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I used to wake up every day feeling stuck. No motivation, no direction—just a constant cycle of procrastination and frustration. I’d set goals, get excited for a day or two, then fall right back into old habits. No drive. No focus. No self-control. For a long time, I...

I’ve always been fascinated by how people view success and handle their money.  Growing up, I was surrounded by different takes on what it means to be “wealthy.” Some believed success was about making large sums of money as quickly as possible. Others emphasized...

Walking away from toxic people can be one of the toughest yet most liberating things you’ll ever do. It takes mental strength, resilience, and a deep understanding of self-worth. But how do you muster the courage to detach without harboring any regret? Mentally strong...

Being a good businessman isn’t just about crunching numbers or closing deals. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that the truly great ones—the ones who inspire trust, build lasting relationships, and achieve sustainable success—have something deeper going on beneath...

Ever wonder why some people seem to stay razor-sharp well into their 70s and beyond? You know the type—quick-witted, full of stories, and always remembering the little things that make conversations feel special. Sure, genetics play a role, but here’s the truth:...

I’ve always been a fan of personal experiments, especially the kind that promise some real change without requiring me to upend my entire life. One of the approaches I’d long heard about—but never truly tried—was Stoicism. Sure, I’d skimmed a few Marcus Aurelius...

It’s a strange paradox, isn’t it? Some people are polite, intelligent, and seem to have everything going for them—but still struggle to form close connections. They’re the kind of people who can hold a great conversation, offer thoughtful advice, and never seem to...

When my kids were young, I knew their every thought. If they laughed, it was pure joy. If they cried, something hurt. Parenting was simple in that way. But as they grew older, I feared things would change. That our close bond might stretch thin as they sought...

Not so long ago, I constantly felt like my mind was in a hundred places at once. I’d sit down to tackle a project, but before long I’d be wandering around the internet, glancing at my phone, or rearranging my desk for the thousandth time.  My to-do list would stare...

There’s a fine line between a good entrepreneur and a great one. What sets them apart often boils down to subtle nuances in behaviors and attitudes that aren’t immediately visible to the naked eye. Psychology has a lot to say about this. It’s not just about having the...

Sometimes it feels like you’re stuck in a time loop, replaying painful memories and dwelling on regrets you wish you could erase. You know it’s time to move forward, but there’s a block. I’ve noticed that when we’re caught in a cycle of pain from our past, it’s often...

Self-confidence can feel like a tricky thing, can’t it? Some days, you’re unstoppable—ready to take on the world. On other days, doubt sneaks in and builds walls where doors used to be. If you’re anything like me, you’ve learned that success isn’t just about talent or...

Being yourself sounds easy, right? But let’s be honest—it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, fear and self-doubt creep in, making it feel safer to put on a mask or blend in with what others expect. I get it. We all have moments where we second-guess ourselves or...

When someone clocks out exactly at 5 PM, you might think they’re strict about work-life balance. When someone binge-watches Netflix every night, you may presume they’re just unwinding. Ah, the simplicity of surface-level interpretations. Dig a bit deeper, though, and...

When I first started my journey as an entrepreneur, I quickly realized that success wasn’t just about working hard or having a great idea. It was also about letting go of the things holding me back. And trust me, we all have habits—big and small—that sabotage our...

Relationships can be tricky. Sometimes, what starts off as a source of joy and connection slowly becomes a source of stress and confusion. And the worst part? You might not even realize it at first. I’ve seen this happen to friends, and I’ve gone through it myself in...

Most people assume the ultra-rich get that way by grinding nonstop, obsessively pinching pennies, and stashing away every dollar.  But from what I’ve observed, the habits that really separate the highly successful from the rest of us aren’t about standard frugality or...

Growing up, we all hear things from our parents that stick with us. Some phrases are comforting and encouraging, but others—well, they leave scars. If you’ve ever felt like certain words from your childhood left you doubting yourself, questioning your worth, or...

