Why is it easier to focus on things that we don’t have to do (like watching YT, TV shows, movies etc.) rather than things we “must” (for example studying, working out, going to job, finishing project and so on) ?
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Dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that’s part of the reward mechanism that’s evolved to entice us to do things. When we get a good grade, a job promotion or someone compliments us on how buff our bodies are, the brain gives itself a hit of dopamine. However, the actions themselves we take to get that good grade, promotion or hot bod don’t usually provide that dopamine hit.
YT, TV, games, FB, etc. are specifically designed to provide a hit as you use them. The same with sex, drugs, gambling, etc. These are generally called “immediate gratification” activities. That is when you do them, you get an immediate dopamine hit. The temptation to do an immediate gratification activity can be overwhelming over a delayed gratification activity.
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