How To Trick Your Brain Into Liking Hard Things

2023年05月05日

今日は、"脳を騙して難しいことを好きにさせる方法 "について話し合いましょう。まずは電話を置いて、知恵を手に取ることから始めましょう。(English) Today, discuss "How to trick your brain into liking hard things." Start by putting down the phone and picking up wisdom.

How to trick your brain into liking hard things

Start by putting down the phone and picking up wisdom.

//Summary - Level-C2//

To trick your brain into liking hard things, you must balance dopamine levels by cutting high-dopamine activities and focusing on the consequences of inaction. Social media addiction can disrupt dopamine reward pathways, making it difficult to enjoy challenging tasks. Limit social media usage to cut all social media 1x per week or do a complete detox. Consider the costs of not achieving goals or fulfilling responsibilities to increase motivation. Becoming aware of these factors is the first step in regaining control and stepping out of your comfort zone for personal growth.

Have you ever wondered why it's so easy for others to be productive? Have you ever felt motivated to do certain things only to have that drive dry up within a few days? Have you ever felt discouraged or frustrated when people around you talk about their goals and how they've read 75 books and written 9 to maintain a healthy body? Meanwhile, you're still struggling with the third chapter of the book you've been trying to read for two months?

If you answered yes to all of these questions, you've come to the right place. In an article by Lisa Feldman Barrett for the New York Times, she says that when you increase activity in your brain, you tend to feel tired and frustrated.

For example, consider the last time you took a maths test or pushed yourself to your physical limits. How did you feel? Hard work often makes you feel bad at the moment; you often think, "I'll never do that again. It's way too hard".

Instead of challenging your brain, you start doing the things that are comfortable or easy. Then you wonder why you can't concentrate on your work every day. You've trained your brain to like comfort, but discomfort is where growth happens.

Identifying the root of the problem

How often do you check Instagram? Or Twitter? Is it easy? Do you feel it takes a lot of effort? Probably not. I can spend hours on Instagram. I'll refresh the feed several times, even though I've seen everything there is to see on the platform.

When it comes to doing other things, like reading or writing, I struggle. I find I can't concentrate, zone out, or get tired.

I get frustrated. Why do the people I look up to always seem so driven and motivated to work on their business or read 100+ books a year? Meanwhile, I was struggling to finish just one. What was I missing? How do I make complex things, like working on my business, easy?

The answer came to me in a YouTube video: dopamine. Dopamine is what makes you want things. It makes you reach for your phone in the morning with sleepy eyes to check Facebook. It boosts your mood, motivation and alertness.

I quickly realised that my dopamine receptors were out of whack. So the reason I didn't feel motivated to work wasn't because I was lazy (maybe a little) but mainly because I had developed an extremely high dopamine tolerance.

Simple things like reading or writing didn't give me the same dopamine levels as watching TV, scrolling through Instagram, etc. Your brain doesn't care that the amount of dopamine you're getting could harm you; it just wants more and more.

What's wrong with too much dopamine?

Our bodies have a biological system called homeostasis, which means that our bodies like to maintain an internal physical and chemical balance. Therefore, whenever an imbalance occurs, our bodies adapt to it.

When your brain gets used to high dopamine levels, those levels become your new routine, forcing you to create a dopamine tolerance. As a result, doing everyday things will inevitably become impossible for you. On top of that, reading, writing, working or improving yourself may become even more difficult.

Have you ever wondered why you can't stop watching Netflix when you know you have work? Have you ever wondered why drug addicts can't control themselves? Speaking of which, in an article in Healthline,

Certain drugs can interact with dopamine in ways that make them addictive. For example, nicotine, alcohol, or other addictive drugs activate the dopamine circuit. As a result, these substances can cause a faster, far more intense dopamine rush than you'd get from those double chocolate chip cookies. It's such a powerful high that you want more - and soon.

As a habit develops, the brain responds by toning down the dopamine. Now you need more substance to get the same level of pleasure. Overactivation also affects dopamine receptors, making you lose interest in other things. This can make you more compulsive. You're less and less able to resist using these substances.

This can apply to almost any addiction - video games, pornography, social media, etc. Once your dopamine tolerance is high, you won't be able to do the things that don't give you the same high.

I felt helpless when I started to put the pieces together. I felt like I had no control over my mind or body. I wanted change, and I wanted it fast.

With that in mind, here are some strategies I used to balance my dopamine levels and trick my brain into enjoying hard things again.

Cut all social media 1x per week

Every morning when I wake up, I go on Instagram. I check the feed, go to the bathroom, brush my teeth, check Instagram, make coffee, check Instagram, sit down to work, check Instagram, start writing, fit Instagram mid-sentence - well, you get the picture.

The writing wasn't as fun as Instagram. YouTube videos were boring. While reading, I wondered what new photos would appear on my Instagram feed. If the book were made into a film, I'd be stalking the actors on Instagram.

