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Science Explains How Loneliness Can Decrease Heart and Brain Health

November 7, 2022 by Chris Butler

Loneliness is a gut-wrenching problem at any age and can affect your heart and brain health. It increases the chances of depression and anxiety and causes severe cognitive deficits. Isolation alters the very neurochemistry in your brain, which causes it to turn off your dopamine neurons.

Without sufficient levels of dopamine, many brain functions decrease. A lack of this vital neurotransmitter may cause degeneration, says a Duke University study from 2015. Researchers looked at the cognitive function of people who spend too much time in solitude.

The study found that isolated people had higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol. People who spent much time in isolation performed at a lower cognitive level than those well socialized. The issue is that folks are more isolated now than ever, overwhelmingly affecting your heart and brain health.

Living in a digital age with video games, the internet, and people working remotely leaves the door wide open for folks to separate from those on the outside. It seems like the world wide web should make it easier to make friends, so why are folks lonelier than ever?

What Loneliness Does to Heart and Brain Health

Three out of every five Americans suffer from loneliness, affecting their heart health and overall well-being. It’s unfathomable to think that so many systems can be out of whack just by spending too much time in solitude.

These overwhelming feelings of isolation can affect every system in your body. Researchers found that being alone affects your heart and brain health, and here’s how.

1. It Alters Decision-Making Processes

It’s overwhelming to think that being lonely can alter your decision-making abilities. A study by the American Psychological Association in 2021 found that some brain regions were impacted more than others. The prefrontal cortex, located behind your forehead, showed the most trouble.

This region helps to form your personality, but it’s also responsible for assisting you in your decision-making process. The executive functions in this region are vital for your ability to function with good brain health, and it can even affect your self-esteem when this zone is not working correctly.

2. Causes a Decrease in Heart Health

Your heart health takes a direct hit when you spend your time in solitude. Being alone can cause significant stress, which will only increase your stress hormones.

When the body is in this state, it causes the blood pressure to increase as the heart must work harder. Additionally, this can cause hardening of the arteries as the blood vessels work overtime to keep up with the demands on the heart.

3. Impaired Immune System

An impaired immune system can affect your brain and heart health, as being more susceptible to disease takes a toll on the whole body. When you’re isolated from others, it lowers your body’s threshold against foreign invaders. Your system can only handle so much as it becomes overwhelming.

It has a choice as it can either focus on the viral or bacterial invasions attacking it. Under this state of impaired immunity, you have less ability to fight cancer and other sicknesses that you encounter.

4. Causes Antisocial Behavior

The more you are alone, the easier it is to stay alone. Your prison of solitude may become your area of comfort. The longer you stay away from people, the more dramatic impact it can have on your brain health.

Antisocial behavior can be genetic or learned patterns, and some folks find that being alone is better than being in social settings. Therefore, many folks with social anxiety who refuse to push through these pangs often develop agoraphobia and can’t leave home.

5. Poor Sleep Impacts Both Brain and Heart Health

Did you know that people who suffer from loneliness often sleep less than those who are well-socialized? The findings come from King’s College in London. They found that solitude affects sleep quality and often causes you to wake up often at night.

This means you will spend less time getting the restorative benefits you need to thrive. Additionally, folks who don’t get beneficial rest have daytime drowsiness and poor concentration levels.

6. Makes You at a Higher Risk of Suicide Due to a Decrease in Brain Health

Loneliness is one of the critical issues found in many suicidal patients. Not only is isolation a horrible feeling, but it can be a deadly trap. People who don’t have family and friends they connect with feel that there’s often no reason to live. So when depression hits them like a wave crashing on the shore, they believe taking their life is the only way out.

7. Changes Your Emotional State

While your heart health is undoubtedly affected by your emotions, it also affects other areas. The insula controls the socio-emotional function of your brain. This region is heavily involved in multiple facets of your reactions, which can dictate how you respond to situations.

The insula is quite a busy location, as it’s stimulated when you experience any emotions or feelings. Even a bodily sensation like an upset stomach can activate this center and cause the effect to be more profound. Your emotional state is negatively enhanced when you experience isolation.

8. Causes Vascular Resistance and Decreased Heart Health

Your chances of dying from heart disease increase when you’re isolated. Did you know that being alone can be just as bad as having hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and being a regular smoker all rolled together? It’s profound when you consider that your heart health is so impacted by being alone that it can cause so much damage and lead to disease.

9. Affects How You Approach a Social Situation

Everyone likes to do a good job and earn a reward for their efforts. The ventral striatum area of your brain is responsible for your feelings of reward. It relies on dopamine to help you feel the effects of a job well done.

When it comes to your ability to do pretty much anything, your brain health and motivation depend on dopamine. One article explained how loneliness could affect your ability to seek interaction with other humans. When you don’t activate this area of the brain, it can alter your social response.

Assume that you go to the doctor’s office, and your social anxiety and feelings of isolation are working on your brain health that day. Someone passes you; they smile, being friendly, but you don’t know how to react. Rather than smiling back, inviting them for coffee, or sitting and chatting while you wait, your mind wanders on the negative things.

Perhaps this person was smiling because they didn’t like your shirt, or they were making fun of you in their mind. When you’re not around people daily, you automatically go into this cycle because you don’t know how to react. Your social interaction becomes out of touch, and sadly, making friends and having an active life outside your home becomes impossible.

10. Higher Risk of Loss of Brain Health and Dementia

Much research exists on brain health and those who spend time alone. People in solitude have a higher risk of developing dementia and experiencing cognitive decline. Scientists are only beginning to understand what being lonely does to the brain, but it’s an area of research gaining attention.

A 2016 study in JAMA Psychiatry examined older adults with normal cognitive function. Those lonely participants showed differences on the PET scans given, as there was more amyloid, a protein deposit, in the brain. Build-up like this in the brain is known to cause dementia, which is a concern for all.

Final Thoughts on Loneliness and Heart and Brain Health

When it comes to your heart, you must treat your loneliness just as seriously as you would diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity. It can have just as profound an effect on your heart health and cause severe damage. Loneliness is a problem often observed in middle-aged or older people, as they no longer have school and active social outlets to keep them engaged.

The key to good heart and brain health is to develop strong social ties and a network of people you can trust. Even if you suffer from social anxiety and depression, you can still get out and mingle within your comfort zone. When you stay isolated behind four walls, you’re more likely to engage in activities like drinking and smoking, and you will exercise less.

Lonely people simply become lonelier if they don’t force themselves to get out and be among people. Social media doesn’t count as adequate outlets, as you need the stimulation that only comes from being face-to-face.

Women With Kids Age Fastest, According to Science

November 7, 2022 by Power of Positivity

You may be like countless other women who are concerned about the effects of aging. The appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, aches, and pains are inevitable reminders of life’s brevity. Who knew that having children may also put a few extra years on your time clock?

Do Mothers Age Faster?

Many say there is no higher calling than being a mother. Even though raising your kids can sometimes be frustrating, you wouldn’t trade them for the world. However, some scientific evidence may agree when you say that your children are turning your hair prematurely gray.

A study compares mothers to women who do not have children. The outcome, they say, shows how women with children may age approximately eleven years faster than their childless peers. It all concerns a compound called telomeres and how it affects DNA and aging cells.

This premature aging appears to be greater than in studies concerning female obesity and smoking. After reading this information, you may be hesitant to become a mother if you aren’t already. However, the article quickly indicates that this study doesn’t have the last word.

It also discusses the study’s primary author, Anna Pollock. According to Pollock and her colleagues, the study should be interpreted cautiously. Other factors affect aging, and more research about telomeres is needed. Regardless, it is fascinating data to consider.

The article includes a study published by PLOSone that contradicts the first one. After studying a community of Mayan women, the evidence suggests that the more children they have, the longer the telomere molecules. The study concludes that such a condition could delay the effects of cellular aging.

Negative Health Risks of Motherhood

Having your babies was probably the happiest moment of your life. When they put that little one in your arms for the first time, the pain of labor was worth it. You probably never thought of the risks you take for being a mom.

