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If you’ve noticed a loved one seemingly becoming less sharp or quick-witted as they age, you’re not alone. It’s a common observation that can be both perplexing and concerning. Some folks seem to show signs of diminishing intelligence as they get older, exhibiting...

Navigating the waters of parent-child relationships can be a tricky journey. It’s not always smooth sailing. There are times when you might feel like you’re constantly butting heads, or that there’s this gaping chasm of misunderstanding between you and them. You may...

Happiness can sometimes be hard to define, but it’s easy to recognize when someone is struggling. For many men, deeply rooted unhappiness often manifests in subtle behaviors that they might not even be aware of. These actions can act as a window into what’s really...

Let’s face it: love isn’t always as simple as it seems. We like to think that affection is unconditional, but sometimes, it’s wrapped in expectations we don’t even realize are there. Understanding whether love is truly unconditional or if there are strings attached...

Personal growth is no small feat as it requires dedication, self-reflection and, most importantly, letting go of certain habits. Becoming a better person isn’t just about adding positive habits to your life—it’s also about letting go of the ones that hold you back....

Discipline and self-control are often seen as key ingredients for success and personal growth. But for some people, these traits can feel out of reach, leading to habits that hold them back in life. Psychology tells us that a lack of discipline doesn’t just...

Emotion and vulnerability — two words that can strike fear in the hearts of many men. Why? Because we’ve been conditioned to believe that showing emotions is a sign of weakness, and vulnerability is something to be avoided at all costs. But as a man, I can tell you...

Communication, or lack thereof, can make or break any relationship. And when it comes to couples, not communicating could spell disaster. Here’s the thing, silence isn’t golden in love. If you’re not talking, you’re not thriving. It’s as simple as that. But what...

Navigating the world of flirting can feel like a high-stakes guessing game. It’s a delicate dance of subtle signals, and sometimes, it’s hard to read the signs. Hey there, it’s Tina Fey from Love Connection, your go-to gal for all things love and relationships. Now,...

Navigating long-term relationships can often feel like traversing an intricate maze. Now, I’m Tina Fey, not just the founder of the Love Connection blog, but also a seasoned relationship expert who has seen it all. I’ve observed a pattern over time – there are certain...

There’s a massive gap between living your life according to others’ opinions and embracing the bliss of not caring what they think. The key lies in balance. Constantly worrying about others’ thoughts can be suffocating, yet disregarding them completely can lead to...

In this episode, Melinda Emerson welcomes back guests Dr. Verneka Murphy, Marcia Layton Turner, and Sharon Manker for an engaging discussion on tried-and-true marketing strategies and impactful business literature.  Dr. Verneka Murphy, is a premium finance expert and...

As individuals, we all crave respect, understanding, and genuine connections. Unfortunately, not everyone we cross paths with in life shares these values. The reality is, there are certain types of people who can make us feel less than, misunderstood or simply...

Growing up in a lower-middle-class household shapes you in ways that aren’t always obvious. You pick up habits, attitudes, and perspectives that stick with you, even when your circumstances change. These patterns may fly under the radar, but they can influence how we...

Being intriguing and interesting to new people is more about what you don’t do, rather than what you do. And as a mindfulness enthusiast and founder of Hack Spirit, I’ve come to realize that there are certain behaviors we need to let go of, if we truly want to be...

Navigating human nature can often feel like navigating a labyrinth, especially when it comes to discerning genuine kindness from calculated manipulation. We’ve all met people who are charming and nice on the surface, but there’s a lingering feeling that something’s...

Hey there, Lachlan Brown here, the guy behind Hack Spirit. I’ve spent the better part of the last 15 years diving deep into the human psyche. In this time, I’ve discovered a lot about what makes us tick, and how we can hack our mindsets to live happier, more fulfilled...

There are times when you look at those vivacious, sprightly folks in their 70s or even 80s and wonder, “How on earth do they do it?” You see them taking long walks, traveling the world, or even running marathons, while you’re panting just thinking about it. And no,...

Sometimes, it’s the most challenging task to recognize your own worth. You might be an incredible person, but modesty or self-doubt keeps you from seeing it. You’ve been told you’re kind, compassionate, and even inspiring. But you brush it off, attributing your good...

In a world where money and status often steal the spotlight, there’s something unique about people who value character above all else. Distinguishing oneself on the basis of character rather than wealth or position isn’t the norm, but it’s a choice that comes with...

Adults who were given everything except love and affection during their childhood often develop distinctive behavioral patterns. This absence of emotional bonding can significantly impact their relationships, self-perception, and coping mechanisms later in life. With...

