“Whatever you think it is, it self-evidently exists, because the universe means something to each of us. But I would argue that whatever it is, it's an emergent property. So it exists here on Earth because there are complex biological systems. Without those complex biological systems, it doesn't exist. There is no meaning. We bring meaning to it.”
— Brian Cox
Theoretical Physicist & TV Science Communicator

The quote archive

Psychology

A growing archive of 3,000+ moments, drawn from every interview.

For me, it's about the power of storytelling. Everything we do is rooted in story. People resonate with stories. I can't tell you how many times I've sat with some of the most famous or richest people in the world, and when you share a story, you can see them reflecting on their own families, their own experiences.

— Afam Onyema

I woke up every day both inspired and terrified by the thought of building something from scratch and helping to save lives. It's a pretty good way to live, being both inspired and terrified.

— Afam Onyema

There are situations that we could potentially change. However, due to habituation, we might not notice them as much. This also applies to societal issues like racism or sexism—because they've been present for so long, we might not notice them as much and therefore feel less motivated to address them.

— Tali Sharot

Neuroscientist known for research on optimism bias and decision-making

Taking breaks can help us re-engage with the things we've grown accustomed to. Many people experience this when they go away for a business trip and return home, suddenly appreciating their family, home, and even the view from their window more than before.

— Tali Sharot

Neuroscientist known for research on optimism bias and decision-making

We also habituate to the positive things in our lives. Most of us have good things—whether it's an interesting job, a loving relationship, or a comfortable home. However, because these things have been present for a long time, they may not bring us as much daily joy as they once did.

— Tali Sharot

Neuroscientist known for research on optimism bias and decision-making

Research shows that individuals who are slower to habituate to negative events tend to be more prone to depression. This ability to habituate is crucial for moving forward.

— Tali Sharot

Neuroscientist known for research on optimism bias and decision-making

Habituation is a very basic mechanism. It's something we find in every neuron and every system of our brain, including our fundamental abilities like perception. Essentially, we stop responding to and perceiving things that are not changing or are changing very gradually.

— Tali Sharot

Neuroscientist known for research on optimism bias and decision-making

I looked at it and thought, 'How can something this simple be so compelling?' It was compelling enough for me to take time out of the Consumer Electronics Show to go back and play over and over. I mean, I was hooked from the first time I played it.

— Henk Rogers

Tetris video game rights holder & Blue Planet Project founder

I can't make people do anything. What I can do is find the right people—those who fit the culture—and let their humanity shine. Then, I need to create the support and mechanisms for that to happen.

— Ron Shaich

Founder and former CEO of Panera Bread Company

If you don't love the act of doing, you'll never find happiness. If your motivation is glory or money, you're bound to be disappointed. If you're more excited about lunch with investment bankers than dealing with the day-to-day realities, you'll end up unhappy.

— Ron Shaich

Founder and former CEO of Panera Bread Company

I think that if you care about something, then you have a mission. Knowing that, and that your specific set of skills and experience brings something special to that mission, are key.

— Cady Coleman

NASA Astronaut & Space Shuttle Mission Specialist

Mental resilience comes from knowing, deep down, that you're supposed to be where you are. Confidence in your purpose is crucial. By focusing on the next step while keeping the big picture in mind, you can effectively accomplish the mission.

— Cady Coleman

NASA Astronaut & Space Shuttle Mission Specialist

We need to challenge the notion that if you don't feel like a superhero, then you must not be the right person for the job. Today's most important challenges are met by teams of people, as opposed to a single superhero.

— Cady Coleman

NASA Astronaut & Space Shuttle Mission Specialist

Being underestimated often brings out the best in me. It's not just about overcoming insecurity but leveraging it as a catalyst to ensure that I bring everything I have to the mission and that I muster the courage to show people who I really am.

— Cady Coleman

NASA Astronaut & Space Shuttle Mission Specialist

Trust is the golden thread that runs through not just a kidnap negotiation or a business deal, but life in general. It takes a long time to build, but it's lost in an instant. Trust is about following through—doing what you say you're going to do.

— Scott Walker

Wisconsin Governor and 2016 Presidential Candidate

Self-awareness—the ability to emotionally self-regulate, which is the number one skill of the world's best negotiators. It's about tapping into your red centre and asking, 'What's really showing up for me right now?' It's about recognizing your biases, unhelpful thinking, or negative intentions.

— Scott Walker

Wisconsin Governor and 2016 Presidential Candidate