How to reframe interpersonal disagreements for better outcomes — I hate conflict. My natural inclination has always been to hesitate a little too long before addressing an issue, or to rationalise to myself that a confrontation would be unproductive… you know, this time around. (Maybe next time.) This philosophy, particularly early in my career, proved very convenient for avoiding…

The curious case of virtual meetings and Zoom fatigue — A few years ago, the shift towards online professional communication was accelerated by a pandemic. It was a time that prompted us to ask: ‘Do we really… need… to be here? You know, physically?’ As it turns out, the answer is usually ‘no’. Now, virtual meetings are the norm. But…

I have given you a half-wilted posy on the street, and in return, I am using our interaction to enhance my online brand. You’re welcome. — In my last piece, we discussed how great it is to connect with strangers. Now, in a total flip of the switch, I give you: Why do so many “random act of kindness” videos feel so icky? A recent trend that flew through TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms came in the form of filming ‘random acts of kindness’.

When was the last time you spoke with someone new? — The benefits of social ties. Humans were made to connect. A large part of our human experience — this whole thing of being a little bag of organs sitting around on a giant orbiting ball — involves sitting around with others on said giant orbiting ball. After a loss this year, a family member of…

Well, it’s that time again. Christmas trees are up. Suburban houses declare their holiday cheer with an assault of glistening lights and glowing reindeer atop usually-barren terracotta rooves. We prepare, collectively, to share in end of year celebrations; a welcome wind down from the grind that comes with those first…

For many, right now is a busy time. Maybe you’re undertaking a doctorate and preparing for end-of-year confirmation of candidature things (if so, I resonate deeply with you). Or, perhaps it’s the case that the end of 2022 is drawing closer, and there’s a whole lot you still want to…

Aristotle’s golden mean and viewing our qualities for what they are — If you were to ask someone to write down their top 5 strengths and their top 5 weaknesses, what are the chances that the lists will relate to each other? Some human qualities are generally accepted as positive ones. Generosity. Honesty. Courage. Kindness. These are characteristics that we inherently assume…

As I write this, Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination rates are continuing to rise. My state of NSW has exceptionally high numbers: 89.1% double dose and 93.8% single dose for those aged 16 and over. However, the topic of vaccination continues to be a heated and often emotionally fuelled discussion. In recent…

The evolution and science of lying — “When we see such universality in moral rules, we know that they combat a tendency for people to do otherwise, and serve an important human need. The pancultural condemnation of lying is clear evidence that all humans are tempted to lie, and that lying is a threat to group cohesiveness…