single single bird singing.
When these birds cooperate to produce this musical effect, their brain activity becomes more intense (yes, people measure this kind of thing) than it is when the birds sang alone or even listened to other sounds. Their bird-brains are stimulated when they work together.
Our brains too, are wired for cooperation. We are similar to the wrens in that we do have neurons and neurotransmitter systems that regulate our brain activity, say the Bigwigs. When those neurons are fired up, we do better.
Cooperation was also the key to survival for our cave-dwelling ancestors. Those who contributed to the community and worked well with others tended to live better, longer. Though, competition seems to be the M.O. of many people these days, and we are constantly urged to be strong and self-reliant, our greatest strength comes from how well we work and play with others. People who cooperate tend to live happier, better and longer lives, according to research.
We come up with better ideas when we cooperate with each other. Our stress is minimized, we get more done, and we have more fun.
There are plenty of ways to tap into this cooperative spirit – on Wednesday I’ll offer up some. But, today, look for ways to be a team player, to help out, to listen better. Get in the habit of cooperating and notice what we can create together.
Photo by: Stock.xchng
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