If you really want to be the best at what you do, it’s not just about what you do—it’s also about what you’re willing to let go of. We all have habits, mindsets, and behaviors that hold us back, often without even realizing it. They creep into our routines, slow us...

We’ve all been there. Stuck in the shadows of our past failures, haunted by those missteps that didn’t quite pan out the way we’d hoped. The business venture that flopped. The job interview that crashed and burned. The project that spiraled out of control. But here’s...

If you’ve ever wondered what sets apart good leaders from great ones, you’re not alone. The field of psychology has delved deep into this question and has come up with some fascinating insights. Leadership isn’t about dictating orders from a pedestal. It’s about...

When we think about personal growth or building better relationships, we often focus on the future—what we can improve, what we can change. But sometimes, the biggest roadblocks to growth are the things we carry from our past. Specifically, how we were raised. If you...

Every small business owner wants more visibility. More followers, more website visitors, more people watching their content. It’s tempting to believe that if only more people saw what you offer, your sales would skyrocket. But here’s the hard truth: visibility alone...

I’ll be honest—failing at my first business was one of the hardest things I’ve ever been through. I didn’t just lose money. I lost confidence, sleep, and, at times, hope. To top it off, I was drowning in debt with no clear way out. It felt like the end of the road for...

After a long day at work, it’s tempting to sink into the couch, turn on the TV, or mindlessly scroll through your phone. We’ve all been there. But let’s be honest—it doesn’t always leave us feeling refreshed or recharged. Relaxation should feel intentional, something...

For years, I’ve been fascinated by the age-old question: How do some people maintain sharp, vibrant minds as they age, while others seem to decline? Hi there, I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder of Hack Spirit and a psychology enthusiast. I’ve always wondered: – How do...

If your goal is to be financially independent by the end of 2025, it’s time to take a hard look at your habits. Here’s the thing: success with money isn’t just about what you do—it’s also about what you stop doing. As the founder of Hack Spirit and someone who’s spent...

Stress was running the show in my life. Deadlines piled up, my to-do list seemed endless, and I was constantly bouncing between feeling overwhelmed and totally burnt out. That’s when I stumbled across mindfulness—not as a buzzword, but as a real, practical tool. I’ll...

Sometimes, it’s easy to beat yourself up for not getting enough done. You look at your endless to-do list, feel stuck, and think, “Maybe I’m just lazy.” But here’s the thing: feeling unmotivated doesn’t always mean you’re lazy—it might mean you’re mentally exhausted....

We all measure a “good life” differently, but sometimes it’s the moments we overlook that truly define it. It’s not about having more money, reaching certain milestones, or ticking off a bucket list; it’s about those small, powerful experiences that shape who we are...

Ever wonder how some people seem to keep moving forward no matter what life throws at them? It’s not luck, and it’s not magic. It’s about the habits they’ve built—things they do consistently, even when the odds are stacked against them. As someone who’s spent over a...

Making the right decision, especially when the stakes are high, can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. We’ve all been there—staring at the options, weighing the pros and cons, overthinking every little detail until you’re stuck in this exhausting...

Ever notice how some women seem to stay effortlessly in great shape without spending hours at the gym? It’s not magic or genetics (well, not entirely). The secret lies in their daily habits—small, simple things they do consistently that make a big difference over...

Some people grow up in environments that seem designed to break them. Trauma, chaos, neglect—these things can leave scars that feel impossible to overcome. And yet, some of the most successful, resilient people you’ll meet have walked through fire and come out...

When you think of Pablo Picasso, you probably think of groundbreaking art, wild creativity, and maybe even a touch of chaos. What you might not know is that his daily routine was just as unconventional as his paintings—borderline insane, really. I’ve always been...

If you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and wonder where your youthful glow has gone, you’re not alone. As we age, maintaining physical attractiveness can feel like an uphill battle. But hey, let’s get real here. Aging is a part of life. You can’t turn back...

