11/06/2025
If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly chasing stimulation, excitement, or that next quick hit of satisfaction, you’re not broken. You’re not flaky. You’re chasing dopamine. And that’s a real thing.
So… What Is Dopamine?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger in the brain, responsible for motivation, reward, and reinforcement. In simple terms: dopamine tells your brain, “Hey, this thing feels good. Let’s do more of it.”
It plays a central role in drive, focus, pleasure, and forming habits. Neurotypical brains have a more balanced dopamine system. They can move through boring tasks, finish to-do lists, and delay gratification more easily.
ADHD brains? Not so much. We have lower levels of dopamine and issues with how it’s used in the brain. This is why we struggle with motivation, procrastination, and follow-through, not because we’re lazy, but because our brain’s reward system is underpowered.
Feel like you're always chasing the next thrill, snack, or last-minute deadline? That’s not a flaw - it’s your brain seeking dopamine. This article breaks down how ADHD rewires motivation, why the chase can burn you out, and how to shift your habits without losing your spark.