News

Melinda F. Emerson, “SmallBizLady” is America’s #1 Small Business Expert. She is an internationally renowned keynote speaker on small business development, social selling, and online marketing strategy. As CEO of Quintessence Group, her Philadelphia-based marketing...

Loneliness and isolation aren’t always as obvious as you might think. Often, signs of a lonely and isolated woman can be subtle, hidden beneath a façade of seeming contentment or busyness. As a psychologist, I’ve observed these subtle signs in my patients over the...

In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces guest expert Jack Wilson, who shares his extensive knowledge on acquiring existing businesses. The discussion covers key factors and growth potential when purchasing a business, including the types of businesses that are...

There’s a clear distinction between people who are self-made and those who aren’t, and it often boils down to how they utilize their time. Self-made individuals understand that time is a precious commodity. They don’t squander it on unproductive activities or things...

Navigating love and relationships is never a straightforward journey. There are bumps, twists, and turns that can sometimes leave you questioning – is my partner as invested as I am? It’s pretty hard to spot when someone’s interest starts to wane, especially when they...

Navigating the complex world of relationships and personalities can be challenging. You meet a man, he seems confident, self-assured, maybe even a little cocky. But as you get to know him better, you start noticing little quirks, certain behaviors that hint at...

Being highly intelligent can sometimes come with unexpected quirks. It’s not unusual for incredibly smart people to find themselves with few, if any, close friends. This lack of social connection isn’t always a conscious choice. Often, it’s a result of certain habits...

If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to open up or feeling guarded in your relationships, you’re not alone. Trust issues can stem from past experiences, insecurities, or even fear —and they often show up in ways we don’t immediately recognize. As a relationship...

You know, attractiveness isn’t all about looks — it’s about behavior too. Psychology tells us that sometimes, it’s the subtle behaviors that can make a woman less attractive. I’m not talking about the obvious ones like being rude or unkind. I mean those small,...

As we age, we often gravitate back towards our roots – our family and friends. This shift isn’t random but is typically associated with certain personality traits. These traits seem to draw us closer to the ones we care about, adding depth and warmth to our...

Retirement should be about relishing in the fruits of your labor, not dealing with unnecessary stress. But, let’s face it; sometimes our behaviors get in the way of enjoying this golden period. So, if you want to experience a fulfilling retirement, there are certain...

If you’ve ever wondered if someone in your life is feeling lonely but trying their best to hide it, you’re not alone. Loneliness is a complex psychological state, and it’s not always easy to spot – especially when someone is trying to keep it under wraps. As a human...

We all strive to have meaningful connections and positive interactions with others. Yet, sometimes, without realizing, we engage in behaviors that push people away. These actions often stem from internal insecurities or unexamined habits, and they can undermine our...

Aging is inevitable, but how you age is a matter of choice. Many of us unknowingly carry around habits that don’t do us any favors as we grow older. These behaviors can keep us from enjoying a healthier, happier life. The good news? You can choose to drop these habits...

Growing older often comes with changes, some subtle and others more obvious. One of these changes can be a gradual withdrawal from the world, a process that often goes unnoticed. Withdrawing isn’t about becoming unsociable or reclusive, rather it’s a shift in...

It’s one of those fascinating aspects of life that always intrigues me. There are folks out there who, for whatever reason, have never truly had to break a sweat or strain a muscle in their lives. They’ve been served life on a silver platter, every wish catered to,...

Getting through a breakup can feel like navigating a stormy sea without a compass. But believe me, it’s possible to not just survive, but thrive after a heartbreak. Hi, I’m Tina Fey, founder of the Love Connection blog and a relationship expert. I’ve seen countless...

Navigating relationships can be challenging, especially when toxicity seeps in. And one of the major sources of this toxicity? Narcissism. As a psychologist, I’ve seen how narcissists have a knack for belittling their partners, often in subtle ways that can be easy to...

