Winning, whether in sports, competitions, occupation or just everyday life, can trigger a complex interplay of hormones and neurotransmitters in the human brain. Understanding these neurochemical reactions sheds light on why winning can be so psychologically rewarding and motivating for individuals. Here are some key points about the main hormones that are released when winning:
1. Dopamine: Often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, dopamine plays a central role in the brain’s reward system. Winning, achieving a goal, or experiencing success can lead to a surge in dopamine release. This release reinforces the behaviour that led to the success, motivating us to pursue similar goals in the future.
2. Serotonin: Known for its role in regulating mood and social behaviour, serotonin levels can increase following a win. This can contribute to feelings of well-being and satisfaction.
3. Testosterone: This hormone is associated with dominance and competitiveness. Winning can lead to a temporary increase in testosterone levels, which may enhance confidence and the motivation to compete further.
4. Oxytocin: Often called the “bonding hormone,” oxytocin is released during social interactions and positive experiences. Winning, especially in team sports or cooperative efforts, can increase oxytocin levels, fostering a sense of trust and connection with teammates or supporters.
5. Endorphins: These are the body’s natural pain relievers and mood enhancers. They can be released after a win, contributing to feelings of euphoria and a reduction of stress.
The Results
The release of these hormones is part of a complex neural reward system that reinforces behaviours associated with success and achievement. This reinforcement can motivate individuals to strive for further successes, whether in personal goals, professional endeavours, or competitive situations.
Conversely, losing or the absence of a win or experiencing failure can lead to different hormonal responses, such as decreased dopamine and serotonin levels, potentially contributing to feelings of disappointment or frustration. Winning has been shown to combat and reduce negative feelings such as sadness or depression. For example, think about how you felt on a day when everything went right and alternatively how you felt on a day when everything went wrong. Sometimes it takes just one positive situation or interaction to turn a bad day around and feel a reduction in feelings of negativity almost instantly.
Conclusion
To conclude, for anyone looking to improve, I would recommend to be realistic and focus on small achievable wins initially. An individual could start with something easy like having better hygiene and self care to having a routine sleeping pattern to starting a health and exercise regime to something more grand like finally getting that raise or business deal across the line. Wins, just like any positive effort or solid financial practice, will compound over time and stack up which in turn will act like an investment in your mental wellbeing, receiving a daily passive income of positive mental energy.