Psychology Facts That Will Positively Shift Your Life Perspective

The human brain is an amazing thing. Since our species’ humble beginnings, humans have made incredible works of art, countless technological advancements, and a complex global society of interconnected systems. However, it can be hard to remember all the amazing things our minds are capable of when we’re just trying to get through a normal Tuesday or battling issues like depression and anxiety.

There’s still so much we don’t know about how the brain and mind works, but we’ve come a long way in our knowledge of psychology. Here are just a few of the amazing psychology facts our species has learned over many decades of research that can help you shift your life perspective and help you improve your overall happiness!

Ever Been Called a Slob? Good.

If you tend to surround yourself with clutter, it’s not all bad. Psychologically, a messy desk can actually lead to more creativity and innovation. Clean surroundings lead to people doing what they’re “supposed” to do, which definitely has its perks — but a messy space also has its benefits, especially in a world that’s constantly demanding more and more innovation. Stop shaming yourself for a little clutter and start brainstorming the next big invention!

Don’t Hustle (Too) Hard — It Won’t Make You Happier

Money can buy happiness — but only up to a point. If you’re stressed out about bills, you’re not going to be very happy, obviously. But studies have shown that after you start to make about $75,000 a year, money doesn’t have much of an effect on your overall happiness (probably adjusted for inflation!).

Hustling hard to make six figures isn’t going to make you happy. What is, according to our knowledge of psychology? Spending time with those you love. Stop checking your email after work and start focusing on quality time with friends and family. (Bonus — great relationships can help you live longer!)

Stopping to Smell the Flowers is a Happiness Hack

It’s true — we’ve learned that floral scents can actually make you happier. Since spending time in nature is a well-known way to boost happiness and well-being, the best choice is to stop and smell the flowers while you take a walk outside!

You Can Get “Smarter”

Many people have this idea that your intelligence and cognitive abilities are fixed. Don’t believe them! You absolutely can improve your cognitive thinking and get “smarter,” throughout your life. Learning a new skill, playing cognitively challenging games, and interacting with others are just some of the enjoyable ways you can improve your cognitive skills.

Bright Colors Are Happy Colors

If you’re having a down day, then it might be time to reach for the boldest and brightest colors in your drawer. Research has indicated that bright colors are happy colors! It’s hard to say why colors have such an effect on our mood, but if something as simple as wearing a yellow shirt can boost your mood, why not do it?

Yes, it’s True: Your Yawn is Contagious

If you’ve ever said “stop yawning, you’re making me yawn,” know that you were 100% right. Babies don’t seem to yawn when others do, but by the age of two, it starts to happen — and by age 4, it happens a lot. Even people with impaired vision aren’t immune, because even the sound of a yawn is contagious.

Whether you think of it as just a fun fact or a reminder that we’re all connected, it’s an interesting psychological insight!

Being Kind Can Increase Your Happiness

Applied psychology has improved our knowledge of how cultural forces can influence problems in our world, but the opposite is true as well. For example, we can improve our happiness overall just by doing nice things for other people, studies show. Now, that doesn’t mean you should neglect your own needs, but it does mean that by creating a kinder, gentler world, we can increase overall happiness. Be part of that movement!

You Have More Power Than You Think

We all want to be happy, at the end of the day and at the end of our lives. But when it comes to mental health and psychology, it can seem like you don’t have much say in how you feel. The truth? You have more control than you think.

In fact, research shows that about 40% of our happiness levels are caused by our individual choice to be happy or not. You can’t change your genetics, which are thought to contribute 50% to your happiness levels, and your circumstances can change a lot during your life. But the rest?

That’s up to you.