"Dopamine Loading" is the EASIEST way to get ADDICTED to studying

AI Summary

Matthew Smith introduces a productivity hack called "dopamine loading," which he claims enabled him to achieve three A*s in his A-level exams and gain acceptance into the University of Hong Kong while still enjoying his life. He explains that most people experience fluctuating dopamine levels throughout the day, with high spikes from instant gratification activities like phone scrolling, unhealthy eating, or watching porn, followed by low troughs that make it extremely difficult to focus on work. His method involves intentionally delaying all high-dopamine activities until after all necessary work is completed. Smith details his personal routine during exam season, which included waking up early, avoiding breakfast, eating a low-carbohydrate lunch, and studying intensely throughout the day without distractions like phones or video games. He would then engage in natural dopamine-boosting activities like going to the gym without music. Only after completing all his academic and physical tasks, typically from 5 PM to 9 PM, would he allow himself high-dopamine rewards such as watching anime or eating a high-carbohydrate dinner. He asserts that this strategy leverages the brain's reliance on contrast, making hard work more manageable by providing a significant reward to anticipate, thereby tricking the brain into sustained effort and making daily life more enjoyable.

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