Why people who ask this one question in conversations are more likable, Harvard study finds

conversation, question

A Harvard study suggests that becoming more likable in everyday conversations doesn’t require charm or storytelling skills. Instead, it comes down to a single, simple question that sparks connection and makes people feel heard. The findings show that this question consistently boosts how others perceive you, whether you’re meeting a new coworker, chatting with friends, … Read more

Only smart people find these habits relaxing: Others may find them hard to endure

Habits, smart, people

Some people unwind by watching TV or scrolling through their phones. Others, however, recharge in ways that most would find uncomfortable. For highly intelligent individuals, relaxation often comes from habits like silence, solitude, or even spirited debates. What seems draining or dull to the average person can feel calming and restorative to them. Experts, including … Read more

Swap one pronoun and you’ll seem much more persuasive, a psychology study finds

Pronoun, conversation, persuasive

A new psychology study suggests that something as simple as the words you choose can change how people see you. Specifically, switching one common pronoun for another can make you sound more open, cooperative, and convincing. Researchers from Stanford University found that replacing “you” with “we” in certain conversations shapes how receptive you appear. Here, … Read more

Much better than white or fuchsia: the clothing color that most rejuvenates women over 60

sophisticated woman

For women over 60, the right clothing color can rejuvenate their look more than makeup or the latest fashion trend. Choosing the right shade makes the difference between an outfit that looks tired and one that feels fresh, radiant, and youthful. Color has the unique ability to highlight features, brighten the skin, and instantly transform … Read more

It’s not magic: Naturally charismatic people always have these 7 common habits, according to experts

charismatic, friendly

When we think of a charismatic person, it’s easy to believe their magnetism is something they’re simply born with. But experts say charisma isn’t a mysterious gift — it’s a collection of intentional habits that anyone can develop. Practicing these behaviors consistently can transform how others perceive you and how naturally you connect with them. … Read more

Video-game screen time is linked to social and emotional issues in children, say APA-backed psychologist

Children, screen time, emotional

Not all screen time has the same effect on kids. A recent study suggests that video games may be the type most likely to fuel social and emotional problems, and the impact appears stronger in children who are already struggling. The research, backed by the American Psychological Association, examined data from nearly 300,000 children. Dr. … Read more

Not making your bed in the morning isn’t just a habit: psychologists see these traits in people who skip it

bed

Not making your bed in the morning might seem like a small habit, but psychologists say it can reveal much about personality and mindset. This daily choice may reflect how individuals approach routines, manage responsibilities, and even express independence. Psychologist Leticia Martín Enjuto points out that habits, no matter how minor they seem, often carry … Read more

People who wear a ring on their thumb share these traits, according to jewelers

ring, hands

Wearing a ring may seem like nothing more than a fashion statement, but jewelers insist that the choice of finger often carries hidden meaning. Far from being random, the placement of a ring can reveal details about personality traits, relationships, and even decision-making style. Most people tend to associate rings with the ring finger, given … Read more

Want to keep your brain young? Scientists discover the activity that boosts memory after 60

Brain, memory, seniors

Keeping your mind sharp after 60 is one of the biggest health challenges today. Alzheimer’s disease affects about one in three adults over 85, and even those without dementia often notice memory decline with age. But scientists have found that one specific activity can improve memory and even slow cognitive aging. The Synapse Project, a … Read more

People with a high IQ have this trait in common, according to psychologists

IQ, trait, people

If you’ve ever wondered what are the things that set people with high IQ apart, psychologists point to one trait that consistently shows up: intuition, the ability to sense an idea or truth without deliberate analysis. This sixth sense is linked to faster, more accurate decision-making and problem-solving. But intelligence isn’t just about quick insights. … Read more

Watch out for these 7 phrases: they’re often used by people with weak social skills

Phrases, people, social skills

Certain phrases slip into conversations without much thought, but when they show up repeatedly, they can reveal more than you realize. Psychologists note that language often signals confidence, empathy, and social awareness—or the lack of it. People who struggle with social interactions sometimes lean on stock phrases that make them seem dismissive, insecure, or disconnected. … Read more

It may seem kind to help a waiter clear the table, but psychologists say there’s a hidden meaning

Help, waiter, meaning

Picture yourself at a restaurant. The server hasn’t come to collect the plates yet, but someone at the table begins stacking dishes or pushing them to the side. At first glance, it looks like simple politeness, but psychologists argue that what seems like a minor courtesy might actually say a lot about the person doing … Read more

Forget Peppa Pig: This iconic ’90s movie teaches kids essential life values

kids, movies, watching

This movie has been part of childhood for decades, showing kids more than just catchy songs and colorful animation. It delivers timeless lessons about courage, friendship, and responsibility that continue to inspire families today. The Lion King, first released in 1994, is not just a film full of catchy songs and dramatic moments. It’s also … Read more

Neither Texas nor Arizona: the US city where less young adults still live with their parents

family

The trend of young adults living at home varies widely across the US. Some metro areas have high rates, while others see most of them moving out early. On average, 17.7% of 25- to 34-year-olds live with their parents, but certain cities stand out for having much higher or lower numbers. These differences reflect economic … Read more

