Thursday, November 5, 2026
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What’s Working

For readers looking for what’s still working in the world

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Growth

Learning, healing, and becoming more whole.

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GrowthUpworthy

Wharton researcher discovers money can buy happiness. But these 3 other things matter just as much.

Money's relationship with happiness has long been debated, and Matt Killingsworth's research at Wharton offers a nuanced perspective. His findings suggest a linear increase in happiness with income, challenging previous thoughts that happiness plateaus beyond a certain income level. Yet, Killingsworth emphasizes that while financial resources can ease burdens and enhance joy, particularly for the least happy individuals, other factors like experiences, anticipation, and mindfulness are equally critical.

  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
  • Hope
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GrowthNice News

Life Magazine Is Relaunching After 20 Years — Take a Look Back at Some of Its Most Iconic Photos

Life Magazine's return after a two-decade hiatus is a testament to the enduring power of visual storytelling and its capacity to capture the essence of an era. Founded in the throes of the Great Depression, Life originally harnessed the burgeoning power of photojournalism to offer Americans a new lens through which to view their world. Now, as it reemerges under the stewardship of Bedford Media, Life seeks once again to find the extraordinary in the ordinary, promising a fresh perspective on contemporary life.

  • Hope
  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
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GrowthUpworthy

Night owls aren’t lazy. Psychologists say they have 6 unique personality traits that set them apart.

The article challenges the stereotype of night owls as lazy, offering a nuanced perspective that highlights their unique strengths and personality traits. Rather than being a result of indiscipline, the preference for late-night activity is attributed to a genetic variant, suggesting that night owls are naturally wired for evening productivity. This understanding can help reframe societal perceptions and encourage night owls to embrace their natural tendencies, potentially improving their mood and relationships.

  • Curiosity
  • Courage
  • Independence
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GrowthUpworthy

A study followed ‘gifted’ kids for over 50 years. Here’s what we’ve learned about them.

The Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth (SMPY), a landmark study initiated by psychologist Julian Stanley in the 1970s, has provided profound insights into the lives of gifted children over more than five decades. Tracking over 5,000 participants, the study has debunked myths such as the notion that early academic acceleration harms long-term well-being. Instead, it highlights the importance of nurturing gifted students' talents and interests, revealing that intelligence alone doesn't guarantee success without guidance and hard work.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
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GrowthGood News Network

Romans Made Color-Changing Glass–and We’ve Just Replicated After 1,600 Years

The story of the Lycurgus Cup, a Roman artifact housed in the British Museum, is a testament to ancient ingenuity and modern perseverance. The cup, crafted from dichroic glass, exhibits a unique color-changing property that has puzzled scientists for centuries. Recently, a team led by glass technical specialist Lisa Hollands successfully replicated this feat using 4th-century techniques, revealing the Romans' sophisticated use of nanotechnology.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
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GrowthUpworthy

Scientists hoped to revive dead reefs by putting speakers underwater. Then the fish showed up.

In an innovative approach to reef restoration, scientists have devised a method using underwater loudspeakers to mimic the vibrant sounds of healthy coral reefs. This 'acoustic enrichment' initiative was first tested on the Great Barrier Reef, where recordings of natural reef sounds were played in areas of dead coral. The results were promising, with fish populations doubling and biodiversity increasing by 50%, as the soundscape attracted juvenile fish back to the area. Each fish species plays a critical role in the reef's ecosystem, and their return signifies a step toward ecological recovery.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Courage
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GrowthUpworthy

Therapists explain how dwelling on ‘unfinished business’ can actually benefit your brain

The article delves into the Zeigarnik effect, a psychological phenomenon where unfinished tasks linger in our minds more than completed ones. Originating from Bluma Zeigarnik's observations of waiters who remembered unpaid orders better, this effect highlights how our brains are wired to keep track of incomplete tasks. Contrary to being a mere annoyance, this mental persistence can enhance memory retention and focus, providing a natural mechanism to improve learning and productivity.

  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
  • Hope
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GrowthUpworthy

Precocious toddler drums and sings ‘Pocketful of Sunshine’ with stunning precision

In a world often dominated by tales of hardship and struggle, Remi Steinert, a four-year-old musical wunderkind, offers a heartening counter-narrative. His stunning ability to drum and sing 'Pocketful of Sunshine' with precision has captivated audiences, highlighting the extraordinary potential that can reside in the smallest of packages. Remi's story isn't just about innate talent; it's a testament to the beauty of nurturing that talent within a supportive environment. His mother, Jessica, has recognized his musical proclivities from an early age, allowing for a natural progression that has already seen him perform at the Grand Ole Opry, a feat that speaks volumes about his burgeoning capabilities.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Curiosity
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GrowthUpworthy

