Hedonic Treadmill

The hedonic treadmill is a metaphor that describes the human tendency to return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events or life changes. This is because our brains adapt to our circumstances, and we quickly get used to new things, both good and bad. As a result, we may find ourselves feeling just as happy after a major promotion as we did before, or just as unhappy after a major setback.

The hedonic treadmill can be a challenge to overcome, but there are some things you can do to boost your happiness and stay on an upward trajectory. One is to focus on gratitude. When you take time to appreciate the good things in your life, it can help you to feel more content and satisfied. Another is to connect with others. Social relationships are one of the most important factors in happiness, so make an effort to spend time with friends and family. Finally, don't be afraid to seek professional help if you're struggling to find happiness. A therapist can help you to identify the root of your unhappiness and develop strategies for coping with it.

The hedonic treadmill can be a difficult concept to understand, but it's important to be aware of it if you want to achieve lasting happiness. By understanding how our brains adapt to our circumstances, we can learn to appreciate the good things in our lives and take steps to improve our happiness.