1. Pregnancy and Childbirth

If you’ve ever been pregnant, you know how challenging it can be for your body. Statistics published by the Centers for Disease Control state that childbearing is the sixth leading cause of death among American women. It was among the past centuries’ top reasons for female mortality worldwide.

So, pregnancy and birthing a child are risks in themselves. The good news is that most mothers are still happy and healthy after birth. Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, childbirth isn’t as risky as it once was.

2. Stress of Child Rearing on Women

Talk to any woman with children, and you’ll get the same response. Although they adore their kids and would give their lives for them, they’re still nerve-racking. Not only do you have the stress of childbirth, but also the stress of raising them.

According to a study published by The National Library of Medicine, women with children report a higher stress level than those without children. Chronic stress can lead to physical and mental health disorders. The possible risks are diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and premature aging.

3. Women With Kids Face a Higher Risk of Obesity

Once you’ve carried and birthed a child, your figure will probably never be the same. It’s not unusual for a mother to gain thirty to forty pounds during pregnancy. You may also experience an extended abdomen, swollen feet and hands, stretch marks, and possibly hemorrhoids.

Maybe you were able to lose that weight gain and return to your pre-pregnancy weight.

An article published by the National Library of Medicine offers promising news. Most mothers lose half of their pregnancy weight about six weeks after giving birth.

Unfortunately, having children lead some mothers on the path to obesity. An article published by Preventative Medicine states that obesity is often a complaint of younger mothers with several children. Of course, obesity is a leading cause of many life-threatening diseases.

4. Changes in the Feet of Women

If you had problems during your pregnancy, like water retention or pre-eclampsia, your feet might have stayed swollen. After you have your baby, the cute little pumps you wore before pregnancy may no longer fit. It’s common, says an article published by the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.

Pregnant mothers often develop permanent loss of arch height, explains the article. Therefore, it makes your foot a bit longer, and you may need a larger shoe size. More research is required to learn how to prevent this change.

Possible Negative Effects of Going Childless

Thank goodness that a woman’s worth doesn’t hinge on her ability to have children anymore. Today, thousands of females enjoy a beautiful and satisfying life without being a mother. It can be a medical reason or even more so by choice.

Some ladies just aren’t born with a maternal instinct. Many would rather dote on their nieces and nephews instead of having their own little ones. Some women have zero tolerance for kids’ antics, so they choose not to have any.

Some studies suggest that a woman without children may live longer than a mother with children. Also, you may not have the stress of raising them. However, going childless may also have possible health risks.

An article published by Johnson Memorial Health says that women who have never given birth are more at risk for breast cancer. They may also be more susceptible to ovarian, endometrial, and uterine tumors. Medical experts say that more research is needed.

Possible Health Benefits of Childbirth for Women

As a mother, you probably wouldn’t have chosen not to have children, regardless of the risks. Even if your child-free peers lived longer, you wouldn’t trade one of your kids for immortality. Besides the joy your children bring to your heart, there are other benefits to consider.

1. Children May Boost Happiness in Women

How often have you declared that your kids drive you up the wall? There’s no denying that raising children and teens can stress you. However, a study published by Open University in the United Kingdom found that mothers are happier with their lives than their child-free peers.

2. May Lower Your Blood Pressure

Believe it or not, having your little darlings may decrease your blood pressure, suggests a study by Brigham Young University. The study suggests that although raising children can be stressful, they give purpose to your life. It’s associated with lower blood pressure and better health outcomes, especially for mothers.

3. May Increase Your Self-Esteem

Perhaps nothing melts your heart more when your little one hugs you and proclaims you the “best Mommy ever.” By nature, children say whatever is on their minds. It makes you feel good when they give you honest praise and trust you beyond measure.

4. Your Children Keep Women Grounded

When you see the world through your child’s eyes, it boosts your creativity and curiosity. They are awed by the magic of glowing fireflies or how the moon seems to follow you as you travel. Their natural optimism is contagious and encourages you to count your blessings.

5. Care in Your Golden Years

Having children also means that they’ll be there for you as you get older. Plus, you’ll have the joy of spending time with your grandchildren. Being part of a multi-generational family is priceless.

The Connection Between Childbearing and Aging

Another factor of childbearing is how late in life mothers choose to have their children. Since infant mortality was historically high, mothers were encouraged to marry early and have as many children as possible. Consequently, the stress of having one child after another was a leading cause of mothers dying during childbirth.

In modern times, mothers are waiting longer to have children, according to an article published by the Boston University School of Medicine. Researchers compared mothers who had children past thirty-three and those who had their last child before thirty. The statistics suggest that the first group of mothers tended to live longer than the second group.

The article further discusses that those represented in the first group may be linked to the evolution of genetic variants. These variants may slow the aging process and decrease age-related genes. So, mothers who wait may have an advantage over those who start having children earlier.

What about the women who have their first little one past forty? The same research compared this group to those who had their last child before forty. Statistics suggest that the first group is four times more likely to live to be a hundred than the second group.

Final Thoughts on Longevity of Women with Children and Those Without

Studies about this question are academically sound yet have contradicting outcomes. However, they all agree that the findings warrant more research. It’s your choice whether to have children or not, but it seems that the blessings far outweigh any physical concerns.

Police Arrest 100-Year-Old Because It Was on Her Bucket List

November 6, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

The thought of a bucket list can be daunting because it’s a list of things you want to do before you die. However, it’s also exciting because it encourages you to achieve your dreams before it’s too late. One woman reached her 100^th birthday without crossing the last item off her bucket list, and police officers made it happen.

Her request may seem unusual, but everyone has different ideas of what they want to experience. Some items on your list might be serious, while others are silly. Either way, crossing these things off your list is exciting because it creates memories and helps you find joy.

While a bucket list often lists exciting things you want to do, it can bring a sense of death as it reminds you of your mortality. You might not want to think about death, potentially causing anxiety from feeling like you have limited time to complete all your goals. However, it also brings fulfillment, encouraging you to do the things you’ve always dreamed of.

Police Arrest 100-Year-Old to Help her Fulfill her Bucket List on Her Birthday

Everyone has different things they want to experience on their bucket list, including 100-year-old Jean Bicketon. Bicketon had never gotten arrested, preventing her from completing her list. At her 100th birthday party, police in Victoria, Australia, arrested Bicketon to help her fulfill her dream.

Bicketon is a former army nurse living at the Narracan Gardens Residential Aged Care facility. The officers staged a mock arrest, detailing her during her birthday festivities. Before the arrest, the police filled the resident in on the plan to avoid scaring them.

The officers used their lights and sirens, giving the full effect before placing Bicketon in handcuffs. They announced that she was officially under arrest, leading to Jean describing it as one of the best celebrations.

The officers posted on Facebook, “Now these kinda arrests, we’re happy to make. For many, getting through life without being arrested is a pretty good run.” They added, “So, when we heard of Jean’s wishes, our team at Moe station were ready to step in and help check it off.”

Benefits Of Having a Bucket List

Having a bucket list is more than a fun experience. It also offers many benefits, including:

Encouraging You to Accomplish Your Dreams

A birthday reminds you that you have limited time on earth. That reminder is a good thing because it encourages you to accomplish the things that bring fulfillment. It pushes you to do what’s essential to you during your short time here.

Nourishing Your Spirit

Experiencing things that excite you and achieving your dreams nourishes your spirit. It helps you feel fulfilled, pushing you to live the life of your dreams.

Allowing You to do Things You Enjoy

When you do what you love, it helps you feel energized and at peace with your life. It prevents burnout and reduces stress. Consider adding hobbies and fun activities to your bucket list so that you’re more likely to make time for those things.

If traveling is on your list, vacations reduce stress while improving life satisfaction. You don’t have to travel far for the effects, and a staycation can work, too.

Realizing Your Values

You’ll become more aware of your values if you make a bucket list. It helps you identify what’s essential to you, making you shift your thinking to how you can accomplish it. Realizing your values also helps you spend your time wisely to achieve more.

