Why does satisfaction always seem elusive? This discussion dives into the psychology behind our endless craving for more, whether it's success or possessions. Topics include the Hedonic Treadmill, arrival fallacy, and the impact of consumerism on happiness. The dangers of 'when...then' thinking are explored, revealing how it leads to dissatisfaction. Listeners are encouraged to cherish the present and redefine success beyond material achievements. Ultimately, it’s about finding joy in experiences rather than things.
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insights INSIGHT
Why We're Never Happy with What We Have
Humans are wired for constant dissatisfaction, always craving more beyond what they've achieved.
This stems from the "more, more, more" mentality where happiness resets after each success.
insights INSIGHT
Hedonic Adaptation Explained
Humans return to a stable baseline happiness after positive events, a process called hedonic adaptation.
This explains why big achievements feel less fulfilling over time and why we constantly reset our happiness expectations.
insights INSIGHT
Dopamine Fuels Anticipation, Not Joy
Dopamine spikes in anticipation of a reward, not the reward itself, creating a cycle of chasing the 'almost'.
This leads to addiction to goal-setting rather than fulfillment from achievement.
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In 'The Myths of Happiness', Sonja Lyubomirsky challenges common assumptions about what brings happiness and misery. She argues that our misconceptions about the impact of major life events, such as marriage, children, wealth, and failures like divorce or illness, can significantly affect our long-term well-being. The book emphasizes the concept of hedonic adaptation, which shows that people tend to return to their initial happiness level after significant life changes. Lyubomirsky provides scientific evidence and practical lessons to help readers make wiser choices and find happiness by looking beyond their initial emotional responses and focusing on their mindset rather than circumstances.
The Ritual Effect
From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions
Michael Norton
In this book, Michael Norton discusses the distinction between habits and rituals, highlighting how rituals can imbue our lives with meaning and purpose. Drawing on a decade of original research, Norton shows how rituals play a significant role in various aspects of life, including healing communities, marking life transitions, and driving collective enthusiasm. The book emphasizes the importance of intention and mindfulness in transforming ordinary actions into meaningful rituals.
Person in Progress
A Road Map to the Psychology of Your 20s
Jemma Sbeg
This book serves as a roadmap for understanding and navigating the chaotic personal and professional moments of one's twenties. Jemma Sbeg, host of the podcast 'The Psychology of Your 20s', provides advice, personal stories, and research-based insights to help readers deal with issues such as imposter syndrome, self-sabotage, anxiety, and relationship challenges. The book includes questions and self-guided moments for reflection in each chapter, aiming to enhance the reader's self-growth journey and make the most of this formative decade.
Why does satisfaction always feel just out of reach? You get the job, then you want the promotion. You buy the item of clothing, then the buzz wears off. There is always something MORE on the horizon. In today’s episode, we explore the psychology behind our constant craving for more - more success, more validation, more things - and why what we already have never feels like enough. Things we discuss:
Why your brain is wired for "more, more, more
The Hedonic Treadmill
The problem with "when...then" thinking
The success void that follows meeting our goals
The guilt spiral
Capitalism, consumerism, and curated online lives
What real, sustainable happiness looks like
If you’ve ever thought “I should be happy…so why am I not?”—this episode is for you. Listen now!
The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.
The Psychology of your 20s 
