Are Algorithms Controlling Your Mind?
How They Hook Us, Why We Get Addicted, and What It’s Doing to Our Thinking
(Eric Schmidt former CEO Google, Dave Blundin Link Ventures, Peter Diamandis Moonshots Pod)
Every time we head down the “scroll hole” to watch video, or click a headline, we’re not just choosing content we’re being chosen. Behind the scenes, powerful algorithms, designed by tech giants are quietly deciding what we see, what we don’t, and even how we feel. What used to take 90 minutes of film to evoke emotion in us can now be achieved in a short video clip. That’s because we have curated exactly what makes an impact on us emotionally, day in and day out through how we engage in the content that’s fed to us.
Let’s talk about algorithm manipulation how it works, why it’s so addictive, and why it’s impairing our ability to think critically for ourselves.
⸻
How Algorithm Manipulation Works
Algorithms are simply rules for filtering information. But modern algorithms are far from neutral.
• Data mining: Every click, pause, like, or share you make trains the algorithm on what grabs your attention.
• Emotional triggers: Platforms boost content that sparks anger, fear, or outrage because these emotions keep you glued to the screen.
• Echo chambers: Over time, the algorithm curates a narrow slice of reality feeding you content that confirms your biases while silencing alternative perspectives.
This is no accident. The longer you stay online, the more ads you see, and the more money these companies make. Your attention is the product.
⸻
Why It’s Addictive
Scrolling social media feels like harmless entertainment, but biologically, it’s more like a slot machine for your brain.
• Each notification or “like” gives you a dopamine hit, creating a craving for the next scroll.
• Your brain learns to chase novelty refreshing, swiping, and scrolling endlessly for that unpredictable reward.
• Over time, the dopamine cycle overrides self-control, pulling you into hours of unconscious consumption.
This is why so many people wake up, grab their phone, and suddenly lose 45 minutes before even having breakfast.
⸻
What are we sacrificing : Critical Thinking Erosion
The most dangerous part of algorithmic manipulation isn’t just wasted time it’s what it’s doing to our ability to think deeply.
• We skim headlines instead of reading articles.
• We react emotionally instead of reflecting thoughtfully.
• We outsource curiosity waiting for the algorithm to feed us ideas instead of exploring on our own.
Critical thinking takes focus, and focus is exactly what the algorithm is designed to steal.
(Eric Schmidt former CEO Google, Dave Blundin Link Ventures, Peter Diamandis Moonshots Pod)
When we can’t slow down enough to question, compare, and investigate, we become vulnerable to manipulation by tech companies, advertisers, and even political agendas. Too many inputs without enough output can also create anxiety and other physical and mental signals.
⸻
Actions to Take Back Your Mind
1. Create friction. Log out of apps, remove notifications, and set time limits for social media and what you do online.
2. Actively seek ways to connect with reality. Walk in nature, connect to animals. Don’t carry your phone for designated time periods throughout the day.
3. Practice “digital fasting.” Take 24 hours away from screens to reset your nervous system.
4. Read long-form content. Books and articles build focus and comprehension in a way quick posts never will.
5. Ask yourself daily: “Did I choose this thought, or did the algorithm feed it to me?”
⸻
Technology can be a powerful tool, but only when we remain in the drivers seat. Right now, most people are being driven are unaware that they are fed a steady stream of curated content designed to capture their emotional energy.
The antidote? Awareness.
When you step back and reclaim your ability to focus, question, and create, you break free of the manipulation. You become Naturally Inspired (Naturally In-Spirit) choosing what shapes your mind, instead of letting the algorithm do it for you.
Stay Inspired,
Tammy
Connect with me today and Get a Free Consciously Clean Assessment.
⸻
If this post was helpful, please share it with someone who cares about clean living. Subscribe to Naturally Inspired for more health insights that empower you to make informed, life-changing choices.
Need help? Book a FREE 30 min consciously clean health assessment with me today! Text my direct health line at 720-303-8868. I connect people to real solutions for health.
.
Purchase Naturally Inspired’s Preferred products for practical, measurable and compounding results and get FREE weekly wellness workshops. Support for your optimum health journey!
Listen live at naturallyinspiredradio.com 3pm MT Mon- Fri or watch later on Naturally Inspired 24/7 and connect to real solutions for health.
.
Become a subscriber for just 50/yr. Being a subscriber has its rewards.
Discounts to Events and Exclusive groups from Naturally Inspired
Health Tips and Unknown Health Information
Enter to win weekly giveaway valued at 100 dollars.
Inspiration for better life results
Strategies for lifestyle habits that improve your health
Support our mission to bring real solutions for health to the masses and shape health culture for a healthier population.
Watch Our Latest Radio Show