Remember when your kids were small, and their entire world spun around you? Fast forward a few years, and it seems like an uphill task to spend quality time with them, right? Here’s the deal. As our children grow, our dynamics with them evolve. And sometimes,...

For the longest time, I’ve been fascinated by how early experiences shape our adult lives. You know what I’m talking about: – Relentless independence – Emotional resilience – Self-reliance to a fault – Trouble asking for help Well, that’s me, Lachlan Brown, founder of...

Retirement is often seen as the final lap, the slow unwind after a lifetime of work. But, what if I told you it doesn’t have to be this way? Imagine shaking off the shackles of your everyday routines, swapping the mundane for the extraordinary. It’s tempting, isn’t...

For a long time, I felt like I was constantly walking on eggshells. You know the feeling: – Constantly second-guessing yourself – Living with anxiety – Feeling emotionally drained – An unsettling sense of never being good enough. And all of this while trying to...

I thought escaping the clutches of a narcissist would be my biggest battle. Little did I know, the real struggle was healing from the emotional wounds she left behind. The path to recovery was no walk in the park. It required resilience, a deeper understanding of...

If you’re constantly berating yourself at work, you know you’re stressed. If you’re always doubting your capabilities, you know you’re facing self-esteem issues. Welcome to the nuances of professional development. However, the terrain isn’t always that simple to...

We’ve all been there—that gut feeling that something’s not quite right. You’re in a conversation and the words seem to add up, but there’s a nagging suspicion that you’re not getting the whole truth. Well, your instincts might be onto something. The human body is a...

Do you often wonder why your circle of close friends is smaller than others? Well, I’ve got a revelation for you. It’s not about the quantity, but the quality of friendships that truly matters. Those who have a few real friends can attest to this truth. However, it’s...

I’ve always been fascinated by human behavior, particularly the subtle cues that reveal how someone really feels about you. You know what I’m talking about – those tiny, almost invisible signs that scream: “I think I’m better than you.” I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder...

Aging is inevitable, but how quickly we age is a different story. You’ve probably noticed those individuals who seem to defy the natural aging process. They’re the same age as their peers, yet they look and feel significantly younger. What’s their secret? Well, it’s...

It’s Lachlan Brown here, founder of Hack Spirit and a psychology enthusiast. Today, I want to talk about something that has always intrigued me – how some individuals manage to grow up kind and empathetic despite having a rough childhood. Growing up wasn’t exactly a...

There’s a big difference between being kind and letting people treat you like a doormat. But when you don’t fully recognize your own worth, that line starts to blur—fast. You brush off rude comments, excuse bad behavior, and convince yourself that keeping the peace is...

If your partner snaps at you, it’s clear they’re upset. If a friend avoids you, they’re probably mad. Basic relationship cues, right? But, as we age, maintaining strong relationships becomes a bit more complex. After 70, it’s not just about reading the room, it’s...

Life has a funny way of teaching us the most important lessons when we least expect them—and usually when we’re a little older. Over the past decade of studying psychology and self-improvement, I’ve come to realize that many of the things we take for granted in our...

There’s a stark difference between being a complex, multifaceted individual and being a difficult, emotionally immature person. The difference lies in behavior. An emotionally immature person will often display certain behaviors that make it tough to maintain a...

When it comes to meeting new people, some of us find it easy to strike up a fun conversation, while others struggle to move beyond small talk. Over the past decade, I’ve spent countless hours researching social psychology and self-improvement—both as part of my...

Life can be tough, but it’s through these challenges that we often find our strength. Psychology suggests that certain experiences can truly make us unbreakable, fostering resilience that empowers us in both our personal and professional lives. In this article, we’ll...

As someone who’s spent over a decade studying psychology and running multiple businesses, I’ve learned the importance of valuing my time. It’s something that successful people across all fields understand well. There is a common thread among all highly successful...