According to an article by Harvard University researcher Trevor Haynes:

When you get a social media notification, your brain sends a chemical messenger called dopamine along a reward pathway that makes you feel good. Dopamine is associated with food, exercise, love, sex, gambling, drugs... and social media. When rewards are delivered randomly (as in a slot machine or a positive social media interaction), and it is easy to check for the tip, the dopamine-inducing behaviour becomes habitual.

Social media addiction involves disrupted reward pathways in our brains. Social media provides immediate rewards - in the form of attention from your network - for minimal effort with a quick thumb tap. So the brain rewires to crave likes, retweets, emoji applause, etc. Five to 10% of internet users are psychologically addicted and can't control how much time they spend online.

Brain scans of social media addicts are similar to those of drug addicts: There is an apparent change in the regions of the brain that control emotions, attention and decision-making.

Conclusion? Too much social media changes your brain chemistry. I never considered this before; I was always unaware of my use of social media. I used excuses like "Everyone else is on it, and they're fine..." or "I need it for my business".

I get it. It's hard to stop, and social media has many benefits. You can use it to network, connect with family members, promote your business, and more.

The problem is that we're unaware of the adverse effects of the platform, and while cutting it out entirely isn't an option, limiting it is.

How to apply this:

You can do this in two ways.

Option 1: You can go cold turkey and do a challenging and brutal detox, essentially taking everything fun out of your day. You can't go on social media; you can't use the phone; you can't watch TV; you can't listen to music; you can't use the internet. Remove all external sources of pleasure from your day.

Things you can do: meditate, journal, go for a walk, drink your water, and eat a healthy meal (no junk food).

You'll starve yourself of everything you find exciting, and the less exciting things will become fun again.

Option 2: Pick one day a week and abstain from one of your high dopamine behaviours. For me, it's not going on Instagram every single Monday.

The easiest way to do this is to delete the app from your phone, write "No IG today" on a sticky note and stick it somewhere you'll see it all the time. You could even get an accountability partner for this. Your first day will be challenging, but the more you do it, the easier it'll get.

Consider the cost of inaction

When trying to motivate yourself to do something, you usually think about what you'll get out of it.

For example, when I'm pumped up to go to the gym, I tell myself that exercise is good for me. This is because I've been sitting all day, and my body needs to move; and usually remind myself that if I exercise, I can have something sweet (which always gets me).

However, I've started to think about the consequences of not doing what I'm supposed to do. For example, my health will worsen if I don't exercise and care for myself. If I don't eat well, I won't think clearly. I'll feel sluggish. If I skip a workout, I'll feel like crap for the rest of the week. If I don't work on my business, I won't be successful.

By considering the consequences of not doing the things you need to do, whether it's in your personal life (like working on your relationships, taking care of your health) or even in your work life (keeping up with projects, showing up on time), you develop a focus on the potential losses you might experience.

This, in turn, increases your drive to get things done.

How to apply this:

Psychologist Ana Sofia Batista says that goals are made up of two parts: what you want and what you don't want.

Keeping the things you don't want in mind (failing, not having incredible connections, not being able to support yourself, not following your dreams) can be a potent motivational mechanism for you.

I practice this daily. When I get into a negative mindset and want to give up, I go for a walk and think about what I could give up if I don't put myself out there every day.

It's a brutal mechanism but a powerful one.

It took me a while to accept that something as small as social media could affect my work ethic and ability to take on challenges.

It's frustrating to think you have so little control over your mind, but gaining that self-awareness is the first step in turning the tide.

It won't be easy, but if you want to see a drastic and positive change in your life, you'll have to step out of your comfort zone and cut out the things holding you back.

I wish you the best of luck.

//Summary - Level-C2//

To make Mondays more enjoyable, establish consistent weekly routines, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and practice relaxation techniques. Consistent habits, proper sleep, and stress reduction through mindfulness or nature exposure can reprogram your brain, making weekdays more appealing and reducing the psychological distress associated with disrupted routines.

If you are one of those people who hate Mondays, you are not alone. After a weekend of relaxation, many of us struggle to get back into the swing of things on Monday morning. But while you cannot always change your schedule or responsibilities, there are things you can do to reprogram your brain to think about the week differently.

Our brains love routine, and a lack of way can lead to declines in well-being and psychological distress.

Although weekends are enjoyable, they can disrupt our usual routine, making it difficult to adjust on Monday morning. One way to address this is to establish habits that last the whole week, such as exercising or watching a favourite TV show simultaneously each day.

Establishing a sleep routine is essential since changes in sleep patterns over the weekend can lead to social jetlag and increased stress on Monday morning. Therefore, aim to keep consistent sleep times and create a wind-down routine before bed that includes relaxation techniques and avoiding digital devices.