Loneliness often comes cloaked in the guise of strength, a paradox that, as a society, we’re still learning to understand. It’s not uncommon for people to mask their feelings of isolation behind a facade of seeming self-assuredness and resilience. As someone deeply...

Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone doesn’t necessarily get easier as you get older. In fact, it can often feel more daunting. The secret though, isn’t about embracing new, fearless attitudes. It’s about saying goodbye to certain behaviors that hold us...

There’s a certain charisma that some people carry with them. You know the type – they walk into a room and all eyes are somehow drawn to them. It’s like they’ve flicked a switch and lit up the entire place. It’s not about being the life of the party or the loudest in...

When you’re always anxious, it’s like your mind is on overdrive. Every little thing can feel like a catastrophe waiting to happen. As a psychologist, I’ve seen this firsthand. And I’ve noticed that people constantly battling anxiety often share...

If you’ve ever wondered if a woman is attracted to you, but she isn’t exactly spelling it out, you’re not alone. Sometimes, attraction isn’t about the words spoken, but the unspoken cues and subtle signals. Women, just like men, have their unique ways of showing...

Growing up in a high-stress environment leaves a lasting imprint on our lives. It shapes our behaviors, our coping mechanisms, and our perceptions of the world. Psychology helps us understand how these early experiences can translate into certain patterns in...

There’s an undeniable charm about people who carry a youthful spirit, regardless of their age. It’s not about physical appearance, but rather an inner vitality. This youthful glow is often a product of specific daily habits, fueling both the body and mind. According...

If you’ve grown up with parents who were cold and unaffectionate, you may find yourself behaving in ways you don’t quite understand. These behaviors could range from struggling to form close relationships, to battling insecurities or even being overly independent....

As humans, we all have a desire to be seen, appreciated, and respected. Unfortunately, not everyone lives authentically. Some individuals create a false image on social media, pretending to be wealthier than they truly are. This ‘rich’ facade can be a cover-up for...

If you’ve spent time with people who seem to always have a funny quip or entertaining story ready, you might wonder what makes them naturally funny. Being around funny people can be a delight, with their ability to turn mundane situations into laugh-out-loud moments....

Life really is a game for some people. They view every interaction, every situation as a challenge to be won. But what they don’t realize is that this competitive mindset often reveals itself in certain behaviors. These behaviors can be subtle, so much so that the...

For years, I was in awe of strong women around me. You know the ones: – Fearless– Independent– Emotionally intelligent– Inspiring. And managing to maintain their strength and grace under pressure. My fascination peaked during my late 20s. I was running a start-up,...

As a small businesswoman, 2025 isn’t just another year—it’s your breakthrough year. But let’s get one thing straight: resolutions are overrated. You know the type—those vague, overambitious promises that fizzle out faster than a cheap sparkler on New Year’s Eve. What...

When a man genuinely cherishes you, it’s reflected in his actions. If he cries, he might be deeply moved. If he yells, he might be frustrated. But, that’s just scratching the surface of human behavior. True appreciation goes beyond the obvious, diving into a realm of...

Mental agility, it’s not just for the young or the middle-aged. Even as we grow older, it’s something we can maintain. You might be thinking, how is that possible? Don’t our cognitive abilities naturally decline with age? While it’s true that some cognitive changes...

Self-confidence is a tricky thing. It’s not always about what you say, but how you carry yourself and how you interact with others. You see, when we lack self-confidence, it often shines through in our public behavior – even if we don’t realize it. It’s like a neon...

Navigating a conversation with a narcissist isn’t always easy – they’re experts at using language to make you feel lesser. They don’t come right out and say it, but they have a knack for making you feel like you’re beneath them. It’s all part of their game. Spotting...

If you’ve ever felt like someone’s kindness towards you was a bit off, you’re not alone. Sometimes, people display what psychologists call ‘insincere kindness’, and it can leave you feeling uneasy. You might notice someone being overly nice or giving compliments that...

