Compulsive. Chronic. Numbing.
Photo by Victoria Romulo on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Brené Brown defines addiction as “compulsive and chronic numbing.”
That definition deeply resonates with me. It has opened the door to a deeper understanding, not just of substance abuse, but of the habits and patterns quietly overtaking so many of our waking hours.
When I work with clients, we often start with a focus on productivity, not to push for perfection, but to help them do what matters most.
Getting Started
It’s not about becoming a productivity machine.
It’s about finishing your calculus homework so you can pass the class and stay in your major.
It’s about turning in your assignments so you can stop counting zeros and get off academic probation.
It’s about meeting deadlines at work, so you can keep the job you both enjoy and rely on to support your family.
But there’s a growing challenge I see again and again: the pull of compulsive screen time—TikTok, YouTube, Netflix, video games.
When we understand addiction as chronic numbing, these behaviors start to make more sense.
Calculus is hard. Video games offer instant relief.
Starting a dry, tedious discussion post feels overwhelming. TikTok feels light and fun.
Facing another packed workday feels heavy. A Netflix binge at midnight feels like an escape, until you're dragging yourself out of bed four hours later, more overwhelmed than before.
When clients keep choosing screens over sleep, over school, over work, even when they desperately want a different outcome, it may be time to reframe the conversation.
Because this doesn’t always look like a “problem” in the traditional sense. But when numbing becomes chronic, when it interferes with your goals, your health, your peace... it matters.
Here’s some food for thought: We don’t tell alcoholics to try “just one drink a day.” We don’t tell kids, “one cigarette won’t hurt.”
So why are we okay with apps and platforms that are literally designed to hook us, and keep us hooked?
Did you know that executives at Apple and Google famously limit their own children’s screen time, or avoid giving them smartphones altogether?
For me, this definition of addiction hits home most with food, numbing stress or discomfort with a treat. But for many of the clients I work with, it’s screen time: social media, streaming, scrolling. These aren't just bad habits. They're coping strategies. Ones that work in the short term, but cost us in the long term.
Maybe it’s time we start treating them with the seriousness they deserve.
Not with shame. But with honesty. With curiosity.
And with a commitment to reclaiming our time, and our focus from things that leave us feeling empty.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.