#Smallbizchat Podcast LIVE is a monthly video interview show where small business owners can get answers to their questions. The focus of #Smallbizchat is to end small business failure by helping participants succeed as your own boss. Please join us live every third...

Charisma and natural engagement are traits that can be seen through the way a person speaks. In particular, when a man uses these 8 specific phrases in conversation, it’s a crystal clear sign that he’s got these qualities in spades. These phrases aren’t just words;...

Navigating life’s complexities can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. It’s not always easy. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that mental strength is the secret sauce that helps us weather the storm. I’ve been around the block a...

In the workplace, how you communicate can be just as important as the work you do. Certain phrases, even when used unintentionally, can undermine your professionalism and make you seem less competent than you truly are. If you’re striving to present yourself as...

Our childhood relationships, particularly with our parents, often shape our adult lives in profound ways. A close bond with parents can provide a foundation of security, trust, and understanding. Without this bond, there can be lasting impacts into adulthood. People...

If you’ve ever been close to a narcissist, you know they always seem to need to be right—it’s an exhausting cycle that can leave you feeling questioned and belittled. Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a real mental health diagnosis, not just an adjective for...

There’s a stark contrast between settling for loneliness in your retirement years and taking charge to find love. The key lies in your habits—some habits, while comfortable, may be holding you back from finding that special someone. Retirement offers a fresh chapter...

Financial prosperity and personal happiness are often perceived as two sides of the same coin. Yet, an overflowing bank account doesn’t always equate to a fulfilling life. Psychology sheds light on this paradox, highlighting certain habits prevalent among those who...

Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor, but for many, it can also feel like an uncertain chapter. How do you fill your days with purpose? What makes this stage of life truly meaningful? The truth is, your retirement years can be...

Embracing a physically fit lifestyle could be a challenging task, especially when motivation seems to be scarce. But what if I told you there are certain behaviors you might be unknowingly indulging in that are holding you back? You see, not every hurdle on your...

We’ve all noticed that friend who seems to age faster than the rest of us. It’s not just about wrinkles or gray hair, but something deeper, almost intangible. Psychology suggests that this isn’t just a random occurrence. Certain behaviors might actually be speeding up...

Remember the old saying that “actions speak louder than words”? Well, it turns out that words can influence actions too. Specifically, the words we were called as children. Now, if you’re wondering how those harsh childhood labels may have shaped your adult behaviors,...

Manipulative individuals and genuine influencers share one thing in common – they both understand people. But, where they differ is in their intentions. Manipulators, unlike influencers, don’t give you a choice. They prey on certain characteristics to control you,...

There’s a stark contrast between people who intentionally try to please others and those who naturally spread joy without even noticing. This difference is rooted in authenticity. Folks who bring happiness to others without realizing it aren’t trying to impress or...

I’ve often caught myself trying to avoid the hard stuff—who hasn’t, right? There’s something about facing a problem head-on that feels overwhelming, so we distract ourselves. We convince ourselves that if we just ignore it long enough, it’ll magically disappear. But...

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to break free from the cycle of “just getting by” while others stay stuck in it for life? It’s not just about luck or a bigger paycheck. The truth is, the difference often comes down to mindset and habits. I used to think...

Let’s face it, we all want to be healthier. But sometimes, making big changes can feel like a huge task, right? I’ve learned that the key isn’t in making drastic shifts, but in noticing the small habits that slowly sabotage our health. I’ve been there, changing one...

I’ve noticed a fascinating pattern, and it’s all about staying friends with ex-partners. Now, you might think it’s a tad bit complicated, even messy, to maintain friendships with an ex. But according to psychology, certain traits make this possible and even healthy....

We all have people in our life who admire us, yet they never really say it outright. The interesting part is, they don’t always keep this admiration a secret. They express it subtly, through actions and behaviors that you might not even notice. In this piece, I’m...

Have you ever had one of those moments when everything just clicks? Like you’re not chasing something bigger anymore, but you’re simply there—right in the middle of it all, feeling at peace? I’ve found that women who are truly in a good place don’t always show it in...

Understanding people can be a challenge, especially when it comes to the complexities of personality types. The INFJ, known as the world’s rarest personality type, is particularly intriguing. Especially when it shows up in women, it’s a unique blend of traits that can...

There’s an undeniable glow that confident women exude — a quiet, powerful radiance that draws people in. It’s not always about grand gestures or bold proclamations. Often, it’s the subtle, effortless behaviors that leave the strongest impression. Here’s the twist:...

Being a sigma male isn’t about fitting into a stereotype, it’s about breaking the mold. You march to the beat of your own drum, not concerned with societal norms or expectations. Sigma males are a rare breed. They aren’t seeking recognition or validation, but instead,...

