We tend to use the terms “like” and “want” interchangeably when describing our motivation. This is especially true when we’re talking about something that we find personally rewarding (or someone for whom we feel attraction). Nevertheless, it is possible to want something we no longer like (the classic example being addiction-type situations).

But how and why do these two processes become disconnected? Furthermore, how can we get back on track when we find ourselves chasing something that we no longer enjoy? Let’s look at the research for some answers.

Summarizing years of research, Berridge and Robinson (2016) clearly outline the psychological and neurological differences between wanting something and liking it. Focusing largely on their Incentive-Sensitization Theory of Addiction, the pair explains that both wanting and liking generally work together in the reward system of the brain. Still, they are distinct in the following ways:

Altogether, when functioning properly, our reward system should urge us to obtain things (i.e., want) which we will find pleasurable when we get them (i.e.,........

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