Ever notice how you can’t stop comparing yourself to other people, even when you know it makes you miserable?
There’s a reason for that. And it has nothing to do with social media, your childhood trauma, or some defect in your personality.
It’s because your brain works exactly like a goat’s.
I know that sounds strange. But stay with me. Because understanding this one piece of mammal brain science explains why you scroll Instagram feeling inadequate, why you can’t stop reaching for that thing you swore you’d quit, why happiness never seems to stick around as long as you want it to.
We spend so much energy trying to fix ourselves. Trying to stop comparing. Trying to feel content. Trying to be happy all the damn time. But what if the problem isn’t you? What if your brain is just doing exactly what it evolved to do?
“When you compare and perceive yourself in a position of strength, your brain releases a little bit of serotonin. It feels good. It only lasts for a few minutes. And we’re not meant to have it all the time because then animals would get into fights if they always went around thinking that they were the hot shot. So it’s only meant for that one little moment when it’s appropriate.” – Loretta Breuning
Today our guest is Loretta Breuning, founder of the Inner Mammal Institute and author who spent decades studying how mammal brain chemistry shapes human behavior. After observing goat social dynamics at a farm, she uncovered patterns that completely changed how she understood human conflict, competition, and happiness.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why your brain rewards comparison and what to do about it
- How ancient mammal wiring drives modern addiction patterns and self-sabotage
- The real reason happiness chemicals fade and how to retrain your response
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- Show Notes: mindlove.com/421
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