Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

Brené Brown’s Guidepost #1: Be Your Authentic Self

Is authenticity a trait that you either have or lack? How can you cultivate authenticity? What are the two main barriers to being your authentic self? According to Brené Brown in The Gifts of Imperfection, being your authentic self is a conscious and courageous choice. However, the fear of resistance from your loved ones and societal expectations can make being authentic difficult. Continue reading to see what Brené Brown has to say about the first guidepost for Wholehearted living.

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience—Overview

What is Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience about? How can Csikszentmihalyi’s advice help you find flow in your own life? Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience is a 1990 book about reaching the “flow state” written by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. In the book, you will learn what flow is, how to control your consciousness, activities you can do that promote flow, and how achieving flow on a regular basis can improve your quality of life. Keep reading for an overview of Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.

How to Define and Cultivate Your Sense of Self-Worth

What four principles define your sense of self-worth? How can living wholeheartedly help cultivate your worthiness? In The Gifts of Imperfection, Brené Brown defines what it means to have a sense of self-worth. She explains the four principles of worthiness and shares the three values you need to cultivate worthiness. Continue below to learn what having a sense of self-worth means.

Amazon’s Innovations: A9, Speedy Shipping, and Kindle

What were Amazon’s earliest innovations? Which innovations failed and which went on to be huge successes? 2002 marked the year that Amazon would start focusing on innovation. They launched a web service, revamped their website, created a search engine, rolled out the predecessor to Prime, and released the first Kindle all within two years. Here’s how Amazon’s innovations began.

Anxious Avoidant Relationships: The Worst Combo

Why should you avoid an anxious-avoidant relationship? Why do relationships between anxious and avoidant attachers often fail? What signs should you look out for? When anxious attachers and avoidant attachers get into a relationship, conflict is inevitable. In the best case, the relationship is a rollercoaster ride, and in the worst cases, the relationship leads to abuse. Keep reading to learn why anxious-avoidant relationships should be given a wide berth.

Dealing With Rejection May Not Be Fun, But It’s Good

How can dealing with rejection be a positive thing if rejection makes you feel bad? Why does rejecting some of your options make you happier? In a culture where you’re expected to be open to all new experiences, it can be difficult to learn to say “no.” However, when you learn to reject some of your options, and deal with rejection from others, you’ll actually be happier. Keep reading to learn why dealing with rejection is beneficial.

Honesty in a Relationship: Why It’s Essential

Are you always honest in your relationship? Do you ever tell small lies to avoid discomfort? Why is being agreeable actually detrimental? When your partner asks, “do I look good?” the obvious answer would be, “yes.” But what if you actually think their polka dot shirt clashes with their striped pants? Do you tell them? Yes, because honesty in a relationship is more important than agreeableness. Keep reading to find out why honesty in a relationship is more important than peace.

Causes of Unhappiness: Csikszentmihalyi’s 2 Reasons

What are the main causes of unhappiness? Why do you need to understand what causes unhappiness before you can be happy? In his book Flow, Csikszentmihalyi says that there are two main causes of unhappiness. First, our universe is a harsh place to live in—we have to weather disasters, diseases, lack of resources, etc… On top of that, solving challenges doesn’t eradicate them forever—something new will always come up. Here’s what Csikszentmihalyi says we need to understand about unhappiness.

Directing Attention: How to Achieve Your Goals

What does directing attention have to do with achieving your goals? What three factors affect how you focus your attention? Your attention is the process your consciousness uses to take in and evaluate information. Achieving your goals requires directing attention towards your goals without losing focus. However, there are three main factors that affect your ability to maintain focus. Continue below to learn why attention is crucial to achieving your goals.

Is Amazon a Monopoly? The Unstoppable Business

Is Amazon a monopoly? Why do manufacturers and publishers hate working with Amazon? Why does the public tolerate Amazon even though it has questionable practices? Amazon devalues manufacturer’s products, undermines the book publishing industry, and acquires as many of its competitors as it can. And yet, the public still embraces Amazon because it’s making an offer we collectively can’t refuse. Keep reading to learn about Amazon’s monopoly-like behaviors.