Ask HN: Extend Mental Refractory Period?

2 points by fallmonkey 3 years ago | 1 comment

Over the years, I've experienced this many times.

After being addicted to something (game/movie/YouTube/etc.) for lengthy hours, mental refractory period kicked in so I enjoyed a lot less, then I felt a urge of resolution to stop consuming them, maybe followed by some "commitment" like deleting game/cancelling sub/etc., hoping to become a better person next day.

Yet, next morning, my hunger for instant satisfaction refilled, and addiction resumed.

Has anyone successfully handled such situation and got any experience to share?

whythre 3 years ago |

Maybe take up a hobby or some other positive activity, rather than the negative goal of avoiding the source of your addiction? I have found that avoiding destructive or time wasting behavior is easier when I have a clear, worthwhile alternative I enjoy.