Staying fit isn’t just about hitting the gym. In fact, many people manage to maintain a healthy physique without ever setting foot in one. This might sound counterintuitive, but it’s all about lifestyle choices. The secret lies in daily habits that keep them active...

Here’s a little secret I’ve discovered in my journey of self-awareness. Not everyone might enjoy being around you. It’s a hard pill to swallow, I know. But, it’s not necessarily because they’re bad people or you’re a bad person. It could merely be because your...

If you’ve ever felt like you’re capable of achieving so much more, you’re not alone. Many of us feel like we’re just scratching the surface of our full potential. This feeling can be both exhilarating and frustrating. It’s a nudge from within, reminding us that we...

Resilience is a funny thing – you often don’t realize you have it until you’re tested. It’s about bouncing back, standing tall even when the odds are stacked against you. It’s about overcoming challenges, and boy, there are plenty of them. But how do you know if...

When you see someone crushing their goals, you know they’ve got their act together. When you see someone always ahead of the curve, you know they’ve got a winning routine. But what’s their secret? Well, success doesn’t just happen by chance. It often comes down to a...

There’s a fine line between being naturally charming and funny, and trying too hard to be so. That line is called authenticity. When someone is authentically charming, they don’t have to put effort into it – it’s just part of their personality. But when someone tries...

Navigating the terrain of friendships can be as tricky, if not more, than sifting through romantic entanglements. You share a bond with someone, perhaps from childhood, and you’re pretty sure there’s love there. But that connection? It’s changed. You’ve tried to...

Emotional connections — they’re a crucial part of our existence, aren’t they? They help us feel seen, understood, and valued. But what about those who lack these connections? Specifically, men who have no close emotional ties in their lives. It’s a rather heavy topic,...

If you’ve interacted with a narcissist, you’ve likely been on the receiving end of some harsh criticism. Being around a narcissist can be a tough journey, marked by bouts of excessive criticism and unwarranted advice. Narcissism, much like borderline personality...

If you’ve ever wondered what sets highly successful people apart, you may find it’s not just their public achievements. Often, it’s also the things they choose to keep under wraps. Being successful isn’t just about what you do – it’s also about what you don’t do, or...

As individuals, we all have our unique set of worries and anxieties. However, research suggests that highly intelligent people tend to have a distinct set of concerns. Being highly intelligent often comes with its own set of challenges – challenges that may not be...

Loneliness can linger even in a crowd, often unnoticed and unspoken. For some, it becomes a constant presence, shaping how they interact with the world. While loneliness may seem like just being alone, it often shows up in subtle behaviors we don’t realize we’re...

Persistently negative people often seem to carry an invisible weight, their outlook clouded by pessimism and doubt. While their negativity might appear obvious at times, it often shows up in subtle, ingrained habits that affect their interactions and mindset....

If a guy throws a sly comment your way, he’s probably messing with your head. If he hits you with a cryptic statement, he’s likely pulling your strings. Welcome to the tricky maze of mind games. But things aren’t always as black and white. In fact, the intricacies of...

There’s an undeniable truth in the professional world: hard work and competence don’t always lead to success. We’ve all seen it – a colleague who is incredibly efficient and diligent, yet never seems to climb the corporate ladder. So, what’s holding them back? Often,...

Class and elegance aren’t just about appearances—they’re reflected in a person’s behavior, choices, and how they treat others. While some people naturally embody these qualities, others may fall short, often revealing behaviors that clash with the ideals of refinement...

There’s a stark difference between being the family favorite and the family scapegoat. The difference lies in the way you’re treated. Being the family scapegoat means you were often blamed for things you didn’t do or had no control over. On the flip side, recognizing...

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to climb the career ladder effortlessly while others stay stuck in the same position? Well, the truth is, success at work isn’t just about hard work or talent. Often, subtle habits we barely notice can quietly hold us back...

