“The more we value things outside our control, the less control we have.” – Marcus Aurelius
Living in a modern society comes with a lot of benefits, however, there’s a downside that gets the best of us: dopamine.
Whether it’s that bite of a juicy burger or the anticipation after posting that photo, many of us crave this chemical.
Although there’s nothing wrong with dopamine in itself, there is something wrong with addiction.
When you’re addicted to something, you will never be truly free.
Because I have an addictive personality, I was a slave to dopamine in the past. It was only recently for when I was able to break out, as it has been one of my resolutions for the new year.
So how did I manage to escape?
When it comes down to it, everything is a matter of one’s mindset.
I know it sounds cliche, but it’s true.
The reason why is because your mindset is what determines your habits, and your habits are what will set you free.
Want to change a part of your life?
Have a new goal you want to achieve?
Cool.
Now find the reason behind why you want to change in the first place.
Is it so you can increase your wealth?
Your happiness?
Improve your love life?
What is it?
Because solely just wanting to change isn’t enough.
In “Start with Why”, Simon Sinek, a renowned author and public speaker, quotes:
“There are only two ways to influence human behavior: you can manipulate it or you can inspire it.”
The last time I checked, it’s pretty hard to manipulate yourself…So the only option is inspiration.
For me personally, I use the future as my vehicle.
I envision what my life could be as well as my potential to make that happen, and with each visualization, I’m able to diligently work towards turning my fantasies into my reality.
In order to change your external world, you must first change your internal world, and the only way to do that is through incentives.
Find that source of inspiration and build your empire from it.
JL