Staying Focused on Your Goals

When you have a list of things to accomplish, it helps you remember your goals. Without the reminder, you might put things off and let time get away from you. Keeping a list reminds you of your goals and encourages you to take steps to accomplish them.

Inspiring Creativity

Having a bucket list to reference can help inspire your creativity. You’ll think of new ways to accomplish your goals and make life meaningful. It also encourages you to do things that inspire you and help you find what you want in life.

Tracking Memorable Experiences

You can use your bucket list to track memorable experiences. It will push you to do things you otherwise wouldn’t have experienced. These experiences often end up being some of the best memories in your life.

Allows You to Make Necessary Life Adjustments

Having a list to reference can help you see which areas of your life need adjustments. You might be following societal expectations when you should be on a different path. Recognizing your life dreams can help you determine which areas of your life you should change to head in the right direction.

Promotes Focus

When you have a bucket list, you’ll have an easier time staying focused on living the life of your dreams. You’ll be less likely to get distracted by social media, TV, or other things that threaten to sidetrack you.

Without focus, you might take opportunities you didn’t want or need. It can take you off course and lead you away from where you want to be. However, if you have a bucket list, you can reference it anytime you lose focus or have a decision to make.

Motivation

If you want your dreams to happen, you’ll need motivation. It pushes you forward, helping you overcome obstacles and reach your goals. Having a bucket list gives you something to focus on, providing the motivation and inspiration you need to do anything.

Pushing You Out of Your Comfort Zone

Having a list of the things you want to do the most in life can help you get out of your comfort zone. You’ll have more experiences and accomplish many more dreams in your life. The risks you take when you get out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth and an expanding mindset.

Helping You Feel Accomplished

You likely feel accomplished after getting things done around the house or at your job. However, consider how accomplished you’ll feel if you cross things off your bucket list.

Your list of things to do before you die tends to have more considerable achievements than your daily to-do list. Each time you can cross one off, you’ll experience a sense of accomplishment that you wouldn’t have had otherwise. You’ll feel pride, increasing self-esteem and life satisfaction.

Keeping You Active

Having goals that require physical activity on your bucket list will help you keep moving. You’ll stay active when you have an adventure to tackle. Hiking, traveling, and joining races or events are all options that keep you moving. You’ll see more of the world around you, increasing the benefits.

Encouraging Bigger Dreams

Thinking long-term and of lifelong dreams can help encourage you to do bigger things. Writing these things on a bucket list helps you strive for more. You don’t have to focus on your current situation and deadlines all the time. It allows you to dream without worrying about fear, time, or money interfering.

Other Fun Things People Put on Their Bucket Lists

Our time on earth is short, but there are so many things you can accomplish before it’s over. You don’t have to focus on short-term tasks when you have a bucket list to focus on achieving. It helps you live your life to the fullest, focusing on things that bring meaning and fulfillment.

go on a cruise or safari
see your favorite animal in their natural habitat
sleep in a treehouse
ride a horse on the beach
visit New York City in the winter
run a marathon
write a novel
ride a roller coaster
take a trip with friends
learn to surf
go scuba diving
swim in all five great lakes
visit a specific country
swim with an aquatic animal
go to a favorite sporting event
learn another language
get a tattoo
start a business
pay off all debt

Another Take on Bucket Lists

The traditional bucket list involves things you hope to do before you die. However, you can create bucket lists for other things, too.

You can create a list of things you want to do before the next decade in your life. Instead of setting a birthday goal list, you can create to-do lists of what you want to do before summer or winter ends. You can write a bucket list for any time frame, including one to complete before:

getting married
having kids
your kids become adults
you turn a specific age
a holiday

Final Thoughts on Police Arrest 100-Year-Old on Birthday Because It Was on Her Bucket List

100-year-old Bicketon added a funny dream to her bucket list–and she accomplished it on her hundredth birthday.. Although she didn’t work to achieve it because she didn’t want to break the law, it all paid off in the end.

You don’t have to add anything like Bicketon’s wish to your list. Yours could focus on goals you’d want to take steps to achieve. However, don’t be afraid to add something silly because it can bring a smile to your face.

Consider adding things to your list that will make you step out of your comfort zone. Add experiences that you’ll never forget and bring meaning to your life. Your list might not look like someone else’s, and that’s okay because your dreams only have to make you happy.

25 Ways to Increase Your Positive Energy

November 6, 2022 by Kristen Butler

The more positive energy you attract, the more inner peace you’ll experience. Being more positive will help you in life, and your overall well-being will improve. You have the power to manifest positivity in your life by changing your actions. You can go about these changes in myriad ways, but the key is to find what works for you and stick with it to see results.

25 Best Tips to Increase Positive Energy

Be warned that positive energy and looking at the glass half full isn’t going to be an easy chore. Negativity comes easy since you live in a pessimistic society. However, you must obtain a mind shift that lets you have peace inside and out. Here are some ways to help build positivity and live the best possible life.

1. Keep a Positivity Mindset Regardless of What’s Going On

One of the biggest challenges in your new journey will be remaining positive no matter what’s happening around you. You can’t let the atmosphere or events around you dictate your mood. If you start being negative, stop yourself and change your mindset. Having a positive outlook on life will make negativity less likely to appear.

2. Be Honest with Yourself and Others

Being truthful is one of those energizers that you don’t realize will have such an impact. When you’re honest about your thoughts and feelings, it helps you stay wholly aligned with your authentic self.

3. Take Small Steps When Increasing Positive Energy

Don’t expect to change from being a negative person to complete positivity overnight. Take baby steps towards this new way of thinking. Start small, like with small goals, and build as you adjust to this new mindset.

4. Engage in Self-Love to Build a Positive Energy Reserve

Self-love is one of those energizers that makes you feel better about yourself, promoting positivity. You’ll be more positive when you take care of yourself emotionally and physically. Try devoting twenty minutes daily to self-love and watch how your whole attitude changes.

5. Get Rid of Negativity in Your Life

Negativity comes in many ways. You can have pessimistic thoughts, actions, people, and circumstances, and it’s time to eliminate all the above. Get rid of negative people, and you must surround yourself with positivity. Additionally, try yoga and meditation to purge negativity from your mind.

6. Use Daily Affirmations to Support Positive Energy

Affirmations are powerful little statements you say to yourself to help attract positive energy. You can change your very thought patterns when you use these statements daily. According to the National Library of Medicine, it’s easier to maintain a positive self-view when you’re speaking optimism daily. Go ahead and sprinkle some positivity around in the form of these statements when you wake up and before you go to bed at night.

7. Start Your Day on the Right Foot

If you want to manifest more positive things, having an excellent start to your day is vital. Make sure you get sufficient rest, don’t pick up the cell phone first, avoid social media, and get out the door on time. Setting the stage for positivity is essential. Energizers like rest and not starting the day on a negative foot can be empowering.

8. Believe in Yourself

Do you believe in yourself? Sometimes it’s challenging to think of what you’re capable of when you’ve had past failures. To attract positive energy, you must remind yourself of what you can achieve. Remember, you can do anything you set your mind to do.

9. Unplug from Social Media to Have More Positivity

Social media is one of the most significant sources of negativity in your life. There’s so much fake on there that it’s hard to distinguish what’s not. Then, you have news running on the side, giving you updates about all the bad stuff in the world. Save your heartache and learn to unplug or limit your time on these channels.

10. Learn Patience

Patience is hard to achieve, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. It’s hard to trust that the Universe is working for your good, but you must trust the process. Just remind yourself that things aren’t going to happen overnight. Keep your eye on the prize, as it will be worth it.

11. Express Gratitude

Are you grateful for the things you have, or do you find yourself constantly wanting more? You don’t necessarily have to be content with where you are to be thankful. The Universe will grant you more when you show gratitude for your blessings.

12. Use Visualization Techniques

A natural energizer to get your positivity jumpstarted is to use visualization. One way to help you bring your vision to fruition is to use a vision board. When you can visualize your goals and see them being fulfilled, it can help you to manifest positive energy in your life.

