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Free Malaysia Today
04-08-2025
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
Why do some creatives prefer working in the dark?
If you find yourself inspired and productive in a dark room by the faint glow of a lamp, you are not alone. (Envato Elements pic) Imagine it's either early in the morning or late at night. The room is dark, your computer screen glows in the darkness, and your surroundings are quiet. Whether you are a writer, designer or artist, you might flourish as a creative person in these low-key settings. But why? Is this preference based on scientific or psychological grounds, or is it merely a quirk of the imaginative brain? Studies have shown that our brain's capability to process information and generation thought can be affected by the brightness (or otherwise) of a room. Research in the Journal of Environmental Psychology suggests that reduced lighting levels can boost cognitive flexibility, facilitating creative thinking. Meanwhile, a German study posits that 'darkness increases freedom from constraints, which in turn promotes creativity'. Bright surroundings, on the other hand, are often linked with analytical and ordered thinking, which may not always be perfect for artistic activities. Specifically, working in the dark lessens visual distractions, allowing the brain to concentrate more closely on current tasks. This can cause a condition known as 'flow', in which creative professionals get engrossed in their work with fewer interruptions. Darkness and the subconscious As the German research notes, low brightness fosters psychological freedom: people frequently feel less self-conscious in darkness, which helps reduce obstructions and inspires more unique thoughts. Some people are more at ease sharing their ideas in a quiet, private environment than under intense, fluorescent light. Combining natural light throughout the day with low lighting in the evening may help you maximise your creative process. (Envato Elements pic) Moreover, the atmosphere of a low-light workspace affects emotions and mood. Warm, low lighting can assist creatives in controlling their stress by encouraging peace and relaxation. This is why many musicians, writers, and artists choose to work at night – not only for the silence but also for the mood the darkness creates. So, the final question is: does this work for everyone? Although many artists swear by the dark, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. For some people, poor brightness can cause them to feel lazy or drowsy. Others encounter eye strain from staring at a screen in a dark room. The secret is balance. Try several lighting setups to see which improves your well-being and output. Combining natural light throughout the day with low lighting in the evening may help you maximise your creative process. Ultimately, the joy of working in the dark among creatives is real, regardless of scientific backing or personal inclination. You are not alone if you find the most inspiration in shadows and the faint glow of your desk lamp or screen. This article was originally written by Anisa Aznan for an online job site that specialises in providing jobseekers with the latest job opportunities by matching talented individuals with reputable companies in Malaysia. Find your dream job with over 40,000 job vacancies in Malaysia. Read more articles from Jobstore here.
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
13 Boundaries People Don't Realize They're Crossing All The Time
Think of boundaries as the invisible fences that protect our peace and sanity. Yet, more often than not, we find ourselves stepping over them, sometimes unintentionally, sometimes flagrantly. Here are thirteen boundaries you might be crossing without even knowing it, and how to step back across the line. You're not a mind reader, but you don't have to be one to realize when you're too close for comfort. Personal space is a sacred bubble, and not everyone wants you popping it with your incessant proximity. According to a 2017 study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology by Professor Kenneth V. Vencill, people often underestimate the amount of personal space others require, leading to discomfort and anxiety. Notice the body language cues and listen to the silences—sometimes, they speak louder than words. The whispers of non-verbal communication often go unheard, but they are telling you to step back. A sidelong glance or a subtle lean away might be your first clue. There's a delicate dance to maintaining the right distance, but learning the steps can save you from social missteps. Respecting these invisible boundaries can make or break relationships, whether personal or professional. Your life is fascinating, but it might not need to be an open book to the entire Internet. Social media has blurred the lines between sharing and oversharing, often leaving your audience cringing. Remember, not every meal, emotional breakdown, or existential crisis needs to be posted for public consumption. There's power in the pause, in deciding what to reserve for those truly close to you. It's not just about privacy—oversharing can impact your relationships and even your career. The digital footprint you create today might haunt your tomorrow. Being an open book doesn't mean revealing every chapter to everyone. Curate your online persona with intention, and protect the chapters you'd rather not read aloud to the world. Tread carefully; emotions are not a free-for-all playground. Assuming you have carte blanche to dive into someone's emotional pool can be presumptuous and harmful. Psychology expert Dr. Sharon Martin explains that emotional boundaries are essential for maintaining mental well-being and should be navigated with care. Asking someone about their deepest fears or traumas