Our personality, how we handle stress, how risk-taking we are or how well we can concentrate is biochemically controlled by neurotransmitters. Dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine are the messengers – and genes determine how many receptors we have and how quickly these substances are broken down.
A famous example is the COMT gene. It breaks down dopamine in the frontal brain. The "Warrior" variant (Val/Val) breaks down dopamine very quickly: These people are calm and efficient under stress, but often have less focus in everyday life.
Other genes like DRD2 control our reward center – and thus our susceptibility to addictions or food cravings. BDNF acts like fertilizer for the brain and promotes neuroplasticity (learning).
Genetics is not fate. Knowing your predisposition allows you to get the best out of your biology through a targeted lifestyle.