Page 177

10 Ways to Set Boundaries With Parents As An Adult

November 2, 2022 by Chris Butler

No matter how old you are, your parents will try to parent you. They’ve done it for many years, and switching roles to that of a friend more than a disciplinarian can be challenging. It’s imperative that you set boundaries with your folks. Even adult children should let their parents know what you expect from them.

Some folks can transition seamlessly from being a hands-on parent to allowing you to try your wings in the adult world. Other folks will struggle greatly with this transition. It’s often easier to make such a shift if you’re married or in a committed relationship with someone to take care of you.

You’ll make many mistakes when you’re single and trying to find yourself. Parents find it challenging to stay back and remain silent. Still, if you want a quality relationship with them, you must show them how you want to be treated.

Ten Ways to Set Boundaries in Adulthood with Your Parents

Your parents will inevitably cross the line a few times once you become an adult. They may give you an opinion you didn’t ask them for, or they might try rearranging your home when they visit.

While their guidance is helpful in some instances, you don’t need help with food choices, cleaning tips, or what time you go to bed. Some people find it challenging to let go of the control they had over you, and now that you’re grown, they get less say. Here are some ways for you to navigate the process of setting healthy limitations in adulthood.

1. Have Difficult Conversations About What’s Best

Before you start the process of setting limitations, you need to have a meeting of the minds. You need to see their position and openly state your feelings. When your parents feel like you’re excluding them from your life, they may be more eager to call or show up at all hours of the day or night.

Having some challenging but honest conversations is the best place to start. In many instances, the parents struggle with issues like empty-nest syndrome and finding their purpose in their life. However, if you want to navigate the situation effectively, you’ll both listen to each other and compromise.

Empty-nest syndrome is an actual condition that can cause devastating symptoms. According to a study cited in the National Library of Medicine, depressive symptoms and cognitive impairments have been linked to the common middle-aged condition.

2. Confront Issues Directly

Remember that your parent will forever look at you as a child. It doesn’t matter if you’re 13 or 50; you’re still their kid. It’s challenging for them to realize your independence, so you need to confront issues as they come.

If you push things under the rug to avoid conflict, you’re only delaying the trouble for another day. Most times, parents have issues understanding and respecting your wishes for personal space in adulthood, so you must remind them firmly but politely. Emotional transparency is an essential part of any relationship.

3. Take Their Advice as Suggestions Not Law

When you set boundaries, it doesn’t mean that your parents won’t give you unsolicited advice. It’s something that parents do and will forever do until they leave this earth. You must realize that these are suggestions and not the law.

You are under no obligation to follow their advice, and you won’t be in trouble if you don’t do it. You get to make the ultimate choice for your life and happiness. Consequently, most of their advice comes from a place of love and concern, and many of the roads you’re walking they’ve already been down.

Use the advice to help you make better choices and tune out the nagging and things that cross boundaries. Parental gaslighting is a growing issue, and you have a right to put strict limitations on toxic people in your life.

4. Establish Physical Boundaries Between Parents and Adult Children

Setting physical boundaries means your parents can’t show up to your place of employment or home anytime they want. Some people have a rule that you must call before you come over.

If they stop by, they have no idea what you’re doing, and you might be exhausted from work and not feel like company. Set boundaries for your physical person and property so they know what’s acceptable to you.

5. Adult Children Must Break Dependency by Cutting Financial Ties

Perhaps you’re to blame for some reasons why your parents are too involved in your business. If they’re financially supporting you in any way, you must look at things from a different perspective. You need to realize that there must be financial boundaries. People who give you a place to live or pay your bills will always feel more entitled than if you stand alone.

You must pay rent if you’re living at home while saving for a house. Don’t run to them each time you need a dime, as this is another way you build dependency. Finally, pay back every dime if you get a loan from your folks.

6. Frame Limits with Gratitude and Appreciation

Please know that when you set boundaries, you must do so in a pleasant way. Conversely, it would help to put your expectations on the table with respect. You don’t want to hurt your parents, who love and care about you deeply, but you want to establish some guidelines or rules for the relationship.

For instance, your mom brings you a burger for lunch. You’ve told her many times that you observe a vegetarian lifestyle now, but she’s crossed the line. Rather than being rude and not appreciating her gesture, try saying something like this:

“Thank you so much for thinking of me and bringing me lunch. However, I told you that I’ve switched to a plant-based diet, so I can’t eat it. I don’t want you to waste any hard-earned money in the future.”

Using a statement like this allows you to get your point across in a healthy manner.

7. Let Go of the Fear of Failure and Stop Trying to Please Them

Everyone wants to please their parents, as it’s something that’s just born into you. You want your folks to be proud of you and your accomplishments. Sadly, many people live their entire lives trying to please others, which is unhealthy.

It would help if you cut the ties that bind, or the proverbial apron string, as it’s often called. Your definition of success should never relate to pleasing anyone but yourself. Sometimes they’re disappointed and hope you will make a different choice, but you must remind yourself that you don’t need to earn their love or approval to be happy in adulthood.

8. Stop Guilt Trips Immediately

When you set boundaries with your parents, they may be inclined to guilt trip you. Your folks are going through many changes, and they’re probably lonely. Assume your mother keeps showing up at your door unannounced, and it’s bothering you. When you confront her, she may use guilt-ridden statements like:

“Well, I had to come and see you because you never come over anymore.”
“I’ve raised and loved you for many years; how can you treat your mother this way?”
“Do you not love me anymore?”
“It seems you’re never there when I need you these days.”

While it’s hard to set boundaries into adulthood, you can’t let them guilt trip you once you’ve laid down the law. Don’t accept these statements; you must counter the need for her to consider the limitations.

9. Adult Children Should Enforce Healthy Emotional Boundaries

Emotional boundaries are just as important in adulthood as physical ones. A significant issue most people face is their parents interfering with their relationships, which is challenging when they think they know better than you. Emotional boundaries will help you to keep a healthy connection and have fewer grievances.

10. Develop Consequences for Not Following Set Boundaries

Adulthood is rough but trying to keep on good terms with your parents and having limitations can be tricky. These issues always increase when there are children, as they feel like experts. You can ensure you will get plenty of unsolicited advice regarding kids.

The boundaries you’ve set are not negotiable if they’re in a place to make you happy and keep drama to a minimum. If your parents can’t respect you enough to follow your guidelines, there must be consequences. For instance, your daughter loves to stay at her grandparent’s home, but every time she goes for the night, they let her watch movies that are not appropriate for her age.

She always has nightmares after a visit. The best way to handle this is to tell them that she can’t come back for overnight stays until they learn to respect your boundaries. Yes, punishing your parents seems a bit harsh, but there are consequences for poor choices.

You’re the parent, so you make the rules for your child. Toxic grandparents can cause a lot of issues.

Final Thoughts on Ways How Adult Children Can Set Boundaries

Boundaries and limitations are a critical part of your life. The Rocky Mountain MS Center referenced Dr. Nedra Glover Tawwabit’s view on healthy boundaries and self-care. Her book Set Boundaries, Find Peace states that the very root of your self-care starts by setting healthy limitations in your life. You should never feel guilt or feel like you’re being selfish when you impose such restrictions.

You set boundaries for your peace of mind and not to harm anyone. Of course, most parents mean right and would never deliberately hurt their adult children. Nevertheless, it’s good to set boundaries. You let them know what you expect, and they have limitations to follow. By establishing clear guidelines, you can enjoy a happy and healthy relationship with your parents early in adulthood.

Study Links Lower Wages to Faster Memory Loss

November 2, 2022 by Power of Positivity

Economic disproportion is related to low income and may increase your risk of a shorter life and other health problems. Researchers have also discovered that lower income is associated with memory loss and poor cognitive function. The outcome of this research could be transformative in preventing diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In addition, they found information on how lower wages could lead to faster memory loss.

Researchers believe that a person’s socioeconomic position can affect someone’s:

Mental health
Blood pressure
Weight

But the idea that lower economic rank could be related to a higher risk of dementia is relatively new. In this study in the American Journal of Epidemiology, scientists sought to prove that low wages may be associated with rapid memory decline later in life.

