Economic Pessimism Rises, Despite a “Strong” US Economy

A sweaty man experiencing economic pessimism as he reads a paper saying the economy is up.

Why is there so much economic pessimism in the US, despite an objectively strong economy? How might the disconnect between economic realities and perceptions impact consumer habits and the future state of the American economy? Despite robust economic indicators in the US, public opinion surveys find many Americans are pessimistic about the economy. Factors contributing to the negativity include persistent inflation, political polarization, the media, and lasting scars from the Covid-19 pandemic. Here’s why there’s such a disparity between the numbers and public perception.

Life Worth Living: A Guide to What Matters Most (Overview)

A young woman reading a book outside in an urban courtyard.

What does it mean to live well? How should we approach life? How should we think about death? The authors of Life Worth Living: A Guide to What Matters Most don’t claim to have the answers, but they offer some possible answers based on the life philosophies of several great thinkers. Even if you disagree with their ideas, you can use them as a springboard for figuring out what you believe. Continue reading for an overview of this book that will get you thinking about what truly matters in life and how to translate those beliefs into action.

Why Are People Unhappy? Blame Erroneous Zones

An unhappy woman crying on the floor of a bedroom while looking at her phone.

Why are people unhappy? What are erroneous zones and how do they prevent happiness? Happiness may seem elusive, but Wayne W. Dyer asserts that you can choose to be happy at any moment, regardless of what’s happening around you. The problem is that you prevent yourself from being happy by allowing unproductive emotions to rule. Continue reading to learn the psychology behind erroneous zones and their effect on people’s happiness.

Fostering Individualism in the Workplace: 2 Musts for Managers

A white-haired bearded man dressed in a tie that is happy with individualism in the workplace.

Do you leverage the unique aspects of your employees, or do you expect them to conform to the norm? Do you value degrees over skills? In The End of Average, Todd Rose says that judging people in comparison to the average does significant damage to society when people abuse averages in the workplace. He asserts that, if employees can use their individual strengths at work, they’ll be more productive and fulfilled. Keep reading to learn the merits of individualism in the workplace.

What Is a Life Philosophy, and Why Should You Have One?

A man pondering what life philosophy is with a cityscape in the background.

What is a life philosophy? Do you have one? Should you? In Life Worth Living, Miroslav Volf, Matthew Croasmun, and Ryan McAnnally-Linz define the notion of a life philosophy. Then, they explain why you should have a life philosophy by exploring the value it can bring to your life. Read more to learn what a life philosophy is and why it’s important to have one.

Here’s Why Many Americans Are Avoiding the News

An older man ignoring the news on the television by looking at his phone.

Why are so many Americans avoiding the news? What are some of the negative effects of news fatigue? If you’ve been spending less time keeping up with the news, you’re in good company. Research shows that many Americans are paying less attention to the headlines than they used to—and there are many possible reasons why. Here’s how we get the news and a few reasons why experts think that our interest in following current events might be changing. 

The Future of Business: 6 Tech Trends to Expect in 2024

Robots are working at computers in an office while humans watch over them.

How will technology impact businesses in 2024? What trends should you expect to see? From rapid advances in biotechnology to quantum leaps in quantum computing processing, technological innovation is poised to transform nearly every industry in 2024. The future of business will look much different than it is now. Here are six key technology trends that experts say will shape and disrupt sectors in 2024 and beyond.  

The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben: Book Overview

A woman sitting against a tree reading in a forest.

How do trees cooperate with each other? Are trees sentient? What sustainable forestry practices can help protect forests? In The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben, he delves deep into the world of old-growth forests, unveiling secret interactions, intricate networks, and fascinating behaviors among trees. The book emphasizes the importance of conserving these vital ecosystems and seeing them as living entities. Continue reading for an overview of Wohlleben’s book, including key takeaways and actionables.

Shrinkflation and Skimpflation Mean You Get Less For Your Money

Shrinkflation and Skimpflation Mean You Get Less For Your Money

Have you noticed your cereal box getting lighter? Or that the cough syrup you regularly buy tastes watered down? What are shrinkflation and skimpflation? Companies use shrinkflation and skimpflation—reducing the volume and quality of goods and services—to protect their profits in the face of rising operational costs. These practices directly cut into consumers’ purchasing power, as they continue to pay the same amount of money for lower-value products. Here’s a look at how shrinkflation and skimpflation affect both customers and businesses.