If someone responds with one-word answers or short phrases, it’s a sign they lack social skills, according to experts

texting, phone

Messaging has made communication faster than ever, but it has also exposed gaps in social skills. What once required a phone call or face-to-face talk can now be reduced to a quick tap on a screen. Yet what feels like convenience often hides a deeper issue: the weakening of emotional expression. According to experts, writing … Read more

The happiest people share this: a simple practice you should focus on every day

Happy, people, practice

Happiness is something we all chase, but its meaning is often misunderstood. Many people tie it to money, status, or fleeting pleasures, but researchers in psychology show it goes deeper than that. According to Arthur Brooks, professor at Harvard and expert in the science of happiness, fulfillment comes from habits that shape meaning, connection, and … Read more

Researchers at the University of Surrey say that dancing is better than gym workouts to ease stress

Dancing, workout, stress

For stress relief, researchers say there may be a better option than intense workouts. Dancing, an activity often seen as entertainment, shows strong benefits for mental health, emotional regulation, and resilience. A recent study published in Psychology of Sport & Exercise by a team from the University of Surrey found that dance lowers stress levels, … Read more

This is the quiet beginning of disconnection in a relationship, according to psychologists

couple

After decades studying intimacy, psychologist Claudia Six, Ph.D., reveals that disconnection in a relationship usually starts long before couples realize it. Daily pressures, life changes, and unspoken expectations slowly erode emotional closeness, making the eventual drift feel sudden when it has actually been forming over years. Awareness of these early signs is the first step … Read more

This is the top hobby for people over 70 to socialize and stay mentally sharp

Hobby, seniors, social

Some hobbies are more than just a way to pass the time. For many older adults, one pastime in particular has been shown to boost memory, keep the mind active, and spark meaningful conversations: collecting. Whether it’s antique clocks, porcelain vases, vintage coins, or rare books, this pursuit combines curiosity, history, and creativity in a … Read more

Relationship therapist says this common habit in couples is actually a “major red flag”

Relationship, habit, red flag

Many couples see it as a normal part of modern relationships: sharing live locations through apps like WhatsApp or Find My Friends. On the surface, it can feel like a simple way to check in, stay connected, or reassure each other, but experts say there’s a hidden risk when this habit turns into routine. London-based … Read more

Children can improve their memory and brain health with this simple game, according to experts

Children, memory, game

One of the easiest ways to boost a child’s focus, memory, and emotional awareness is an old-school game most parents and teachers already know: Simon Says. Research in child development shows that this activity strengthens attention, working memory, self-control, and emotional intelligence. Here, we’ll cover how Simon Says works, the benefits for growing brains, and … Read more

A university study identified the 20 happiest places in Philadelphia and mapped them all out

Happy, places, Philadelphia

Where do people in Philadelphia feel the happiest? A team of psychology students at Drexel University set out to answer that question, and the result is a unique map of the city’s most joyful spots. Their work, guided by Drexel’s Happiness Lab, shows that happiness often comes from everyday places right in the neighborhood. The … Read more

If someone doesn’t know how to end a conversation, it’s a sign they lack social skills, according to experts

social skills, conversation

Not everyone feels comfortable when it comes to starting, keeping, or wrapping up a conversation. Yet experts agree that these moments are a direct reflection of our social skills, which play a big role in how we connect with others. Being able to interact fluidly is more than just talking—it’s about creating balance, avoiding isolation, … Read more

Harvard study: People who prioritize deep relationships live longer and happier

Relationships, live longer, happy

According to the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the strongest predictor of long-term health and happiness is the quality of our relationships. The nearly 80-year project has followed thousands of participants across different backgrounds, from Harvard undergraduates to inner-city residents and their families. The results consistently point to one truth: people who nurture close, supportive … Read more

I’m a psychologist who studies couples and the happiest partners talk about these 5 things daily

Couples, talk, partners

One of the biggest misconceptions about long-term relationships is that conversation eventually runs dry. Partners assume they’ve said it all, so words shrink to calendar reminders, grocery lists, and household updates, but that’s not what strong couples experience. Mark Travers, PhD, a psychologist who studies relationships, explains that the happiest partners don’t stop talking about … Read more

Want better conversations? Research suggests asking questions that show you’re paying attention

Conversations, attention, questions

Most people think they’re pretty good at talking to others, but conversations often fall flat. We interrupt, change the subject too quickly, or walk away before the exchange really gets going. Psychologists say one of the simplest ways to make a conversation click is also one of the most overlooked: asking questions that show you’re … Read more

Studying happiness is my profession, yet it took me too long to learn these 6 key lessons

Happiness, lessons, learn

After years of researching human nature, Gretchen Rubin has noticed that the small things often trip us up more than the big ones. The bestselling author of The Happiness Project has spent over a decade gathering what she calls “Secrets of Adulthood”, which are short truths that clarify why certain habits stick, why others fail, … Read more