Top 10 of Twenty 10

(via David DiSalvo at Psychology Today)

As the end of the year approaches, its nice to  look back on some of the best things about 2010. And according to David, the following studies are the ones worth knowing about.  His criteria for selection? They have to be both useful and interesting.

1.       We spend almost half of our time awake lost in day-dreams…. And it doesn’t make us happy.

2.       The characteristics of objects can influence the decision-making progress.

“when you go for a job interview, be sure to carry your resume in a weighty, well constructed portfolio; according to the study, job candidates appear more important when they are associated with heavy objects.”

3.       Chemical reactions to sweat influence us into make riskier decisions.

4.       Trying to make an impression alters how you view the other person.

5.       We’re happier when we’re busy, but are wired to be lazy.

6.       The rich have no need to develop empathy. The poor do.

7.       Irrespective of specific beliefs, religion makes people happier.

8.       It is easier to ‘read’ beautiful people.

9.       Personality is not destiny when it comes to how we stand and pose-rather it is a combination of biochemical and behavioral reactions that can be altered.

10.   Forgive yourself for procrastinating, and the procrastination will stop.

Click here for the full article.

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David had also composed a Top 10 for 2009. Check it out here. Otherwise, peruse the summary below.

1.       Experiences will make you happier than buying stuff.

2.       Our first impressions of others are more favorable when we feel they have something to offer us.

3.       The ‘money illusion’ is all in our head-a 2% pay rise means nothing when inflation is 4%.

4.       Playing video games can cure psychological trauma-remember the Tetris study?

5.       We all spend time balancing our ‘immoral’ actions with ‘moral’ actions.

6.       Specialized focus trumps generic problem-solving.

7.       We mimic by nature-if we get too close, it makes it difficult for us to spot liars.

8.       Saying sorry is important.

9.       We are easily bored… but it can be reversed.

10.   Picking the right words in an argument is good for your health… if you’re a man. Women can say anything.

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