Negotiating with the Dopamine Brain

Hey friend,

Apple recently announced a new iPad I definitely don’t need.

I keep watching youtube videos talking about all the features and telling myself I don’t need it. When the reviewers actually say “you probably don’t need to upgrade,” I nod along with them.

I don’t need it.

Obviously, I don't need it.

I. Don't. Need it.

And yet...

Part of my brain keeps telling me that a new iPad is just the source of dopamine that will spark me into action on some projects I’ve been avoiding. All I have to do is shell out some cash for a shiny new toy and suddenly I'll:

• magically start cranking out chapters for my new book
• quickly and easily edit videos I’ve been working on
• discover some brilliant new project that only the new iPad would have inspired that people will love and tell me I’m brilliant and inspiring and will change lives and bring me all the money and love and admiration

And let me tell you—that part of my brain is very convincing.

There are dozens of other gadgets and technology “investments” I've made over the years that prove how often the dopamine brain wins and convinces me to make the purchase.

(I even briefly owned an Apple Vision Pro, before I came to my senses and took it back on the final day of my return window.)

The truth is, these little dopamine-fueled purchases often do produce a tiny burst of . . . something . . . that does excite me for a little bit and can motivate me into action. It's fleeting to be sure, but it's those little bursts that my brain reminds me of when I'm in the midst of a dopamine negotiation.

But the truth is, even something as simple as a new notebook or nice pen usually brings that same little burst, at a fraction of a fraction of the cost.

So maybe I just need to get a new Moleskine notebook.

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.

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But if you see me lugging around a new iPad—maybe ask how my next book is going. 😅

Stay focused,
Jesse J. Anderson