been processed to become hyper-palatable, engaging in
risky activities, and taking substances that hijack and short-
circuit the brain’s reward system can create unhealthy and
self-destructive addictions. Sugar and rapidly digested
carbohydrates like wheat are massive dopamine stimulators,
evolved to increase fat storage at a time of seasonal sugar
availability. The addictive qualities of sugar are so strong,
they are often compared to some of the illicit drugs I’ve
mentioned above.^28 Even the feedback loops created by
social media—certainly a positive force in many regards—
can cause the dopamine system to become dysregulated and
promote addiction.
Conversely, setting both short- and long-term goals for
yourself is a nice “hack” that allows anticipation (an
important aspect of sustained happiness) and reward. Try
picking up a novel exercise routine, learning to play a new
instrument, getting out of your social comfort zone, falling
in love, or beginning a side entrepreneurial project. These
are all ways of healthily boosting dopamine.
Norepinephrine: The Focus
Neurotransmitter
Even though dopamine and serotonin are arguably the more
well-known neurotransmitters, norepinephrine is equally
noteworthy. Norepinephrine plays a very important role in
focus and attention and is expressed in the brain whenever
focus is needed, particularly in times of stress where it can
enhance long-term memory formation. Can you remember