Dopamine Detox - Why It’s a Great Idea
Have you ever heard the saying that time is the most valuable currency? And, just like any other type of currency, everyone has their own ways of spending it wisely.
So, how do you spend yours?
Does each new day bring you satisfaction and a feeling of moving closer to your goals, or do you find yourself wondering where your day has gone, making very little progress toward your dreams?
If you’ve been stung by the procrastination bug and spend more time looking at what others have done on their posts than actually doing anything yourself, I have a secret for you. I used to do the same thing.
It was not unusual for me to lose hours every day scrolling through social media. I used it for inspiration for craft and business ideas, connecting with friends, and entertainment. And I told myself that it was ok to spend my most valuable currency this way - I would get stuff done “tomorrow”.
I would spend time with my family tomorrow, and get work done tomorrow, and maybe even clean up a bit, tomorrow. But right now, I was getting too much enjoyment out of this new game on my phone…
You see, my brain was getting happy signals each time I completed something on my phone. My reward system was activated, and my dopamine levels were good, but not from doing productive things. I was too focused on things that were toxic toward achieving anything.
So, it was time for a detox.
I needed to detox from the sources that affected my dopamine levels, which play a major role in my motivational processes, cognitive control, and decision-making(1).
Now, don’t get me wrong, we need dopamine. But you and I need to get it, and our motivation, from healthy rewards that don’t distract you from getting tasks done that move you forward in your personal goals.
According to studies, dopamine “plays a vital role in reward and movement regulation in the brain”.(2) It is an important neurotransmitter that helps us stay happy,
Why Do You Need to Detox?
You may need a lifestyle detox to switch off distracting, procrastinating habits, and refocus your energy. Here are the best reasons why detoxing is a great idea:
Detox is like a reset. Because of what dopamine affects, it’s like a reset for your motivation, decision-making, and movement.
Detox is like a cleanser. When you detox from habits that feed your dopamine levels, you are clearing out the ones that suck up your time and waste your attention, so you can start fresh.
Detox is like an energizer. Shifting your focus and motivation applies your energy toward actions that make a beneficial difference in your life. Once you start seeing results in your refocusing, you’re even more motivated to continue your new lifestyle.
There is really no reason not to detox your lifestyle and get your dopamine fix from healthier avenues. Now that I have gone through the process, every aspect of my life is feeling the positive effect. Honestly, I wish I would’ve taken the time to do this sooner!
How to Go Through the Dopamine Detox Process
You have different habits from anyone else in the world. Because of this, there is no one-size-fits-all process for detoxing. If you work with a certified life coach in Virginia Beach, you create a personalized plan that is perfect for you, your lifestyle, and your goals.
Working with a coach gives you the guidance, tools, and space to get your decisions in line with your goals and values. It can help you become a more happy, healthy, and confident YOU!
To start on this incredible journey, book a free 30-minute consultation call at www.StephanieMariesCoaching.com today!
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