You know that feeling when you’re stuck in a rut, doing the same old thing that you know is bad for you? Let me tell you, you’re not alone. Even the apostle Paul talked about this struggle. It’s like our brains are wired to chase after that little rush of joy, thanks to dopamine. It’s the stuff that makes us feel good, and our brains want it all the time.

Here’s the kicker: our brains don’t care if we get that dopamine from good stuff or bad stuff. Just scrolling through your phone or munching on snacks can give you that hit. But what if there was a way to flip the script on this?

So, what can we do? The old-school advice has always been to just stop it. But let’s be real, that’s way easier said than done. It feels like fighting against our own minds sometimes.

Here’s what I’ve found that works for me:

• Take a moment to be thankful. Seriously, just pause and think about something or someone you’re grateful for.
• Get outside. A walk in nature can do wonders for your mood.
• Sing it out. Throw on some tunes that mean something to you and let yourself get lost in them.
• Connect with friends. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and inspire you.

By doing these things, you’re basically replacing the bad habits with good ones. Your brain still gets its dopamine fix, but in a healthier way.

I’ve written a lot more about this in my book, No Longer Stuck. It’s got some really helpful stuff, and there’s a workbook too. You can find them on Amazon if you’re interested.

Remember, it’s all about finding what works for you and filling your day with positive moments. Your brain will thank you, and you’ll feel a whole lot happier.