Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter in your brain.  Surges of dopamine make us feel good, make us feel motivated and give us energy to try.  There are ways to trick your brain into releasing dopamine to achieve and leverage these affects.  Here are some ways to increase your levels of dopamine:

• Exercise – The body naturally responds to physical activity with a dopamine release.  A “runner’s high” is a real phenomenon and can help your feel good.
• Check something off your task list – Recognizing you’ve completed a task triggers a dopamine response.  The larger the task, the greater the surge.
• Establish rewards for yourself – The anticipation of achieving a reward triggers a dopamine surge.

Need some more productivity-boosting ideas? Check out our previous Wellness Wednesday posts Healthy Snacks for a Productive Day and Boost Your Energy with Organization and get some fresh ideas!

What helps you feel motivated and productive? We want to know!