Follow the Dopamine

 Hello Dear Reader,

 I first stumbled on the phrase "Follow the Dopamine" in a TikTok by Connor DeWolfe which I think perfectly captures the idea. 

Follow the Dopamine Mug from https://my-store-11522541.creator-spring.com/ 

"Dopamine plays a role in how we feel pleasure. It's a big part of our unique human ability to think and plan. It helps us strive, focus, and find things interesting." (Web MD ) It was initially thought that ADHD was caused by low amounts of neurotransmitters like dopamine. This was supported by the fact that medications that increased neurotransmitters improved ADHD symptoms. But recent data suggests the issue is more complex and at least for some people they may have a surplus of dopamine transporter leading to a more efficient removal of dopamine. (gulfbend.org)

In the past I viewed my brains deep dives into something new as a frustration point. I couldn't seem to stick to anything. I would feel like I finally found something that was enjoyable and I was getting pretty good at and then I just couldn't make my self do it anymore but went from fulfilling to a burden of "I should be working on this guilt" so fast. I saw this a personal flaw. 

However we this past week I decided to Follow the Dopamine with intention and see where it lead me and, My Dear Readers, I have gotten so much done! I know that for those with ADHD it might seem obvious but allowing my interests to direct my goals has been a huge benefit to me this past week. I won't say it's a solution to all life problems. As the TikTok makes clear the dopamine does not pick things that are important or useful but allowing myself to go with the flow rather than trying to force myself to do something has made my week a thousand times better.