13. Spread Joy to Others to Bring Positive Energy Back to Yourself

Do you spread joy to others or tend to be a wet blanket to someone else’s positive attitude? You can help yourself to be more optimistic by simply being generous, watching the words that come out of your mouth, or doing random acts of kindness. Making others happy is one of those energizers that bounce back to you.

A study by The University of British Columbia found that children who are taught to do random acts of kindness early have more positive social behaviors. Social and emotional competence helps enhance empathy, which everyone needs.

14. Fill Your Inner Circle with Positivity

If you want to be more positive, then change your inner circle. Surround yourself with optimistic, upbeat, and supportive folks, and you will see many changes in your life. Someone who encourages positive vibes and shares positive news is a valuable asset to have in your corner.

15. Smile More Often

Remember Nat King Cole’s Song that states you should smile when your heart is breaking and smile even when your faking? He also goes on to say what’s the use in crying. Life will pass you by if you spend all your time miserable. A small yet simple thing as smiling, can help you to manifest positive energy and get those good endorphins flowing.

16. Count Your Blessings to Increase Positive Energy

When good things happen to you, take time to count your blessings. Appreciate the things you have that bring you joy. Energizers like gratitude help you encourage a positive mindset and remind you of everything you’ve been blessed with in this life. You can enumerate your blessings inside your head, write them in a journal, or list them on a vision board–all that matters is that you do it.

17. Soak up the Natural Positivity of Mother Nature

It’s hard to remain positive when you’re cooped up inside. Get outside and spend time with Mother Nature. Walking in the lush grass, seeing animals, and enjoying all the visual splendor will help to fill you with positivity. The fresh air can do wonders for your weary mind and help you appreciate the blessings of the earth.

18. Have Fun and Do Things You Love

Being positive is challenging when you’re doing things you don’t like to do. When you’re doing something you like, it helps improve your state of flow, which increases your vibrational frequency. Things that bring you joy have a profound effect on your outlook. Doing something for yourself is one of the energizers you need to remain optimistic.

19. Move On from the Past

Everyone has a past, present, and future. No one doesn’t have some things in their past they regret. However, to manifest positivity in your life, you must learn to let the past stay behind you and focus on what’s in front of you.

20. Show Kindness and Compassion to Others

Do you treat others with compassion and kindness? Remember that you must treat yourself this way too. If you want more optimism in your life, try being more positive about yourself. Speak to yourself in kind words, and never be harsh or critical.

21. Meditate to Restore Your Positive Energy

Meditation is a great outlet that helps you to be more positive, as it attracts positive energy. When you connect with your higher self, you’re quieting your mind from all the negativity it’s ingested. Doing this ancient act daily can have a profound impact, and your subconscious mind can help you use the law of attraction during your sessions to manifest positive things.

22. Realize You Can’t Control Everything

Do you feel that you need to control everything? Well, control issues cause significant problems for you and everyone around you. To attract positive things, you must learn to let go of those controlling ways. You can’t bring new possibilities and opportunities into your life when you have control problems.

23. Embrace Change

Something specific in this life is that things will constantly change and evolve. You must be open to these changes because if you’re not flexible, it can lead to negativity. Embracing change is one of those energizers that will help you to be available to possibilities you never thought possible.

24. Turn Positive Energy into Self-Kindness

Treat yourself as you treat others. Use compassion and understanding, and you must know that you’re not always going to make the right choices. Forgive yourself when you stumble and fall, which will help boost your optimism and self-esteem.

25. Listen to Your Inner Voice

If you want to attract more positive things in your life, you need to let your inner voice guide you. That sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach can help to keep you in tune with your spiritual connection. Everyone needs energizers in life, and your soft inside voice will lead you on the right path.

Final Thoughts on Increasing Your Positive Energy

Did you find some tips or tricks that you can use to boost your positive energy? When you train your brain to focus on good things, a better outlook will surely come your way. Practicing a few of these daily tips will be beneficial, as it won’t be long until you radiate positive energy.

15 Stephen Covey Quotes To Never Forget

November 6, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Jotting quotes about success and good habits in your journal can remind you to do what it takes to reach your goals. Stephen Covey has many inspirational quotes that can help motivate you to push through obstacles and get started on your tasks. His words can help you achieve your goals and continue your journey to living the life of your dreams.

Covey strived to teach others how to find success through good habits. The things he said help fulfill your dreams and live your best life. You can write Stephen Covey quotes in your journal for a daily reminder of what he teaches about success.

His habits focus on values such as fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity. He ignores trends and builds his success around things that always work.

Stephen Covey believes that no one can find lasting success if they can’t do the following:

lead themselves
influence others
engage and collaborate with others
continuously improve their skills
learn the newest technologies related to their goals

Fifteen Stephen Covey Quotes About Good Habits

Stephen Covey was a non-fiction author, businessman, educator, and public speaker who reached success in every area. He is known for his book, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.” Through his written works and public speaking events, Covey offers many quotes helping you find success, leadership advice, and good habits.

1 – “You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage—pleasantly, smilingly, nonapologetically, to say “no” to other things. And the way you do that is by having a bigger “yes” burning inside. The enemy of the “best” is often the “good.”

As Stephen Covey explains, the first step is determining your priorities. Then, you must have the courage to put your goals first and say no to anything that could interfere. Focus on what you want and what will get you closer to your goals, and choose that over anything else.

2 – “It is one thing to make a mistake, and quite another thing not to admit it. People will forgive mistakes, because mistakes are usually of the mind, mistakes of judgment. But people will not easily forgive the mistakes of the heart, the ill intention, the bad motives, the prideful justifying cover-up of the first mistake.”

Everyone makes mistakes, but not all of us can admit them. When you can own up to your mistakes, people are more understanding. However, denying your mistakes can cause people to question you and set you back on your goals.

Additionally, people are more willing to forgive mistakes that weren’t malicious. If you have dishonest motives, people may not be open to forgiveness. Plus, they might not forgive lies that cover up your mistake. Because of this, you should be careful of the mistakes you make. If you know better and purposefully want to do something malicious, make a better choice and walk away. Innocent mistakes are forgivable and allow you to continue your journey to success.

3 – “Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important.”

When there’s a time limit, you might focus too much on those things. Doing this sets you back on the essential things that can get you further in life. As Stephen Covey explains, doing what is necessary rather than what others say is urgent can make a difference.

4 – “Make small commitments and keep them. Be a light, not a judge. Be a model, not a critic. Be a part of the solution, not the problem.”

Don’t overcommit yourself and fall short because it can stand in the way of your success. It can also let other people down, causing hardship for them and leading to them doubting you. Additionally, consider being a guide to others without judging or criticizing.

5 – “But until a person can say deeply and honestly, “I am what I am today because of the choices I made yesterday,” that person cannot say, “I choose otherwise.”

The choices you make each day contribute to who you are and where you are in your life. You can’t choose a better life if you don’t work on being better each day. The things you do today contribute to who you are now and tomorrow.

6 – “Look at the word responsibility-“response-ability”-the ability to choose your response. Highly proactive people recognize that responsibility. They do not blame circumstances, conditions, or conditioning for their behavior. Their behavior is a product of their own conscious choice, based on values, rather than a product of their conditions, based on feeling.”

Successful people don’t blame circumstances or other people for their responses. You control your reactions to every situation, and taking ownership promotes success.

Acknowledge that how you react involves your choices rather than anything else. When you can do this, you’ll be more likely to find success.

7 – “If I really want to improve my situation, I can work on the one thing over which I have control – myself.”

You can’t control anyone but yourself, and focusing on your improvement is the only way to grow. Consider letting go of worrying about other people and thinking about being the best you can be instead. It can help you remember to prioritize yourself and limit comparison if you write this quote while journaling.

8 – “To begin with the end in mind means to start with a clear understanding of your destination. It means to know where you’re going so that you better understand where you are now and so that the steps you take are always in the right direction.”

