Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

The Fear of Being Average: You’re Not Exceptional

Why do so many of us have a fear of being average? How do some people become exceptional? The truth is that you’re probably average, and that’s okay. Very few people are actually extraordinary and the ones who are had to spend a lot of time improving themselves. For the bulk of people, accepting that you’re not special will make you mentally healthier. Keep reading to find out why being average is okay and being exceptional comes with its own set of problems.

Helping Those in Need—Do it For the Right Reasons

Do you look for recognition after helping those in need? Why should you always act with grace even if it comes at a cost to you? In his book Everybody, Always, Bob Goff says that if you’re trying to become love, then you need to make helping those in need a part of your life. Goff shares an example of a time his grace was very costly but he never regretted helping someone in need, even a convict. Keep reading to learn why you should always help those in need.

The Feynman Technique: How to Learn Faster

What is the Feynman Technique? When is the best time to use Feynman’s method? The Feynman Technique was inspired by Dr. Richard Feynman as a method to develop a deeper knowledge of any subject. This method is especially helpful for overcoming the illusion that you know something better than you actually do. Continue on to learn more about the Feynman Technique and how to use it.

What Is My Partner’s Attachment Style? Take This Quiz

Ever wondered, “what is my partner’s attachment style?” How can knowing your partner’s romantic attachment style improve your relationship? Understanding your partner’s attachment style can save you a lot of emotional struggle. Whether you are in a new relationship or a long-term marriage, understanding how your partner feels and thinks can help you solve problems (or help you decide whether they’re worth solving). Continue on to take the “What is my partner’s attachment style?” quiz.

Why Adults and Children Need a Secure Base to Thrive

What is a “secure base” in regards to attachment theory? Why do both children and adults need a secure base in order to thrive? Psychologist Mary Ainsworth found that if a child had a “secure base,” (such as having a parent in the room with them) they felt more confident to explore. More recently, researchers found that adults also crave a secure base, such as a partner or friend, to thrive. Keep reading to learn more about the psychology of having a secure base.

Scaling a Company: The 4 Growth Factors

How to Build the Next Trillion Dollar Business

What are the four growth factors that are incorporated into most great business models? What business models are more suitable for scaling a company? The four growth factors that affect scaling a company are market size, distribution, high gross margins, and network effects. There isn’t one business model that will work for every company but incorporating these growth factors will help you scale. Continue reading for more information on scaling a company.

Fever 1793 Epilogue: Life After the Yellow Fever

What happens in the Fever 1793 epilogue? In what ways did Matilda change from before the fever? The Fever 1793 epilogue details Matilda’s life not long after the fever vanished with the frost. Matilda matured quickly in a short amount of time and is becoming accustomed to her new life as an adoptive mother and business owner. Keep reading to learn what happens in the Fever 1793 epilogue.

8 Tips for Meeting Your Boyfriend’s Family

Are you meeting your boyfriend’s family for the first time? How do you manage your relationship with his family after meeting them? In his book Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, Steve Harvey provides advice on what to expect and how to present yourself when meeting your boyfriend’s family. Harvey also discusses tips on navigating his family as your relationship progresses. Keep reading for Steve Harvey’s advice on meeting your boyfriend’s family.

Feeling Entitled: Why It’s Bad for Health and Society

Why do so many people today feel entitled? Why is feeling entitled such a problem in society? The entitlement epidemic started in the 1960s when psychologists concluded that people who feel entitled produce better work and commit fewer crimes. However, they couldn’t have predicted how many mental health problems would arise due to feeling entitled. Keep reading to learn how the entitlement epidemic began and why entitlement is so detrimental.

God Is Silent: Take Action & Stop Waiting for Signs

Do you ever find yourself searching for God’s guiding voice? What do you do if you don’t know God’s plan for you? The truth is that God is silent. But just because you can’t hear his voice doesn’t mean he doesn’t love you. God knows that he gave you everything you need to live your authentic life, He’s just waiting for you to live it. Keep reading to learn more about what Bob Goff has to say about God’s silence.