What Is the Hedonic Treadmill?
Have you ever aced a math test, written an exemplary essay, or even gotten a substantial amount of 7s scattered around your report, but felt as though what you did wasn't quite enough? Chances are, you have — and don't worry, it isn't personal. It's psychological.
The Hedonic Treadmill is the assumption that an individual’s level of contentment and satisfaction, following a positive or negative event, eventually is inclined to return to where it was initially (prior to the incident). Your “baseline” level of well-being is not necessarily emotionally neutral (while it is likely positive for most people) and it's not identical to other people’s. Different people have different “baselines” sometimes due to individual experiences, other times because of their nature. It is important to note that the subconscious procedure by which positive and negative impressions made on general satisfaction fade over time is called Hedonic Adaptation.
Initiating a new, stimulating project, receiving gifts, or being promoted by your boss may result in a fleeting moment of joy in you, but events like this usually don't automatically alter one’s everyday general level of contentment in the long run. Instead, people frequently tweak their expectations to the modified existing conditions, and as a result find themselves craving even more to maintain the same level of happiness, in other words a new “baseline” is created (many times unknowingly).
Is the Hedonic Treadmill Avoidable?
You’re likely wondering: “Can I stop this from happening?” The answer to that question is actually disputable. While Hedonic Adaptation might not necessarily be something people can look out for and avoid, research suggests that our “baselines” are not unchangeable. Well-being specialists propose a couple techniques to hold onto happiness and satisfaction longer. Some examples include: getting into the routine of practicing gratitude by consciously reflecting on positive events (which can prolong the sense of fulfilment), celebrating small victories instead of commemorating solely major successes, sharing accomplishments with friends and family (often reinforces optimistic feelings), avoiding constant comparison with others, and many more.
How can I adapt more quickly to negative events?
It’s discouraging to believe that even if someone amasses several achievements, they (inevitably) will venture back to disappointment. But it is important to take into account how the side of Hedonic Adaptation that pertains to unpleasant experiences is comparable to the concept of resilience. Everyone handles adversity differently, but studies show that most individuals can be quite resilient in their ability to recover their well-being following difficulties. While there is no foolproof or way of solving the issue, treating yourself with compassion rather than being overly critical can help. So can seeking support from friends, family, or other people you trust and allowing yourself to talk openly about what you are going through.