While research studies aren’t exactly light reading material for the average person, the results of these experiments and studies can have significant applications in daily life. The following are some practical uses for psychology in everyday life.
Introduce new or novel elements to keep your interest high.Vary repetitive sequences to help stave off boredom.Learn new things that build on your existing knowledge.Set clear goals that are directly related to the task.Reward yourself for a job well done.
One of the most famous studies on this topic looked at three distinct leadership styles. Based on the findings of this study and subsequent research, practice some of the following when you are in a leadership position.
Offer clear guidance, but allow group members to voice opinions.Talk about possible solutions with members of the group.Focus on stimulating ideas and be willing to reward creativity.
Use good eye contact.Start noticing nonverbal signals in others.Learn to use your tone of voice to reinforce your message.
Your emotional intelligence quotient is a measure of this ability. According to psychologist Daniel Goleman, your EQ may actually be more important than your IQ. To become more emotionally intelligent, consider some of the following strategies.
Carefully assess your own emotional reactions.Record your experiences and emotions in a journal.Try to see situations from the perspective of another person.
Use the “six thinking hats” approach by looking at the situation from multiple points of view, including rational, emotional, intuitive, creative, positive, and negative perspectives.Consider the potential costs and benefits of a decision.Employ a grid analysis technique that gives a score for how a particular decision will satisfy specific requirements you may have.
Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts
Focus on the information.Rehearse what you have learned.Eliminate distractions.
One study found that workers could more than triple their savings by using some of the following strategies.
Don’t procrastinate. Start investing in savings now.Commit in advance to devote portions of your future earnings to your retirement savings.Try to be aware of personal biases that may lead to poor money choices.
A study found that repeated test-taking may be a better memory aid than studying. Students who were tested repeatedly were able to recall 61% of the material, while those in the study group recalled only 40%. How can you apply these findings to your own life? When trying to learn new information, self-test frequently in order to cement what you have learned into your memory.
Avoid multitasking when working on complex or dangerous tasks. Focus on the task at hand. Eliminate distractions.
Studies have shown that both sunlight and artificial light can reduce the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.Research has demonstrated that exercise can contribute to greater psychological well-being.Studies have found that helping people understand the risks of unhealthy behaviors can lead to healthier choices.
