The Paradox of the Perfectly Wrapped Present 

Great news for those who are terrible at wrapping presents. A study found that badly wrapped gifts are better received than those that look like they belong under Martha Stewart’s Christmas tree. This is especially true for...

3 Strategies to Master the Art & Science of Asking for a Favor

"Just thinking about it gives me hives," explained my patient. Like many people I know, she doesn't like asking for favors. Most people prefer doing a favor for someone else to asking for one. There...

See the World Without Leaving Your House

Here are some of my favorite resources that keep me engaged, active, and connected while social distancing.     Culture Tours and Shows Virtual Museum Tours—Visit and tour over 1,000 museums from the comfort of your couch, where...

8 Counterintuitive Strategies for a Happier Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Here are a few tips to help you and your family keep the peace and make the most of the holiday: 1. Be clear-eyed Manage expectations. It’s nice to have...

Just One of These a Day Can Keep Anxiety and Stress at Bay

We are often told that happiness comes from within but decades of research points us in a different direction. Accumulating evidence shows that happiness comes from “with” as much as it comes from within. A brand...

Music to Your Ears? Psychology Explains Why You Love Certain Songs

Mrs. S couldn’t talk but she sure could sing. I met her when I was an intern on the Neurology service. She had suffered a stroke that destroyed critical speech pathways on the left...