In today’s world, technology has a distinct hold over daily lives, and my life is no exception. With instant dopamine hits whenever we look at our phones, unlimited social media platforms to peruse to make sure we haven’t missed something, and 15-second reels that can waste unlimited 15-second time banks in a row, maybe the start of a new year is a good time to do a “check in” and see what we might consider changing.
Dopamine is a brain chemical involved in reward, motivation, memory, and attention. When dopamine is released in large amounts, it creates feelings of pleasure and reward, which motivate you to repeat a specific behavior. Social media has that all figured out, and provides 24/7 access to dopamine hits.
The biggest question is, “Is scrolling the phone (possibly multiple hours a day) the healthiest way to spend our time?” I’m pretty sure the answer is no.
Can we generate our own dopamine? The answer is yes. Good food, exercise, sleeping well, going to the park, painting, looking at photo albums, singing, meditating. It can be a variety of things—everyone is a little different. But, whatever creates those feel-good chemicals in your head, note them down and make a promise to yourself to put your phone down and integrate it into your day. As you make a list of your joys, add to it whenever you can. Learn the formula for your bliss.
For me, happiness is the ultimate goal. And I’m pretty sure it starts in daily choices, not lofty resolutions. Why not start today?
Lisa Petty, Editor
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