Balancing wealth and well-being can seem like a tightrope walk. Yet, some folks manage to amass riches without being consumed by their work. How do they do it? As an entrepreneur, I’ve long been fascinated with this question. Fortunately, over the years, I have had...

Being intellectually intelligent is impressive, but pairing it with emotional intelligence? That’s where the real magic happens. These are the people who can solve a complex problem one moment and navigate a tricky emotional situation the next, all with grace and...

Parenting is one of those roles where you’re constantly being pulled in a million directions at once. Work deadlines, household chores, social obligations — it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling it all while trying not to drop the ball with your kids. But here’s the...

I’ve often found myself wondering—how do you really know when you’re emotionally healed? Sometimes, it feels like the scars just fade into the background, and then, out of nowhere, they resurface. I’ve been there. Unhealed wounds have a way of showing up in the little...

Have you ever felt like something is “off” in your adult relationships but can’t quite put your finger on it? Maybe you struggle with feeling truly seen or valued by others, or you constantly question if you’re asking for too much. What if those feelings didn’t start...

Imagine waking up every day with the unshakable feeling that something bad is just around the corner. The sun is shining, the sky is clear, but in your mind? Storm clouds are brewing. It’s exhausting, right? For some people, this isn’t a fleeting feeling — it’s their...

Every workplace has that one person — the one who seems to get along with everyone. No matter where they go, people are happy to have them on the team. But here’s the thing: It’s not luck, and it’s definitely not random. These people possess specific traits that make...

Aging is inevitable, but how fast it happens? Well, that’s largely up to you. Ever noticed some of your friends looking younger and more vibrant than others of the same age? It’s not always down to good genes or expensive skincare. Often, it comes down to daily...

Discovery calls are a critical step in the sales process, especially for service-based businesses and consultants. They’re your chance to connect with potential clients, understand their needs, and demonstrate the value you can provide—all while determining if they’re...

Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in the same place no matter how hard you try to move forward? Sometimes, it’s not the big, obvious things holding us back—it’s the small, subtle habits we barely notice. These habits can quietly chip away at our confidence, drain...

Emotional wisdom and maturity aren’t things you’re born with — they’re earned through experience, reflection, and growth. It’s also not about how old you are or how many life lessons you’ve faced. It’s about how well you’ve learned from them. While some people stay...

There’s a certain magic to highly likable people who light up any room they enter. You see, it’s not about being the life of the party, but about making others feel valued and appreciated. It’s about fostering a positive energy that others are naturally drawn to....

If you’ve ever come across the term “alpha male,” you know it’s often associated with a certain type of masculinity – one that’s confident, dominant, and assertive. Yet, some behaviors these self-proclaimed “alpha males” consider manly might not actually be so, at...

There’s a world of difference between what people say and what they truly mean. As a relationship expert and founder of the Love Connection blog, I’ve come to understand that sometimes, words are just not enough. You see when a woman secretly loves you, she often...

It’s a fine line between self-confidence and self-centeredness, and that line is often drawn by language. Psychology tells us that self-centered individuals have a knack for twisting conversations to keep the spotlight firmly on themselves. They’re not necessarily...

Getting into shape, or at least wanting to, can be as daunting as scaling a mountain. You’ve probably tried countless times, adopted numerous diets and exercise routines, but somehow, it just doesn’t stick. Sometimes, it’s not even about the intensity of your efforts....

Few things have ever been as nerve-wracking for me as making a good first impression. I was the kind of person who stuttered through my introductions, fumbled with handshakes, and generally left people more confused than impressed. This wasn’t just an occasional...

We often wonder what defines a high-quality man. Is it his looks? His job? Or the car he drives? Well, psychology suggests it’s something much deeper than that. Having a truly high-quality man in your life extends beyond surface attributes. It’s about his character,...

There’s a fine line between parenting and dictating. Building a lifelong bond of love and respect with your children requires more than just good intentions—it takes self-awareness and the willingness to let go of behaviors that might create distance or resentment....

There’s a certain power that comes from not feeling the need to please others. It’s not about being selfish or rude. It’s about respecting your own desires and boundaries and not letting others dictate your actions. Women who possess this quality often display a set...

As men, we’re often expected to succeed quickly—to take care of our families, shoulder responsibilities, and live up to the role of the dependable provider. It’s a lot to carry, and sometimes, no matter how hard we try, it feels like we’re falling short. We work...

When we’re young, we have plenty of time and vibrant health but little wealth. As we enter our working years, we gain wealth and hold on to our health, but time slips through our fingers. Then, in the later stages of life, we find ourselves with both time and...