The team of researchers looked at 2,879 participants born between the years of 1936 and 1941. Researchers looked at the participants’ earnings between 1992 to 2004, dividing them into three categories:

Never had low wages
Intermittently had low wages
Persistently had low wages

The team defined low wages as lower than two-thirds of the median salary for the studied years. Researchers then observed participants’ memory decline from 2004 to 2016. They found that participants who constantly earned low wages had a faster memory decline as they age. They concluded that persistent exposure to low wages during a person’s peak earning years was associated with speedier memory decline in old age.

What is today’s minimum wage?

The American federal minimum wage, last raised in 2008, remains at $7.25 per hour. Therefore, these findings provide a good motivation for raising the minimum wage for the well-being of low-wage earners for their cognitive health in the future. Some states with higher living costs raised their state wages to adjust for the rising cost of living, but not all have done so.

Norwegian study confirms these findings on memory loss and low income

The government of Norway, both local and federal, takes responsibility for its citizens. This Scandinavian country provides government-funded healthcare services for all citizens. Scientists knew that citizens had good health care but wondered why the nation’s dementia cases were rising. Norway ranks the twelfth highest in Alzheimer’s disease in the World Health Rankings. Scientists were curious if there was a connection between a person’s early life socioeconomic placement and their risk of dementia later in life. They thought that lower income could cause emotional stress for a person leading to heart disease and, ultimately, cognitive problems. This concept of lower income potentially linked to memory problems hasn’t been explored much, but scientists are beginning to question it.

What other things can prevent cognitive decline?

There’s also growing evidence that individuals participating in cognitive activities early in life decrease their risk of dementia or cognitive decline later in life. One study examined the effects of cognitive leisure activities (CLA), education, and socioeconomic status on participants and their development of Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss. They followed participants for twelve years looking at their cognitive leisure activities. Cognitively active individuals had a reduced risk of memory decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Participants with higher education also had a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Researchers suggest, at least in part, that higher cognitive leisure activities protect you against memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease later in life.

Activities to help prevent early-onset memory loss

As you age, your cognitive abilities weaken due to aging, poor health habits, and illness. However, cognitive activities can help fight brain deterioration and help improve your memory, ability to focus, and overall mental health. Here are 13 brain-stimulating activities to help you offset cognitive decline.

1. Reading can prevent memory loss

Finding ways to reduce cognitive decline as you age is essential. Reading keeps your mind mentally sharp at any age. Reading early in life also protects your cognitive function later in life. For example, frequent reading reduces mental decline in older adults of all education levels. Researchers found that reading magazines weren’t as mentally challenging as reading novels or non-fiction books.

2. Drawing stimulates the brain

When you draw, you focus on perception and memory. Researchers found that the process of drawing helped older adults combat memory loss. Try different styles of pictures, such as these:

Complex illustrations with many colors and layers.
Try to replicate the drawings you observe.
View a scene, then draw it on paper adding lots of detail.

3. Have a healthy debate to engage your brain

Whether you talk about politics, sports, or religion, don’t shy away from a healthy debate. Debating helps you think on your feet and increases new brain neurological pathways. So be sure not to get angry while you debate, and enjoy the mental stimulation.

4. Card games may help stop memory loss

Play brain-stimulating card games to improve your memory and cognitive functions. Choose games that require logical problem solving or memory retention, such as these classics:

Poker
Solitaire
Bridge
Hearts
Euchre

Card games that involve strategy exercise your mind and improve your problem-solving abilities. In addition, it’s important to use parts of your brain daily to help offset dementia and memory loss as you age.

5. Word games can reduce cognitive decline

Researchers say that when you participate in word games or solving word puzzles, it improves the cognitive function of the brain.

6. Mindful walking helps the brain physically and mentally

Take advantage of the benefits of mindful walking. When you head out for your morning walk, concentrate on the wind, the sky, and the sunshine on your face. Breathe in the air and listen to all the sounds around you. These simple activities provide stimulation for your senses and boost your brain health.

7. Notice the details

Listen to details when others are talking. Then paint a mental picture of what they’re saying to you. Doing this promotes new brain cell growth and stimulates your memory.

8. Reduce stress to decrease memory loss

Stress is a memory killer. Find daily ways to reduce your stress. For example, try yoga, walking, drawing, or reading to lower stress levels daily.

9. Don’t stop learning; cognitive growth is ageless

Learning something new can help stave off dementia in later life. You don’t need to take a formal class, but find ways to educate yourself—book clubs, cooking classes, or learning a new language. Choose whatever interests you. The key is to keep learning to build your cognition.

10. Listen to music to relax the brain

When you listen to any music, your brain gets a good workout. Listening to music also lowers your blood pressure, improves your ability to sleep, and boosts your mood and mental alertness. Plus, it would be best to use your memory to sing the words.

11. Redecorate to avoid memory loss

Feel free to redecorate your house because it’s good for your brain. Hang a few new pictures, change your furniture arrangement or put down a new rug. These activities stimulate your brain and encourage new brain cell growth.

11. Answer questions

Find ways to challenge your brain by needing to come up with answers. The stimulation of answering questions helps your memory and builds your brain connections.

What other habits might stave off memory loss?

Physical exercise: Being active uses your muscles, stimulating your brain function. Physical activity develops new nerve cells and increases your brain cell connections. As a result, exercise makes your brain more efficient and adaptive.
Getting enough sleep: Sleep helps maintain your brain pathways. It aids learning and enables you to create new memories. It’s hard to concentrate when you’re tired. Sleep cleans out toxins in your brain to reduce memory loss and cognitive decline.
Skip tobacco or pot: Smoking increases your blood pressure. This elevation can decrease your brain health. Researchers have found that people who smoke score lower on brain function tests.
Avoid too much alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol interrupts your brain’s communication ability. Your brain looks and works differently when you drink too much. It affects your memory, balance, judgment, and speech.
Take care of your emotions: If you struggle with moodiness and anxiety. It puts stress on your brain. Take care of your mental health by improving your mood through socializing, physical exercise, a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.
Avoid head injuries: Your head houses your brain. Protect it as much as possible. Wear a helmet when riding a scooter, snowboard, or bike. Wear a helmet when you participate in contact sports. You only get one brain. Take good care of it.
Get social: Strong social ties reduce your risk of dementia. In addition, it helps lower your blood pressure and can help you live longer.
Eat healthily: Good nutrition goes a long way in boosting your mental health. Researchers suggest eating a Mediterranean diet emphasizing lean meats, fish, nuts, olives, fruits, olive oils, and vegetables. Individuals who eat like this are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Decrease your cholesterol: Lowering your cholesterol with a healthy diet and

Final thoughts on the study connecting memory loss to lower wages

Researchers have discovered a connection between a lower income and an increased risk of memory loss. Individuals who earned less money in their midlife years were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s or dementia when they got older. Besides building your income opportunities early in life, making good health habits is essential to reduce your chances of cognitive decline later in life.

18 Inspiring Quotes from Highly Successful People

November 2, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Many successful people have learned how to stay motivated to reach their dreams. Their dreams differed, as did the methods they used to achieve their success, but their inspiration can help all of us.

Everyone faces adversity and must overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. Successful people pushed through each hardship, finding a method that worked for them. Their words of wisdom can help you on your journey, opening your mind and shifting your mindset.

These quotes can help inspire you if you want to be successful in your career, relationship, health, or family. Success comes in all forms, and they all require inspiration and determination.

These quotes from successful people can help you stay motivated to do great things in your life. Everyone needs inspiration sometimes, so share these quotes with others who could use some wisdom or encouragement.

Inspiring Quotes from Highly Successful People

1 – “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost

It’s tempting to follow what everyone else is doing, but following a different path will get you further. Your journey is unique. Do what feels best for your life and keep your mind on the motivation.

2 – “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” – Barack Obama

As Obama explains, positive life change won’t occur if you wait for the right time or a specific person. You must move forward and work toward your goals. Waiting won’t help you get there. Further, it won’t prevent obstacles or hardships. The present is the best time to begin because there won’t be a better time.

3 – “Success does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” – Mahatma Gandhi

You don’t have to have intense physical strength to succeed. All that you need is willpower to persevere and work hard. You can push through each hardship, learning from your mistakes until you reach your goals.

4 – “Successful people understand the value of time. Once they commit to doing something, they would never cancel.” – Raymond Arroyo

Time is essential if you want to become successful. Don’t put things off or cancel plans related to your goals. Commitment involves following through even when you don’t feel like it.

