Why I stopped chasing pleasure (and how to break the cycle!)

Cheap dopamine refers to fleeting pleasures that give us temporary satisfaction. It's usually from excessive social media, binge-watching, or eating junk food...etc. For the longest time, I didn't know the difference between REAL dopamine and Cheap dopamine. but there is a huge difference in how we experience pleasure.
In this video, I talk about why I stopped chasing this instant gratification form of pleasure and share with you some tips that helped me to break the cycle.
pinneapple & ginger tea
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00:00 Intro
01:27 replace "dead time" with a purpose
02:34 sort out mental clutter
03:42 practice morning delayed gratification
04:59 lessen the gap between you and your goal
06:22 redefine what reward means
C O M E S A Y H I
Instagram: / malamalife
Website: www.malama-life.com
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I N Q U I R I E S
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M U S I C
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C A M E R A G E A R
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Build a life where you don’t have to survive every day.
You can actually enjoy it.

[@sommermaxwell]

“We may have forgotten the sweetness of anticipation.” Beautiful! Such a wonderful reminder to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

[@MalamaLife]

😍❤️🙏 yes!

[@joshhawkins292]

Hi Sommer. That was a cool comment about anticipation. It’s something a lot people have forgotten in this day and age. We should always cherish what is important in our lives. Aloha.

[@someawsomeguy100]

“Now, when I notice myself looking for distraction, I realize that my goal is either too big or too vague.” This is very insightful.Amazing self-awareness.

[@saraphanar6507]

I can relate to the delayed gratification - this is something i must practice asap. I'm really concerned with my strong habit of checking my phone first thing in the morning 😢

[@MalamaLife]

❤️❤️❤️

[@marieobligacion8226]

Love this so much! Lately, I notice myself wanting cheap/instant gratifying pleasures but actually drains me afterwards. Thank you for the gentle reminder.

[@believe-in-yourself]

Gratitude, Attract, Reflect 🙌

[@MalamaLife]

❤️❤️❤️ yes!!

[@karenhiawalyer2402]

Delayed Gratification for that morning coffee ☕ is my weakness 😂

[@mimprincesa]

I love coming to your page when I need someone with a soothing voice and calm but still constructive content in the background while i tidy up around the house

[@asmith5759]

We really appreciate that your videos are short & concise. I’d guess most of your fans are limiting unnecessary screen time anyways.

[@nicolevargas239]

Your videos are always so beautiful and intentional. Thank you for putting such great care into creating them.

[@MalamaLife]

Thank you so much!🥰❤️

[@joshhawkins292]

Hi Nicole. This is the first time for me seeing these vlogs. She seems so calm and at peace. I see you enjoy these vlogs as well. I look forward to seeing her positive energy on screen. Aloha.

[@PaLueXiong]

I always feel like I feel too deeply as others often brush off my small moments of happiness; but truly I dont regret that excitement over that first bite of chocolate cake yes! It truly is the genuine pleasures in life that often others take for granted & had desensitized. Being purposeful can be embraced & it is so rewarding. I absolutely love this video, because so many of us can relate ❤

[@MalamaLife]

😍❤️ thank you!

[@jessicabird5189]

Thank you for this lovely video. I've been noticing a harsh productive and critical inner voice a lot more lately, especially when I try to slow down. I love your gentle and practical approach. It's refreshing to hear the way your insights here come from what you've noticed in your daily life, thoughts, and feelings, too. I think slowing down and reducing tech and distractions is such a hot topic right now, a lot of videos (while still being helpful) seem like they're running down a checklist of things you should/shouldn't do and they can leave the viewer feeling even more more anxious and perfectionistic, while this video felt more encouraging to get curious, turn inward, and make changes that are authentic to your experience. Just beautiful. ♥

[@emiliachidester3250]

SHE IS EXTREMELY GOOD AND VERY WISE. AMERICA NEEDS INDIVIDUALS LIKE HER.

[@tendol2195]

THIS is why I subscribed to your channel. Everything you share just resonates with me ❤

[@user-iy4nd8ge2r]

This was a lovely,beautiful reminder of the everyday magic,joy,beauty we always have around us but not always see!!! Like the moon,a beautiful bookcover,the sound of someones warm laughter,a hug from a little one or a hug from a loved one,smells from baked goods,music that touches the soul and goes straight to the heart,flowers or trees,the sea,a detailed wooden door in a house you pass by,drinking tea or coffee from a favorite mug,lighting candles,the stars at night,a smile from a stranger,just being grateful and feeling blessed... Thank you for your videos,they always lift my spirits. Warm hugs from Sweden

[@FashionBeautyLifeBaby]

My whole body literally fell into relaxation with my first real full breath taken today when your video started and I heard you speak. 🙏 thank you.

