Have you ever thought of ordering joy the same way you order your favorite dish? A dopamenu is exactly what it offers. This happiness hack was created in 2020 by YouTuber Jessica McCabe. Millions of TikTok users have shared their customized versions. What is a dopamenu and can it boost your happiness?
A dopamenu consists of a list containing activities that are designed to increase dopamine. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter that is responsible for motivation, happiness, and satisfaction. It is similar to a menu at a restaurant, with different sections such as appetizers, sides and entrees. The idea is curate activities that will bring you joy and fulfillment.
McCabe and Eric Tivers, a psychotherapist, were too busy scrolling down to doom and not spending enough time doing activities that brought them joy. McCabe created the dopamenu to help people select activities that make them happy. Dopamenus was initially designed for those with ADHD, who may have lower dopamine levels. However, anyone can benefit by creating one.
Can a dopamenu make you happier? Absolutely. Dopamine has been directly linked to happiness, even though the technique itself is not scientifically proven. Exercise, journaling or calling a close friend can boost dopamine levels and increase happiness. It can be helpful to make a list if you are feeling unmotivated, overwhelmed or down.
Start by deciding what makes you happy. Focus on activities that you enjoy and make you feel good. Grab a pen and a piece of paper and start creating categories. Identify a few dopamine boosting activities for each of the categories. Appetizers can be quick activities such as singing along to your favorite song or enjoying your morning coffee. Sides are things you can do during routine tasks, such as lighting a scented lamp while working at home. Entrees can be longer, more difficult activities that bring you joy, like going to a cooking class or yoga class. Don’t forget to include a special treat. This can be anything, from a show you enjoy to a spa treatment.