5 – “Be fearless. Have the courage to take risks. Go where there are no guarantees. Get out of your comfort zone even if it means being uncomfortable. The road less traveled is sometimes fraught with barricades, bumps, and uncharted terrain. But it is on that road where your character is truly tested. Have the courage to accept that you’re not perfect, nothing is and no one is — and that’s OK.” – Katie Couric

Doing things that make you uncomfortable can help you get through hardships and achieve your goals. You don’t have to be perfect to start taking steps to live the life of your dreams.

6 – “People who succeed have momentum. The more they succeed, the more they want to succeed, and the more they find a way to succeed. Similarly, when someone is failing, the tendency is to get on a downward spiral that can even become a self-fulfilling prophecy.” – Tony Robbins

Successful people always strive for more, so don’t stop when you reach your first goal. If you gain momentum, keep pushing to see how far you can go.

Everyone fails sometimes, and it can be easy to give up or assume you’ll always fail. However, you can pull yourself out of that mindset, using failure as a learning opportunity to reach your goal next time.

7 – “I never dreamed about success, I worked for it.” – Estée Lauder

Lauder didn’t spend time dreaming of what her life could be. Instead, she recognized her dream and worked hard to achieve it. Dreaming won’t help you reach your goals because only hard work can get you where you want to be.

8 – “To be successful, you must accept all challenges that come your way. You can’t just accept the ones you like.” – Mike Gafka

Encountering challenges are inevitable, and you can’t ignore or get around them. You must accept them all and find ways to get through. So finding a new way to achieve your goal or figuring out how to fix the issue will help you continue your journey.

9 – “Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman

You can do anything you set your mind to as long as you remember what you’re capable of accomplishing. As Tubman explains, you have what it takes to change the world, including strength, patience, and passion.

10 – “A man must be big enough to admit his mistakes, smart enough to profit from them, and strong enough to correct them.” – John C. Maxwell

Reaching your goals involves admitting your mistakes and learning from them. Instead of ignoring issues or making the same mistake twice, you use them to develop and get closer to your goal.

11 – “Success does not consist in never making mistakes but in never making the same one a second time.” – George Bernard Shaw

Learning from your mistakes is essential if you want to reach your goals. Everyone makes mistakes and experiences setbacks, and successful people are the ones who push through.

Learn from each mistake so that you don’t replicate it. You can use it to your advantage because you know what you shouldn’t do next time.

12 – “If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it.” – Muhammad Ali

Ali achieved his dream of becoming a professional boxer and Olympian. During his journey, Ali learned that if he could think of what he wanted and continue believing in himself, he could make it happen. This quote can encourage you to think of how you can work toward your goals and stay positive during setbacks.

13 – “What is success? I think it is a mixture of having a flair for the thing that you are doing; knowing that it is not enough, that you have got to have hard work and a certain sense of purpose.” – Margaret Thatcher

Becoming successful takes more than skill. As Thatcher explains, successful people also enjoy what they are doing, working hard, and having a purpose.

14 – “It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.” – Leonardo da Vinci

This quote reminds you that you won’t reach your goals if you wait for them to come to you. Instead, you must plan and act, going after the things you want to achieve. Waiting for good things to happen to you won’t help you take the necessary steps.

15 – “Even if everybody says it’s impossible, with determination, there is always something you can do. The last thing is to give up without trying.” – Bangambiki Habyarimana

Don’t listen to the people who say you can’t reach your dream. If you’re determined, you can take steps to make it happen. Giving up before you give your goals a fair chance could mean quitting when a breakthrough would have happened soon.

16 – “If you love what you do and are willing to do what it takes, it’s within your reach. And it’ll be worth every minute you spend alone at night, thinking and thinking about what it is you want to design or build.” – Steve Wozniak

Loving what you do and working hard is the first step in achieving your goals. Everything is within reach and worth the effort if it leads you to the life you want.

17 – “Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others. Unsuccessful people are always asking, what’s in it for me?” – Brian Tracy

You might not reach your goals if you always look for what you can gain from a situation. Instead, follow Tracy’s suggestion and look for ways to help others. If you help other people, you’ll move ahead much more quickly.

18 – “Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.” – Benjamin Franklin

Success requires improving your skills, focusing on achievement, and moving forward. You can’t do any of these things without practicing growth and progress first.

How to Achieve a Life of Success

The quotes from successful people can help you find inspiration, but you also must have a plan. Becoming successful requires the following steps:

know what you want
consider what inspires you
plan the steps you should take
put your plan into action
analyze your results
adapt your method as necessary

Final Thoughts on Inspiring Quotes from Highly Successful People

Indeed, successful people know the journey isn’t easy. But they also know that it’s worth the hard work and effort. They’ve been through many obstacles and hardships to get where they are today. These people understand what it’s like to struggle, and their words of wisdom can help you.

You can write down the quotes that resonated with you the most to read them daily. Keeping these words nearby can help you through hardships and offer constant inspiration.

Science Explains What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Grapes

November 2, 2022 by Power of Positivity

Many researchers believe that grapes have more health benefits than previously considered. Of course, you know your eating impacts your body, brain, and overall wellness. Adding grapes to an already healthy diet could improve your overall health. Here is what science says happens to your body when you eat grapes as part of a well-balanced whole foods diet.

Grapes have a long history.

Eating grapes dates back thousands of years. Archeologists have found evidence that humans grew grapes as early as 6500 BC. The Middle East is the original homeland of this fruit–first cultivated approximately 6,000 to 8,000 years ago. Greek philosophers believed in the power of grapes to heal and restore health. Their skins contain yeast microorganisms, making grapes perfect for making wine. Today, there are approximately eight to ten thousand grapes in the world.

One study about grapes says we should consider them superfoods

A recent study about grapes found they’re rich sources of natural compounds. This twelve-week report found that eating grapes improves your vascular system and lowers oxidative stress. The benefits include lower blood pressure for those with mild to modest hypertension. Researchers believe that the length of treatment and the severity of hypertension plus the type of grape eaten made a difference in the treatment response.

Science suggests that eating grapes could positively impact your health and help you live longer. Although these cute fruits aren’t a cure-all, eating more fruits and vegetables benefits your health. Eating like this decreases your risk of these concerns:

Heart problems
Liver disease
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Being overweight

Growing scientific evidence finds that eating nutritious whole foods instead of high fat, processed foods, and high sugar foods gives you optimal health and overall well-being.

What can eating two cups of grapes do to increase your well-being?

According to another study about grapes, eating just two cups daily decreases your chances of liver disease and improves longevity. The fatty liver disease leads to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Regular table grapes can play a part in reducing your chances of getting these diseases. According to the same study, eating grapes can benefit anyone regardless of diet.

But how? This sweet fruit can help your microbiome function. But in the past, they were left out of the gut health conversation.

But what is a microbiome? You may hear the term but wonder what that means.

A microbiome is a group of microorganisms living together in a specific habitat. Animals, plants, and animals have unique microbiomes. A healthy gut microbiome benefits your overall health and even influences your brain. Science suggests that adding grapes to your diet improves your gut health. Grapes are a type of insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber helps regulate your bowel movements. Grapes contain a high amount of fructose. However, they’re still good to eat even if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which sugar may sometimes trigger. Grapes also increase the diversity of good gut bacteria and help boost your cholesterol metabolism.

Other healthful benefits include the following:

Aids your heart health
Lowers your blood sugar levels
High in antioxidants
Boosts your immune system
Improves your mood and focus
Supports bone health

Common table grapes

There are at least fifty grapes grown in California, the largest producer of this famous fruit in the United States. You can use grapes to make jam, wine, jelly, and juice. You can find varieties in assorted red, yellow, green, and black colors. Here are some typical table grapes you should try.