[@louisesusan]

Hi Sophie. I had a lightbulb moment, when you were talking about mobile phones and around, when you first wake up. I have been a week into my new job, that doesn't start until 3pm. I have absolutely no need to keep in charged or set my alarm for the mornings. So from now on i will charge it in the living room to remove that temptation. I had no idea what the implications were, and you're spot on!! Thank you for this, you seem to always keep me on track xx

[@Jennythetutor]

Hi! Me too! I don't start work until 3pm and I did the exact same thing with my phone as you last night also - it was on charge in the kitchen. Cheap dopamine first thing in the morning has been making me tired. Xx

[@louisesusan]

@@Jennythetutor thats brilliant, i have kept to it all week, and have started a new and positive habit x

[@donnas411]

Mornings are the best time of day. It’s good to take time out for yourself.

[@hannamercedes1265]

I so appreciate you as a human being and as a person taking the time out to address something as important as this. Thank you a million times ❤

[@kateobina686]

The yt channel that I would never skip in my whole lifeee❤😍

[@Georgi343]

Your videos always calms me down Sophie and I can’t thank you enough since I have epilepsy autism and ADHD it’s very hard to relax and unwind and really think about my life but you have changed that. So thank you so much for all your gratitude and your support. I love your videos and channel and I hope your dogs are doing good to

[@nilada3668]

Dear Sophie, every frame and every word that you have curated in this video is beautiful and much needed in today's world! I really loved watching all the stunning scenes you are blessed to be around to enjoy! You have also shot them perfectly. And that's a lovely house girl ❤ I am totally inspired. Thank you so much🌻

[@bw5277]

Born in Maui, grew up in CA, but spend a lot of time in retirement on Big Island. I love early morning walks in Hawi and Waimea....so peaceful. Drive over to Hilo side to walk Onomea Bay area while I'm in Hawaii. Enjoy your channel. Thank you. Just subscribed!

[@mikurealjapanese]

I just LOVE your video ❤ It's not only educational, but also relaxing, very very calming. It's your energy, your voice, your wisdom 😊 You are so authentic and I feel like listening to a friend when I watch your videos! ❤ You don't just teach us impotence of being aware, living our life consciously, but you also make us feel not alone in this world because it's so relatable and genuine. Thank you for sharing what you learn, what you do is so valuable and I hope you know what an amazing work you do for the world 🌎 ❤sending love from Japan 🇯🇵💞

[@MalamaLife]

You are so sweet! Thank you very much. I'm visiting Japan in 2 weeks. Very excited :)

[@utkalikasahani9914]

Such an impactful message Sophie... Redefining rewards is so powerful message ❤

[@dara1611]

Thank you. I am a Gen Z and I feel like our culture mainly revolves around TikTok trends and dopamine-seeking. I feel like I can’t fit in because of this. Your videos have been helping a lot. Xx

[@rianihlim]

This video popped up in the very right time. Lately I was back into and old habit of cheap dopamine indulgence (though I know that I am mentally healthier after decreasing the habit) and has been suspecting that the true reason is not really the seek of pleasure but avoidance to do something (start a new goal) because of perfectionism. It become clearer after watching your sharing. I will learn to let go the pressure of expectation and start with tiny step. Thanks again.

[@dianag.1997]

I was so touched by this beautiful and wisdom video, thank you! I even got tears in my eyes, and I am usually not. It was like someone hugged me with so much kindness and understanding.

[@noelleromberger2582]

This is very useful. I have been feeling totally consumed by my wants (often what is not best) instead of allowing purpose and space in a healthy way. Thank you for your beautiful videos and thoughtful ideas.