Thinking about the bigger picture and desired results requires thinking about what you want out of your efforts. It’ll help you make the best decisions for your life if you know what you’re working toward. It’ll take you down the path that leads you to your dreams.

9 – “Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.”

You can’t effectively communicate with others if you don’t trust them. Without trust, you can’t have a beneficial professional or personal relationship. It is what holds every relationship together, leading to successful results.

10 – “We immediately become more effective when we decide to change ourselves rather than asking things to change for us.”

You can’t expect things to go your way if you’re unwilling to create good habits and then work for them. Deciding to make beneficial changes for yourself makes more of a difference than anything else you could do. Please don’t wait for things to come to you when you know that it requires action on your end.

11 – “Two people can see the same thing, disagree, and yet both be right. It’s not logical; it’s psychological.”

You can’t always expect people to agree with your opinion or perspective. Understanding that you can disagree with people without anyone being wrong can help you find success. It allows you to work well with others, using disagreement to compromise and understand one another.

12 – “Begin each day with the blueprint of my deepest values FIRMLY in mind then when challenges come, make decisions BASED on those values.”

As you get ready for your day, recall your values. Make these values the foundation of everything you do each day. If you can think with this mindset and push away everything else, you’ll find fulfilling success that helps you find meaning in all you do.

13 – “Free your heart from hatred – forgive. Free your mind from worries – most never happen. Live simply and appreciate what you have. Give more. Expect less.”

Focusing on hatred or worries can hold you back from finding success. Think about forgiveness, focusing on the present, and appreciating what you have in life. As Stephen Covey explains, give what you can and expect less from life if you want a happy balance.

14 – “Treat a man as he is and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be.”

Writing this Stephen Covey quote in your journal can help you in a few ways. First, it can remind you to treat people as they can be, and you’ll help them reach their full potential. Additionally, it can help you remember to be the best you can be rather than treating yourself as if you can’t go further.

15 – “We are free to choose our actions, . . . but we are not free to choose the consequences of these actions.”

As Covey explains, you can make whatever choices you want. However, you can’t choose the results of your decisions. Consider thinking about what might happen because of your actions. If you’re okay with the consequences, follow through on your idea. Otherwise, make a new plan and follow through with the action that you can accept the results of.

Final Thoughts on Stephen Covey Quotes to Jot into Your Journal

Stephen Covey found success in many areas, allowing him to advise everyone. He knew how to make things happen in his life and achieved whatever he set his mind on. His advice can help you find success and reach your goals. Jot these quotes in your journal so you can remember them each day as you develop good habits and work toward your dreams.

13 Signs of Bravery Most People Don’t Realize

November 6, 2022 by Kristen Butler

Bravery is born into a person, but it doesn’t mean you can’t change your mindset and develop courage. Some brave people are just naturals, as their genetics and personality go against the currents in life. Do you see yourself as a courageous person or feel you’re lacking? Chances are that you have more bravery than you give yourself credit.

Lucille Ball was one of the greatest female comedians of all time. Yet, when asked about being funny, she retorted that she wasn’t a funny person but a brave one. That’s an ironic comment from someone who turned the television industry upside down with her humor. However, when you think about that statement, its depth is insightful.

Getting out there and showing your skills in a time when women were often in the background showed Ball’s spirit as a trailblazer. In fact, she fought the current by being the first lady on television to be pregnant. She and her then-husband Desi Arnaz built a production company and became the first to use three cameras and a live audience.

So, yes, Lucy was brave. Her fans never knew what strength and courage it took to do what she did, so while her statement was profound, it was something about her that people didn’t notice. What about you that people don’t know shows your courage?

Defining Bravery

What is the definition of a brave person? Webster’s Dictionary defines it as a person with mental or physical strength when faced with danger. This person proves to be courageous when confronted with insurmountable odds. However, being brave is not always something you feel inside; it’s about how you live.

When you face your fears and tackle life’s battles, how you face these obstacles counts. Brave people know how to be their authentic selves and don’t hide behind layers of insecurity and people-pleasing. It’s someone who lets go of their shame and feelings of being less than and lives their life according to their own rules.

Thirteen Signs of an Incredibly Brave Person

There are many misconceptions about bravery; some think it means you have no fears. Brave people have plenty of worries but face them head-on rather than running from them. Here are some signs that show you’re what it takes to be a courageous person, and these signs are things that many people overlook about bravery.

1. Bravery Embraces Vulnerability and Honesty

Someone courageous isn’t afraid to tell you the truth. They won’t sugarcoat things or beat around the bush, as they have enough strength within themselves to be vulnerable and honest.

If you ask them if your outfit looks good and they don’t like it, they won’t fill your ears with lies that make you feel better about yourself. You can always count on this person to level with you; you like that they’re transparent. People prefer a straight talker who doesn’t tell you what you want to hear.

2. A Brave Person Asks for Help

You would be sadly mistaken if you assume brave people don’t need to ask for help. These folks feel so confident within themselves that they have no qualms about asking someone else if they don’t know the answer to something. They don’t have a know-it-all attitude, so they gladly seek help from other folks.

3. Courageous People Never Settle for Less

One thing that defines brave folks from the rest is that they will never settle for less than what they deserve. These people know their worth and will never let someone make them feel they have no options. The courageous person uses this in their personal and professional life, as they have standards and won’t compromise.

4. Bravery Embraces Failure

No one wants to fail, as it does something to your self-esteem. However, the brave person has learned a lesson to be learned when they stumble and fall. Rather than focusing on everything they did wrong, they want to see what they can do differently to change the outcome the next time.

5. Brave People Don’t Need Validation

Bravery means you call the shots in your life, and you don’t need the validation of your parents or friends. If people don’t like who you are or your choices, you will not lose sleep over it. You are bold enough to know what’s best for you, and your courage will give you all the necessary validation.

6. Bravery Is Tenacious

The tenacious person is often persistent, stubborn, driven, and wants to get the job done. They set goals and are hyper-focused on them until they’ve been accomplished. It doesn’t mean they conquer them all quickly. But they won’t give up no matter how hard the journey is because they use courage to power them.

7. Courage Ventures Beyond the Safe Road

If you’ve ever gone on a road trip and used GPS, they will give you many options for your journey. It would help if you chose the best path for your needs. Most folks take the safe road or the one that will take fewer miles and time to get there, as they want to get to their destination as quickly as possible.

However, a person with courage doesn’t always take that safe path, as they like a little adventure in their life. They’re the kind of person who loves to get off the road well-traveled and see the backroads. Brave people know that some of the best experiences in life occur when you get off the overpopulated highways and explore the less traveled paths.

8. A Brave Person Knows That Opinions Matter

The brave person knows their voice has a right to be heard like anyone else. They are not afraid to stand up in a group and voice their concerns or ideas, even if it means that they might ruffle a few feathers. This person has no problem standing up for themselves or what’s right, regardless of what everyone else says or does.

9. Brave People Never Dwell on Fears

Everyone has doubts and fears, as it’s a normal part of life. However, the difference between bravery and cowardness is knowing that you can’t focus on your insecurities. Rather, these people know how to put self-doubt in its place and not dwell on it. Sure, they get scared and second-guess themselves, but they never let these fears stop them from their goal.

10. Courage Will Let Go of the Past

Letting go of the past isn’t an easy thing to do. Did you know that bipolar was once called manic depression, which was often diagnosed by people who couldn’t move on from their past? According to the Mayo Clinic, a person with this mental illness often displays inappropriate guilt and emotional instability.

While there’s undoubtedly much more to this condition than ruminating about the past, it shows that when you live in yesterday, it torments your mind. Bravery means that you leave the past in the past and you focus on your future. There’s absolutely nothing you can do to change what’s already been done, but you do have the power to change your tomorrow. Brave people dare to shut the door on their hurts, regrets, and failures and move on.

11. They Take Risks

Bravery means you don’t mind taking risks even when no one else is game. They believe enough in themselves to know they’ve tried their best even if they fail. These folks know that without significant risks, there will never be rewards, and they want to live life to the fullest.

