We’ve all heard of urban myths. But are you familiar with collective illusions? They happen when a vocal minority misrepresents and misleads the majority’s opinions, and they’re very easy to buy into. How can we combat this common problem? Breaking the Spell Journalism has a role in breaking apart collective illusions, but it can also […]
Embrace your inner perfectionist
Are you a recovering perfectionist? That isn’t a flaw that needs correcting. Perfectionism is actually a powerful energy that can be harnessed for positive change. In our latest Instaread, we look at therapist and researcher Katherine Morgan Schafler’s ideas about how to leverage perfectionist traits for personal growth. Find Perspective Problem-solving is a great skill. […]
How fighter pilots make good decisions
Fighter pilots have to be able to make split-second decisions. While they have a very specialized set of skills, it turns out that making good choices under pressure is something that everyone can use. Our latest Instaread offers many helpful techniques developed by the elite US Air Force pilot Hasard Lee. Split-Second Decisions Assess. Choose. […]
Do more, feel better 😃
Struggling with the demands of being a doctor, Ali Abdaal was burning out. He realized that he needed to feel better, not work harder, and his philosophy of “feel-good productivity” was born. Our latest Instaread shares some practical tips. Better Goal Setting You’ve probably heard of SMART goal setting: making your targets specific, measurable, attainable, […]
How to manage anxiety 😅
Anxiety is not a sign of weakness. It’s a common experience that many people have, but hide out of shame. Suffering in silence doesn’t help anyone, and often makes things worse. Let’s look at some practical strategies for coping with anxiety and preventing panic attacks. Lean In It may sound counterintuitive, but stop resisting your […]
Let’s solve the communication crisis
Have you noticed that we’re experiencing an international curiosity deficit? In our digitally connected world, genuine human communication is lacking. By learning to listen carefully and ask good questions, we can bridge the gap, build better relationships, and learn a lot along the way. Deep Listening Listening is hard work. It’s not a passive activity, […]
The science of awe
When was the last time you experienced a real sense of wonder or awe? Psychology professor Dacher Keltner believes that awe is the key to living a fulfilling, happy life. Even simple experiences like looking at the stars can increase your sense of wellbeing as well as reduce chronic inflammation and diseases. Here’s an easy idea […]
How to find peace this season
Spending time with our families during the holidays can be a source of great joy—but it can be difficult, too. Our most dysfunctional relationships tend to flare up at this time of year, which is often compounded by mental health and substance abuse issues. How can we set aside our expectations and focus on our […]
How to fix your inner child
Should we blame more of our adult problems on our parents? We’re kidding — that’s going too far — but family and relationship therapist Vienna Pharaon believes that many of our problems and destructive patterns in adulthood can be traced back to conflicts we experienced as children. The good news is that, as adults, we […]
Is your kid a genius? 📚
Everyone wants to believe that their child is a genius. Alas, it isn’t so. But chess prodigy Lászlö Polgár says that genius is cultivated, not taught. All three of his kids are chess masters. How’d he do it? You’re Never Too Young to Be an Expert Polgár recommends finding a narrow specialty for your children, […]