[@MalamaLife]

Thanks for watching:)

[@joshhawkins292]

Aloha Noelle. Your comment was just what I needed to hear. This world is so time consuming. It’s nice to see someone who isn’t lost in the rat race. I hope Sophie inspired you, just as much as she does for me. Take care. 😁🌴

[@ritchiewong16]

Aloha Sophie 👋, I can definitely say that I enjoyed this video, as it has taught me that there’s so much more to the meaning of the word “pleasure” in the everyday little things we get to enjoy in life, especially when we give ourselves time to take a break from habitually looking for something from the digital world to consume. Mahalo for the video, and sending you lots of love!!! ❤️❤️❤️🤗 Ritchie

[@alymar18]

You comment about the desensitization of the beautiful things around us really got me thinking. Thanks for yet another incredible video! ❤

[@becauseitsisa9818]

I think that‘s the video with the strongest, most beautifully told message I‘ve seen in a long time. It made me so motivated an grateful! Thank you :)

[@MalamaLife]

Aww thank you ❤️🥰 I appreciate you watching

[@SMB_80]

I absolutely love your channel and I love your calm voice 🥰! Is a pleasant way to spend the day , listening you whole day....I often repeat your playlists over and over..I cannot take enough...I feel happy, relax and hopeful.... thank you dear , best regards from London

[@leannacampbell7242]

This may be one of my favorite videos so far! Its both beautifully crafted, but also SO applicable for our society.

[@MalamaLife]

Thank you! So happy to hear that :)

[@joshhawkins292]

Hi Leanna. You’re absolutely right. This vlog is definitely one of her best. So inspirational and calming. I enjoyed it as well. It’s a stark reminder that we need to prioritize are lives accordingly. Aloha. 😁🌴

[@violinwithRosemary]

Thank you for making and sharing this wonderful video with us. Much needed advice in our fast paced world. Wishing you a peaceful and joyful day🕊🤍

[@norwegian_soul]

For me, one of the best Videos so far! Love the message. Thank you

[@Singlemom_diaries_]

I loved this video! Talking about not being on your phone first thing in the morning is going to be my new challenge! I notice that I tend to go on my phone more often on my busy days so I will be more intentional about this. ❤

[@lindsayhone5862]

Thanks Sophie, you make so many great points. I think society these days is geared towards getting the dopamine hits and we forget about the simple pleasures that life brings in each moment. Stay blessed🙏

[@rachvdlin]

I felt so stuck at chasing cheap dopamine... This is so mind-blowing! Thank you Malama

[@princevashishth9831]

your voice like a therapy

[@yuwang1667]

Thanks, Sophie! Always enjoying your relaxing and inspiring videos.🥰

[@MalamaLife]

Thank you for watching them 🥰

[@CallmeHai-jk5fx]

Your video really give me the encourge to slow down and carefully watch my step back then ❤

[@SophiaKimOfficial]

Dear Sophie, I'm happy you're existing at the same time on this planet earth that I do. I'm having a really rough time feeling like I somehow don't belong here or like I'm not suppose to be where I am right now. I feel like I'm not living my own life and I feel stuck. I'm doing my best trying to get there but nothing ever really seems to work out for me. I'm trying to accept that this might be just part of my journey though it's hard to feel like never really getting any closer. However minimalism and especially your videos help me a lot during this time. Watching your videos feels like I'm entering a world that I actually want to live though in real life it seems impossible to me. I hope that one day I can. Thank you so much for your videos and inspiration✨ Sophia

[@abhinav9004]

Admist the hustle and bustle of life, I found this video to be a blissful getaway. Loved every bit of it ❤❤

[@Kakapo839]

I really appreciate your video’s. This one couldn’t have popped up at a better time!

[@ladybrooks3885]

What a wonderful video. The term cheap dopamine really got my attention. I will be watching this video over and over. Thank you!

[@MrsTonySoprano]

Beautiful wisdom in here. Thank you.

[@rabianadeem9903]

I would just say that you have become my therapist. And i have started healing with your videos. May you shine in your life more and more. ❤

[@flower_bean_.1027]

This was much needed for me.. recently I was feeling so stressed to manage my uni final exam and parttime job that I forget to how to feel grateful..... I am really glad that I came back to your videos ❤....

[@sanathakur7325]

so needed to hear this❤

[@juliettetessier947]

I work in health care my weeks are pretty crazy and I often don’t have time for me but I just discovered your chanel and it’s so motivating to make changes slowly and necessary, im priorizing trift store and long lasting item. I also discovered how stressed I am in my own home due to over cluttered space Im moving away soon and Ive already started to get rid of some useless accumulation but you helped me to make sense to it I have adhd and often put my incapacity of being organized on that but my life is just too messy to make sense and you make it make sense thank you

[@heartgp2391]

This was posted just in the right time! Currently battling with myself of the things I wanted to buy because of what I see on my phone 😂

[@jaydenfajardo833]

have a great day malama !

