The Hedonistic Treadmill
Understanding the Hedonistic Treadmill and Its Effects
The hedonistic treadmill, also known as hedonic adaptation, is a psychological concept that describes the tendency of individuals to return to a baseline level of happiness despite significant positive or negative life changes. The metaphor of a treadmill is pretty fitting; no matter how much one strives to increase happiness through external achievements or the purchases of total nonsense, they often find themselves emotionally back at their starting point, much like a runner staying in the same place on a treadmill.
Why Achievements and Possessions Fail to Sustain Joy
This phenomenon is particularly relevant in modern consumer-driven societies, including Britain, where material wealth and status are often equated with happiness. People might believe purchasing a new car, securing a promotion, or achieving a long-held goal will bring lasting joy. Initially, these experiences do result in a spike in happiness, but over time, their emotional impact diminishes, leaving individuals seeking the next source of gratification. This constant pursuit can lead to a cycle of dissatisfaction, as new desires emerge to replace fulfilled ones.
The hedonistic treadmill is not limited to material possessions but also to relationships, health improvements, and other life circumstances. For instance, recovering from an illness might increase happiness temporarily, but once the novelty of good health fades, one’s emotional state reverts to its usual level.
Understanding this concept has profound implications for personal well-being. Rather than chasing external markers of success, focusing on internal factors—such as being grateful for the health of your family, building meaningful relationships, and engaging in activities that promote personal growth—can lead to more sustainable happiness. Mindfulness and acceptance are also useful tools to combat the treadmill effect, helping individuals appreciate the present moment without becoming trapped in the endless cycle of absolute nonsense.
By recognising and addressing the hedonistic treadmill, individuals can develop a better relationship with happiness and learn to find contentment in life's simple pleasures.
5 Ways to Escape the Hedonistic Treadmill
OK, how do we press that massive big red button and get off the treadmill?
Stop Taking Things For Granted
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to counteract the hedonistic treadmill is to cultivate gratitude. It’s not a Woo Woo as you think. By consciously appreciating the positive aspects of your life, you can train your mind to focus on abundance rather than scarcity. Start by keeping a gratitude journal where you note three things you’re thankful for each day, no matter how small. This could be a kind gesture from a friend, a beautiful sunset, or simply the comfort of your home. Over time, practising gratitude rewires the brain to emphasise positivity, making it easier to find joy in the present moment rather than constantly seeking external rewards.Prioritise Experiences Over Possessions
Material possessions (like cars, big screen TVs and shiny home espresso machines that take 40 minutes to clean), while satisfying at first, often lose their novelty and emotional value over time. Experiences, on the other hand, provide a deeper and more lasting sense of fulfilment. Whether it’s travelling to a new destination, going to a concert, or learning a new hobby, experiences create fantastic memories and often strengthen meaningful bonds. For example, a holiday with loved ones not only brings joy in the moment but also provides stories and shared moments to reflect on later. By prioritising experiences, you invest in a richer, more emotionally satisfying life, rather than accumulating items that eventually blend into the background and ultimately take the tip.Focus on Intrinsic Goals
Intrinsic goals, such as personal growth, building meaningful relationships, and contributing to something larger than yourself, have been shown to provide a more enduring sense of happiness than external achievements. For instance, rather than striving solely for a promotion, consider how your work aligns with your values or helps others. Similarly, learning a new skill or pursuing a creative passion can foster a sense of purpose and satisfaction. By focusing on goals that fulfil your inner values, you can escape the endless cycle of chasing external validation and instead cultivate a deep and lasting sense of well-being.Focus On Today
Mindfulness (thinking about now rather than 2 months into the future) is a powerful tool for breaking free from the endless pursuit of more. By training yourself to focus on the present, you can savour each moment fully and reduce the tendency to ruminate on the past or worry about the future. Mindfulness can be cultivated through practices like meditation, yoga, or simply being fully engaged in daily activities. For example, when eating a meal, pay attention to the flavours, textures, and aromas rather than doom scrolling through your phone. This practice helps you find joy in everyday experiences and fosters a greater sense of peace and contentment, reducing the desire to constantly seek new sources of happiness.Strengthen Relationships
Human connection is one of the most profound sources of happiness and meaning in life. While material achievements will fade, the bonds you build with others provide enduring support and joy. Take the time to nurture these relationships by spending quality time with loved ones, expressing appreciation, and actively listening to their thoughts and feelings. Small gestures—like giving a thoughtful compliment or taking the time for a meaningful conversation—can make a big difference in relationships. These connections make life better in ways that achievements can’t and offer strength during life’s inevitable challenges.
By absorbing some of these practices, you can move beyond the fleeting satisfaction of material gains and aim towards a life filled with a decent amount of meaningful, lasting happiness.