People come, people go, but what stays with you are the friends who feel like home—the ones who turn ordinary moments into memories and show up when it matters most. They’re more than just familiar faces; they’re the anchors in life’s chaos. But what is it that makes...

Friendships are supposed to bring joy, support, and a sense of belonging. But sometimes, certain friendships do the exact opposite. They drain your energy, mess with your mental peace, and leave you wondering why you’re still holding on. The truth is, not every friend...

Have you ever heard someone say something that made you cringe a little, realizing it lacked thoughtfulness or nuance? Phrases like “I’m the best” or “I know everything” often signal a lack of intellectual curiosity or sophistication in how they approach...

Navigating a relationship requires a lot more than just love. It’s about communication. Sometimes, it’s not about what you say, but what you don’t say. Psychologists agree that certain phrases can cause more harm than good in a relationship. And believe me, these are...

It’s not always easy to tell when someone doesn’t genuinely like you. People who merely tolerate you often display subtle signs, like giving short responses, avoiding personal conversations, or being polite but distant. These small behaviors can reveal how they really...

When you think about your 70s, what comes to mind? Cozy mornings in the garden, family dinners filled with laughter, playful moments with grandkids? It’s a heartwarming scene — but here’s a truth most people overlook: none of it feels as vibrant without a sharp mind....

When was the last time you felt true, unfiltered joy—the kind that lights up your soul and makes you forget everything else? If you’re struggling to recall, you’re not alone. Life’s pressures, responsibilities, and routines can quietly drain our sense of happiness,...

Life is full of challenges, responsibilities, and moments that demand our focus. But amidst it all, how often do you let yourself truly laugh, play, or embrace the lighter side of life? For some, seriousness has become a default setting—a way of navigating the world...

Aging is a natural part of life. We grow older, we gain more experience, and supposedly, we become wiser. It’s a cycle as old as time itself. But have you ever noticed that some individuals tend to become more set in their ways as they age? Here’s what’s interesting....

Love, it’s a tricky thing, isn’t it? Well, it doesn’t always have to be. Hey there, I’m Tina Fey, the founder of Love Connection blog and your go-to gal for all things romance. I’ve spent a lot of time pouring over psychology journals and speaking with experts, all to...

As a psychologist, I’ve noticed a pattern among people who exude success and maturity. They don’t waste time complaining about certain things. They understand that complaining does not solve problems, but rather, it amplifies them. Successful and mature people have...

There’s a clear line between healthy conversation and emotional manipulation. Emotional manipulation is someone trying to control your feelings for their own gain. It’s sneaky, it’s underhanded, and it’s not cool. On the flip side, knowing how to respond can instantly...

Building a close bond with your teenage grandchildren is one of life’s most rewarding experiences but let’s be real—teenagers are a tough crowd. The eye rolls, the one-word answers, and the constant screen time can make it feel like there’s a giant wall between you...

Becoming rich isn’t always about luck. Often, it’s the result of hard work and certain habits practiced over time. I’ve noticed that people who rise from poverty to wealth typically share common simple habits. These habits, perhaps surprisingly, are not complex but...

Feeling alone in the world is a heavy burden, and many who experience it keep their struggles hidden. People who secretly feel this way often display subtle behaviors, like overcompensating with cheerfulness, avoiding deep conversations, or withdrawing from social...

It’s not a secret that as we age, our minds might not stay as sharp as they once were. But there are folks out there who seem to defy this, maintaining their mental agility well into their golden years. Do they possess some superpowers? Well, not really. They simply...

My dad once told me, “Son, it’s not the quantity but the quality of friends that matters.” It’s true, isn’t it? We all want a tight-knit circle of friends who understand us and have our backs. But there are some among us who struggle with forming these connections....

Body language can reveal a lot about a person, especially when it comes to their character. As the founder of Hack Spirit and a staunch mindfulness enthusiast, I’ve gone deep into the world of psychology to decipher these subtle cues. Interestingly, there are certain...

There’s a distinct difference between couples who jumped straight into romance and those who were platonic friends first. It all comes down to understanding. Couples who were friends first have a deeper knowledge of each other’s quirks, passions, and pet peeves before...

My college professor used to share a nugget of wisdom with me, “The medium is the message.” He wasn’t talking about podcasts versus books, but I find his words fitting for our modern times. Let me explain. More and more people are tuning into podcasts these days....

It’s easy to mistake surface kindness for genuine warmth. But sometimes, that friendly exterior hides a mean streak. This is about people who seem pleasant on the outside, but are often cruel behind closed doors. They’re masters at hiding their true colors, making it...

