The Truth About Addiction and True Change
Most people who struggle with addictions are constantly seeking to regulate and alter their internal state. They have been conditioned to believe that change can only happen from external sources, waiting for something outside of them to change how they feel inside. However, addiction is not as simple as finding relief through external means.
The Confusion between Happiness and Pleasure
People with addictions often have deep emotional wounds from their past that have left a lasting impact. They resort to addictive behaviors in an attempt to make the pain or emptiness go away, confusing true happiness with temporary pleasure. This confusion arises from the conditioning of consumerism and marketing, which promote the idea that external substances or experiences can provide lasting relief.
The problem with this approach is that it leads to a cycle of needing more and more to achieve the same effect. As the brain's pleasure centers become desensitized, individuals require higher doses or more intense experiences to achieve the desired relief. This pattern of escalating needs is a clear sign of addiction.
The Body as the Mind
In addiction, the body becomes the mind. Even if someone consciously wants to give up their addictive behavior, their subconscious conditioning from past experiences keeps them trapped. Their body craves the relief that the addiction provides, making it incredibly challenging to break free.
True change, however, is possible when individuals start looking within themselves. By becoming conscious of their unconscious thoughts and behaviors, they can observe and detach from their addictive patterns. This process, known as metacognition in neuroscience, allows individuals to gain control over their lives and make lasting changes.
The Power of the Frontal Lobe
The frontal lobe, which constitutes 40% of the human brain, plays a crucial role in true change. It is responsible for executive functions, creativity, intention, attention, and emotional regulation. When individuals activate their frontal lobe, they gain the ability to observe themselves objectively and modify their behaviors to align with their desired outcomes.
While breaking free from addiction may be challenging due to biological conditioning, it is within everyone's reach. By recognizing that they possess all the necessary tools for change, individuals can embark on a journey of self-transformation.
The Importance of Commitment
Not everyone who starts the journey of change will reach the destination. It requires dedication and perseverance, as well as a willingness to step into the unknown. However, those who commit to the process often experience remarkable improvements in their physical and mental well-being.
For individuals with chronic conditions, it is essential to continue measuring their progress and intervene if necessary. The return of certain symptoms does not signify failure but rather an opportunity to reassess and make further improvements.
While some individuals may experience setbacks or relapses, the majority who stay committed to the process continue to thrive. It is crucial to remember that true change is an ongoing journey, and setbacks should be viewed as opportunities for growth.
