I always dislike the “hedonic treadmill” framing because it implies there’s something wrong with our brain seeking pleasurable things, and I don’t think an ideal society would be structured to meet our bare minimum needs and have no art, entertainment, or luxury

I think the main distinction is that we need a sustainably improved lifestyle to be happier, rather than just big individual hits of pleasure

And I do think I’ve seen examples of people pursuing dreams and being happier for it- Indie game devs are a prime example. It’s just rare because it takes a certain level of privilege to get started with it

I am sort of confused what you consider to be “proper” dreaming. I agree that the way we’re taught now is wrong, but what would be correct? The way you phrase all this makes me thing the “proper” way to dream would be to give up all dreams beyond base subsistence, albeit gradually, which seems contrary of the actual function of a dream or main goal in the first place: something that’s enjoyable and feels important and fulfilling to do. Sure, it’s a goal, but a goal that makes you give up all other goals just feels like a replacement for capitalism.

I am not attempting to le epically own you, btw. I’m just spitballing. I think I agree with you here