If your grandkids roll their eyes when you show up, you know they’re bored. If they sigh when you talk, you know they’re uninterested. Such is the reality of generational communication. However, bridging this gap isn’t impossible. The human mind, especially that of...

There’s a universal truth we all face as we age: we’re not getting any younger. But that doesn’t mean we can’t get happier. In fact, it’s entirely possible to live a more content, enthusiastic, and fulfilling life as we add more candles to our birthday cakes. But...

Power games at work. You might not like them, but ignoring them won’t do you any favors.  If you’ve ever been blindsided by office politics, undermined by a colleague, or just felt stuck while others climbed the ladder, you know what I mean. Enter The 48 Laws of Power...

If a woman snaps at you, you might think she’s just having a bad day. If she never returns your calls, you may assume she’s too busy. That’s just surface level interaction. But, when you dive deeper into her language, things become more complex. The words she uses...

As the founder of Hack Spirit and a self-taught psychology enthusiast, my journey has always been about understanding the complexities of human nature. I’ve spent years delving into the intricacies of relationships, personalities, and what makes a ‘good’ partner....

Self-care is not just about bubble baths and face masks. It’s about the small, daily habits that help you feel good about yourself, and psychology has a lot to say about it. Just as you don’t need grand gestures to influence others, you don’t need big actions to take...

Unconditional love is a tricky concept. It’s that kind of love that exists without conditions or limitations – a love that simply ‘is’, regardless of what you do or say. But not everyone has had the privilege of experiencing this type of love. According to psychology,...

We all know that actions speak louder than words. And in the realm of non-verbal communication, body language is king. It’s a silent but potent form of expression that can reveal more about us than we might realize. Take intellect, for instance. While it’s typically...

If you’re a regular reader here at Small Business Bonfire, you’ll know that I’m always on the lookout for ways to improve my productivity and well-being. So, imagine my relief when I stumbled upon some simple morning habits that took the edge off my stress and made my...

Life can feel like a high-speed roller coaster with no “stop” button. One minute you’re on top of the world, ticking off everything on your to-do list; the next, you’re drowning in emails and missed calls. Believe me, as someone who juggles business responsibilities...

If you’re reading this, you’re probably like me. I used to be the person who thought success was all about the size of your paycheck and the prestige of your accomplishments. My first taste of this mindset came when I started my first job. I was eager, determined, and...

Have you ever been caught in a conversation where you felt the other person just wasn’t “getting it”? You know, those moments when it’s clear that empathy and understanding are remarkably absent? You’re not alone. As someone who has been there, I can tell you that...

When you meet a woman who looks like she’s defying the laws of time, you can’t help but wonder, “What’s her secret?” It’s not always about expensive creams or cosmetic procedures. In fact, it’s often their everyday habits that set them apart. Enter psychology, the...

Life can be a tricky thing, right? You think you’ve got it all figured out, and then – bam! One phone call, one unexpected moment, and everything you thought you knew is turned upside down. Let me tell you my story. I was cruising along, thinking I’d mastered this...

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, and even with the best intentions, words can sometimes do more harm than good—especially when it comes to our adult children. Conversations that seem harmless or even well-meaning can leave them questioning their feelings,...

In the constant hustle and bustle of our digital age, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, right? Between the endless emails, social media notifications, and the pressure to be ‘always on’, our digital lives can often contribute more stress than convenience. The fix? Well,...

When someone repeatedly says “No”, you know they’re stubborn. When they insist “I’m right”, you sense they’re difficult. Welcome to the world of words revealing character. Sadly, it’s not always as straightforward as that. The human psyche is a labyrinth, and decoding...

Financial freedom isn’t just about making more money—it’s about how you manage and use what you already have. And when it comes to smart, sustainable money habits, few cultures do it better than Japan. Known for their minimalist approach to life and deep respect for...

People are complicated. We learn early on how to mask our emotions, to smile when we’re struggling, to say I’m fine when we’re anything but. Some people have mastered this art so well that even those closest to them can’t see the cracks. Maybe you’ve met someone like...

