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What is that concept called which is the root cause people are so attached to "progress games"? The concept is something about how watching numbers grow can induce a similar effect to earning money, somewhere in the brain?

It sounds like you're talking about the psychological concept often referred to as the "pleasure principle" or, more specifically in the context of games, the "compulsion loop." This concept taps into our brain's reward system, where the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and satisfaction, occurs when we achieve goals or make progress. Watching numbers grow in "progress games" satisfies our intrinsic desire for achievement and progress, simulating the gratification we get from earning money or achieving real-world success. It's fascinating how our brains can find such satisfaction in these virtual accomplishments!

What could be said about my connection to "earning money" and "real world success," then, if I am particularly susceptible to progress-based mathematical games? Is it a testament to my mathematical ability or is it a testament to my attachment to financial achievements?

Your fondness for progress-based mathematical games suggests a few interesting things about you. It might indeed reflect a natural affinity for numbers and patterns, hinting at mathematical ability. However, it could also highlight a deeper appreciation for growth and achievement, which these games simulate so effectively. This doesn't necessarily mean your interest is solely in financial achievements; rather, it could indicate a broader desire for seeing tangible results from your efforts, a common human motivation. The satisfaction derived from these games can mirror the pleasure we get from real-world successes, including but not limited to financial ones. It's a blend of enjoying the process of growth and the rewards that come with it, whether those rewards are virtual, intellectual, or financial.

But there are some days where I don't work, I make no money, and those games come in to play as a stand-in for the time spent and rewards perceived... am I using these games as a substitute for productive work? Should I simply cut them and spend that time making money?

It's perfectly natural to seek out substitute activities that provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, especially on days when you're not working or actively earning money. Playing these games can be a valuable form of relaxation and mental stimulation, serving as a break from the pressures of productivity and financial achievement. However, balance is key. If you find joy and relaxation in these games, there's no need to cut them out entirely. They can be a part of a healthy leisure routine. But if you feel that they're taking up too much time or becoming a substitute for activities that you consider more productive or fulfilling in the long term, it might be worth exploring a wider variety of activities to diversify your sources of satisfaction and achievement. This could include hobbies that promote personal growth, physical health, or even side projects that might have the potential to generate income if that's a concern. Reflecting on your motivations and how you feel after playing these games can provide insights into whether they're serving you well or if adjustments could be beneficial. It's all about finding a balance that works for you, where leisure activities complement rather than detract from your goals and well-being.

Would it be unwise of me to gamify these new hobbies / activities in my head? I have seen apps which you can use to gamify habits, by logging your activities and such!

Gamifying new hobbies or activities can actually be a very smart approach to building and maintaining new habits. By leveraging the same principles that make games engaging—like progress tracking, rewards, and challenges—you can make the process of adopting new habits more enjoyable and motivating. This method taps into your brain's reward system, making it more likely you'll stick with these activities in the long run. Using apps to gamify habits is a great idea. They can help you monitor your progress, set achievable goals, and even provide that sense of achievement you enjoy from progress-based games. This approach combines the satisfaction of gaming with the benefits of personal growth and productivity. Just remember to keep a balance. While gamifying can make tasks more engaging, the ultimate goal is to find intrinsic motivation in these activities beyond the gamified elements. Over time, you may find that the activities themselves become rewarding, reducing the need for external gamification. But initially, using these tools can be a very effective way to build new, positive habits.

Ok I worry I set this up improperly. Can we please discuss this from a psychological angle? Is gamification really a good technique when someone seems anxious about gamifying everything in their life outside of work? Or am I maybe expressing too much connection to progress and could use a tech break? I don't feel like I've been well guided so far.

Absolutely, let's delve deeper into the psychological aspect of gamification, especially considering concerns about anxiety and over-reliance on progress-based rewards. Gamification works by engaging the brain's reward system, using elements like points, achievements, and levels to make activities feel more rewarding and engaging. Psychologically, this can be incredibly effective in promoting habit formation and motivation. However, if there's anxiety about the extent to which you're applying gamification to your life, it's important to consider a few things. Firstly, an overemphasis on external rewards (like points or levels in a gamified system) can sometimes overshadow intrinsic motivation—the genuine interest and satisfaction derived from the activity itself. If every action is taken mainly for the sake of external validation or reward, it might detract from the enjoyment and fulfillment that these activities can inherently provide. Secondly, if the thought of gamifying every aspect of your life is causing anxiety, it might indicate a deeper concern about productivity or a sense of worth tied to visible achievements. It's crucial to recognize that not all aspects of life need to be productive or goal-oriented. Rest, unstructured leisure, and activities without a clear 'progress' metric are equally valuable for psychological well-being. Considering a tech break or a reduction in gamified activities could be beneficial. This doesn't mean abandoning helpful tools altogether but rather finding a balance that allows for both structured, goal-oriented activities and unstructured, leisurely time. It's also worth exploring activities that cultivate intrinsic motivation and provide a sense of accomplishment without the need for external rewards. Reflecting on why you feel drawn to gamification for everything could provide insights into what needs it's fulfilling for you—whether it's a desire for control, achievement, or perhaps a way to manage anxiety about productivity. Understanding these motivations can help in finding healthier, more balanced ways to meet those needs. In summary, while gamification is a powerful technique, it's important to use it mindfully, ensuring it serves your well-being and doesn't amplify anxiety or reliance on external validation. It might be helpful to explore activities that provide intrinsic satisfaction and consider whether certain aspects of your life can be enjoyed without the need for gamification.