Hormones can also play a role in how we feel about Mondays. For example, cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle and response to stress, tends to be higher on Mondays and Tuesdays for full-time workers. Mindfulness and spending time in nature are two methods that can help reduce cortisol and overall stress levels.

By establishing routines, keeping a consistent sleep schedule, and engaging in relaxation activities, you can train your brain to see weekdays as nearly as enjoyable as weekends.

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Q1. As a child, I was told I would become stupid if I only watched TV and cartoons. Reading a book and exercising were good things. And now we can enjoy many applications such as SNS and Netflix on the Internet.

We have found so much fun that stopping is no longer accessible. However, what is fun? What is educational? What is a meaningful life?

For example, how about enjoying social media and movies, dining out, travelling, working, connecting with people, exercising, meditating, and reading a book? How about living a well-balanced life?

A1-> A well-balanced life involves engaging in various activities that provide enjoyment, education, and personal growth. Fun activities like social media, movies, dining out, and travelling provide relaxation and pleasure. At the same time, educational pursuits like working, connecting with people, exercising, meditating, and reading contribute to personal development and mental well-being. Striking a balance between these activities allows for a meaningful life, fostering happiness, mental health, and personal growth.

Q2. With ChatGET, we can now have a model secretary customized for each person. We can use this to learn more in-depth.

However, those answers are summarized by collecting responses on the net worldwide. How should we ask questions to gain more insightful learning?

For example, for the question "What is a meaningful life?"

What kind of questions and how many times? Who is the question from? And what kind of conversations are effective?

A2-> To gain more insightful learning from ChatGPT, consider the following approaches when asking questions:

1. Be specific: Instead of asking general questions like "What is a meaningful life?", ask more specific questions that target particular aspects of the topic, such as "What are the key components of a meaningful life according to various philosophical perspectives?"

2. Multiple perspectives: Request answers from different viewpoints, like cultural, historical, or philosophical perspectives. For example, "How do Eastern and Western philosophies differ in their understanding of a meaningful life?"

3. The sequence of questions: Break a topic into more minor, interconnected questions to build a more comprehensive understanding. For example, start with "What factors contribute to a sense of purpose in life?" followed by "How do personal values and goals affect one's pursuit of a meaningful life?"

4. Ask for examples or case studies: Request real-life examples, case studies, or anecdotes to understand the concepts better. For example, "Can you provide examples of people who have pursued a meaningful life in different ways?"

5. Compare and contrast: Ask questions that compare and contrast ideas, theories, or concepts. For example, "How do the ideas of a meaningful life in existentialism and stoicism differ?"

6. Seek clarification: Ask follow-up questions for further clarification or elaboration if an answer is unclear or ambiguous.

Remember that effective learning often involves asking questions and engaging in a back-and-forth dialogue to explore the topic more deeply.

Q3. "What are the key components of a meaningful life according to various philosophical perspectives?"

A3->

Different philosophical perspectives emphasize various critical components of a meaningful life. Here are a few examples:

1. Existentialism: Existentialists, like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, argue that life is inherently meaningless, and individuals must create meaning and purpose through personal choices, authenticity, and engagement with the world.

2. Stoicism: For Stoic philosophers like Epictetus and Seneca, a meaningful life is achieved through rationality, self-discipline, and embracing the natural order of the universe. This involves focusing on what is within one's control and practising virtues like wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance.

3. Hedonism: Hedonistic philosophers, such as Epicurus, suggest that pursuing pleasure and avoiding pain are central to a meaningful life. However, Epicurus emphasized that one should seek rational and moderate pleasures, like friendship and intellectual growth, rather than indulging in excess.

4. Utilitarianism: Utilitarians, like John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham, maintain that a meaningful life maximizes overall happiness and minimizes suffering for the most significant number of people. This perspective emphasizes the importance of altruism and social responsibility.

5. Aristotelianism: Aristotle believed that a meaningful life is achieved through eudaimonia, or human flourishing, which involves cultivating virtues, developing moral character, and realizing one's potential through a balanced and active engagement in personal, social, and intellectual pursuits.

6. Confucianism: In Confucian thought, a meaningful life is centred around moral cultivation, respect for tradition, and harmonious relationships with family and society. The key components include filial piety, righteousness, benevolence, and a commitment to personal growth and self-improvement.

These are just a few examples of the diverse philosophical perspectives on the critical components of a meaningful life. It is important to note that individuals may resonate with different aspects of these perspectives based on their values, beliefs, and experiences.

Q4. "How do Eastern and Western philosophies differ in their understanding of a meaningful life?"

