The Boom Before the Bust

Abundance—whether of resources, success, or dopamine—can destroy cultures. This chapter explores how too much of a good thing creates addiction and undermines the behaviors that created success in the first place.

The Danger of Abundance

When resources are scarce, we cooperate. When they’re abundant, we become complacent and self-interested.

The Abundance Paradox

Success creates abundance. Abundance creates complacency. Complacency destroys the discipline that created success. This leads to decline—and the cycle repeats.

Dopamine Addiction in Organizations

Organizations can become addicted to dopamine hits—quarterly results, deal closings, rapid growth. This addiction comes at the cost of long-term health.

Signs of Dopamine Addiction

• Short-term thinking dominates
• Constant pressure for “more”
• Celebration of individual achievement over teamwork
• Metrics obsession
• Exhaustion and burnout
• Loss of purpose beyond hitting numbers

The Lost Generation

Sinek argues that modern work culture has created a generation addicted to dopamine (instant gratification, social media, quick wins) but starved of oxytocin (deep relationships, meaning, belonging).

The Imbalance

When dopamine dominates and oxytocin is scarce:

• Relationships feel superficial
• Achievement feels empty
• Anxiety and depression increase
• Loyalty disappears
• Nothing feels “enough”

Key Takeaways

• Abundance can destroy the discipline that created success
• Organizations can become addicted to dopamine (short-term wins)
• Modern culture over-emphasizes dopamine, under-emphasizes oxytocin
• The result: achievement without satisfaction, connection without depth