Brain Fodder

The surprising speech technique that makes top leaders sound important

To speak with authority, don’t focus on the details, talk in vague, abstract terms. Ever wondered why the boss of your company talks in such a non-direct way. Why you never hear them discussing the nitty gritty? Well, there’s a reason why. Psychologists have discovered that when leaders use vague and abstract language, it gives them a sense of authority. Talking about …

Health halo effect: Why you should never order the salad at a fast food outlet

Don’t be tempted into ordering ‘healthy’ fast food. It might be more unhealthy for you You feel great about yourself when you order something “healthy” at your fast food store. But the healthy option might be just as bad for you as a triple bacon cheeseburger, fries and a Coke. Why? You’ve come under the spell of the health-halo …

The science of hugs: 6 evidence-based reasons to hug someone now

Hugs are like drugs, scientists say. Here are six amazing effects hugging has on your body and brain. You already know hugging feels good. What you might not know is that hugging is also good for your health and well-being. Here are six astonishing physiological and psychological benefits of hugging revealed in recent scientific studies. 1) Hugging Protects …

The amazing effects of walking on the brain

Walking in nature is one of the best ways to inspire creativity and provide a quick mental boost A growing body of research says that if you’re looking for creative inspiration, the last place you should be is sitting at your desk. Scientists say that one of the best ways to switch your mental machinery …

How to let go: A Roman Emperor on taking perspective

According to Marcus Aurelius, we can never fully be in control of events that affect our lives. We need to take a cosmic view Hands up if you’ve ever been accused of being a control freak? Even if your arms have stayed put, there’s a good chance you might be one. Control freaks rarely recognise the …

Am I racist? Take this scientific quiz and find out

The Am I Racist Quiz - Take the Implicit Association Test

Can an online quiz reveal your deep, subconscious feelings about racism and other matters of prejudice? Where does racism come from? None of us are born racist, or sexist or homophobic. So how do we transform from innocent babes, to opinionated adults with firmly held prejudices, biases and sometimes even racist beliefs? The answer is …

Life is like a piece music. Stop trying to race to the end

Philosopher Alan Watts says we should enjoy life as we enjoy music Alan Watts (1915-1973) may or may not be a name familiar to you, but his legacy certainly is. British-born Watts was an author, philosopher and speaker with a deep interest and passion in the spiritual teachings of Eastern philosophy. After moving to the US, Watts, …

The Bystander Effect: Why good people turn a blind eye

The more people witness someone’s distress, the less likely it is that any one individual will offer assistance. On a spring morning in 2010, near the corner of 144th Street and 88th Road in Queens, New York , an argument broke about between a man and a woman. As the dispute escalated it became clear …

Why human brains are not designed to multi-task

Forget about multi-tasking. Neuroscience says it doesn’t make us more productive, it actually slows us down. Multi-tasking is great, isn’t it? You can get things done so much quicker. Like working with 50 browser tabs open at the same time. Or writing emails as you’re driving to work. Well, if this sounds like you, then …

Too many choices make you less, not more happy

Too much choice is a recipe for unhappiness, anxiety and dissatisfaction with life “After millions of years of survival based on simple distinctions, it may simply be that we are biologically unprepared for the number of choices we face in the modern world” Schwartz, 2004 Economists and business leaders tell us that more choice is better. But, …

4 science-backed relationship killers

According to research there are four behaviours which can be lethal to a relationship So, you’ve met the love of your life, been swept off your feet, and now you’re settled into your new life as a couple. But as time wears on, cracks may start to appear in the relationship. So what should you be …

These 6 principles of persuasion will turn you into a master of influence

Persuasion is not an art, it’s a science. These are the 6 classic principles of influence you need to know. What makes someone good at persuading others? Is it about confidence? A charming personality? Or perhaps it’s all down to good looks? One thing is for sure, when it come to wielding influence. some people are …