Why do kids get gold stars and celebrations for the tiniest wins… while adults grind through their days with zero reward?
Science is clear: your brain is not tired — it’s under-rewarded.
In this episode, Steph breaks down the neuroscience of micro-rewards, dopamine, and daily motivation. You’ll learn:
• Why your brain needs anticipation more than achievement
• How dopamine fuels momentum
• Why adults feel depleted, unmotivated, or resentful during daily tasks
• The identity shift that “unlocks” your motivation again
• Why tiny, intentional rewards outperform big, rare ones
• What research from APA, Gallup, Stanford, and Deloitte reveal about burnout and micro-pleasure deficits
Plus:
• How to build rewards that are 100% YAY (no guilt afterwards)
• How to turn laundry, emails, and everyday tasks into dopamine wins
• Why being “under-rewarded” makes everything feel heavier
• How to intentionally plant YAYs in your day starting today
This episode is for you if you’ve been feeling low-energy, low-motivation, or disconnected from the things you know matter — and you’re ready for simple, science-backed shifts that bring your spark back.
AI Prompt included.
Share this episode with someone who deserves to celebrate themselves.