We all aspire to be happier, don’t we? And the good news is, it’s a goal that’s completely within our control. The secret to happiness isn’t a grand mystery, but rather a daily habit. It’s about how you start your day. You see, our mornings set the tone for the entire...

Class and sophistication aren’t about designer clothes or fancy cars, but rather about the way we carry ourselves and interact with others. Often, individuals who lack these qualities unknowingly display certain traits that give them away. These traits are like silent...

We’ve all been there — sitting in a meeting or a conversation, knowing we have something valuable to say, but hesitating to speak up. Maybe it’s fear of judgment or the worry that our input isn’t “good enough.” These moments can leave us feeling invisible. But the...

Earning appreciation from others isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about letting go of habits that might unintentionally push people away. As you grow older, certain behaviors can hinder your connections and the recognition you deserve. If you’re ready to...

Finding your life partner may seem like a challenging quest, similar to locating a needle in a haystack, right? But what if there were some cheat codes to make this journey easier? Hi there, it’s Tina Fey, founder of the Love Connection blog and relationship expert....

There’s a thin line between sparing someone’s feelings and being brutally honest. Trust me, I’ve been there. We’ve all faced situations where honesty seems like the hardest option. But sometimes, it’s the best one, according to psychology. There’s a thin line between...

Aging is a natural part of life, but truly enjoying the journey? That’s something we have to work on. The truth is, as we grow older, it’s not just about adding more to our lives—it’s also about letting go. Some habits, even the ones we barely notice, can quietly hold...

Friendships thrive on mutual support and celebration of each other’s wins, but sometimes jealousy can quietly creep in. A friend who feels envious of your success might not express it openly, but their behavior can reveal their true emotions. According to psychology,...

I used to think finding your soulmate was like stumbling upon a four-leaf clover — rare, magical, and mostly up to luck. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that maybe the universe isn’t just going to hand you a perfect match tied up with a bow. Maybe...

I used to think a packed schedule was the gold star of adulthood. If your calendar wasn’t bursting at the seams and your to-do list wasn’t a scroll of never-ending tasks, were you even trying? But then I realized: there’s a thin line between being productive and being...

There’s often a fine line between being naturally intelligent and being aware of it. You see, when you’re naturally intelligent, there are things you do without even realizing it. These aren’t the typical ‘smart’ habits like reading a book every week or acing all your...

In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces guest Sharon Maker, an expert in supplier diversity. Sharon shares insights from her career path, emphasizing the importance of positioning small businesses for opportunities with large companies. The discussion highlights...

We all like to think we’re easy to get along with, right? But sometimes, our perceptions of ourselves may not align with reality. Psychology offers insightful ways to recognize if we’re actually the folks others find tricky to deal with. In this article, we’re diving...

Some people believe that insecurity looks like someone shrinking in the corner, too timid to speak up. But the reality? Insecurity is a master of disguise. It shows up in over-apologizing, brushing off compliments, scrolling social media, and feeling like everyone...

I used to think friendships ended with a dramatic fallout — a shouting match, a betrayal, some movie-worthy finale. But in reality? Sometimes friendships fade away quietly, like a candle that’s just run out of wax. And the worst part? You might not even realize you...

If you’ve ever interacted with someone who is emotionally intelligent, you’ll know that they possess a certain level of understanding and control over their emotions, and those of others. Emotional intelligence isn’t just about being in touch with your feelings; it’s...

Manipulation is the sinister sibling of influence. It’s all about control, but not the kind that lets you choose. When someone’s truly manipulative, they’re masterful at hiding their intentions behind a veil of niceness. It’s a tactic often used by people,...

Age is just a number, but mental fitness is a choice. Some people seem to defy time, staying sharp and quick-witted even as they age. The secret? It’s not magic, but rather a series of daily habits that help keep their minds agile and active. Staying mentally fit...

You know, I used to think love could only be expressed through grand gestures — the flowers, the proclamations, the sweeping “I love you’s” at just the right moment. But then I became a parent and realized love shows up differently. With kids, it’s not always spelled...

I used to think selflessness was the ultimate virtue. That if I bent over backward enough, stayed up late enough, and said “yes” often enough, I’d be seen as the perfect friend, partner, or colleague. But here’s the problem with always being a “yes” person:...

As a psychologist, I’ve observed that many individuals possess boundless potential for success. Yet, despite their inherent capabilities, they often fall short of achieving their goals. This discrepancy between potential and actual achievement can stem from a range of...

At 73, my grandma doesn’t just keep up with life—she outsmarts it. She’s the kind of woman who can solve a Sudoku faster than I can make a cup of coffee and remembers every single birthday in our family—without a calendar. I’ve always wondered what her secret is, and...