It’s Monday night and John’s friend tells him the bad news. The weather forecast for Saturday shows the possibility of rain. This is bad news because John has plans to host a BBQ on Saturday and this really ‘dampens’ his spirits. So John spends the rest of the week agonizing over the weather man’s predictions. … Continue reading John’s BBQ →

The problem with TV is that there is always something else to watch. The TV does not automatically turn off once your programme ends. The TV channels show something 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Therefore it becomes a black hole for productivity. You may have only sat down to watch one show … Continue reading There’s always something else to watch →

You are perched on the edge, staring down the snowy mountain. You’re decked out in all the ski gear, you’ve had a few quick lessons and chose to start out on a nice easy green slope. This will be your first proper bit of skiing. And you’re terrified. But you start and eventually you make … Continue reading Skiing →

Fred is the planner. The rest of the group enjoys blissful ignorance as Fred works away on the minutiae. They can zone out, safe in the knowledge that all they have to do is follow Fred’s instructions. The short term gain belongs to the group, as they’ve successfully avoided adding to their cognitive load. But … Continue reading Planner Fred →

Just because it has all the hallmarks of a cheesy action film doesn’t mean that people won’t pay to see it. Yes, you may have to suspend belief at times. For example someone going from being shot and dying to performing a massive display of strength. Yes, you may be able to predict what happens … Continue reading Cheesy action movie →

The average cost for a 30 second ad during the most recent Super Bowl was $5.6 million. That’s how valuable your attention has become. $5.6million for 30 seconds. If nothing else, it’s a sign of how hard it is for marketers to get your attention in today’s world.

A goth wearing all black, a football fan decked out head to toe in football gear and a Star Wars fan donning their Chewbacca costume. Such out there fashion statements can have the effect of magnetism. Attracting the likeminded and putting off the others. The Chewbacca costume acts as an approachable beacon to nearby Star … Continue reading Magnetic fashion →

“I probably should be getting back to it” If you’re saying that to yourself you are most likely starting to feel guilty for the fun and time spent away from your work. This comment to one’s self is like the little kick of shame to keep you in balance. Most likely learnt from teachers and … Continue reading I probably should →

What if the bus doesn't show up? Then we'll get a taxi What if we can't fit our luggage in the boot of the taxi? Then we'll put it on our laps What if the bags weigh more than 20kg? Then we'll pay extra. What if I get stopped by security? Then you get stopped … Continue reading What if? →

What does your culture celebrate?  Teamwork, insight, sales? The implicit social norms are so much more powerful than the written rules.  For example a company can't explicitly ask you to work 16 hour days but they can create social norms that makes someone feel guilty for leaving early.  Rewarding someone for their sales record whilst overlooking … Continue reading Cultural celebrations →