I think that we want instant gratification if we feel alienated from what we are doing. If we do the work that is one of our passions, we can calm down. But also, since that desire to be better than the others, we easily neglect our passions to do just what is most profitable...
About why we want to switch off - I think one of the reasons might be that we are really overwhelmed in this new era. Hundred of years ago when there was much less knowledge, so less things to be learned constantly to stay up-to-date, it was probably pleasant to commit to something more challenging for the brain cells. Now I think that we are exhausted mentally from all the options, all the 'musts', that we naturally go towards what is more relaxing.
I like this post a lot since it goes pretty much into depth. :)
This post is pretty much related to my latest post :) https://steemit.com/psychology/@katarinamiliv/psychologize-with-me-4-why-intelligent-people-fail
Analysis paralysis.
In this current information age it is vital to silence the noise and focus on the goal at hand.