The morning can be a make-it-or-break-it time for your day. Mentally strong people know this, and they avoid certain habits that can mess up their momentum. What you do in the morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. So, it’s crucial to start it right. Now,...

We all aspire to reach our full potential, but sometimes, certain habits hold us back. These habits are like invisible chains, limiting our growth without us even realizing it. These patterns of behavior, often so ingrained we hardly notice them, can become...

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your own respect? There’s a chance you might be, and it’s important to realize it. You see, respect isn’t just handed out, it’s earned. Yet, sometimes we unwittingly do things that chip away at the respect others have for us, despite our...

For many business owners, the idea of landing high-paying clients without spending a dime on advertising might sound like a dream. But it’s not only possible—it’s entirely achievable with the right strategies. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned...

There’s a fine line between being unique and being unlikable. Often, it’s the little things, the tiny habits, that push us from one side to the other. According to psychology, there are certain actions that can subtly repel those around us, even if we’re not aware of...

In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces the “Hit it and Quit It” panel discussion, where expert guests, Jack White, Keenan Fisher, and Sonia Booker, share quick insights and actionable advice for small business owners. Jack Wilson is a Franchise Development...

There’s a myth that beauty fades with age, but some people seem to defy this, becoming more attractive as they age. It’s not magic, it’s about habits. These individuals are not relying on good genes alone. They’re adopting certain habits that help them age gracefully...

For the longest time, I felt like I was just there—surrounded by people but never really with them. I’d show up, laugh at the right moments, nod along to conversations, but deep down, I felt like an outsider looking in. No matter how hard I tried, real connections...

The words we choose can have a powerful impact on how others perceive us. While you may not intend to come across as distant or unfriendly, certain phrases can unintentionally create barriers in communication. Psychology reveals that subtle language cues can make...

Do you find yourself staring at your phone, analyzing every word before hitting “send”? If so, you’re not alone; overthinking how to respond to texts is a common habit, and it often stems from unique personality traits and quirks. People who do this aren’t just...

Maintaining a sharp mind during retirement isn’t just about crossword puzzles and Sudoku. It’s about ditching certain habits that could be dragging you down. That’s right, some behaviors can actually dull your mental prowess as you age. And it might be time to say...

Ever wonder why some people seem to build wealth effortlessly while others struggle to save a dollar? It’s not just about how much you earn—it’s about how you spend. The truth is, people who never build wealth often waste money on things they don’t actually need,...

Isn’t it fascinating how some women seem to effortlessly sail into their 60s, 70s, and beyond, brimming with vitality and a zest for life? You see them, don’t you? Radiant, thriving, full of energy. Ever wondered, “What’s their secret?” Well, here’s the thing: it’s...

Have you ever felt completely wiped out after talking to someone—like they somehow drained all your energy without you even realizing it? It’s a weird feeling, right? One minute, you’re being a good friend, listening, supporting, and just being there—and the next,...

Success is a tricky thing to define. We often measure it by tangible assets or impressive titles, but is that all there is to it? But what if you’re more successful than you think? Could it be that we are overlooking simple yet significant signs of success in our...

Friendship is a pillar of life, offering us love, support, and shared experiences. But not all friendships are genuine or healthy. Sometimes, we assume we’re in a sincere relationship, only to discover that the other person isn’t truly our friend. They might claim to...

Have you ever started your day with the best intentions, only to feel like it slips through your fingers before you even get going? I’ve been there.  For a long time, I thought discipline and productivity were all about adding more to my routine—more tasks, more...

As we age, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves gradually pulling away from the hustle and bustle of the world. This detachment can sneak up on us, subtly changing our behaviors and attitudes. The intriguing part is that it’s often accompanied by the development of...

When someone plays the victim, you sense manipulation. When they gaslight, you feel a narcissist’s grip. Welcome to the art of reading narcissists. It’s not a walk in the park, I’ll tell you that. Their minds are like labyrinths, filled with confusing twists and turns...