A student accidentally created a rechargeable battery that she says could last 400 years

In a serendipitous moment of exploration, Mya Le Thai, a doctoral candidate at the University of California, Irvine, stumbled upon a potential game-changer in the realm of battery technology. By experimenting with nanowires and coating them with manganese dioxide and a gel, she discovered a method to significantly extend the life of rechargeable batteries. This breakthrough could lead to batteries that last up to 400 years, drastically reducing waste and transforming industries reliant on battery power.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
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GrowthUpworthy

Clothing expert explains how Norwegian sweater designs make them warmer than a wool coat

In the world of textiles, Norwegian sweaters hold a special place, not just for their intricate designs but for their remarkable functionality. The article highlights how these sweaters, crafted through the art of stranded knitting, are warmer than traditional wool coats. This technique involves using two strands of yarn, creating a double-layered insulation that is both efficient and visually captivating. The designs, far from being mere decoration, serve a practical purpose by anchoring the yarns and enhancing the garment's warmth.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
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GrowthUpworthy

In the ’90s, 28,000 rubber ducks fell into the ocean. Scientists mapped their incredible global journey.

In a serendipitous twist of fate, the accidental release of 28,000 rubber ducks into the ocean in 1992 transformed into an unprecedented scientific study, revealing the vast reach of ocean currents. As these 'Friendly Floatees' journeyed across the globe, they provided vital data that challenged and refined existing models of oceanic movement. The ducks, designed without holes, floated on currents, reaching shores from Alaska to the Arctic and eventually into the Atlantic, even passing the Titanic's resting site. This whimsical yet profound journey captured the imagination of scientists and the public alike, highlighting both the power of ocean currents and the pervasive issue of plastic waste.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
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GrowthUpworthy

Pamela Anderson stopped wearing makeup three years ago, embracing ‘rebellious’ way to age gracefully

Pamela Anderson's decision to forego makeup in favor of embracing her natural aging process is a significant departure from her iconic image as a glamorously made-up star of the '90s. Motivated in part by the loss of her longtime makeup artist, Anderson's choice reflects a broader narrative of self-acceptance and redefining beauty standards. Her statement, "I will not be told what beautiful is," underscores a personal rebellion against societal expectations, allowing her to find comfort and authenticity in her own skin.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Self-Acceptance
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GrowthUpworthy

New ‘chronoworkers’ trend lets employees choose their hours based on when they’re sharpest

The concept of 'chronoworking' is gaining traction as a solution to the misalignment many feel with the traditional 9-to-5 workday. By allowing employees to work during their peak productivity hours, determined by their circadian rhythms, this approach promises to enhance both personal well-being and workplace efficiency. A survey by Robert Walters indicates that a significant majority of workers are eager to adopt such flexible schedules, anticipating improvements in mental health and productivity.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perspective
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GrowthUpworthy

Homeowner who couldn’t stand dead lawn is blown away after planting ‘Garden In A Box’

In the arid and rocky terrain of Colorado, a homeowner's transformation of a barren lawn into a vibrant garden serves as a testament to the power of sustainable landscaping. Using the innovative 'Garden In A Box' program, a collaboration between Denver Water and Resource Central, the homeowner not only revitalized their outdoor space but also contributed to significant water conservation efforts. The program, which provides easy-to-use kits with 15-30 plants and detailed planting guides, has saved Colorado residents a staggering 240 million gallons of water since its inception, demonstrating that beauty and sustainability can indeed go hand in hand.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
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GrowthUpworthy

100 years ago, a rogue Washington geologist faced ridicule for his ‘catastrophic’ theory. He was right.

J. Harlen Bretz, a geologist once ridiculed for his radical theory of a cataclysmic flood shaping the Channeled Scablands of Eastern Washington, was ultimately vindicated. Bretz's meticulous fieldwork led him to hypothesize that the dramatic landscape was carved by a massive flood, a claim dismissed by the scientific community of the time, which favored gradual geological change. It wasn't until decades later, with the discovery of Glacial Lake Missoula as the flood's source, that Bretz's theory gained acceptance, fundamentally altering geological science.

  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
  • Courage
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GrowthUpworthy

Doctor shares 60-second dementia test that can help adults spot early mental decline

Dr. Laurence Quinn's introduction of a 60-second dementia test highlights a simple yet effective method for detecting early signs of cognitive decline. The test, known as the animal fluency test, requires individuals to name as many animals as possible within a minute, offering a quick and accessible way to gauge mental agility. Dr. Quinn emphasizes that while the test is not a diagnostic tool, it provides valuable data that can prompt further medical evaluation if needed.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perspective
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GrowthUpworthy

6 unexpected traits of highly successful people

The article on Upworthy challenges the conventional view of success by highlighting six unexpected traits that contribute to achievement. It suggests that traits like gratitude, the ability to synthesize ideas, and maintaining a sense of awe can be as crucial as ambition. By presenting examples from successful individuals, such as Taylor Swift, who connects disparate ideas creatively, the piece illustrates how these traits can lead to innovative achievements and sustained passion.

