It’s not easy to know how we come across to others, especially when we’re meeting people for the first time. Psychologist Erica Boothby says many of us underestimate how much other people actually like us. This week, we revisit one of our most popular episodes to look at how certain social illusions give us a distorted picture of ourselves.
How Others See You Read More »
Think about the last time you resisted watching yet another episode of your favorite TV show, or decided not to have a second piece of cake at a friend’s birthday party. In many societies, self-discipline is seen as an invaluable trait. But we often overlook what makes it possible to hold back in those moments
When to Eat the Marshmallow Read More »
Determination, hard work and sacrifice are core ingredients in the story of the American dream. But philosopher Jennifer Morton argues there is another, more painful requirement to getting ahead: a willingness to leave family and friends behind. This week, we explore the ethical costs of upward mobility. Don’t miss our episodes about the science of
Between Two Worlds Read More »
In the second part of our series on the science of meditation, Richard Davidson continues his endeavor to unite seemingly opposite ways of understanding the mind. Plus, he shares the latest research on mindfulness, and the unexpected ways it can benefit us.
Seeking Serenity: Part 2 Read More »
In graduate school, neuroscientist Richard Davidson learned to use scientific analysis as a way to examine the brain. At the same time, he also started studying under master meditators — who deeply contemplated their internal and external lives. This week, two ways of understanding the mind.
Seeking Serenity: Part 1 Read More »
There are plenty of talented people in the world. So why do only a tiny percentage of us reach the highest peaks of achievement? This week, we conclude our “Success 2.0” series by talking with researcher Justin Berg about whether there’s a secret recipe for finding — and sustaining — success.
Success 2.0: Getting to the Top and Staying There Read More »
We all have times when we feel like a fraud. Psychologist Kevin Cokley studies the corrosive effects of self-doubt, and how we can turn that negative voice in our heads into an ally. If you like this show, please check out our new podcast, My Unsung Hero! And if you’d like to support our work, you can
Success 2.0: The Psychology of Self-Doubt Read More »
Introducing new ideas is hard. Most of us think the best way to win people over is to push harder. But organizational psychologist Loran Nordgren says a more effective approach is to focus on the invisible obstacles to new ideas. If you like this episode, listen to other installments of your “Success 2.0” series, such
Success 2.0: The Obstacles You Don’t See Read More »
We all rely on incentives to get people to do things they might otherwise avoid. Parents reward kids for doing their homework. Companies offer bonuses to their high-performing employees. Charities send gifts to their donors. In the second episode in our “Success 2.0” series, economist Uri Gneezy shares how incentives can help us to achieve our goals, if we know how to avoid their pitfalls.
Success 2.0: Getting What You Want Read More »
American culture celebrates those who persevere in the face of adversity. So how do we know when to walk away from something that’s not working? Today, we kick off our new “Success 2.0” series with economist John List. He says in every domain of our lives, it’s important to know when to pivot to something new.
Success 2.0: Taking the Leap Read More »