A4->

Eastern and Western philosophies approach the concept of a meaningful life from different perspectives, reflecting their distinct cultural, historical, and intellectual backgrounds. Here are some key differences:

1. Individualism vs. Collectivism:

Western philosophies often emphasize individualism, personal autonomy, and self-fulfilment. Existentialism, for instance, encourages individuals to create their meaning and purpose. In contrast, Eastern philosophies tend to focus on collectivism, interconnectedness, and the role of the individual within the broader social context. For example, Confucianism and Buddhism stress the importance of harmonious relationships and the interconnectedness of all beings.

2. Rationality vs. Intuition:

Western philosophical traditions, such as Stoicism and Aristotelianism, often prioritize rationality, logic, and intellectual inquiry as pathways to a meaningful life. Eastern philosophies, on the other hand, frequently value intuition, meditation, and mindfulness as means to achieve self-awareness and insight. For example, mindfulness and a deep connection with nature are essential for a fulfilling existence in Taoism and Zen Buddhism.

3. Dualism vs. Non-dualism:

Western thought has often been characterized by dualistic thinking, where the mind and body, self and other, or good and evil are considered separate entities. This can be seen in Platonic philosophy and Christian theology. Eastern philosophies, however, tend to adopt a non-dualistic approach. For example, in Hinduism and Buddhism, the ultimate goal is the realization of the interconnectedness and unity of all things, transcending the illusion of separateness.

4. The role of suffering:

In Western philosophies, suffering is often viewed as something to be avoided or minimized, as seen in hedonism and utilitarianism. Eastern philosophies, notably Buddhism, see suffering as an inherent aspect of human existence. The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism address the nature of suffering and the path to alleviate it, leading to the ultimate goal of enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

These differences in Eastern and Western philosophies regarding a meaningful life reflect diverse cultural and historical contexts. However, it is essential to recognize the considerable overlap and mutual influence between these traditions. As a result, many individuals may find elements from Eastern and Western philosophies that resonate with their beliefs and values, leading to a more holistic understanding of what constitutes a meaningful life.

Q5. "Can you provide examples of people who have pursued a meaningful life differently?"

A5->

Indeed, here are examples of individuals who have pursued a meaningful life in distinct ways, embodying various philosophies, values, and paths:

1. Mahatma Gandhi: A political and spiritual leader, Gandhi advocated for Indian independence from British rule through nonviolent civil disobedience. He lived a life of simplicity, emphasizing truth, nonviolence, and the interconnectedness of all beings, drawing from Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist teachings.

2. Mother Teresa: As a Catholic nun and missionary, she devoted her life to serving the poorest of the poor, the sick, and the dying in India. She established the Missionaries of Charity to continue this work, emphasizing love, compassion, and dignity for all human beings.

3. Albert Einstein: The renowned physicist made groundbreaking contributions to science, including the theory of relativity. Einstein pursued a meaningful life through intellectual inquiry, curiosity, and the pursuit of knowledge, believing that understanding the universe could help people live more harmonious and fulfilling lives.

4. Martin Luther King Jr.: A civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and advocate for racial equality, King worked tirelessly to end racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. He pursued a meaningful life through activism, promoting social justice, and championing all individuals' inherent worth and dignity.

5. Malala Yousafzai: A young Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate, Malala has dedicated her life to advocating for girls' education and women's rights. Her pursuit of a meaningful life focuses on empowering others, promoting equal opportunities, and creating a more just world.

These individuals exemplify different ways of pursuing a meaningful life, drawing from various philosophical, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds. As a result, their lives demonstrate diverse paths to finding meaning and purpose, depending on an individual's values, beliefs, and circumstances.

Interpretation function added to the character "AI Rei-chan" of AI.

https://realsound.jp/tech/2023/05/post-1322807.html

https://youtu.be/4R8DninyeUc

I tried using the AI English conversation character "AI Rei-chan"!

Children tried using the AI English conversation character AI Rei, implemented in the AI English learning app "Magna and the Mysterious Girl", which can be used for free forever. So you will be able to practice English conversation without hesitation.

It also has a translation function translating Japanese into English, making it easier to use. So, for example, if you talk to "AI Rei-chan" in English in the app, they will reply in English.

AI Rei-chan can be used for free immediately after installing the app.

Unlike conventional English conversation services, no reservations or fees are required.

Therefore, you can freely enjoy English conversation at any time and at any time.

In addition, AI Rei understands Japanese so that even beginners in English can easily use it. Furthermore, AI Rei is programmed to respond in English even when spoken to in Japanese, so users can learn to speak and listen in English (*Note 1).

*Note 1: Half-English conversation is an English conversation style in which you speak in Japanese and hear back in English. Beginners learning English tend to feel frustrated because they can't say what they want to communicate in English. First of all, by touching only half of English conversation (half), it is a unique learning method that has a reputation for continuing English conversations that are not easy to enjoy and enjoy without stress and to improve listening skills.

How To Trick Your Brain Into Liking Hard Things