without invitation can feel more like an interrogation than a caring conversation. Awareness is your ally here. Pay attention to cues that someone may not be ready or willing to share their emotional world. A sincere 'Is it okay if we talk about this?' can often be the key to unlocking comfort and trust. Sometimes, being a good listener means knowing when not to listen. Money talk doesn't always translate to small talk. Assuming transparency about finances can make people uncomfortable, and yet, it's a boundary often crossed without a second thought. Just because you're comfortable discussing your savings strategy or salary doesn't mean everyone else is. Money is a deeply personal matter, interwoven with values, insecurities, and dreams. While financial wisdom might be a popular topic, it doesn't necessitate an open discussion about personal details. It's crucial to be sensitive and respect when someone declines to share their financial situation. You wouldn't walk into someone's house uninvited; don't trespass into their financial affairs either. Build trust first, and remember that discretion can be as enriching as any mutual fund. Extroverts, rejoice—but remember, not everyone shares your zest for socializing. Introverts need their downtime, and pushing them into overstimulation can cross serious personal boundaries. According to Susan Cain, author of "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking," introverts thrive in environments where they can recharge away from the noise and chaos. Respect their need to retreat and recharge rather than dragging them into a whirlwind of activity they didn't sign up for. Recognizing an introvert's boundaries can deepen your relationship with them. They may love your company, but that doesn't mean they want it 24/7. It's not about you; it's about them finding balance in a world designed for extroverts. Accept their declines gracefully, and you'll find they're more likely to say yes when they're ready. Cultural differences are a tapestry that enriches our social fabric, but only if respected and understood. Crossing cultural boundaries, intentionally or not, can create friction and misunderstandings. You might think you're being friendly or inclusive, but without context, your actions could be misinterpreted. A little cultural literacy goes a long way in building harmonious relationships. It's not enough to be well-meaning; you need to be well-informed. Ask questions, do your research, and listen to others' experiences. Remember that not everyone shares your background or views on what constitutes appropriate behavior. Embrace the diversity around you with grace, and your social standing will be all the richer for it. There's nothing quite as deflating as being cut off mid-sentence. Interrupting is more than a social faux pas; it's a boundary violation that diminishes the other person's voice. Harvard researcher Dr. Charles Derber found that conversational narcissism often leads people to dominate discussions rather than engage in genuine dialogue. The art of conversation is not just about speaking; it's about truly listening. Mastering this art requires more than just keeping quiet when someone else is talking. It's about being present, showing interest, and responding thoughtfully. Your silence can speak volumes, showing respect and valuing the other person's input. Don't just wait to talk; make the most of listening, and watch your communication skills soar. Parenting advice is as common as opinions, but it's often unwelcome unless explicitly requested. Assuming you know better about someone else's child can cross significant boundaries. Parents have their own rules, values, and methods, and what works for you might not work for them. Offer support, not unsolicited advice, and remember that every family is its own unique ecosystem. Before chiming in with your two cents, consider the context and the relationship. Are you close enough to offer advice without overstepping? A question like 'Would you like to hear what worked for me?' gives them the autonomy to decide. Respect and understanding can go a long way in building supportive relationships. In our hyper-connected world, the expectation to be constantly available is all too real. Assuming someone is free just because you are crosses a boundary that respects neither time nor personal priorities. People have lives, commitments, and sometimes, the need to just be unavailable. Your urgency is not their emergency, and recognizing this can save relationships from unnecessary strain. Respecting someone's time means acknowledging their schedule without imposing yours. Ask, don't assume, and be prepared for 'no' as a valid and sufficient response. A well-timed 'Is now a good time?' can make all the difference in respecting boundaries. Remember, availability is a choice, not a given. Food is personal, and dietary choices are a boundary that should be respected, not questioned. Whether someone is vegan, gluten-free, or simply has a preference for kale over cookies, it's their choice to make. Pressuring someone to eat something they've chosen not to is not just inconsiderate; it's a breach of personal autonomy. Celebrate diversity on the plate as you would diversity in conversation. Pressuring someone to diverge from their dietary choices can create awkward situations and feelings of disrespect. Just because you're comfortable eating something doesn't mean they have to be. As a host, a guest, or even a fellow diner, respecting food choices shows a maturity and understanding that food is more than sustenance—it's part of identity. Everyone deserves a seat at the table, no matter what's on their plate. In this age of digital transparency, privacy is often an overlooked boundary. Just because you can access someone's online information doesn't mean you should. Cyberstalking or delving