[@MalamaLife]

You too!

[@Sp53653]

Omg such a beautiful video!!!

[@anshuchaudhary976]

I learned about the peace that minimalism brings , realised the value of self love rather then what materialism can bring for me, so many lessons learned through your channel. I fell in love with Maui , would love to settle there someday hopefully. Would love to see your updated home tour if you can make a video about it. Somewhere it makes me feel content and motivated at the same time

[@mcaskiz]

I love your videos so much :') I've been very intentional lately about removing cheap dopamine from my daily life and your videos keep me motivated

[@MalamaLife]

Yay! 🥰❤️

[@lizzy240515]

This was such a beautiful reminder! Thank you for this it was refreshing. I look forward to watching your videos whenever a new one comes out.🙂

[@kadeeeartiaga]

Whenever am feeling lost, I just watch your videos and I feel good!

[@morgane3792]

I love your videos! And I appreciate that you’re talking slowly, as a non native English speaker ❤

[@aditisharmachauhan]

Please please please don't ever stop making these life guiding videos ❤ these are my go to place everytime I feel overwhelmed or distracted ...sending you so much love from India ❤

[@s.sflower]

This is just so beautiful ✨️ wow thanks once again Sophie

[@TheFutura]

Beautiful! I appreciate the accurate representation of dopamine too

[@naurishaider8429]

I make time for a little malama life everyday :) i binge on all your videos. Your voice and the pace of it is in itself an example of slow and mindful living. Amazing video. Keep going. Much love. ❤

[@Lovejoypeace69]

Such a beautiful and meaningful video!!! Thank you!

[@lisabeatty7778]

I love your videos so much! It really is the simple things in life that brings us great pleasure!

[@MalamaLife]

🥰❤️ it really is

[@joshhawkins292]

You’re so right Lisa. The simple things in life keep us humble. That’s the beauty of staying grounded with ourselves. Nice comment. Aloha. 😁🌴

[@Silentsahara]

Thank you for remindering me (especially) ❤.

[@anoukzuvin]

This video was life changing and a journey back home to the soul ❤

[@Jennythetutor]

Thank you Sophie for your lovely videos. You are very inspirational! ❤

[@themagicallandscape]

Your narration and audio has improved a lot since I started watching you. As a perfectionist, that is very inspiring. I wanted you to be one way when I first started watching you, but, today, you inspired me just to start on whatever I'm working on. Sort of a back handed complement maybe to some (I don't mean it to be that), but I really am inspired and appreciate your work.

[@MalamaLife]

I appreciate that so much! Thanks for supporting me ❤️🥰

[@ld9279]

This is something I really struggle with. Thank you for the tips. A beautiful video as always ❤

[@NaturalButterfly94]

This is so timely. I’ve been struggling with the very unhealthy ways I used to use social media versus how I’m approaching it now. This change, though I know is a good one, feels wrong and foreign to me sometimes. Like I’m trying on a new skin. But I know in the end, I’ll be all the better for it

[@craignovy2090]

This beautiful video like your other videos are living art! Your comment about the difference between the brain and soul...spot on. The things that have real meaning in your life that you so well demonstrate will be your true friends forever. You exhibit in your being the connection between the concrete and ethereal (spritual). Thanks so much for sharing.

[@MalamaLife]

🥰❤️

[@langyawdiaries]

Such powerful messages makes you a true inspiration to many 😊

[@rosedoenz5721]

Thank you dear Sophie for another beautiful video filled with inspirational ideas! ❤️😘

[@MalamaLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@Merel64]

Thank you so much for this message!!! It sure resonates with me ❤

[@everlastingligaya]

Hiii!! I've been following your vlog for about a year now. And I find your content so beautiful and relaxing. Thank you so much for inspiring me to appreciate slow living and minimalism. I had watched almost all your videos and I didn't skip adds- my little way of showing my support to you. I look forward to more vlogs. Btw, I'm from the Philippines. With love, virtual hugs sis! :*

[@samuelchan7405]

thanks for producing this video. ❤

[@MalamaLife]

Thank you so much!!

