Happiness and Chasing Dopamine

[DrewK15]

Hey guys, I've been pondering some cool stuff that has been happening in my life and want to get some of it out on here. My whole life I've heard things like "the best things in life take time and hard work" and "chasing happiness breeds unhappiness", but I think I'm really just now getting it. Especially in the context of my Adderall addiction and other addictive behaviors. Even before Adderall, most of my life I had been looking for the next immediate hit of dopamine I could find. Video games, candy, porn, fast food, weed, gambling, alcohol, validation, and the ultimate dopamine solution, Adderall. My reward system was so messed up, I got to a point where winning at Call of Duty high on Adderall was more "satisfying" than graduating from college. How sad. 

Since I've quit Adderall I've been working on knocking off my vices one at a time. A month ago I made a commitment to quit emotional eating, and 2 weeks ago I quit porn. The result is I can honestly say I'm feeling some true joy. I've lost 10 pounds this month. Last week I had my first post-quit job interview and killed it. I'm talking to a beautiful girl who is into me. None of this would be possible without delayed gratification and the brutal challenges I've gone through the last 11 months. Even better, if I don't get the job or the girl I'm okay with that because I'm committed to doing the next right thing. Stay strong all. I've shared my struggles here and will continue to do so, it's such a blessing to now be able to share some victories too.

[SeanW]

Awesome to hear. Started reading Jordan Peterson’s book and it mentions a lot in reward systems and your story mimics what he finds to be successful. I quit alcohol two weeks ago and trying to get things rolling. Glad to hear your finding happiness. 

[Socially awkward]

Well done! I’m happy to hear you guys are making good progress. It gives me inspiration to stay clean despite how challenging this is for me.