Concord: Concords are dark purple with a bright berry flavor and are often used to make the classic purple grape juice. These dark purple grapes are delicious in jams, jellies, and flavored candy. In addition, the Concord species can make Kosher wine.
Crimson Seedless: From May through October, you can find these reddish pink variants at your local grocery store. This fruit has a thicker skin giving it a longer shelf life and more tannins than other grapes. Tannins are plant-derived polyphenols that are beneficial to your health. Crimson seedless is the most common household species.
Sultana: You might call them green grapes. Sultanas are one of the oldest varieties still in existence today. These greenish-white oval fruits are also called Thomas Seedless. They’re one of the most popular variations sold in grocery stores.
Moon Drop: A long dark purple grape is sometimes called Witch’s Finger. These fruits have a delightfully crisp texture and sweetness. Moon Drops last longer in the fridge than most others. You can find them in season from July through September.
Red Globes: Red globes have a large, round size. They’re suitable for freezing and make delicious and sweet juice.
Cotton Candy Grapes: If you’re looking for some unique flavor, try this greenish-white variety. As the name implies, these fruits are sweet, just like cotton candy. Many people like these even though they sell for a limited time each year. They are a non-GMO species hybridized on the vine.
Flame Seedless: Another typical variety you see in grocery stores. This reddish-purple grape is sweet and crunchy. Many people choose Flame Seedless over others for lunches and snacks.

What are the healthiest grapes to eat?

All species are good for you, but red and Concord grapes are the most nutritious. These grapes are high in phytonutrients, flavonoids, and resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant. Resveratrol benefits chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and aging.

Healthy eating patterns for disease prevention

Many doctors support eating a Mediterranean diet for optimal health. This type of diet includes whole foods such as:

Fish and chicken
Plant-based foods
Healthy fats like olive oil
Beans

Eating a Mediterranean diet has been found to lower your risk of these conditions:

Heart disease
Stroke
Diabetes
Obesity
Liver disease

What other whole foods should you eat?

Besides grapes, try these other whole foods that provide excellent nutritional benefits.

Dark green veggies: Eat dark green vegetables at least three or four times a week. These foods include spinach, kale, green peppers, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
Whole Grains: Choose whole grains over bleached and processed grains. Try eating at least two to three times a week. Good sources of whole grains include brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat bread, and multigrain.
Fish: Choose trout, herring, salmon, sardines, or tuna. Include fish on your weekly menu at least twice a week.
Berries: Eating berries like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries boost your immune system. In addition, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries are rich in antioxidants.
Beans and lentils: Lentils and beans are rich in protein. Lentils, black, pinto, kidney, and chickpeas are great for casseroles, stews, and soups.
Soy: Soy protein is heart-healthy to lower your cholesterol levels. So consume foods like soybeans, tempeh, texturized vegetable proteins (TVP), and edamame.
Nuts and seeds: Flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and pistachios are excellent sources of plant proteins.
Organic yogurt: Calcium is an essential mineral to add to your diet. Eat dairy products at least three to four times a day.
Orange veggies: Dark orange veggies are high in beta-carotene, providing you with vitamin A that helps your skin, eyes, and immune system. Eat foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and mango.

Are grapes good for losing weight?

Red grapes contain ellagic acid–rich in fat-burning properties. Researchers suggest that ellagic acid slows down the growth of fat cells in your body and helps form newer fat cells. They also contain resveratrol, a chemical compound that helps your body metabolize fatty acids. Resveratrol increases your energy levels and boosts your metabolism, which will help you lose weight. Besides that, the fruit contains flavonoids–potent antioxidants that researchers say help you maintain a weight-maintaining healthy diet.

Final thoughts on a study that recommends the consumption of two cups of grapes every day

Science has discovered that grapes have more health benefits than previously thought. A study on grapes acknowledges that we should consider grapes among the other “superfoods.” Adding grapes to your healthy diet will improve your overall health, helping with weight loss, lowering your blood pressure, and increasing heart health. Of course, what you eat impacts your body, your brain, and how well you feel. So, add a few of these different fruits and other whole foods to your daily menu. Grapes have nourished humans for thousands of years. So perhaps it is time for these delicious fruits to get the attention they deserve.

Inspiring Runner Spreads Hopeful Message

November 1, 2022 by Power of Positivity

What happens when one person spreads a hopeful message? It changes lives. Ben Lyne is the one person who created a sign to share his optimistic news. An avid runner, Lyne, started carrying a sign with him that read simply, “I believe in you.” The kindness of this powerful message inspired others more than Lyne ever thought it would.

One runner’s idea has spread a hopeful message to those in his local area and beyond.

How did he get the idea?

Lyne is a big fan of the Avengers and Lord of the Rings movies, where the heroes charge in to save their fellow fighters. He felt like their actions inspired him to tell others he wanted to help them and that he was there for them. As a result, Lyne came up with the idea to run wearing a sign with an inspirational message. He played with this idea for a couple of years before finally doing it. He felt intimidated thinking about drawing attention to himself, but he finally stepped out despite his insecurities and started wearing his hopeful sign, “ I believe in you.”

At first, Lyne wasn’t sure his sign was having a positive impact on people. Plus, it was hard running holding a sign. His arms felt tired, and running up a hill or against the wind was tricky. He even considered giving up because it was hard to run carrying the sign.

How did people react to the hopeful messaging?

Eventually, he realized his inspiration sign was having an impact on people. Lyne rarely used social media, but when a friend showed him a Facebook post, he discovered how much his message touched people. Several posts received 700 likes. Not only did people like what he was doing, but many shared that his hopeful message helped them get through their day.

Anxiety relieved: One person posted saying they’d been dealing with anxious thoughts. So when they saw Lyne jog past with a big smile and his hopeful and inspiring message, she felt like there was still some kindness in the world. She said it made her day.

Hope after cancer: Another man was on his way to see his doctor after his cancer treatment. He shared that when he saw Lyne holding the sign, it was all he needed to get through his appointment that day. The inspirational message helped him feel calm and less nervous. He joked that he might ask Lyne to run by the next time he has his regular cancer check-up.

How Ben Lyne’s sign saved a life

Ben Lyne’s hopeful sign even saved a man’s life. Lyne had a man stop him and tell him that he was planning to end his life, but he saw Lyne’s inspiration sign, which helped him change his mind. Today, Lyne spreads his message all over the world. Lyne brought his sign with him on a recent business trip to Paris and Washington, DC. Before this, he never ran on business trips, but now he carries his message to these places he goes. It’s extra work, but Lyne thinks it’s doing some good. He feels like running with his inspirational sign gives his runs more meaning. Lyne emphasizes that the positive responses aren’t about him but the hopeful message that impacts people. He isn’t doing this to become a celebrity but to bring kindness and hope to others.

Social media users reacted positively to the optimistic and hopeful message:

Lyne’s “I believe in you” message will continue to spread as long as Lyne keeps running. He hopes people won’t just feel he believes in them; the note will help them believe in themselves. Here are readers’ comments about seeing Ben Lyne and his sign.

Lyne’s sign is still having an impact on people. Here are some comments by readers who have seen him running with his hopeful sign.

emcityfam

I see him all the time. He is inspiring. I am in awe of his unselfishness and love for his fellow men and women.

jlstein

I saw him after dropping my kids off at school; I was heading home and thinking about whether or not I should go back to school for a second degree. He was struggling up SR-73 with that crazy sign in his hands, but he was doing it, and I thought, “hmmm…”

Spencer007

Keep up the good work, Ben! This world needs more messages of hope.

JustMeHere

To one person having a bad day, this can change their world. Thank you for doing this. Thank you for bringing positivity and smiles to many.

American dream

I also live in Eagle Mountain. I have only seen this gentleman running one time. The day I saw him, I was having a really rough day, and I instantly had tears running down my face. I felt like he was there just for me. I gave a quick honk and a wave as a way to thank him. The world needs more people like him!!!

livingthelifeinutah

What an inspiration you are! Thank you for spreading your message of love and kindness!!

tree topper

Love this…I hope that this becomes contagious…..

Bowlacherries

I love this message! I’m not a runner, but somehow, someway, I am going to spread his message. I try to take time each day to see if God has put a real, live Angel in my path, and more often than not, I see He has if I take the time to see it. This man qualifies. A real, live Angel among us!

Phil

I like this guy. Sometimes the best messages in life are the simple ones.

TSH

So many people are struggling right now. Something simple like this message makes a big difference. Thanks, Ben, for your extra effort and kindness! It is appreciated!

What are some ways you can spread a hopeful message to others?

You may be a runner with an inspirational sign, but you can spread a hopeful message to those around them. Here are some ways you can inspire others.

