Do you feel like your life has lost its luster? On this “What’s Trending” segment, hosts Patricia Wu, Jessica Reyes, and guest psychologist Geri-Lynn Utter-Godfrey break down NPR’s ways to unlock the joy you already have and appreciate the everyday again.
The Habituation Trap
We all know the feeling of that new job, apartment, or relationship that starts out exciting but loses its luster over time. The article calls this “habituation.” Dr. Geri-Lynn says that when you’re exposed to new exciting things all the time you get used to it and may take it for granted, causing habituation. To combat this, she says you can disrupt your normal routine or take a break from little things you enjoy so that you appreciate it more when you come back.
Experiences Over Material Things
Research suggests that experiences bring more lasting joy than new gadgets or clothes. Dr. Geri-Lynn says material things give you an instant burst for a short time, where as with experiences, you constantly replay them in your head and it becomes a core memory that lasts longer.
Variety is the Spice of Life
Changing your environment, even in small ways, can spark joy, creativity and problem-solving. Dr. Geri-Lynn highlighted traveling for work as an example, where she enjoyed a new bed, new foods, and different experiences. This change, she noted, made her appreciate her home even more.
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