Part 7/11:
The idea of a dopamine baseline—a set point of emotional and motivational state—is central. The goal is:
To raise the baseline by engaging in challenging but short-term unpleasant activities (e.g., cold showers).
This elevated baseline makes normally mundane or difficult tasks more engaging and less tiresome.
Andrew emphasizes that maintaining a higher baseline increases overall motivation and enables sustained effort on long-term goals like investing or business building.
The Consequences of Overindulgence: Motivation Hangovers
A fascinating insight discussed involves "motivation hangovers"—the phenomenon where pleasurable activities lead to subsequent dips in motivation. For instance: