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

I make a living studying people’s happiness: here are 6 lessons I wish I had learned sooner

Happiness, lessons, learn

After more than a decade researching happiness and human behavior, Gretchen Rubin has seen how small choices shape our daily lives. The bestselling author of The Happiness Project and host of the Happier podcast has gathered insights she calls “Secrets of Adulthood“—short truths that carry weight with time and practice. These lessons are practical reminders … Read more

New study reveals how certain scents can alter your behavior

scent, flowers

Our brain constantly makes decisions shaped by scents and behavior, relying on both direct and indirect associations. While some links are obvious, others form in ways that aren’t immediately visible, influencing choices in surprising ways. Mistakes in these associations can even alter how we react to familiar experiences. A new investigation by the Cellular Mechanisms … Read more

New research reveals how seniors built resilience and found positives during the pandemic

Seniors, resilience, research

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life, older adults were among those most at risk. Beyond the threat of infection, many faced strict isolation, loss of routines, and the challenge of staying connected while physically apart. Yet new research shows that many seniors not only endured these difficulties but also found ways to adapt and … Read more

New study uncovers why emotional richness and positivity improve as we age

seniors, happy, couple

As people age, both positivity and emotional richness tend to become more prominent, shaping how adults handle challenges and find satisfaction. Younger individuals may show more irritation or anger, while those in midlife and beyond often display greater calm and composure. A recent study led by Richa Nigam and Professor Bhoomika Rastogi Kar from the … Read more

Psychologysts say that this common habit could be destroying your relationship

Habit, relationship, couples

Most couples fall into habits that feel normal and even healthy, but there’s one behavior experts warn can quietly poison relationships from the inside out. It feels harmless and usually goes unnoticed until resentment builds and communication breaks down. That habit is keeping score. Therapists say it’s one of the fastest ways to erode trust … Read more

Neuroscientist says 16-year-olds should vote — here are his 4 main arguments

voter, usa

Although in the United States the voting age is 18, lowering the voting age to 16 has been a recurring debate, often raising concerns about maturity, responsibility, and decision-making. Neuroscientist Dean Burnett argues that, far from being unprepared, teenagers have every reason to be trusted with the right to vote. His perspective directly challenges some … Read more

What does it mean to raise one eyebrow while talking, according to body language experts

Eyebrow, gesture, meaning

A raised eyebrow can change the entire tone of a conversation. When only one eyebrow goes up, it can signal from doubt and curiosity to a playful challenge. Subtle eyebrow movements can guide how we interpret what someone really means, even when their words sound straightforward. In the following sections, we’ll explore what a single … Read more

Why are psychiatrists recommending this controversial treatment?

Psychiatrist, treatment, controversial

It sounds like something out of an old psychiatric hospital, yet it’s still being used today. Electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, remains one of the most debated treatments in modern psychiatry, as as stated by Cambridge University. Some see it as lifesaving, while others as outdated and dangerous. Despite the stigma, psychiatrists continue to recommend it … Read more

Psychologists say getting a smartphone before age 13 is linked to worse mental health in early adulthood

kid, smartphone

Smartphones are now part of everyday life, but the age when kids first get one may matter more than parents think. Psychologists are raising concerns about the link between early smartphone ownership and long-term mental health. The question is no longer just about screen time—it’s about timing. Parents often wonder when is the “right” age … Read more

Psychology shows that couples who master this habit can make their marriage last forever

Habit, couples, marriage

When most couples worry about their marriage, the focus usually falls on intimacy or communication breakdowns. Psychology suggests there’s another, often overlooked habit that can also impact long-term happiness. According to relationship therapist Mary Jo Rapini, the act of cuddling may be one of the strongest predictors of a lasting marriage. Tender touch creates a … Read more

Retirees over 70 can maintain mental sharpness with this science-backed habit

Habit, retirees, mental sharpness

Staying mentally sharp past 70 doesn’t involve only a healthy diet, exercise, or crossword puzzles. One of the strongest predictors of brain health in older adults is making meaningful connections. Research shows that strong social ties help protect against memory decline, dementia, and age-related cognitive changes. Here, we’ll explore the relevance of meaningful relationships for … Read more

This is how socially skilled people lie successfully, according to a leadership expert

Liers, people, lie

Lying comes more easily to some people than others. For those with sharp social skills, deception can look effortless, even convincing. They can tell a story without stumbling, keep steady eye contact, and appear sincere enough to win trust. Psychologist Robert Feldman’s research shows that this talent often shows up early. Adolescents with higher social … Read more

Olympic gold medalist credits her success to these 4 surprising secrets

Olympic, medalist, secrets

Olympic track and field champion Sanya Richards-Ross knows firsthand that reaching the top isn’t just about speed. The Jamaican-born American sprinter, who won gold in the 400 meters at the London 2012 Olympics, built her career on discipline, resilience, and lessons learned the hard way. Her journey shows that winning is about mindset, choices, and … Read more

5 subtle psychology-backed signs she loves you from the depths of her soul

love, woman in love

Love doesn’t always arrive wrapped in big declarations. More often, it’s the subtle signs—psychology-backed behaviors—that reveal how deeply someone feels. When a woman loves you from the depths of her soul, her actions speak louder than words, showing up in ways that build trust, support, and connection. These signs may look simple from the outside, … Read more

What makes psychiatrists recommend this controversial treatment despite the debate?