[@danielgreen2545]

I needed this! THANK YOU

[@MalamaLife]

Thanks for watching 🥰

[@robertashaffer3950]

Hello Sophie, Now how did you know your video and its amazing content is EXACTLY what I needed to receive today. This is the second time in a row this has happened in the last half hour. The Universe is talking to me, LOUD & CLEAR. With my life being at a huge crossroads at the present time, there are important, realistic and mindful decisions requiring my attention, and actions. Getting overwhelmed and paralyzed that I end up not getting anything done? Yup. The last week has been a total reflection of remaining blocked and stagnant, instead of being kind to myself, and taking one thing at a time, giving my attention to what is directly in front of me.....and nothing else. Breaking the cycle of instant gratification sounds liberating to me. The thought of living within or below my means actually has me letting out a deep sigh of relief. Deep inside myself, I sense that peaceful, happy, minimalist wanting her freedom to flow out like a fountain and get those sleeves rolled up to create an incredible life for myself. Knowledge is good, however without action, I will always keep myself stuck and blocked. I have proven to myself time & time again, that I can WANT something, however I will not obtain that something if I don't CHOOSE to put my energy into making it work. Thank you Sophie. It's incredible how our awareness can open up watching a video that was truly meant to jolt our attention. I appreciate your content very much🌷

[@joshhawkins292]

That was very inspiring what you said Roberta. I see you’re a woman of great depth and intellect. I know how you feel. Sophie is a shining example of what it means to prioritize the important things in life. Some people never figure this out until it’s too late. I look forward to more of her inspirational vlogs. Take care, Aloha. 😁🌴

[@saminbeheshti786]

Your videos are therapy malama❤

[@MalamaLife]

🥰❤️😍

[@mpgibson6342]

Great message, and....your dogs are so sweet! ❤

[@MalamaLife]

Thank you. My little angels ❤️😍

[@AntonAchondoa]

Thanks so much for sharing your insights, Sophie! I've been going through my own variation of the dopamine struggle, and it's refreshing to have a perspective that is as peaceful and contemplative as yours (as opposed to some other guilt-driven approaches).

[@MalamaLife]

❤️❤️❤️

[@LovelyFlipFlops-jl9kl]

Good luck. I broke it for 20 years and I'm ready to have it again. I wish you well. That pleasure is required for good mental health.

[@nisha5461]

Many confirmations nd very valuable ...tysm dear ❤ will put in use 😊 God bless u 🙏

[@AM-bm2xw]

Beautiful video and important message, thank you :)

[@lovelifementoring5399]

Always enjoy your videos. So thought provoking and calming. ❤ thank you!

[@imperialzp]

Loved the message, been thinking about this a lot lately and LOVED these 8 minutes in beautiful Maui :)

[@raquelvilela9719]

I love your channel so much 🙏🏽

[@joshhawkins292]

I love her channel too. Sophie is such a pleasure to watch. She always has a great smile and positive attitude. Aloha.

[@ClaudyneHappy]

Merci pour ce partage🥰. J'aime beaucoup tes valeurs et ta façon d'appréhender la vie😊Tes vidéos sont apaisantes, positives, constructives et très enrichissantes☺Belle journée et à bentôt😘

[@LadyBeeSting2434]

I would love to have a real life friend like you! Yes, I delay things … but I am taking baby steps toward a slower life in a busy city. I find myself like now, watching KZbin… but I want to slowly get off and watch the real world as you remind us to do so. Thank you and thank you for sharing the island that I lived on once so many moons ago! Miss that beautiful view!

[@MalamaLife]

❤️❤️❤️

[@andreamussi]

Love the style of Your videos and are always so inspiring, thank you!

[@lynnemanning9553]

Thank you for the reminder. We can do too many cheap dopamine hits throughout our day....wise words and very inspiring, and not that easy, but definitely worth trying out 😊

[@shamashetye]

Hello Sophie….Just love your videos… your soothing voice is like meditation…. It just makes my day….

[@MalamaLife]

Thank you so much :)

[@lillymagdalena9416]

Thank you so much! I needed that!

[@bhumika290]

Much needed video♥️💫

[@MalamaLife]

❤️🙌

[@alongthelyrics]

always love your vlog!

[@monasantani7885]

Look so much forward to ur vlogs….. love n happiness to you ❤

[@SojournwithSangeeta]

Such a relevant conversation. Thank you!

[@MalamaLife]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@djpapakuma]

Wow, Sophie what an awesome video! The message, the shots, the type of filter on the video, just everything. Btw, is that Hawaii? Where ever it is though I want to live there! Thank you for your creation! Subscribed!

[@mariacarlacabrera]

Lately I don't know what to do with my life and what I want is to have peace with myself

[@buzzingbee2222]

This was so peaceful ❤