Provide a meal: Meals on Wheels always needs volunteers to drop off meals. It’s a way to give a cheerful greeting and drop off a hot meal to an older person.
Find a charity race or walk: Raise money for your favorite charity by joining in on a walk or a run.
Volunteer at an animal shelter: Shelters always need volunteers. You can bathe, walk, or play with the animals.
Library helper: Your local library probably needs help organizing shelves or cleaning different sections.
Coach kids: There is always a need for summer camp coaches or local team coaches. Check your local government parks and recreation centers to find coaching opportunities.
Mentoring: Many schools have mentoring needs. For example, you might help a student practice reading or math.
Elections: Helping out at the voting stations is a great way to impact your area.
Donations: Be ready to donate your time, energy, and money to local organizations. Find out where your passion lies and put your money there. Of course, you can also donate clothing, food, a car, or blood.
Foster a pet: Shelters often need foster homes to care for pets until they find their forever family.
Missions: Many churches go on missions to poor areas of the country or overseas. Many of these missions share God’s love and hope through the gospel and find practical ways to help communities. For example, you might help build an orphanage, update a water system or teach children how to read.
Stop to help: When you see someone pulled over on the side of the road, stop and ask if they need help. Even if you can’t change a tire, you might be able to help in others ways. Just knowing someone cares enough to stop will be encouraging to the person.
Buy food for a homeless person: Buy a homeless person a sandwich, cold water, or a hotcoffee. Show them respect and kindness when you offer them food or drink.

Why does showing kindness make you feel happier?

Interestingly, showing kindness and sharing your positive, hopeful attitude with others increases your happiness. It also motivates you to keep showing kindness. Studies found that happy people get even more satisfied when they show compassion.

Researchers found a difference between motivational and cognitive processes in happy people’s brains linked to their happiness. Happy people get more joyful, grateful, and kinder when they show kindness to less happy people. Gratitude was a big motivator for this individual to show kindness. That’s because gratitude positively affects your:

Happiness
Vitality
Hope
Relationships
Thinking habits

Grateful people have less depression, envy, and resentment. Researchers believe there is a clear link between kindness and gratitude as to how happy a person is.

Final thoughts on a man who jogs while carrying a hopeful sign

One man’s simple idea has changed lives. Ben Lyne’s stepped out of his comfort zone and brought his hopeful message to others. His idea to carry a sign with the statement “I believe in you” has impacted people worldwide. You may want to be an inspiration to those around you, but don’t feel like you can do what Lyne did. That’s okay. Everyone is different, but everyone can do their small part. So why not try one of the suggestions listed in this article? Like Lyne, you may not realize your simple kindness will touch the lives of others.

Doing This ONE Thing Can Temporarily Help Tinnitus

November 1, 2022 by Power of Positivity

Tinnitus is a hearing-related problem that causes noises or ringing in one or both ears. The ringing in the ears may cause anxiety, depression, and stress. You can’t read, sleep or talk to a friend without hearing a humming noise in your ears. The noise from tinnitus isn’t from external noise, but it’s due to an underlying condition. Nevertheless, there is hope for sufferers of tinnitus. By doing this one thing, you can temporarily help find relief.

What are the symptoms of tinnitus?

Approximately sixty million adults in the United States have tinnitus. It’s most common in adults 55 and older. It rarely leads to hearing loss, but it’s an annoying condition for sufferers. People describe this noise in different ways, such as:

Cicadas sounds
Crickets
Grinding sounds
Steam escaping
Buzzing
Hissing
Humming
Roaring
Wind blowing
Running engine
Fluorescent lights humming

It’s thought that the type of noise you hear is due to neuron activity in parts of your ears. You can experience the buzzing in one or both ears. The noise from this condition often interferes with your ability to focus or to hear other sounds. Tinnitus sometimes comes and goes, or it can be permanent. Sometimes, the sounds have a rhythm associated with a heartbeat called pulsatile tinnitus.

What causes tinnitus?

People who have some hearing loss may experience tinnitus. If you have hearing loss, your brain gets less auditory information causing it to make sounds and tinnitus. Other things that can cause tinnitus include the following:

Anxiety and stress
Loss of sleep
Certain medications-aspirin and chemotherapy drugs
Injury
Tension in a part of your body like your head or jaw
Earwax buildup in your outer ear
Dental problems: Teeth or jaw problems like clicking or getting dental work. A night guard may help relieve the ringing in your ears.
Head injuries: Car accidents where you bump your head or neck injuries.
Some diseases: Meniere’s disease causes too much fluid buildup in your inner ear. Also, high blood pressure and diabetes may cause tinnitus.

How does tinnitus affect your quality of life?

Some individuals find the constant ringing or buzzing noises exceedingly bothersome. It affects their quality of life, including these unfavorable outcomes:

Interrupting sleep
Causes irritability
Loss of concentration
Depression and anxiety
Suicidal thoughts

Doing This ONE Thing Can Temporarily Help Tinnitus

Some people who have ringing in the ears explain on Twitter how they relieve their discomfort by doing this one thing. Some users find it helpful, others found less relief but said it was at least worth a try. Of course, you should check with your doctor before engaging in any new therapy.

Here are the steps, as explained by Dr. Jan Strydom:

Place your palms over your ears.
Be sure your fingers are resting on the back of your head.
Your middle fingers are pointing toward each other just above your skull base.
Now put your index fingers on top of your middle fingers.
Snap them with your index fingers, so they hit your skull, making a loud drumming noise.

Some people get immediate relief when they do this. It would be best if you repeated this twice daily for as long as necessary to reduce the tinnitus sounds. Many say this has helped them, but scientists aren’t sure why.

Because there are different causes of tinnitus, scientists think that whether or not you get relief from doing this will depend on what’s causing your tinnitus. For example, if your tinnitus results from jaw muscle tension, they suggest you find ways to reduce your stress to find relief from the ringing in your ears. Gentle stretches or yoga can also help reduce tension in your jaw, head, and neck.

What other treatments help relieve the ringing in the ears?

There isn’t a known cure for this ringing in the ears, but there are different ways to find relief. Treatments that may help you include these:

Counseling: A therapist or counselor can help you with your anxiety and stress.
Sound therapy: Sound therapy involves using other sounds to ease tinnitus sounds. There are online sites that offer background sound to help reduce your tinnitus. Check out these sounds to see if they help you.
On-ear generators: These are little devices worn on your ear that make constant low-level noises to help make the humming sounds.
White noise machines: This device makes a static or falling rain sound, effectively relieving people from tinnitus. In addition, there are white noise pillow speakers to help you sleep. Fans, humidifiers, air conditioners,s, and dehumidifiers also reduce ringing in the ears at night.
Behavior therapy: This therapy aims to teach people to live with this condition by changing how they feel and think about the symptoms and helping them feel less bothered by them.
Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT): TRT is a unique treatment done by an audiologist at a tinnitus treatment center. They use sound masking and therapy in this treatment. You wear a device that helps mask the symptoms during your therapy. The TRT can help you be less affected by the discomfort as time passes.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT): This form of counseling comes from a mental health professional or psychologist. They offer techniques to help you cope with tinnitus symptoms, so they don’t bother you as much.
Remove earwax: Excess earwax may help you find relief.
Blood pressure treatment: Treating blood pressure may decrease the symptoms.
Changing your medication: Certain medications cause tinnitus. Talk to your doctor about changing your medications to eliminate the ringing in the ears.
Hearing aids: Hearing aids may help ease or eliminate the symptoms.

What are the different types of tinnitus?

Tinnitus is common, but it isn’t straightforward because it presents in different ways, and there are four different types of this condition.

Subjective tinnitus: This is a common type. It stems from exposure to loud sounds for some time. It appears and then suddenly disappears. Subjective tinnitus can last for three months to twelve months. In some cases, it never goes away.
Neurological tinnitus: This type comes from a disorder such as Meniere’s disease, which affects the brain’s auditory processes.
Somatic tinnitus: This tinnitus arises from something wrong with your sensory system.
Objective tinnitus: Objective tinnitus is a rare type caused by involuntary muscles contracting or deformed vascular areas. It’s treat

There are also some subgroups of tinnitus.

Musical tinnitus: People with this condition hear layers of tones that sound like melodies or compositions.
Pulsatile tinnitus: If you hear a rhythmic humming that is in sync with your heartbeat, you have this type of tinnitus. The sound you’re hearing is blood flowing to the blood vessels around your ears.
Low-frequency tinnitus: This is a very confusing type of this condition in which someone can’t determine if the ringing in the ears is external or internal. Sufferers say the tones are low octaves like those on a piano. They describe the sounds as rumbling, humming, or deep droning. Low-frequency tinnitus affects people the most.

