Synopsis
A best-selling author and psychologist gives us a myth-busting response to the self-help movement, with tips and tricks that come straight from the scientific community.
Richard Wiseman has been troubled by the realization that the self-help industry often promotes exercises that destroy motivation, damage relationships, and reduce creativity: the opposite of everything it promises. Now, in 59 Seconds, he fights back, bringing together the diverse scientific advice that can help you change your life in literally under a minute.
Can you become more creative by lying down? Why is it better for your emotional health to give than to receive? How can a light touch on the arm attract the opposite sex? Why does putting a plant in your office improve your productivity? Answering these questions and many more, 59 Seconds guides you toward becoming more decisive, more creative, more challenged, and altogether more happy.
From mood to memory, persuasion to...
Library Journal
Psychologist and best-selling author Wiseman (Quirkology) draws on scientific research to help people achieve their dreams and ambitions in a matter of minutes rather than months. Contrary to popular thinking, he says, playing hard to get, visualizing the ideal plan, and offering rewards for achievement don't work. Instead, the author suggests bonding over dislikes, imagining the achievement of a goal, and praising effort over the finished product. Although some of Wiseman's findings would definitely improve one's life if adopted, others seem far-fetched. Wait for the paperback. [See Prepub Alert, LJ 9/1/09.]