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Work and vocation

Abstract line drawing with intersecting lines and shapes in various colours on a light beige background.

Creativity

guide

How to be lucky

Most of us think that luck just happens (or doesn’t) but everyone can learn to look for the unexpected and find serendipity

by Christian Busch

Painting of a woman in black sleeping on a wood-frame bed, on a yellow textured coverlet and with her feet under an orange blanket.

Pleasures and pastimes

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How to rest well

Taking a break isn’t lazy – learning to recharge is a skill that will allow you to enjoy a more creative, sustainable life

by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang

Black-and-white photo of two people examining a map on the desert sand, with tyre tracks leading into the distance behind them under a clear sky.

Decision-making

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How to make a difficult decision

It’s tempting but unwise to delay important choices. Grasp the nettle by using both systematic checklists and gut instinct

by Joseph Bikart

Abstract painting with concentric circles and colourful segments in red, blue, green, yellow and pink, creating a visually dynamic composition.

Work and vocation

guide

How to craft a harmonious life

Forget the ideal of work/life balance – your needs and interests are much richer than that, and your life can be too

by Jessica de Bloom & Merly Kosenkranius

Racing driver in a white suit and balaclava, adjusting his attire, seen through a reflective surface.

Goals and motivation

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How to perform well under pressure

Ditch the tough talk, it won’t help. Instead cultivate your mental flexibility so you can handle whatever comes your way

by Josephine Perry

Illustration of an aerial view of a man at a desk with papers in a question mark shape, coffee, biscuits and office supplies on a yellow background.

Learning and education

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How to plan a research project

Whether for a paper or a thesis, define your question, review the work of others – and leave yourself open to discovery

by Brooke Harrington

Fashion model being fitted with a beige dress by three people using measuring tapes and pins in a tailoring studio.

Work and vocation

guide

How to become an expert

The path to mastery is long, winding and hugely fulfilling. Use this map to navigate and overcome any bumps along the way

by Roger L Kneebone

A hot air balloon with colourful stripes floating in a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

Goals and motivation

guide

How to let go of a lifelong dream

Adaptability is as much of a virtue as grit. Overcome any feelings of loss or failure by pivoting toward a new passion

by Christian Jarrett

Person’s legs visible sticking out of the boot of a yellow car parked near a green car. Vehicles are in a parking area with other cars nearby.

Sleep and dreams

guide

How to nap

Whether it’s to recover after a late night or to boost your learning abilities, there’s a science to napping effectively

by Ruth Leong & Michael Chee

Commuters rush past a stationary commuter train. In the train window is reflected the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Worry and rumination

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How to thrive amid ‘imposter syndrome’

Worries that you’re incompetent and undeserving could be holding you back. Try these steps to move toward the life you want

by Jill Stoddard

Photo of five burned matchsticks with blackened, charred tips, arranged in a row on a white background. The order shows partially burnt matches through to a fully burnt match.

Mental health

guide

How to recover from burnout

Feeling worn down, checked out, or bitter about work? The answer is not to ‘just work harder’. Try these steps instead

by Debbie Sorensen

Silhouette of a person standing behind a frosted glass partition next to a wooden door with a round window.

Conflict and conflict resolution

guide

How to deal with being bullied at work

You might understandably feel trapped and powerless, but there is a range of steps you can take to improve your situation

by Pat Ferris