What foods could help relieve tinnitus?

Today, there is no cure for tinnitus, but what you eat could help you manage your symptoms. Some suggest that certain foods set off signs. Here are foods that may help you manage the ringing in the ears.

Zinc: Zinc heals and improves cell growth. Eat plenty of chicken, nuts, spinach, kale, dark chocolate, and shellfish.
Potassium: Potassium regulates the flow of fluids in your body. Eat sweet potatoes, bananas, yogurt, mangoes, and apples.
Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 may alleviate some humming and buzzing sounds due to hearing damage. In addition, foods like eggs, chicken, salmon, and mackerel are high in these vitamins.
Folate: Folate may improve the blood flow to your ears. It may help with age-related hearing loss. Eat leafy greens like spinach, kale, broccoli, asparagus, and bok choy.
Bromelain: Bromelain reduces inflammation in your body. Eat pineapple and ginger.

How does tinnitus affect your emotions?

A recent study found that people who experience ringing in the ears process emotions differently than people with normal hearing. Science professor at the University of Illinois, Fatima Husain, said that she knew tinnitus causes anxiety and depression. Still, she wanted to understand how tinnitus affected the brain’s ability to react to emotions. Some participants had moderate hearing loss with milk tinnitus, others without tinnitus, and another group had no hearing loss or tinnitus. Each individual listened to different sounds, some pleasant, some not so nice, while inside an MRI machine.

Then, participants pushed a button to determine whether the sounds were pleasant, neutral, or unpleasant. All the tinnitus participants reacted slower than participants with normal hearing. They expected that people with tinnitus would have higher activity in brain regions, but the opposite was true. Husain speculates this is because these individuals had to adjust to constant noise. As a result, their brains had to reduce activity and reroute to other parts of their brain. She hopes these findings will help tinnitus sufferers’ quality of life.

Final thoughts on the ONE thing to temporarily help relieve ringing in the ears

Tinnitus is a common problem for many adults in the United States. This ringing in the ears can cause depression, stress, and anxiety. It may interrupt your sleep, talking to others, and your ability to function at work. It’s thought that people with the condition may process emotions differently because their brains work overtime to adapt to the humming, whooshing, and buzzing sounds. If you suffer from the buzzing sounds, try this technique to relieve your symptoms temporarily.

20 Tweets That Reveal the Reality of Single Parenthood

November 1, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

Being a single parent comes with plenty of challenges and tests your strength, even on the good days. Parenting alone means you barely get time for yourself between work, getting your child ready for school, helping them with homework, and doing chores.

Everything revolves around your child as a single mom or dad because no one else will care for them. They’re your whole world, and you must bear the responsibility of raising them. Even married couples struggle with child rearing, so being a single parent isn’t for the faint of heart.

Of course, most people don’t choose to raise a child alone, but many parents find themselves in this situation today. According to a Pew Research Center study, about a quarter of US children (23%) under eighteen live in single-parent households.

Single parents make monumental sacrifices to ensure their children have a stable home life and bright future. Many take second or third jobs to keep a roof over their child’s head and food on the table. The parent may not have envisioned that life for themselves, but they do whatever it takes for their kids.

Below, we will share a few stories about single parents’ struggles, joys, and experiences.

20 Tweets That Perfectly Capture Life As a Single Parent

1 – Any single parent can relate to this woman’s experience. Kids need nurturing AND boundaries, but it’s not always easy to strike that balance.

#SINGLEMOMLIFE Discipline my son. He throws a tantrum. He calms down. He’s forced to come to me for comfort afterwards. #imgoodcopandbadcop

— Nikki (@Tristensmama65) June 15, 2015

2 – Family comes first, including the pack’s four-legged friends. Who needs a boyfriend when you have a dog, anyway?

G: I don’t want you to get a boyfriend
Me: Do you want me to be alone forever?
G: Well…you got Beaux#singlemomlife pic.twitter.com/S4bgwBzPrw

— Melanie LaRae (@asap_melanie_) April 28, 2015

3 – To single parents with sick kids, we feel your pain. But you can’t complain about the extra cuddles!

Day 4 with a sick kid. Winning in the cuddles department. Losing on the “getting anything else done” front. #singlemomlife

— Cassandra Dunn (@cassdunn) May 29, 2015

4 – This parent deserves an award or perhaps a plate of cookies for this achievement. Being a single parent involves a lot of multitasking, and it seems like this mom mastered that skill quickly! As anyone with a teenager can affirm, the most brutal years have yet to come, though.

When you can use the bathroom while holding baby in your arms. #skills #singlemomlife

— patty (@pattyduh) July 22, 2015

5 – Everyone wants inner peace, but it seems to elude them most of the time. For single parents especially, any second of tranquility comes as a welcome respite from the demands of parenthood.

It’s been one of those days! #isitbedtimeyet #zen #SingleMomLife pic.twitter.com/pg5nSj0sU9

— Karen Geraci (@Karelight) May 27, 2015

6 – Dads often get overlooked when it comes to the challenges of single parenting. This dad deserves recognition after driving 240 miles in one day to support his child.

school closing means 120
Miles to grandmas and back on icy roads so I can make 72 bucks Then another 120 miles after work. #Singledadlife

— Stephen Haney (@stephenahaney) February 24, 2015

7 – Graduating from college marks a considerable accomplishment in anyone’s life. As a single parent, it’s an even more significant cause for celebration.

#faugrad @fauselfie @FAUpresident #singlemomlife pic.twitter.com/qYrVL9arKw

— Olivia Turner (@324Olivia) April 30, 2015

8. Not everyone enjoys the single life. But sometimes, it’s better to focus on yourself and your child and avoid all the drama.

I like being single. I get more shit done when I'm not worrying about anybody but me and my son #singlemomlife

— ✨LuLaRoe Summer & Jon Smith (@iamfearlesss) May 18, 2015

9 – Single parents know that raising a child requires plenty of multitasking. Doing eight things at once doesn’t seem so crazy when you have kids!

Watching Platoon and folding laundry at the same time. #singledadlife

— Dave Samuelson (@Sammy5843) June 20, 2015

10 – You never have enough hours in the day as a parent. After a while, getting five hours of sleep a night starts to seem normal.

Everyday I say I need to get to bed earlier and every night I look at the clock and its 11:30/12:00, where does the time go?! #singlemomlife

— GabrielleChenail (@FamDamilyVlogs) April 20, 2015

11 – As a single parent, a kid’s party sounds like your idea of an exciting night out. Who needs those wild parties where you stay up all night and feel like death the next day, anyway?!

When people hit you up to party, and the only parties you ever have are with chucky cheese #SingleMomLife #LoveIt

— AshleyCheyenne23 (@AshCheyenne23) April 25, 2015

12 – It takes a strong woman to deal with two toddlers at the salon! But for many single parents, it’s just the reality of raising children. Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you can’t get your nails and hair done, after all!

don’t tell me you “can’t” when I just took two kids under the age of 6 to a salon by myself for 1 1/2 hrs. #singlemomlife

— Brittni Smith (@brittnismithh) June 24, 2015

13 – Being a single mom or dad often means sacrificing solitude to care for the kids. And no, doing errands by yourself doesn’t count as self-care. You never truly get a break from parenting, except on those rare occasions when someone can babysit. It’s a struggle that no one can truly understand unless they’ve walked in your shoes.

This! #singlemomlife I can’t remember the last time I had a break. pic.twitter.com/HGXBejA4Cb

— B (@B_Impossible83) September 9, 2022

14 – Everyone talks about the challenges of raising a child alone, but no one discusses the bond you have with them. They grow up too fast, and you want to savor every precious moment.

Walking with Joshua a few days ago, I mused that a mum never knows the last time they will be needed for reassurance or hugs or hand holding … cue him linking his fingers in mine … I guess it’s not yet … #family #son #growing #mum #singlemomlife #slowdowntime ❤️ pic.twitter.com/HdKsyypb0y

— Victoria (@missfortytwo) September 7, 2022

15 – Parents naturally feel protective about who they allow around their children. So they become more selective when it comes to dating, and for a good reason.