12. They’re Not Intimidated by Others

The brave person isn’t intimidated by other people, regardless of how many titles they have or how much money is in the bank. They know their value is just as much as the person who appears to have it all. They also know that you can’t always judge a book by its cover, as many people are miserable and appear to be at the top.

13. They Surround Themselves with Other Brave People

Brave folks want to surround themselves with people of the same mindset. You won’t find them hanging out with folks who aren’t up for adventure and who are boring. They want to be with folks who inspire and don’t hinder them.

Final Thoughts on Taking Time to Notice These Traits of Brave People

It’s ironic the number of people who think bravery is someone who has no fears. Consequently, the person has plenty of worries but the courage to stand up and face each one. Despite all the times they’ve failed, they get up and keep going because they know the next time will be better.

You must learn that you can’t define yourself by your mistakes, but you push forward, crushing your goals one by one, and this is how you will learn to live a life of bravery.

12 Signs Someone Is an Intuitive Introvert

November 5, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

If you ever get a gut feeling that turns out to be correct, or you can spot trends easily, you might have introverted intuition. It allows you to think differently, offering insights others don’t always receive.

People with introverted intuition typically have INFJ or INTJ personality types. These rare personality types include the smallest percentage of the population at only three to five percent. Both types are introverts, and their dominant function is introverted intuition.

Since this trait includes such a small percentage, many people don’t understand it. It can make the person repress their strengths to focus on things that society finds beneficial.

What is Introverted Intuition?

Each personality type has different characteristics and traits. Introverted intuition (Ni) differs from other people because it involves recognizing how one thing can relate to another.

You can sort through information and thoughts to gain understanding and meaning. Ni allows you to shift your perspective to view things differently and find deeper meaning.

You might not trust first impressions and look for patterns or behavior shifts that show true character. Psychoanalyst Carl Jung explained that Ni is related to the unconscious mind.

People who experience introverted intuition don’t see things at the surface level. Instead, they look deep into things to understand them fully.

Introverted intuition affects how you take in information. You’ll function by understanding and gathering information. Additionally, you might focus on patterns and hidden meanings to understand people’s minds.

Your intuition is the knowledge that comes without an internal reaction. The information is in your mind without waiting to think it through. You might be aware of things without needing additional information other than how someone makes you feel.

What is INFJ?

INFJ stands for introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging. People with this personality type are typically creative, dedicated, and sensitive. They’re also reserved and deep and have the best ideas or thoughts that occur immediately, without thinking about them.

What is INTJ?

INTJ stands for introverted, intuitive, thinking, and judging. You might be a highly analytical perfectionist if you have this personality type. Additionally, you might be a private person, not wanting people to know your innermost thoughts and feelings.

INTJs are often independent and think of creative solutions others might not come up with alone. They are analytical, allowing them to succeed at their plans.

Twelve Signs That Reveal Introverted Intuition

Some of the signs that reveal an intuitive introvert include:

1 – Accepting Other Perspectives

Those with an introverted intuition can listen to others and see their perspective. You can bridge two different points of view to form a common ideal. It can help you relate to others because it indicates acceptance of others, respect, and kindness.

Combining different points of view can be helpful when dealing with conflicting statements. While some people might believe one sentence must be false, those with introverted intuition think differently. If you’re like this, you can likely use the ability to accept other perspectives to determine that the truth lies somewhere between the two.

2 – Innovation

Being an innovator is an indication of introverted intuition. You can identify problems and come up with new ways to do things. Sometimes you might be able to see something detrimental coming and prevent it from occurring.

3 – Creativity and Inspiration

Introverted intuition often involves thinking with images instead of words. These people are often dreamers with beneficial insights. They are often inspired by nature and beauty, allowing for inspiration and creativity.

If you are this way, then you likely make choices based on your inspiration. You might struggle to explain why or how you do things because you do it differently than most people.

4 – People Tend to Find Guidance in You

If you’re an introvert, you likely find comfort in silence and only speak up when necessary. Because of this, people listen to you when you speak. They want to hear what you have to say because they know you wouldn’t speak up if it wasn’t beneficial.

You can be a great leader because people want your guidance and will sometimes unconsciously follow you. They might not acknowledge you as a role model, but subconsciously that’s what you are for them.

5 – Independence and Wanting to be Alone

Introverts like to be alone and work independently. They find their best and most creative ideas in solitude because they can channel that Ni when alone. This desire is likely because you don’t gain rewards from social situations while extroverts do.

6 – Prioritizing Honesty in Yourself and Others

Studies indicate that an introverted intuition can lead to honesty becoming a priority. Being reflective likely makes you honest, and you expect the same from others.

7 – Quick Insight and Instincts

Having introverted intuition can lead to quick insight into other people and yourself. Your understanding might seem impulsive as it comes quickly and leads to spontaneous decisions. You often sense personalities and hidden traits, always looking for deeper meaning.

8 – Having Meaningful Dreams

It’s a sign of Ni if you have dreams you can recall in the morning. The dreams hold meaning, although you might have to figure out what it is.

You likely believe your dreams even if other people don’t understand. Sometimes you won’t assume the literal thoughts of the dream, but you’ll recognize an underlying message.

9 – Trusting and Relying on Yourself

When people tell you things, you might base their honesty level on how they make you feel when they speak. You quickly analyze the person and trust your gut feeling. People with introverted intuition don’t trust what other people say is a fact, so they rely on themselves for fact-checking.

10 – Feeling Other People’s Emotions

Those with introverted intuition often feel others’ emotions. They’re empaths, even if they don’t say they know how someone feels. If you relate to this, you might understand that you quickly take on the mood and feelings of those around you.

11 – Future-focused mindset

Those with introverted intuition focus on new ways to move forward. Instead of depending on techniques that worked in the past, people with this personality type consider how they can do it better in a new way. They know growth depends on focusing on the future instead of mimicking the past.

12 – Not Being Swayed by Power

Being an introvert leads to focusing on internal sources rather than being swayed by money, fame, or power. They focus on their goals and values despite the power surrounding them. It allows them to focus on themselves and other essential people rather than those with high titles.

Four Ways to Experience Introverted Intuition

If you don’t have introverted intuition, you can develop the trait. It can help you see things that other people don’t, and you can trust your gut feelings. These tips also can help those who already have it as it’s always helpful to improve your strengths.

1 – Keep Learning

You can develop introverted intuition if you’re always curious and want to learn new things. It encourages intuition and creative ideas. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, read learning material, listen to informative podcasts, and focus on keeping your imagination flowing.

2 – Make Time to Be Alone

Introverts thrive in silence and come up with some of their best ideas when alone. If you want to build this trait, you can make time for daydreaming to process new information and experiences.

You might feel the urge or obligation to socialize, but you must nurture your Ni if you want to develop it. Make time for being alone and spending time in a quiet environment.

While you’re alone, you might consider practicing mindfulness meditation. It can help you process your feelings and thoughts, allowing you to let go of the ones that don’t serve you. Studies show that meditation also contributes to intuition and improves the prefrontal cortex.

3 – Listen to Yourself

You might hear that your gut feeling isn’t an accurate guide but try to trust yourself. Being intuitive is essential to developing this trait, and it can strengthen your reasoning and thought process. Listen to your emotions because there’s a reason you feel that way.

4 – Surround Yourself with People Who Have Introverted Intuition

Spending time with those who have introverted intuition can help you develop the trait. It’s okay to spend time with extroverts, but make sure you’re turning to people of other personality traits, too.

Being around introverted people also helps you find a group of friends that understand the mindset. They won’t think you’re being rude if you sit quietly while everyone else socializes around you. These people can also comprehend how you process information.

Final Thoughts on Signs That Reveal Introverted Intuition

Introverted intuition can help you find new solutions to problems and focus on your future. It can also help you prevent detrimental events and issues. When you gain insight that others don’t have, it gives you an advantage and a direction to follow. This trait inspires creativity and helps you set goals and make plans. Understanding introverted intuition can help you develop it and embrace your strengths.

