How Neuroscience Explains Our Struggles with Adulthood and Happiness

Have you ever wondered why, as soon as we step into adulthood, many of us suddenly find it harder to feel content and happy? Conversations with friends and family over the past few years have often echoed this question. Why does life seem to get tougher as we grow older? Is it simply a mindset, or are there deeper, scientific reasons behind our struggle for fulfillment?

The Modern Dilemma: Beyond Just a Mindset

Many of us were taught that success means getting good grades, finding a stable job, and advancing in our careers. But whether we achieve these things or not, most people find that adulthood feels difficult and overwhelming. While social pressures and rapid technological changes play a role, neuroscience offers insights into why so many of us struggle with happiness and balance.

The Neuroscience Behind Happiness and Stress

Recent research in neuroscience reveals that our brains are wired to respond to both rewards and stress in complex ways. Here are a few key factors:

• Neuroplasticity and Habit Formation: Our brains are constantly adapting. Neuroplasticity -the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections - means we can rewire our thought patterns over time. However, the traditional education system often fails to take advantage of this. Instead of focusing on lifelong learning and habit-building, it emphasizes rote memorization and exam performance.

• The Role of Dopamine: Dopamine, often known as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, plays a critical role in motivation and pleasure. However, the modern world - with its instant gratification from social media, apps, and technology - can overstimulate these pathways. Over time, this may lead to a diminished response, making everyday pleasures feel less rewarding.

• Stress and the Prefrontal Cortex: Chronic stress can impair the function of the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for decision-making, emotional regulation, and long-term planning. This impact might explain why many adults struggle with consistent motivation and creative thinking, despite knowing what they need to do.

  
  

The Educational Gap: System Built for Exams, Not Life

After attending a talk by Simon Squib, where he emphasized the flaws in our education system and the urgent need for change, I couldn’t agree more. For far too long, traditional education has prioritized exam results and academic achievements over real-life skills. But what about the knowledge that truly shapes our future - how to manage finances, communicate effectively, stay motivated, and navigate life’s challenges?

What’s Missing from Our Curriculum?

• Financial Literacy: Most of us are never taught how to manage money effectively, and schools often focus on passing exams rather than emphasizing real financial skills. Learning how to budget, save, and invest isn’t just about numbers - it’s key to reducing stress and building long-term security.

• Effective Communication: Beyond reading and writing, emotional intelligence and empathetic communication are vital. Neuroscience shows that our ability to connect with others is rooted in mirror neurons and social brain networks.

• Consistency and Motivation: While motivation might seem innate, it is largely built through habit and perseverance. Learning how to set and maintain routines can help rewire the brain for sustained focus and creativity.

• Physical and Mental Health: We do have physical education (PE) classes and some lessons on mental health, but why do so many people still struggle to prioritize their well-being? The issue isn’t just a lack of information - it’s how it’s taught. Something need to change since in reality, regular exercise, proper nutrition, and quality sleep are crucial not only for physical health but also for brain function, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

  
  

  James Clear, in Atomic Habits, explains that small, consistent actions lead to long-term success. Imagine if schools prioritized daily financial literacy exercises, short mindfulness sessions, or regular communication practice - these small habits could shape students into financially responsible, emotionally resilient, and socially confident adults. Instead, many students cram for exams, only to forget most of what they learned shortly after. By integrating neuroscience-backed habit formation into education, we could create a system that fosters lasting skills rather than temporary knowledge.

  
  

Building a Better Future: Integrating Neuroscience with Life Skills

Imagine a world where our education system doesn’t stop at academic achievements but equips us with the skills to thrive emotionally, financially, and socially. With neuroscience as our guide, we understand that small changes - like practicing daily gratitude, setting realistic goals, and taking time to recharge - can create significant improvements in our brain's health and our overall quality of life.

By incorporating these principles, we can challenge the notion that adulthood must be a time of struggle. Instead, we can take proactive steps to rewire our minds for happiness, build resilience against stress, and ultimately, lead more fulfilling lives.

Final Thoughts : Neuroscience and Adulthood

The intersection of neuroscience and adulthood offers powerful insights into how we can improve our mental and emotional well-being. While it would have been beneficial to learn about our brain and body (neuroscience) while growing up, it’s never too late to start now—thanks to neuroplasticity. The challenges we face in adulthood aren’t just about mindset; they’re deeply connected to how our brains process stress, rewards, and change (which we never learn to take control growing up). By incorporating insights from neuroscience into our daily lives, we can pave the way for a healthier and more fulfilling future.

Visit RiaMinds for more insights on how to build a better mind and a better life.