In a world that demands that we be connected, productive and emotionally available at all times, an intriguing phenomenon emerges that many have experienced but few can describe: “emotional laziness”. It is not laziness in the classic sense, but rather an emotional exhaustion that disconnects emotions, even in people who remain highly motivated and productive in other areas of life.
This emotional state appears to be closely linked to problems in troubled relationships, where intense emotional demands, recurring frustrations and unmet expectations exhaust the ability to react emotionally. Neuroscientific studies indicate that the limbic system, responsible for regulating our emotions, can become overloaded when exposed to frequent conflicts, while the dopaminergic circuits, which control motivation and reward, continue to operate at high levels, supporting other activities.
“Emotional laziness” also reflects the impact of today’s culture, which prioritizes productivity and performance over emotional care. Digital hyperconnection creates a false sense of closeness, but it often creates isolation and intensifies emotional exhaustion. We feel the pressure to always be “present,” but we emotionally disconnect in order to survive.
From a genomic perspective, the regulation of emotions is also influenced by genes such as COMT and 5-HTTLPR , which determine our emotional sensitivity and ability to cope with stress. Epigenetic factors, such as life experiences, environment and even relationships, can “turn on” or “off” the expression of these genes, making some people more susceptible to this emotional state.
“Sentimental laziness” is, therefore, a multifaceted phenomenon. It involves the emotional wear and tear of relationships, the influence of the digital environment and even biological predispositions. It is not just a symptom of modern life; it is a warning that we need to reconnect with our emotions and prioritize healthier and more authentic relationships. Understanding this state is the first step to transforming it, restoring the balance between our emotions, body and mind.
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.