into someone's digital life without their consent crosses a line that can have serious consequences. Respecting digital privacy isn't just about legality; it's about integrity. Approaching digital interactions with the same courtesy and respect you would in person is crucial. Don't assume access grants permission. Always ask before sharing someone else's information, photos, or posts. Exercise digital etiquette, and remember, privacy is a right, not a privilege. Mental health is a realm often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. Assuming someone's mental state or offering unsolicited advice can intrude on deeply personal boundaries. Not everyone is ready to share or even discuss their mental health struggles, and pressuring them can cause more harm than help. Approach such topics with sensitivity, empathy, and most importantly, permission. Before diving into mental health conversations, consider whether the person is open to discussing it. A simple 'Would you like to talk about it?' can provide them with the autonomy to choose. Being supportive doesn't mean being intrusive. Sometimes, just being there is enough. The blurred lines between work and personal life have become increasingly common, especially in remote work settings. Assuming someone is always on the clock just because they work from home is a significant boundary infringement. People need time to disconnect, recharge, and live their lives outside of work. Constantly encroaching on that time can lead to burnout and resentment. Respecting colleagues' work-life boundaries means honoring their schedules and understanding the value of downtime. Just because you're available doesn't mean everyone else should be. Encourage balance and be mindful of after-hours communication. A well-rested colleague is a more productive and happier one, and respecting their time can foster a healthier, more respectful workplace environment.
Hindustan Times
22-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Don't force spending time in nature if it gives you no joy: Study
A new study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology's June 2025 volume found that simply enjoying the experience of being in nature is more strongly associated with happiness and life satisfaction than the frequency of outdoor activities. Also read | New pain killer revealed: Study shows the neurological power of nature to relieve physical discomfort Emotional engagement with nature plays a central role in boosting well-being. The study suggests a shift in focus from just visiting nature to emotionally engaging with it as appreciating and enjoying nature can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. More research is needed to understand the complex relationship between physical contact with nature and well-being – but by emphasising the importance of emotional engagement with nature, the study provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between nature and human well-being. Interestingly, as per the findings, physical contact with nature might not directly enhance well-being and could even negatively influence the relationship when considered alongside perceptual enjoyment. So, if people do not find joy in the visit, being in nature may actually reduce their happiness or life satisfaction. 'I am a survey methodologist, but subjective well-being, particularly happiness and life satisfaction, and environmental issues have been my research interests since graduate school,' said study author Pei-shan Liao of the Research Center for Humanities and Social Sciences at Academia Sinica. Pei-shan added, 'This publication is part of a series based on my research. Another key objective is to promote and validate the question items on nature contact and enjoyment. These items, derived from the ISSP 2020 Environment module, were proposed by the Taiwanese team to measure positive aspects of natural environment through intentional interaction. We are happy and satisfied with the results.' For their study, the researchers used data from the 2020 Taiwan Social Change Survey, a nationally representative dataset collected from over 1,800 adults across Taiwan between June 2020 and February 2021. The survey focused on environmental issues and included questions about participants' frequency of outdoor activities, how much they enjoyed being in nature, their general happiness, and life satisfaction. The researchers also accounted for several background variables known to influence well-being, including age, gender, income, marital status, education, employment status, religious activity, perceived health, and social status. Researchers found that enjoyment of nature was a strong predictor of outdoor activity frequency, meaning that people who enjoyed nature more were also more likely to spend time outside. When examining happiness, they found that enjoyment of nature was consistently associated with higher happiness scores. However, physical contact with nature—how often people actually went outside—was not positively related to happiness. In fact, after adjusting for possible statistical bias, greater physical engagement with nature showed a surprising negative association with happiness. 'The negative association between visiting nature and subjective well-being, including both happiness and life satisfaction, surprised us,' Liao said, adding, 'We have tried different coding scheme for data analysis but the findings remained the same. It is possible that enjoying contact with nature makes people want to engage in outdoor activities more than they are actually able to, which may lead to dissatisfaction with their situation. Such results may also be attributed to the study's non-Western setting. It will be great to have data from more countries to further examine the issue.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