As a parent and a psychology expert, I’m here to tell you that unwittingly, there are behaviours we might be instilling in our children that lead them towards entitlement and spoilage. These behaviours are not always obvious, and often they’re habits we’ve picked up...

Friendships, much like romantic relationships, can have their peaks and valleys. Sometimes, it’s obvious when things are going south – big arguments, hurtful words, or simply growing apart. But other times, the signs are subtler. As a relationship expert, it’s my job...

There’s a vast difference between simply existing and truly living. This difference often boils down to happiness and joy. To merely exist is to let life pass you by, without taking the time to savor the joyous moments. But if you want to live a life filled with...

There’s a significant difference between merely aging and aging with a strong, sharp mind. This difference comes down to habits. Some behaviors can create mental fog and memory issues as we age, while others can boost our cognitive abilities. If you want to maintain a...

For most of my life, I was anything but disciplined. You know the drill: – A chaotic routine– Procrastination– Lack of focus– Neglecting self-care And struggling to get a grip on my day-to-day tasks. My turning point came around five years ago. At that time, I was...

Navigating the parent-adult child relationship can be a tricky business. There’s a fine line between being involved and overstepping boundaries. In my experience, parents who don’t respect their adult child’s boundaries usually display certain behaviors. These...

Have you ever felt like life gets a little less thrilling as the years go by? I know I have. As we grow older, routines take over, responsibilities pile up, and the spark of excitement we once chased so freely can feel harder to come by. But here’s the thing—creating...

If you’ve found yourself often succumbing to feelings of guilt when dealing with your kids, you’re not alone. It’s a common experience for many parents. Being easily guilt-tripped by your own children can be a confusing and frustrating experience. You might find...

Navigating relationships requires a delicate balance, including knowing how to assert boundaries without causing offense. This dance isn’t about control, but about respect. It’s not about putting up walls, but making sure you’re heard and understood. Asserting...

Understanding the underlying traits of a deeply selfish person can be quite revealing. Psychology has its ways of decoding the characteristics that make one selfish. However, it’s not about blaming or shaming, but recognizing the patterns that can often go unnoticed....

There’s an intriguing mix of folks out there in the world: those who are incredibly smart but also, incredibly lazy. You might think it’s a contradiction, but it’s not. They exist, and they’re closer than you think. Perhaps you’ve tried to figure them out, puzzled...

Have you ever met someone who seems to drift through life without any clear direction? At first glance, they might appear laid-back or go-with-the-flow, but if you dig a little deeper, you’ll often find an unsettling lack of purpose driving their actions. It’s not...

Have you ever noticed how some people seem to hit their stride later in life, building wealth and success long after most would expect? It’s easy to assume they just got lucky or stumbled upon the right opportunity, but the truth is, most of them are quietly...

Waking up energized and refreshed – doesn’t that sound wonderful? We all dream of it, yet for many, it seems to remain just that – a dream. Now, hold on a second. Have you ever wondered why that’s the case? See, it’s quite possible that your bedtime habits are the...

If you’ve known someone who always needs a partner by their side, you’ve probably noticed how their behavior can be a little different. They may seem lost without a love interest, or they might jump from relationship to relationship without much time in between. This...

As a human, I can’t stress enough how significant it is to be respected, valued, and treated fairly. However, some individuals are simply incapable of providing these core elements of a healthy relationship. Psychology has identified certain types of people who, by...

If you’ve ever felt like someone was playing mind games with you, then you know how confusing and exhausting it can be. People who play mind games often display certain manipulative behaviors that can leave you feeling unsure, hurt, or even angry. These behaviors are...

Have you ever wondered why some mornings you wake up feeling energized and others like you’ve barely slept at all? It might not just be about how many hours you’re clocking in bed—it could be the habits you’re bringing with you into your evenings and mornings. Today,...

