3 personality traits that could help you live longer 🖖 

Personality might be more than just a reflection of who you are…it could be a clue to how long you’ll live. 

A massive international study found that three key traits, conscientiousness, extraversion, and agreeableness, predict longevity. 

Why? 

• Conscientious people are more likely to follow health advice

• Extraverts stay socially engaged (which supports mental and physical health)

• Agreeable folks maintain strong relationships that reduce stress. 

But don’t wait too long to flex these traits. 

Researchers suggest lifelong patterns matter more than last-minute personality makeovers.

Thinking of becoming more conscientious? Now’s a good time to start. Otherwise… better luck in your next life.

Read the full report here 👈

No sponsors today… 😥 

But if you’re interested in taking this slot for Friday 28th Feb or Monday 3rd March … reply to this email!

Turning off phone notifications may not be beneficial ⛔

We’ve all heard the advice: turn off notifications to stop doomscrolling and reclaim your sanity. 

But a new study suggests that ditching push notifications doesn’t actually cut screen time and, in fact,  it might even increase your fear of missing out. 

In an experiment with over 200 Android users, those who disabled notifications didn’t check their phones any less. Instead of responding to pings, users checked their phones out of habit, proving that screen addiction runs deeper than alerts.

The takeaway here is that breaking a smartphone habit isn’t as simple as hitting airplane mode. Maybe the real trick is putting the phone out of sight.

Or, you know, developing the self-control of a Zen master. 

Check out the full study here 👈

Your mental health may control inflammation 🔥

According to research, Inflammation isn't just down to injuries or diet, it’s also shaped by psychological factors. 

A study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research suggests that a sense of control, purpose in life, and social support act as “psychosocial anti-inflammatories,” helping reduce chronic inflammation and improve long-term health. 

Researchers also found that people who feel powerless or unsupported are more prone to inflammation-related conditions. They stated that this is likely due to increased stress and fewer health-promoting behaviours. 

So if your goal is to lower inflammation, consider not just diet and exercise but also how you feel about your life. After all, stress might be the most forgotten about junk food.

Read the full report here 👈

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See you in the next one,

Dan from Cognitive Crumbs