There’s a subtle line between loving attention and craving validation. As Hack Spirit’s founder and a mindfulness enthusiast, I’ve delved deep into the psychology of human behavior. And one thing I’ve discovered is that some women, beneath their strong exteriors,...

There’s a world of difference between aging gracefully and just getting older. The difference lies in habits. Aging gracefully involves saying goodbye to certain habits that are doing you more harm than good. If you want to look youthful in your 60s and beyond, it’s...

Success doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intentional effort, consistent discipline, and a splash of mindfulness. As the founder of Hack Spirit and Small Business Bonfire and a passionate proponent of mindfulness, I’ve discovered that success begins with how you...

If someone’s been through a breakup, they might be stronger. If someone’s lost a loved one, they might be resilient. That’s the simple way of looking at life’s hardships. Yet, it’s not always so straightforward. The human spirit is so resilient and capable that...

I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind. I’ve spent countless hours trying to understand the subtle behaviors of people, especially those who are difficult to read. But then, I delved deeper into my psychology studies and discovered seven key behaviors that...

There’s a distinct connection between Buddhism and achieving goals. Incorporating Buddhist teachings into your life isn’t about converting to a new religion, but embracing a new perspective. For the coming year, 2025, I’ve got 8 Buddhist lessons that could be your...

Let’s be honest—breaking away from toxic family patterns is one of the hardest things you’ll ever do. It’s messy, painful, and sometimes feels like you’re undoing years of conditioning with every step forward. But here’s the thing: it’s necessary if you want to grow...

There’s a distinct line between those who progress in life and those who remain stagnant. This line often comes down to what a person clings to. People who don’t move forward in life are usually hanging onto certain habits, beliefs, or fears. These things hold them...

If you’re serious about climbing the social ladder at work, there are certain habits that need to be kicked to the curb. These habits could be holding you back more than you know, and it’s time to say goodbye to them. In this piece, we’ll outline the 8 habits you need...

We’ve all dealt with liars at some point—whether it’s the occasional white lie or someone who seems to twist the truth so much, it becomes their reality. There’s a big difference between a harmless fib and the kind of lying that creates a web of deception you can’t...

When someone grins at you, you assume they’re your friend. When someone gossips about you, you know they’re not. But what if they do both? Ah, the complexities of human interaction. The truth is, navigating social relationships can be like trying to solve a Rubik’s...

Navigating the workplace can be like playing a strategic game of chess. It’s not enough to just do your job well – you need to know the right moves that can help you advance. These moves aren’t about manipulation or deception. They’re about understanding human...

Navigating the nuances of your own behavior can feel like a journey into the unknown, especially when they’ve been shaped by a dysfunctional family. Recognizing these behaviors is a step towards understanding yourself better, even if it’s a tad uncomfortable. Growing...

There’s a world of difference between a narcissist and a person with a healthy ego. This difference becomes glaringly clear when they don’t get their way. A narcissist, unlike the rest of us, will not simply accept defeat or compromise. They have their own playbook,...

Let’s get real here, growing up isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. For some of us, it was more like a stormy weather, especially when validation and acknowledgment were as scarce as hen’s teeth. Trying to convince ourselves that everything was fine, we soldiered on...

When you say “fine,” do you always mean it? Or when you say “whatever,” are you really dismissing the issue? Well, let me break it to you. These everyday phrases can often paint us as passive-aggressive without us even realizing it. It’s a minefield of...

It’s easy to dress up language with a coat of professionalism, but what lies beneath can sometimes be an abdication of responsibility. We’ve all heard phrases that sound polished and competent on the surface yet subtly shift blame or avoid accountability. They point...

For years, I struggled to make a positive impact when meeting new people. No matter how hard I tried, I always felt like something was off, as though I was unintentionally rubbing people the wrong way.  It wasn’t until I took a hard look at my own habits that I...