Psychology Archives

Russ Harris: ACT and The Happiness Trap

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)? How can practicing ACT help you avoid falling into the “happiness trap”? Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, is a psychological discipline developed by Steven C. Hayes in 1982. Hayes developed ACT in the context of evolutionary psychology, which holds that our early survival instincts influence our modern brains—and that failing to recognize this connection undermines our happiness. Here is how ACT can help you stop struggling and start living, according to Russ Harriss.

Surrounded by Idiots: The Yellow Personality Type

What does a Yellow personality look like? What are the strengths of the Yellow personality? In the book Surrounded by Idiots, Yellow personality types are described as charismatic, popular, and optimistic. You would seek out a Yellow personality at work if you need help finding a creative solution to a problem. Here’s everything you need to know about the Yellow personality type.

Practice vs. Talent: What Does the Science Say?

Can practice override talent? What does science have to say on the practice vs. talent conundrum? According to David Epstein, the author of The Sports Gene, there is a disproportionate emphasis on practice as the defining variable in success. However, findings from research studies support a more well-rounded view of the power of practice. For some, practice provides the medium for innate (genetic) ability to flourish. Given the same amount of practice, others may have a more difficult time learning a particular skill. Let’s look at evidence that Epstein has collected from sports and beyond that suggests each of us

The Happiness Trap: Quotes by Russ Harris

Are you looking for The Happiness Trap quotes by Russ Harris? What are some of the most noteworthy passages worth revisiting? In The Happiness Trap, therapist and life coach Russ Harris argues that the human pursuit of happiness makes us miserable today, leading to widespread anxiety, stress, and depression. Harris contends the real answer to escape the “happiness trap” is through the techniques of ACT, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Here is a selection of passages with explanations to help you put them into context.

Embrace Negative Emotions to Be Happier in Life

What is the problem with avoiding negative emotions? How do negative emotions—paradoxically enough—contribute to happiness? Modern culture pressures us to reject negative emotions and replace them with positivity. However, even experiences that we deem positive carry with them a negative element. Therefore, we cannot really experience happiness without also experiencing potentially negative emotions. Here is why happiness requires that you embrace negative emotions.

Surrounded by Idiots: The Blue Personality Type

What are the traits of a Blue-dominant person? For what reasons would you seek out a Blue personality? In Thomas Erikson’s book Surrounded by Idiots, Blue personalities are described as meticulous, knowledgeable, and cautious. You would seek out a Blue-dominant person at work if you needed to make sure something is organized and done right the first time. Continue below to learn all about the Blue personality type.

The Importance of Practice in Sports: 3 Key Advantages

Can practice override innate ability? What role does practice play in sports performance? While practice alone cannot determine outcomes in sports (there’s also a strong genetic component), its importance cannot be underestimated. Practice builds sport-specific wisdom, allows you to react quickly, and makes you “unconsciously competent.” Keep reading to learn about the importance of practice in sports success.

Surrounded by Idiots: The Red Personality Type

What does it mean to have a “Red” personality type? What kinds of traits do they possess? In the book Surrounded by Idiots, Red personalities are considered to be extroverts, leaders, and competitive. Red personality types also like to stay busy and are happy to take risks—they’re the people you go to when you need to solve a problem. Continue reading to learn more about the Red personality type, according to communication expert Thomas Erikson.

The 10,000-Hour Rule and the Promise of Mastery

What is the 10,000-hour rule? Is it true that a lot of practice can override talent? The phrase the 10,000-hour rule has become a popular way to express the idea that enough practice is a virtual guarantee of expertise. It epitomizes the idea that practice (nurture) can overcome innate ability (nature). Here’s what the science has to say on the matter.

Can We Control Our Emotions?

Can we control our emotions? And if so, to what extent? Starting in childhood, we’re socialized to believe we should be able to control our emotions. The truth is that we can regulate only a small fraction of our thoughts and emotions—most of them are subconscious and beyond our control. Here is why we actually exert less control over our thoughts and feelings than we think we do.