How to Spot An Internet Troll: 11 Behaviors to Never Ignore

November 5, 2022 by Power of Positivity

Have you ever encountered an internet troll? If so, you probably consider them as the scourge of the worldwide web. But rest assured, they are nothing more than an online bully. Giving them more credence than that is far more than they deserve. The internet troll is hard to eliminate, as their interactions seem to multiply daily. Their provocation can drive you into a dark and negative place, which is precisely their nefarious intent.

While they make you miserable, there are some ways that you can identify a troll and ban them before they send you over the edge.

Trolls are on all the platforms, from Twitter to Facebook and even TikTok. They have one goal: to provoke or upset others using aggression. Once they accomplish their goal, they gain pleasure and amusement from their work. Indeed, you’ve likely already run into a few of these people if you’re online. But how can you spot the troublemaker and ban or report them before they become an issue?

The History of the Troll

When you hear the word troll, you probably think of the cute fuzzy-headed dolls and the movie. These mythical creatures have populated folklore for centuries. They’ve appeared in epic tales and fantasy writings since the early days. The earliest reference online is the 1990s, when people used the term to label people who used the malicious activity to bother others.

This is a form of harassment is a distasteful type of cyberbullying. In most instances, they don’t direct it at one individual. Instead, they aim to provoke anyone willing to challenge them. The sad fact is that there’s no way to chase who is behind this content, and when the content becomes ominous, there are no repercussions. All forums and websites must have moderators to handle these bullies–but most have limited resources.

Eleven Signs of an Internet Troll

How can you tell the difference between a bully and a troll? Well, some believe there’s a fine line. Some folks like to argue to get their point of view out there, but others are actively trolling. Here are some indications that you’ve tangled with an aggressive online bully, and it’s time to put them in their place.

1. A Troll Engages Posts Doxxed User Data

Doxxing is sort of like a witch hunt on the world wide web. Sadly, this practice can absolutely ruin someone’s life if they don’t get help to escape this bully. Trolling folks will invade your privacy and put your details online for all to see.

The goal of this aggression is to shame you publicly, and they want others to join in the task of bringing you down. There are a few sinister bullies that wish to cause you physical harm, and these are matters that should involve law enforcement.

Doxxing is a severe issue, and according to studies by Safe Home, more than forty-three million people in this country have experienced this harassment. Shockingly, 52 percent of all these attacks come from people interacting with strangers online. Lastly, only one-third of victims report these crimes to enforcement, so the online bully keeps doing these sinister acts.

2. The Troll Feels More Powerful Behind the Keyboard

Many people feel a bit more empowered when they’re behind the keyboard. They will say things they wouldn’t have the guts to do in person. This makes tech-savvy people dangerous, showing their aggression without ever showing their faces.

The anonymity of hiding behind a screen makes trolls emboldened. They can be anything they want to be when no one sees them so that they can act brave and strong, and the truth is they’re probably nothing of the kind. If you notice someone inserting themselves into your conversations and you don’t know them, they’re likely online bullies.

3. They Hurl Insults Continuously

Someone aggressive online will use words to describe others like “idiot,” “moron,” or “stupid.” Again, they feel empowered behind a keyboard, but it’s doubtful they would say these things to your face. Name-calling is often used when you disagree with them.

Know that you can’t win if you hurl insults back at them. Remember, these folks aren’t interested in having good-faith arguments, but they want people to disagree with them so they can kick up a ruckus. You mustn’t engage with this person, as they will move on if you don’t stir in the pot.

4. The Troll Loves to Get a Rise Out of People

Online bullies are aggressive, so they like to stir the pot, sit back, and laugh. They post the most outlandish comments to get people to react. Think of it as a twisted way to trigger someone or push the wrong buttons.

Like your spouse, you know just what to say to upset them, and the internet bully is the same way. They sit back and lavish in all the drama as they have serious personality flaws.

5. They Comment Without Reading the Whole Post or Article

The bully often shows aggression without knowing the facts. They read the first few sentences and then post their comments. You can often spot this online tyrant because they don’t know what they’re talking about.

These people want to spread negativity and don’t even know the whole story. They will often copy and paste parts of the article to justify an argument, but they miss the entire point of the post. If you engage with folks who take things out of context or start online wars without all the facts, it’s likely an online bully.

6. They Post and Comment Way Too Much

Another thing you will notice about online bully is that they post way more than the average user. In fact, Stanford and Cornell did a study on these folks, and they measured their internet activity versus the average social media user. Throughout the study, trolls exhibited anti-social behavior far more frequently than the average user. For instance, an authentic user might vent negativity on a bad day and returned to normal posting afterward.

Some tactics the troll engaged in included:

Making off-topic comments to draw attention (and controversy)
Name-calling
Hurling thinly-veiled insults, overly-generalized insults
Making outrageous accusations.

The article further states that trolls made and not just born this way. So it’s possible you can also become a cyberbully if you engage in negative behaviors. Just make sure you keep your comments on the positive side and don’t spend all your time online. The more you’re on these forums and social media sites, the more likely you are to develop such behavior.

7. The Troll Has a Potty Mouth

One thing that you can use to spot an aggressive online bully is through their language. Most of these folks never use positivity, and they love to use trash talk. Cursing and expletive language are commonplace. They don’t care what forum they’re on, as they will let their potty mouth run as they hope to be offensive. After all, getting a rise out of others is their entire validation.

8. They Often Get Blocked from Online Communities, Only to Reappear Elsewhere

The good news is that the online bully doesn’t stay online for long. They often get kicked out of groups and forums because of their actions. Many of them might come back as another username, but they will soon meet their demise again.

Understand that being online means you occasionally ruffle a few feathers, as you can’t get along with everyone all the time. However, an occasional online spat is different from what these people do. Even an internet argument isn’t typically going to have the aggression these folks bring to the conversation.

9. The Post Quality of an Internet Troll Is Lackluster

The bully usually doesn’t have good-quality posts. Some say that their writing only gets worse over time. They post so much that they avoid using good grammar or punctuation, and who cares about spelling? So if you see a post with quality that looks like that of an elementary school student, it’s likely an internet tyrant.

10. They Like to Clog a Thread

Perhaps nothing is as annoying as a bully that clogs a thread with their aggression and senseless chatter. Some platforms don’t care if you report it, as there are so many that they do nothing about it. However, these people post so much that it becomes spam.

Additionally, most of the stuff they post has nothing to do with the topic, is offensive to many, and is just meant to annoy everyone trying to engage. You may see these in comment sections on YouTube or TikTok videos, as these are typical hotspots for spammers. You might also see them copy and paste the same comments across multiple posts or platforms.

11. An Online Troll’s Profile Appears Fake

If you believe a troll is engaging in online bullying instead of facilitating an authentic discussion, take a peek at their profile. You will often find a cartoonish picture, not a real photo. Upon closer examination, you’ll find they have few friends–or their connections also have fake profile images. They list few details–or they share obviously fake details. For instance, they don’t fill in their employer, school, or other historical data. Also, they often start engaging in outlandish commentary only minutes after they join the platform instead of observing first. When possible, they’ll also disable the private messaging capability so you cannot confront them privately–they demand a public battle of words.

That’s all because the internet troll lacks the fortitude to say such outrageous insults to someone under their own identity. Like most bullies, the troll is a coward, albeit a dangerous influence who can cause you great harm.

Final Thoughts: Ignore the Online Troll

Remember the saying that tells you that you should never feed the trolls? It was sage advice when surfing the online community and engaging in conversations. These tyrants seek emotional responses from you, so the fight is on when you take the bait from them.

The key is to ignore them and their aggression, as these are the same type of people who might engage in email spoofing and other scams. Since they can’t get the rise out of you they desire, they will move on to the next person. There’s always someone willing to engage in an online war, and those are the people they seek.

It would help if you tried not to take what they say seriously, as these folks behave poorly and spend countless hours invading the internet looking for trouble. It’s not worth your time to comment or engage in such a word battle, but if they threaten you or get too personal in your information, it’s time to get help.