Navigating a conversation with a male narcissist can feel like walking through a minefield. Their oversized ego and lack of empathy can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to get caught in their manipulative web. But what if I told you there are ways to shut them down...

Have you ever been at a loss for how to cheer up a friend who’s feeling down? It can be a tricky situation to navigate. We all have those days when we’re feeling blue, and sometimes, it doesn’t take much to lift our spirits. A simple act of kindness, a thoughtful...

There’s a stark contrast between a genuine person and a narcissist, particularly when they realize they can’t use you anymore. This realization kicks off a series of actions by the narcissist, who are masters of manipulation and self-interest. But how does a...

If you’ve ever crossed paths with a difficult and unpleasant woman, you know it can be a challenging experience. You may find yourself dealing with constant negativity, unreasonable demands, or even downright hostility. One moment you might be the object of their...

There’s a stark contrast between those who achieve real success and those who don’t. This difference often lies in their daily habits. People who never attain true success typically engage in certain behaviors that are detrimental to their progress. It’s not just me...

While we might like to think our self-image is solely a reflection of our own perceptions, the truth is, it’s often shaped by past experiences. Specifically, those who constantly critique their appearance can frequently trace this habit back to certain childhood...

If you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered about the kinds of people who, according to psychology, might not make the best parents. Parenting is a massive responsibility, laden with emotional highs and lows that can be overwhelming. It isn’t a decision to be taken...

We all have heard those phrases that sound sweet and kind on the surface but carry a hidden sting. Yep, I’m talking about passive-aggressive comments. While they might not seem harmful at first glance, these expressions are cloaked in disguise, meant to deliver a...

When someone erupts in a fit of rage, you can tell they’re not in the best mood. When someone withdraws and goes silent, you know they’re not feeling too great. That’s emotional intelligence 101 for you. But it’s not always that straightforward. Understanding the...

There’s a thin line between being assertive and just plain difficult. Being difficult means you’re causing discomfort or inconvenience to others, often without realizing it. You might think you’re standing your ground, but in reality, you could be causing people to...

Many of us have encountered men who seem incredibly charming at first, but as we get to know them better, their manipulative tendencies start to surface. These individuals have mastered the art of hiding their true intentions behind a veil of charm and charisma. It’s...

Navigating life’s tricky situations often hinges on knowing when to speak up and when to keep quiet. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is to say absolutely nothing at all. In certain situations, silence is golden. It can prevent unnecessary conflict, and...

Have you ever met someone who was just exhausting to be around? It can be tricky to pinpoint why, right? Sometimes, it’s not about outright rudeness or bad intentions. No. Often, it’s the subtle, unconscious behaviors that make interactions with certain people feel...

Self-respect is the cornerstone of a healthy, fulfilling life. It sets the tone for how we allow others to treat us and shapes the boundaries we establish in relationships. But sometimes, we let things slide—maybe to avoid conflict, maintain peace, or because we don’t...

If you’ve ever been in close quarters with a narcissist, you know just how tricky it can be. The constant need for admiration, lack of empathy, and grandiose sense of self-importance can make interactions feel draining and confusing. Narcissism isn’t a lifestyle...

If you’ve ever achieved something big, you know the joy of sharing your success with others. But, have you ever noticed a friend or loved one who didn’t seem quite as thrilled? Recognizing when someone isn’t genuinely happy for your achievements can be tricky. It’s...

There’s a profound link between our childhood experiences and the people we become as adults. Particularly, growing up with little affection can leave a lasting impact on us. When children aren’t shown enough love and warmth, they develop coping mechanisms that...

Respect at work is one of those things everyone wants but not everyone knows how to earn. It’s not just about doing your job well; it’s about the way you interact, the energy you bring to the room, and how you handle challenges. Many people unintentionally adopt...

There’s something special about people who aren’t bothered about being liked by everyone. This doesn’t mean they’re rude or unkind. Instead, they just don’t let others’ opinions define them. Being free from the need for universal approval often results in some unique...