Alright, let’s break this down, Play at work style:

Ever notice how your brain feels like it’s been through a blender after a long study session or a never-ending work meeting? Well, guess what—science says you’re not imagining it. Turns out, thinking hard actually hurts! Researchers from Radboud University dug into 170 different studies and found out that mental effort is no joke. Whether you’re a healthcare worker trying to come up with new tech or an athlete perfecting your golf swing, the harder you think, the less fun you’re having.

So, why do we keep doing this to ourselves? The scientists think it’s because we choose mentally tough stuff despite the pain, not because we enjoy it. (Sounds like they might’ve just wanted to clock out early and slapped that explanation together, right?)

And honestly, thinking a lot hurts my brain too. (What? Just me?)