When people ask me why I’m so picky with whom I date #singledadlife pic.twitter.com/SWLjTvzjHV

— Clinton Masitabua (@CMasitabua) June 25, 2022

16 – Most people looked forward to snow days as a kid because that meant no school. When you have kids of your own, though, it’s a different story.

There’s 1/4 inch of snow so my County cancelled school. What do I do with these kids? #singledadlife

— Claude Taylor (@TrueFactsStated) December 16, 2019

17 – Most of the single dads out there can probably relate! A trip to Target or the grocery store seems like a fun time in adulthood.

My life for the last 10 years. #SingleDadLife pic.twitter.com/4NlZFSXy0j

— Jake Krueger (@DevilzFartbox) December 4, 2021

18 * These kids know just what dad needs! When you have children, you won’t trade them for anything.

Kid made sure I didn't sleep alone tonight. Just in case I need backup against the closet monsters. Wouldn't trade #singledadlife for any missed party, date, bar crawl.. any of it. pic.twitter.com/uT4O1mUFeu

— Brandon (@CaptPantalones) July 28, 2021

19 – When you’re a single parent, success equals staying organized – especially when cooking meals as a family!

My kids are claiming they are helping me cook Thanksgiving dinner. The job list is up. #singledadlife pic.twitter.com/asEupxO7pZ

— gariovich (@gariovich) October 11, 2020

20 – Only parents can understand the importance of checking on their kids and trying to protect them at all costs. Being obsessive about safety isn’t always bad, especially when it involves young children.

Anyone else burst into their kid’s room to make sure they’re still breathing?! #SingleDadLife

— Prime Time Gav (@GavMack23) July 23, 2022

Single Parent Survival Tips to Make Life Easier

Keep a budget and put your bills on autopay.
Take advantage of government programs and grants for single parents.
Learn to tell your child “no” and set clear boundaries.
Join support groups for single moms and dads.
Lean on close family members for support.
Create a daily routine so that your children have consistency.
Plan meals in advance.
Ask your children to help with chores, to give them responsibility and save you time.
Make time for yourself, even if you only have five or ten minutes alone. Self-care will make you feel better and improve your relationships with your kids!

Final Thoughts on the Realities of Single Parenthood

Unfortunately, being a parent doesn’t come with an instruction manual – you just have to figure it out along the way. As a single parent, learning on your feet takes on a whole different meaning. You have to juggle many responsibilities while penciling in time for yourself occasionally.

Raising a child alone requires many sacrifices, but there’s nothing more rewarding than parenthood. If you’re a single parent, what advice would you give to parents in a similar situation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

15 Betrayal Quotes to Heal Your Heart

November 1, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Everyone experiences betrayal in some form during their lives. It might come from a romantic partner, close friend, or family member. Did anyone ever betray you? The experience can be painful and cause mental turmoil, making it hard to heal, but you can overcome it and get through.

A romantic partner might betray you if they cheated or lied to you. Friends and family members can hurt you when they speak badly about you or do something malicious. Sometimes, you might feel betrayed when someone doesn’t live up to your expectations of them.

The pain can permanently damage relationships and cause you to lose trust in others. You can’t always see a person’s intentions, and it can be a surprise when they show who they are. When this happens, you can remember that you’re not responsible for another person’s behavior.

Betrayal is inevitable, and healing can be tricky, but you can make it happen. You deserve happiness, love, and people you trust. These quotes can help you start to heal, improving your well-being.

Fifteen Betrayal Quotes to Heal Your Heart

1 – “Time alone can prove the worth of friendship. As time goes by we lose the false ones and keep the best. True friends stay when all the rest are gone.” – Ritu Ghatourey

This quote can help you remember that when someone hurts you, it shows who your worthy friends are. While the experience hurts, you can find the blessing of no longer having someone that doesn’t care for your well-being. It helps you eliminate the fake people and focus on those who deserve you.

2 – “I never knew how strong I was until I had to forgive someone who wasn’t sorry, and accept an apology I never received.” – Unknown

You don’t have to let the person back in, but you can forgive them and protect your emotional well-being. Forgiveness benefits you more than it helps the other person. You shouldn’t wait for their apology because it may never come, but you can still practice forgiveness, allowing yourself to heal and move forward.

3 – “Life has taught me that you can’t control someone’s loyalty. No matter how good you are to them, doesn’t mean that they will treat you the same. No matter how much they mean to you, doesn’t mean that they’ll value you the same. Sometimes the people you love the most, turn out to be the people you can trust the least.” – Trent Shelton

You can’t control other people, even if you’re good to them. Their actions will tell you if they return the loyalty you give them. Instead, remind yourself that you deserve better than how the person treats you.

4 – “Forgive others, not because they deserve it, but because you deserve peace.” – Jonathan Lockwood

You should avoid withholding forgiveness to punish the person who hurt you because it can hurt you more. Instead, forgiving allows you to move on after the betrayal and find peace. This quote can help you remember why you shouldn’t hold a grudge and let negative feelings fester.

5 – “Healing does not mean that issue will never hurt you again—healing means that hurt will never control you again.” – Chris Ruden

Overcoming the pain and moving on doesn’t mean you’ll never get hurt again. There’s always a chance someone will betray you, but healing means you don’t let the pain control you anymore. You’ll be able to focus on the essential things and move forward with a goal and happiness.

6 – “If you spend your time hoping someone will suffer the consequences for what they did to your heart, then you’re allowing them to hurt you a second time in your mind.” – Shannon L. Alder

It’s easy to hold a grudge and continually wish bad things would happen to someone, but it’s not good for you. If you continue to let these thoughts consume your mind, the pain will continue affecting you. Healing and moving on requires letting go of your ill wishes and focusing on the present instead. Let go of the negative feelings, even if you feel the person deserves it. Instead, let go of the pain their betrayal caused, and they can’t continue hurting you.

7 – “No matter how badly people treat you, never drop down to their level, just know you’re better and walk away.” – Unknown

You won’t feel better stooping to other people’s levels. Even if they hurt and mistreated you, it’s best to heal and move on. This quote reminds you that you’re better than stooping to that level, helping you focus on positivity and well-being.

8 – “Forgive yourself for the blindness that put you in the path of those who betrayed you. Sometimes a good heart doesn’t see the bad.” – Unknown

Blaming yourself for the harm someone did isn’t a good idea. It’ll make you feel bad about yourself and prevent healing. Focusing on forgiveness is more effective because it helps you let go of self-blame. Good people don’t always see the bad in those around them, and it’s not something to beat yourself up over.

9 – “When someone betrays you, it is a reflection of their character, not yours.” – Unknown

Being betrayed by someone you trusted doesn’t mean anything about your character. It only reflects on the person who mistreated you. Be kind and compassionate to yourself as you heal because you deserve it.

10 – “Love comes to those who still hope after disappointment, who still believe after betrayal, and who still love after they’ve been hurt.” – Unknown

If you can hold onto hope, you can find love again. Your ex might be a cheater, but that doesn’t mean everyone is. Remember this quote so that you can focus on hope and love and believe that you can find someone that will treat you as you deserve.

11 – “The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind.” – Caroline Myss

If you let go of the negative thoughts reminding you of the pain, you can find the path to healing. As Myss explains, if you can silence the mind, your soul will do the rest.

12 – “Sometimes, instead of being hurt, you should look at betrayal as a gift. It makes it that much easier to sweep it up and toss it out with the rest of the trash. And why is that you ask? Because trash starts to stink…and when it does, it has no more value in your life.” – Donna Schoenrock

When someone hurts you, you can view it as a benefit because now you know what you don’t need. It helps you eliminate people who aren’t good for you. These people don’t bring value, and you don’t need them.

13 – “Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn’t you―all of the expectations, all of the beliefs―and becoming who you are.” – Rachel Naomi Remen

When negative thoughts and feelings consume you, take the time you need to process your emotions. You’ll need to acknowledge how you feel to let go so you can heal.

As Remen explains, letting go of expectations, beliefs, and anything else that interferes with your well-being allows you to become who you are. Letting go of everything can help you heal and focus on your wants and needs.

14 – “Attention to the human body brings healing and regeneration. Through awareness of the body we remember who we really are.” – Jack Kornfield

When you want to heal from a betrayal, focus on your body. Taking care of yourself can help you move on and find happiness again. It can help you remember who you are and what makes you happy.

