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The Powerlessness of Positive Thinking
The New Yorker: Since publishing “The Secret,” in 2006, the Australian author Rhonda Byrne has been writing self-help manifestos based on the idea that people who think positive thoughts are rewarded with happiness, wealth, influence
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Money, Sleep and Love: What Makes a Happy Parent?
LiveScience: Who is happier: Parents or non-parents? It’s a conundrum that burns hot in the cultural discourse. Are parents made miserable by dirty diapers, long sleepless nights and needy kiddos? Or are they on
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What Makes Older People Happy
The New York Times: Every year, my husband and I wonder what kind of birthday gift to give his dad, now 86 years old. The newest gadget, which may be admired but almost surely will
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How Does Misfortune Affect Long-Term Happiness?
NPR: We’re doomed to be miserable if we don’t get what we want — right? Not quite, says psychologist Dan Gilbert. He says our “psychological immune system” lets us feel truly happy even when things
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Be Happier: Spend More Money on Others
Pacific Standard: If you want to feel happier—and who doesn’t—what should you do with that $20 you have in your pocket? The evidence is clear, according to a new research paper: You should use it
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In Defense of Kids and Parenting: They Can Be Amazing (If That’s What You Want)
TIME: It seems the latest trend in parenting is to bash it. Quite a few folks are getting attention for making the case that having kids makes your life worse—and they have some studies to