Science Explains 8 Reasons to Never Stay Up Past Midnight

November 5, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Sometimes it’s tempting to stay up late. But most people need to go to sleep far earlier than midnight. While you might think that napping the next day or making up for sleep loss later will be fine, that’s not always the case.

Research shows that staying up past midnight can cause issues because the brain isn’t designed to function that way. Even with a few cups of coffee, staying up late can have effects.

Staying up late does more than make you tired, too. It affects your overall health, potentially causing issues.

How Staying Up Past Midnight May Reduce Health

Being up late interferes with health and brain functioning in many ways. Understanding how it can reduce help might encourage you to make healthier decisions regarding your sleep schedule.

1 – Staying up Past Midnight Weakens Your Immune System

Staying up past midnight can weaken your immune system, causing you to get sick more often. Not only can it lead to more frequent colds, but it can also speed up cancer growth. You heal while you sleep, so staying up late can negatively impact your ability to fight off illness and disease.

2 – Increases the Risk for Sleep Disorders

Sometimes staying up late can increase your risk of developing a sleep disorder. Other times, it could be the result of an ongoing sleep disorder. Some of the sleep disorders include:

insomnia
sleep apnea
narcolepsy
nightmares
sleepwalking

However, it’s important to note that sometimes going to bed after midnight is simply a bad habit. In this case, it likely isn’t associated with a sleep disorder.

3 – When You Stay Up Late, You Might Develop Poor Eating Habits

When you stay up late, you might be more likely to develop bad eating habits, resulting in weight gain. Research shows that people who go to bed late tend to eat more calories and fast food than others. The increase in calories can cause about two pounds of weight gain per month.

4 – Staying up After Midnight Affects Cognition and Mood

Experts indicate that your sleep history and how much time you spend awake can affect your brain function and mood. Not getting enough sleep at night can affect how your neurons work because they need time to recover.

Your circadian rhythm pushes for cognition during the day and reduces wakefulness at night. If you stay up late and don’t allow your body to recover and go through the cycle, it can affect how you think and feel.

Research shows that being awake during the night can increase your risk of:

suicide
self-harm
using alcohol
partaking in illicit substances
engaging in violent behaviors

Staying up late can cause dysregulation, especially if you’re also sleep-deprived. It can also affect your long-term memory and cognitive performance.

5 – Staying up After Midnight Can Contribute to High Blood Sugar

Studies show that going to bed late can lead to high blood sugar. High blood pressure can be associated with other conditions, including fatigue and headaches. It can also cause kidney damage and cardiovascular disease.

6 – Increase the Risk of Negative Thoughts, Anxiety, and Depression

Studies show that people who go to sleep later are more likely to have negative thoughts. They also dwell on minor issues and are at higher risk of anxiety and depression.

7 – When You Stay up Late, You Can Disrupt Melatonin Production

Your body typically produces melatonin when it gets dark outside. It might interfere with melatonin production when you frequently stay up past midnight using technology with blue light. Not only does it affect your sleep, but it can disrupt the regulation of other hormones and your circadian rhythm.

8 – Not Getting Enough Sleep

Adults should aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Without getting enough rest, you’ll eventually feel sleep deprived. It takes a toll on your body, reduces reaction time, and increases stress.

While you can get enough sleep when you go to bed later, it all depends on your schedule. If you must wake up early for work or other responsibilities, it’s best to consider that before staying awake late.

The Difference Between Bad Sleep Habits and Insomnia

Staying up late by choice or bad habit is different than experiencing insomnia. Insomnia is a disorder that causes sleep phase delay, making it hard to go to sleep at night. However, you can address a bad habit by setting a consistent sleep schedule.

If you’re unsure whether you have bad sleep habits or insomnia, try developing a healthier schedule. If it works and you start getting into a better routine, it could likely be due to bad habits. However, if the attempt fails, it could indicate that you have insomnia.

Staying Up at Midnight Might Not Be All Bad

While staying up past midnight can reduce health, some studies show that there can be benefits. When someone experiences peak physical performance at night, it might be a better time to accomplish their goals. Likewise, if someone feels more creative late at night, staying up late can help them think of ideas and produce beneficial results.

Some people’s natural circadian rhythm is different than most of the population. They might naturally be more alert at night and sleep better during the day.

When this is the case, they might struggle with sleeping at night because their schedule is different than what their body needs. These people can stay awake past midnight without experiencing detrimental effects if they still get enough rest.

One study indicates that if you have a regular sleep schedule, you can avoid the detrimental effects of staying up past midnight. Those hours don’t have to mean going to sleep early if you can rest for a full sleep cycle before waking again.

However, if you thrive late at night, you must be mindful of some risks. Overeating and consuming unhealthy foods or drinks are tempting, and you can resist giving in. Likewise, you can avoid engaging in other behaviors late at night than can contribute to health effects.

Night Shift Workers

Some people must work past midnight or overnight, with statistics showing that around 15 million adults work these hours. Because of this, their mind must be active during late hours.

One way to alleviate the potential complications is to sleep during the same hours each day. Then, you should maintain these hours on your days off to avoid disrupting your schedule.

You can have a better chance of getting enough rest during the day by doing the following:

blocking out sunlight
keeping your room cool
managing regular eating patterns
avoiding exercise three hours before
minimizing blue light before sleeping

Seven Tips for Sleeping Better at Night

You can become a morning person by learning how to sleep better at night. When you get enough sleep, you’ll be able to function to your full potential when you wake up.

1 – Manage Bright Light Exposure

You can consider increasing bright light exposure during the day. It can help you stay awake and recognize when it’s time to sleep.

2 – Adjust Your Bedroom So You Don’t Stay up Late

Your sleep environment can contribute to how well you sleep at night. The temperature, noise level, and lights can disrupt your sleep. Some of the things you can do include:

minimizing external noise
using black-out curtains to reduce light
turning off artificial lights
eliminate clutter to make it relax
lower the temperature

Research indicates that more bright light exposure during the day can improve sleep quality and duration at night. You can also get natural sunlight to help regulate your circadian cycle or find other forms of bright light.

3 – Limit Blue Light Exposure at Night

Light exposure during the day can help you sleep at night, but you must limit your bright light exposure at night. Blue light exposure in the evening can cause your circadian rhythm to think it’s not time to sleep. It can also interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to relax and experience deep sleep.

You can reduce exposure at night by wearing blue light-reducing eyeglasses. You can also use apps that block blue light or avoid using electronics for at least two hours before going to bed.

Studies show that consuming caffeine within six hours of bedtime can decrease sleep quality. If you crave a hot cup of coffee later in the day, consider decaffeinated coffee to avoid disrupting sleep.

4 – Avoid Alcohol Before Bed

Drinking at night can disrupt your sleep schedule and hormone production. It can also lead to sleep apnea and alter melatonin production.

5 – Limit Naps During the Day to Fall Asleep Before Midnight

Power naps can be beneficial, but anything more than 30 minutes can disrupt your sleep health. Long naps can cause trouble falling asleep at night because it confuses your circadian cycle.

6 – Develop A Consistent Sleep and Wake Schedule

Developing a consistent sleep schedule can help you get to bed at an earlier time. Studies show that it promotes long-term sleep quality, improving your overall health.

7 – Don’t Drink Caffeine At Least Six Hours Before Bed

Caffeine can be beneficial, but consuming it late in the day can disrupt your sleep. It stimulates your nervous system and prevents relaxation.

Final Thoughts on Ways Staying Up Past Midnight May Reduce Health

Staying up past midnight can be detrimental to your health. It can disrupt your circadian rhythm and hormone production, leading to unhealthy lifestyle choices. However, some people function better at night as long as they get enough uninterrupted sleep during the day.

The best way to handle your sleep schedule is to consider when you can get a solid seven to eight hours of sleep. If you can’t do that during the day, staying up after midnight might not work for your lifestyle. Make changes to help you function at your best and stay healthy by getting enough rest.

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Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!