  • Gratitude
  • Curiosity
  • Hope
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GrowthNice News

3 Ways Empowerment Starts at Home — For My Daughter and Girls Everywhere

Jessica Jackley's piece on empowering young women is both a personal narrative and a global call to action. Through the lens of her daughter Soraya's experiences, Jackley illustrates how empowerment is cultivated through education, confidence, and freedom. These foundational elements are taught in everyday moments at home, where Soraya's assertiveness is encouraged, and through the impactful work of organizations like VOW for Girls, which fights against child marriage and promotes education for girls worldwide.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
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GrowthUpworthy

Author explains his yearly ‘1-6-4 system’ for becoming a more interesting person

Jesse Itzler's '1-6-4 system' offers a structured yet flexible approach to personal growth, aiming to make individuals more interesting by encouraging deliberate life choices. The system emphasizes three key components: a yearly 'Misogi' or significant challenge, six bi-monthly 'mini-adventures' that break routine, and four 'winning habits' added quarterly to enhance daily life. This method encourages individuals to prioritize their own aspirations over external demands by literally marking these goals on a calendar, thus embedding them into one's life fabric.

  • Hope
  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
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GrowthUpworthy

Neuroscientists say a simple trick will help you learn any new skill a lot faster

In an intriguing twist on the traditional approach to skill acquisition, neuroscientists at the University of Oregon have unveiled a method that combines active practice with passive exposure to significantly speed up learning. This dual approach suggests that while active practice—such as playing an instrument or studying a language—is essential, passive exposure to related sensory stimuli can enhance the learning process. Whether it's listening to blues music while learning the guitar or watching cooking shows while tackling culinary skills, passive exposure keeps the skill top-of-mind and quietly contributes to skill mastery.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
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GrowthUpworthy

A neurologist shares the 3-minute drawing test that can help determine if someone has dementia

In the realm of neurology, where complex imaging and high-tech diagnostics often reign supreme, the simplicity of a clock-drawing test stands out. The test, which involves drawing a clock face with the hands set to a specific time, is a component of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, providing a quick, accessible way to gauge cognitive function. This test taps into visuospatial ability and executive function, challenging the brain to perform a task that seems elementary but requires intricate coordination of memory, spatial awareness, and planning.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
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GrowthUpworthy

Researchers dumped coffee waste into a forest and couldn’t believe what it looked like 2 years later

In a remarkable experiment set in Costa Rica, researchers from ETH-Zurich and the University of Hawaii transformed a deforested area by applying a thick layer of coffee pulp. This organic waste, typically seen as an environmental burden, was spread over a degraded plot, leading to an astonishing transformation into a small forest within just two years. The treated area boasted an 80% canopy cover, significantly outperforming the nearby control plot, which remained dominated by non-native grasses. The coffee pulp not only accelerated forest regeneration but also suppressed invasive species, allowing native flora to reclaim the land.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
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GrowthUpworthy

New Orleans was tossing bottles into landfills, so students upcycled 14 million lbs of glass into coastal sand

In a city where glass bottles were destined for landfills, two enterprising Tulane University students, Franziska Trautmann and Max Steitz, saw an opportunity to tackle both waste and coastal erosion. Their initiative, Glass Half Full, began humbly with a machine in a fraternity backyard but has since grown into a significant environmental effort. By transforming 14 million pounds of glass into sand, they are actively contributing to the restoration of Louisiana's eroding coastlines, while also setting an example of how grassroots innovation can address multifaceted ecological challenges.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
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GrowthUpworthy

She bought the perfect wedding dress that went viral on TikTok, for $3.75

In a world where wedding costs continue to soar, Jillian Lynch's story offers a refreshing counter-narrative. With the average wedding dress priced at $2,000, Lynch's savvy thrift shopping resulted in a stunning find—a brand new, tagged Camila Coelho dress for just $3.75. Her TikTok post showcasing this achievement quickly went viral, resonating with millions who are rethinking the traditional, expensive wedding model. Through minimal alterations and thrifted accessories, Lynch transformed her wedding look for a total of $113.75, demonstrating that elegance and personal satisfaction need not come with a hefty price tag.

  • Gratitude
  • Curiosity
  • Perspective

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HopeResilienceGratitudeConnectionCourageKindnessCreativity