Every system in our body was designed to help us survive. For example, our sense of smell helps us determine whether or not something is spoiled. Our taste buds actually send a signal to our stomach to let it know which enzymes to release to properly break down our food. Even the nerve-endings in our fingertips adapt to constant exposure to high-heat or low temperatures. The list goes on and on. But, there is a much more important part of our “design” worth discussing. Our chemical makeup.
The human body is filled with chemicals and different elements. In fact, there are some 60 different chemical elements flowing through our bodies. 96% of our mass is simply made up of oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen: the remaining 4% are found somewhere on the periodic table and in the nervous system.
While it may seem a bit odd to think about at first, some of the elements found within this 4% have played a critical role in both the development of our society and how we operate as leaders. As organizations everywhere attempt to navigate the “new normal,” harnessing the power of some of these chemicals and looking at them in a new way may be invaluable.
Dopamine is the chemical that most people are probably familiar with. Originally intended as a way to help us maintain the focus and motivation necessary to feed our families, the release of dopamine occurs when we “find what we are looking for.” It is the feel-good chemical that we associate with feelings of satisfaction or accomplishment.
Unfortunately, dopamine can be created artificially and we’ve found ways to circumvent the natural process for getting it. The same feeling we get when we “find what we are looking for” is the same feeling we get when we engage in behaviors such as drinking, smoking, or gambling. It’s also the same feeling we get when we receive a text message, hear our own name, and yes… make money or get a bonus. But, there is a major problem. This feeling is highly addictive.
Over time, we’ve become addicted to a feeling that we can’t always get naturally. We live in a world where far too many companies create an environment that encourages dopamine-driven behaviors. If someone is offered a pay-raise at the expense of someone else, the reward is sometimes just too hard to pass up. After all, it’s business, it’s not personal, right?
Wells Fargo famously came under fire for their cross-selling techniques in 2016. Charged with fraud, the company encouraged employees to open as many accounts as possible on their customer’s behalf, even if they didn’t ask for them. After opening a checking account, customers were often encouraged to take out a mortgage or multiple credit cards. If they didn’t, they were opened anyways. Despite the fact that some employees questioned these tactics, “management made it clear that no employee was allowed to complain about the unethical practices that were going on.” The pressure to meet high-quotes and potential for bonuses caused people at all levels of the company to shortcut their way to a dopamine release.
Serotonin is another powerful chemical; but not one that as many people are familiar with. Responsible for feelings of trust and pride, serotonin helps regulate sleep, stress levels, and a variety of other things.
As social animals, we value the approval of others. Many times, we do things just to feel like we belong, even though it may not be authentic. Conspicuous consumption is a perfect example of something far too many engage in. Buying something just for the label or because of the price or popularity is a recipe for a false sense of confidence. Research has shown that people who wear “fake” designer clothes actually do not feel the same sense of pride as those who wear “the real thing.” We know when we have genuinely earned the trust and approval of others. You can’t fake the confidence that comes with having rightfully earned a certain status.
While there are many other chemicals in the body, dopamine and serotonin are much more complex than aforementioned; both of these chemicals ultimately come down to trust and authenticity. We only really get a genuine release of dopamine when we accomplish something worthwhile. There isn’t any biological reward to do nothing or take shortcuts. Serotonin is only released when there is a feeling of true conviction and trust. Here is how you build trust and remain authentic while keeping these chemicals’ roles in mind:
If you are looking for ways to elevate your life, health, and business, Jen Gaudet Coaching Services is here to help. By taking an innovative approach to self-care, stress management, mindset, we are ready to help you become successful. Visit the following link to schedule a consultation and start on the journey to an empowered life.
