A Sudden Shift: My Encounter with Chemically Induced Apathy
A month ago, I faced an unexpected challenge. Normally, Im driven and passionate, deeply caring about my family, fitness, and business. However, I suddenly found myself engulfed in what I can only describe as extreme apathy. I didn’t want to engage in work, nor was I motivated to maintain my fitness routine or be the father and husband I strive to be.
This shift was triggered by a seemingly harmless decision to manage sleep disruptions during a stressful period of selling and constructing homes. To combat waking up in the middle of the night with racing thoughts, I began taking CBD plus melatonin gummies. Although they helped me sleep better, I didnt realize they would alter my mental state, affecting my serotonin and dopamine levels and leading to a state of apathy.
The Role of Habits in Maintaining Normalcy
What was remarkable during this time was that, despite feeling unlike myself, I didn’t lose progress in any area of my life. This consistency was solely due to the strong habits I had formed over the years. Each morning, regardless of my lack of motivation, I adhered to my routine—exercising, staying hydrated, and fulfilling my responsibilities at work.
This experience reinforced a crucial lesson: when external factors sway our mental and emotional state, our habits are our lifeline. They ensure we maintain progress and continue performing our roles, even when our mental engines are stalling.
Building and Relying on Strong Habits
Building such habits doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent effort and discipline. You have to prioritize and repeat behaviors until they become second nature, ensuring that when life throws curveballs, you have a safety net of routines that keep you on track.
Reflection: Small Vices and Their Impact on Our Goals
Towards the end of this challenging period, a line from a Zach Bryan song resonated with me deeply: “Small vices kill your big dreams.” This made me reflect on how even small choices, like taking a sleep aid, can have profound effects on our well-being and ability to chase our dreams.
It’s crucial to assess our habits and vices regularly. Are there behaviors or substances in your life that might be hindering your progress or affecting your mental state? Addressing these can prevent them from derailing your long-term goals.
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Time-Stamped Show Notes
- [00:00:30] Introduction to the topic and personal experience with chemically induced apathy.
- [00:01:30] The onset of unexpected emotional and motivational changes.
- [00:02:30] Identifying the cause: the impact of sleep aids on mental health.
- [00:03:30] How established habits helped maintain normalcy during challenging times.
- [00:05:00] The importance of building strong, resilient habits.
- [00:06:30] Reflecting on small vices and their potential to derail significant goals.
- [00:08:00] The power of habits in overcoming personal challenges.
- [00:09:00] Closing thoughts and the vital role of professional help when needed.