Treatment, psychiatrist, controversial

Few treatments in psychiatry spark as much discussion as the use of stimulant medication in children. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, better known as ADHD, is one of the most common childhood diagnoses, and stimulants like methylphenidate are often prescribed. For some, this approach represents an effective solution. For others, it raises questions about safety, fairness, and … Read more

6 unexpected life-changing lessons from the largest studies on human happiness

happy people, happiness

What if the things you believe will finally make you happy—money, a new house, or even winning the lottery—aren’t the real answer? For decades, scientists have been studying what truly shapes human happiness, and the findings are not always what we’d imagine. Since the 1970s, large-scale studies in psychology have shown that no matter how … Read more

Staying mentally active through games or hobbies supports cognitive health in seniors, says Mayo Clinic

Seniors, hobbies, cognitive health

As people get older, it’s normal to notice changes in how quickly the brain processes information. Forgetting a name or taking longer to recall a word happens to most adults. Researchers emphasize that these shifts don’t mean cognitive decline is inevitable. One of the strongest protective factors is keeping the mind active, and everyday hobbies … Read more

5 personality traits of people who scroll social media but never post, according to psychology

Social media, scroll, traits

Some people treat social media like a stage. They post updates, share photos, and jump into every thread. But others stay silent: they scroll, watch, and rarely post a thing. To outsiders, it may look like disinterest, but psychology says that silence often points to specific personality traits. These quiet users, sometimes called “lurkers”, are … Read more

Did you know these two brain regions may decide whether you persevere or give up?

woman, thinking, frustration

When you feel mentally drained, two regions in your brain may quietly decide whether to keep going or give up. They assess the effort needed and weigh it against potential rewards. This process helps explain why tasks can feel overwhelming when your mind is fatigued. Understanding it could reveal how motivation influences mental endurance. Recent … Read more

The therapeutic hobby that helps people over 65 relieve arthritis and stay active

Hobby, senior, arthritis

Living with arthritis can make even simple daily tasks challenging. For those dealing with its symptoms, there is a traditional craft that offers both relief and a way to stay active: bobbin lace. This centuries-old art uses fine threads, wooden bobbins, and pins to create intricate patterns. It’s gentle on the joints, and it keeps … Read more

This one simple habit is linked to greater happiness, according to science

Habit, happiness, science

If you’ve ever felt your mood lift after spending time with a close friend, you’re not imagining it. Research shows that the quality of our friendships is one of the strongest predictors of happiness. While many habits can improve well-being—exercise, healthy eating, or meditation—science points to one that stands out: nurturing meaningful friendships. In fact, … Read more

The social activity for people over 65 that sharpens memory and improves respiratory function

Social activity, seniors, memory

Getting older often means seeking new ways to stay active, connected, and mentally sharp. Many seniors try puzzles, fitness classes, or book clubs, but there’s one activity that combines brain training, social connection, and even better lung function: choir singing. As reported in a study published by the NIH, singing in a choir combines cognitive, … Read more

The smartest kids should never hear this phrase from their parents, according to experts

Phrase, kids, parents

Gifted children often think and feel differently from their peers. Their quick reasoning, curiosity, and sensitivity can make parenting them both rewarding and challenging. Experts warn that certain phrases, though common in everyday parenting, can have a negative impact when directed at highly capable kids. One phrase in particular—”that’s not the point right now“—can be … Read more

Psychologists say this daily habit can help seniors over 65 build unbreakable bonds with their grandchildren

grandparents, kids

Grandparenting is often seen as a passive role—occasional babysitting, giving treats, or offering advice. But psychologists emphasize that seniors who adopt the habit of actively engaging with their grandchildren can create profound, lasting connections. This habit isn’t a random act of kindness—it’s a purposeful practice that fosters trust, emotional security, and deep attachment. Understanding how … Read more

This science-backed habit helps retirees over 70 stay mentally sharp and independent

Habit, retirees, mentally sharp

Retirement often raises a big question: how can you keep your mind active? Research points to one habit that can be of great help: continuing to learn new things. Studies show that taking on new skills or hobbies helps the brain build fresh neural pathways, strengthening memory, focus, and problem-solving. Here, we’ll explore why learning … Read more

Retirees over 70 share the science-backed habit that keeps their minds sharp

senior, retiree, memory loss

Retirees in their seventies often say they still feel mentally sharp and notice better memory, crediting simple routines they’ve practiced for years. Experts confirm that these everyday habits aren’t just anecdotal—science shows that consistent lifestyle choices can have a lasting impact on how the brain ages. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that about 6 million Americans … Read more