15 – “Everyone suffers at least one bad betrayal in their lifetime. It’s what unites us. The trick is not to let it destroy your trust in others when that happens. Don’t let them take that from you.” – Sherrilyn Kenyon

No one can avoid all betrayal, something we all have in common. You can heal and move forward by not losing hope that you’ll find someone you can trust.

How To Trust Again After Someone Betrayed You

You might have trouble trusting people again after being betrayed by someone close to you. However, if you trust yourself, you can heal and find happiness again. Some of the ways you can learn to trust again after a betrayal include:

believing you deserve a trusting relationship
trusting yourself
manifesting positive relationships
releasing victim mentality
staying positive
letting go of negative thoughts and feelings
surrounding yourself with people who want what’s best for you
repeating positive affirmations
not blaming yourself
remembering that it doesn’t define you
give yourself enough time to heal

Final Thoughts on Betrayal Quotes to Heal Your Heart

You might feel it’s impossible to heal after betrayal, but you can overcome it. When you start to heal, you can find happiness again and begin to regain trust. These betrayal quotes can help you find peace and start healing. You can’t avoid it, but you can learn to overcome it without losing hope.

It can hurt, but the pain doesn’t have to last forever. You can use these quotes to help you get through the situation, helping you focus on positivity and healing.

14 Reasons Some Men Prefer to Be Single

October 31, 2022 by Power of Positivity

Some people panic when they haven’t found their soul mate by age thirty. Their biological clock is ticking so fast that they feel paralyzed by the inability to stop the hands of time. However, some men aren’t always as eager to settle down. In fact, many bachelors prefer to remain single–at least for a little bit longer.

We have an unfair standard. Society questions why women would want to stay single. Her family and friends question her motive. But the man who chooses the single life receives praise and admiration. Many men enjoy singleness and don’t want to complicate life by bringing someone else into the mix. While some folks love being a party of one, others have particular reasons for denying themselves a mate.

Fourteen Reasons Why Some Guys Prefer to Be Single

It’s common knowledge that some single men cherish their freedom and are not eager to give it up. Consequently, there are numerous reasons why men choose to be single. Bachelors can be picky and want more than the perfect wife and the house with the white picket fence. Here are some of the most common reasons a guy chooses to be single.

1. They Like Flying Solo and So Choose to Be Single, at Least for Now

Being attached to someone is not appealing to a few men. They like being free of the ties that bind them and value their perceived sense of freedom. It’s okay that they prefer to spend time alone. They like their house a certain way and don’t want someone coming in and messing up the good thing they have going.

2. They Prefer to Be Single Due to Fear of Commitment

The fear of commitment is a huge problem that men face. It’s one of the most common reasons a guy might choose to be single. This condition is so common that it has a name–gamaphobia.

According to The Cleveland Clinic, A commitment phobia often occurs after someone has been through a horrific experience regarding love. It could be that their parents broke up during childhood, and they suffered lots of trauma from this situation. Another scenario is that they experienced a painful breakup that altered their views on future relationships.

Lastly, some people fear committing to anyone. It doesn’t necessarily mean that anything happened to them, but they’re afraid of love. Thankfully, the article states that psychotherapy is a great way to combat and overcome these irrational fears to have a meaningful relationship.

3. Some People Marry Their Careers

Marriage or a committed relationship requires time and emotional investment. Some people don’t have the time to give. You might observe this in gentlemen married to their job or proudly claiming the title of a workaholic.

People who work more than fifty hours a week are on call all the time or rarely get a day off and usually don’t look for love. Sure, they might have the occasional fling, but they don’t want anything serious. You often see these bachelors in high-stress jobs like doctors, lawyers, first responders, or any career that takes massive amounts of time and emotional fortitude.

Sadly, workaholics often hide behind their job to avoid confronting issues they would rather hide. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, anyone who consistently works more than fifty hours a week suffers from workaholism, and these addictive behaviors require treatment.

4. Introverted Men Might Prefer to Be Single Because They Cherish Time Alone

It’s not that the introverted bachelors don’t want love, but their often quiet and shy nature might not allow them to meet the right person. Since these people aren’t social butterflies, the guy with this personality type might not know where to meet that perfect person.

Additionally, since someone introverted prefers time in solitude to recharge their batteries, they might not want anyone to come in and crowd their space.

5. Bad Experiences from Previous Relationships

Once a guy’s heart breaks, he may be very leery of jumping back into something that can harm him again. As the adage goes, once bitten, twice shy. Heart matters are always tricky, and if you have nursed a broken heart’s wounds, you know why some folks prefer to be single.

Heartbreak can be so intense it can cause damage to this significant organ. It’s called broken heart syndrome, and according to The Mayo Clinic, when someone suffers a time of great stress, it can affect the heart’s function.

6. Less Pressure at Home

Bachelors like to come and go as they please, and they don’t want someone over them telling them to pick up their dirty clothes. It’s not that they have no intentions of cleaning, but they like to do things in good time. Many men choose to be single because it’s a lot of pressure to adhere to someone else’s exacting standards. Some folks prefer to answer only to themselves for their life; with this mindset, it’s probably best to stay a party of one.

7. A Health Concern May Cause Some Men to Be Single

Some guys fear being in love because of a disability or ongoing health issues. Perhaps they’re scared of their performance in the romance department or might fear they will break someone’s heart if they pass away prematurely.

Then again, some men don’t feel like being in a relationship. They don’t have the energy to fulfill women’s needs with their ongoing health battles.

8. Alcohol or Drug Addiction

Another scary reason some people choose to be single is their addiction issues. When a person is addicted to drugs or alcohol, they have anything but relationships on their mind. When you’re deep into addiction, you only crave one thing. So, love is not a priority.

9. Some Prefer to Be Single to Have More Time to Spend with Friends

The term bachelor pad comes from a single guy who loves to have friends over and hang out with the guys. They live a very different life than the family man. There’s nothing wrong with either of these men, as they have the choice to live how they see fit.

When you’re not connected to a lady, you can go on weekend excursions, you don’t have to consult anyone about spending money, and you make all the choices. Some guys like it better this way.

10. Some Bachelors Like to Play the Field

Some bachelors want to be single because they can’t imagine being tied down to one person. They see themselves as players and want to play the field. Leonardo DiCaprio has often been given the title of a player, as he’s been a Hollywood heartthrob for years, but he’s never settled down with anyone.

11. Fear of Divorce Causes Some to Be Single

According to Nolo, the average divorce price in this country is $12,900. Some things are more harmful than a hit to the wallet too. Divorce can be more emotionally costly than ever imagined if children, family, and friends are involved.

12. They Put Their Happiness First

When you’re in a committed relationship, you have to consider your happiness but also the joy of your significant other. It can be a major feat to keep another person cheerful, especially if you think about the state of the world. Many people choose to be single because it’s easier to be responsible for their state of mind and not someone else.

13. The Cost

While some fear divorce because of its cost, it doesn’t compare to the price of keeping a second person. Being a bachelor is cheaper, as you don’t have to worry about the other party.

When you figure two cars, two showers daily, more electricity, more food, and other expenses, it’s much cheaper to remain single than support someone else. Of course, the other person can work and provide income too, but the cost of a family is always higher.

14. Unwillingness to Compromise

Some guys aren’t the marrying kind, and it’s better to know that upfront before getting into a committed relationship of misery. Some people are unwilling to compromise by nature, and staying single is better than putting themselves and others through turmoil. Relationships take a lot of compromises to make them work, and when someone is not a willing participant, they should stay single.

Final Thoughts on a Man Who Chooses to Be Single

Wise people say that the only thing worse than being alone is being with the wrong person, so this fear is why many guys prefer to be single. It’s easier to be alone than live with someone who lies, cheats, and disrespects you. The pain from those situations leaves lasting marks on your heart and soul.

Some guys aren’t against a committed relationship, but it might not be their best time. They’re waiting till the perfect person or time comes along. Many guys and women also want to sow their wild oats before settling down with anyone. So it’s better to get all of that out of their system before they get involved in something serious.

Lastly, some guys choose a single life as they like being a bachelor. They don’t want to succumb to the societal demands of being a couple, and they have every right to live their life the way they choose. Falling in love and having a relationship is a choice; you must decide what’s best for you.

Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!