Choose Real Over Artificial in Everyday Life
I never smoked in my life (I tried it once and then went to get my favorito gelato: it tasted so bad after the cigarette that I firmly decided that I prefer preserving my palate to smoking cigarettes!) but I used to eat sweets a lot when I was feeling overwhelmed or bored. It took me quite a while to understand that it would be wiser to do some yoga or dancing instead of eating! 🤣
Hmmm, I have the impression that life today feels just like a series of quick fixes. Do I feel stressed, low on energy, tired, or lonely? No problem! There are plenty of quick fix solutions: grab a cigarette; buy something new; reach for junk food; scroll through social media; take a pill. And it’s so easy to fall into the temptation of a quick fix!The point is: it’s easy, it’s fast—but is it really fulfilling?
Somewhere along the way, we started mistaking temporary highs for true happiness. And as result we get more stress, more distractions, and a growing sense of emptiness.
Let’s take a closer look at the difference between what feels good in the moment and what actually nourishes us long-term.
🚬 The Illusion of Relaxation
Nicotine tricks your brain into thinking it’s relaxing—but it’s really just borrowing calm from your future self. Once the buzz fades, stress creeps back in, stronger than before. Also, have you ever considered the environmental impact of smoking?
A Better Alternative: Swap quick-fix relaxation for deep, lasting calm. Try breathwork, a long walk, or simply slowing down with a cup of tea. Your body will thank you.
🛍️ The False Promise of Buying Happiness
That rush of excitement when you buy something new? It fades fast. What’s left? Clutter, credit card bills, and the same feeling of dissatisfaction that started the cycle. Beyond that we’re polluting the planet.
A Better Alternative: Instead of chasing happiness through purchases, invest in moments that matter—time with loved ones, learning something new, or exploring a new place.
🍟 The Shortcut to Energy That Backfires
Processed food is engineered to be addictive—designed to make you crave more, not to fuel your body. What seems like a quick energy boost often leaves you sluggish and craving even more junk.
A Better Alternative: Choose real, whole foods. Fresh fruits, nuts, and home-cooked meals don’t just taste better—they actually sustain you.
📱 The Illusion of Connection
Scrolling through social media can make us feel like we’re staying in touch, but is double-tapping a post the same as a deep, meaningful conversation?
A Better Alternative: Prioritize real-life interactions. Call a friend, meet up for coffee, or simply spend time with people who matter to you. Real connection happens beyond the screen.
💊 The Quick Fix for Pain
Reaching for a pill the moment we feel discomfort has become the norm. While medication has its place, relying on it for every little ache can numb us to what our body is actually trying to communicate.
A Better Alternative: Instead of masking pain, address its root cause. Stretch, rest, hydrate, or seek natural remedies when possible. Learning to listen to your body leads to real healing, not just temporary relief.
Choose Real Over Artificial
We don’t need to give up modern life, but we do need to be mindful of what truly brings fulfillment.
Relaxation comes from mindful presence, not quick fixes.
Happiness comes from meaningful experiences, not shopping sprees.
Nourishment comes from real food, not processed junk.
Connection comes from human interaction, not endless scrolling.
Next time you reach for a quick dopamine hit, pause. Ask yourself: Am I choosing what’s real or just a clever copy?
Because life is too short for artificial happiness.