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Veterinarian Explains How Dog Behavior Is Not Based on Breed

July 25, 2022 by Chris Butler

Everybody has their favorite dog breed. You may love a particular type for its characteristic temperament and personality. It turns out that the dog behavior you admire in your pooch may not be typical of their breed. Vets now say each individual dog behaves differently, and it does not directly link to breed.

How does dog behavior connect to breed?

Breeding dogs became popular during the Victorian era, approximately 150 years ago. Since then, certain breeds have become popular based on what people considered their temperament.

For instance, “friendliness” is often associated with certain breeds, like a Labrador Retriever. But another dog breed, like a Pit Bull, that could be just as friendly, has an unfairly bad reputation. For instance, many view American pit bull terriers and Staffordshire terriers as aggressive. Conversely, they see English bulldogs as calm and friendly. A better criterion to describe a dog, the researchers say, is their physical characteristics such as color, fur quality, size, or ear shape rather than whether the breed is friendly.

Senior author Elinor Karlsson, Ph.D., associate professor of molecular medicine at the University of Massachusetts, says:

“While genetics plays a role in the personality of any individual dog, specific dog breed is not a good predictor of those traits.”

Her study surveyed a little over 18,000 dogs, half purebred and mixed breed. They found different dog behaviors did not stem from the breed. There were similarities in the same breed. But overall, the breeds weren’t predictive for individual dogs. Traits could more closely connect to genetics or environmental factors. Surprisingly, researchers found pit bulls were as comfortable and social around people they didn’t know as retrievers.

Which breeds do not get adopted due to dog behavior myths?

This tendency to view certain dog breeds as friendly or aggressive behavior often plays out at animal shelters. Because of prejudice, certain canines are less likely to get adopted. But researchers say it’s best to judge a dog individually. You can accept them as excellent adopted pets if you see them with unique personalities. The breeds that don’t get adopted as often in animal shelters include the following:

American Pit Bull Terriers:

It’s the breed you often find in high number shelters. These famous dogs often get misused or abused. Some localities ban this dog breed from certain housing areas. Pit bulls are generally athletic, loving, and loyal dogs that deserve love.

Labrador Retriever:

Even though this dog breed is considered friendly, you find many of them in shelters. Labs are high-energy and fun-loving. Perhaps people see them as too much work. Whatever the reason for the increased numbers of labs at shelters, they make lovely family pets.

German Shepherd:

Similar to a pit bull, shepherds get a bad rap. They’re excellent guard dogs, but people shy away when they see these dogs at shelters. It’s an active breed but very loyal to its humans.

Beagle:

Second to the pit bull, many beagles and beagles mix dogs in animal shelters. These sweet dogs get a bad rap because they need lots of exercises and they’re hunters. They have a characteristic mournful baying bark, but not all beagles are prone to this as sometimes thought.

American Bulldogs:

These dogs are part of the bull breeds. They’re athletic and loyal to their humans. Some jurisdictions have banned this breed, similar to the restrictions put on pit bulls. You’ll see a lot of bulldogs at animal shelters. Past owners often abused them, making them more unpredictable, but many people love this breed.

Of course, there are some differences among dog breeds. If you adopt a Border Collie, it will probably be easier to train than a Great Pyrenees. This usually has something to do with their genetic makeup.

What dog behavior and personality traits do people value?

People like certain personality traits or dog behavior. This makes the dog more acceptable to them. Things that people say they look for in a dog include:

Easy to teach
Friendly
Good with kids
Cuddly
Energetic
Protective
Loyal

Remember, each dog’s personality traits can vary depending upon an individual dog. So, even if you get a dog breed you think is friendly, the individual dog may be affected by how it’s been trained, treated, and environmental factors. One study found that only 9% of dog behavior can be accredited to breed. The dog breed is often a poor predictor of a dog’s behavior. This shouldn’t be your main criteria for selecting a dog as your pet.

Is your dog similar to you?

Researchers say a dog mirrors their owners. Because dogs are sensitive to their human emotions, they may reflect these emotions. When you’re relaxed and friendly, your dog will act this way. Your dog will mirror this behavior if you struggle with anxiety and negativity. Interestingly enough, dogs and humans affect one another. A calm dog helps humans to relax and cope better with stress.

How to choose a dog from a shelter

So, you should not judge a dog by its breed. So how do you choose a dog from the animal shelter? Here are dog behavior and personality to look for at a shelter.

Relaxed body language: They’re not shaking or nervous. They seem relaxed and calm when you approach. This shows a dog isn’t afraid of humans.
Friendly: They come over to you in a welcoming way. They are eager to be petted. This shows they are friendly around humans. It could also show they trust humans because they haven’t been abused.
Playful or energetic: A playful, happy dog is a healthy dog. They should be energetic but calm at the same time. Some dogs are less active, but playfulness is a key indicator they’re healthy and happy.
Eye contact: If a dog makes eye contact, they’re already bonding with you. It’s a meaningful experience.
Roll over on their backs: This shows a submissive-natured dog. They do this to show you they trust you and want a tummy rub.
Tail wag: This indicates the dog is happy to see you. A dog with its tails down shows fear. A wagging tail tells you they’re excited to see you.
Licking: If you meet a dog wanting to lick you, they show affection.
Cuddling: If you get to hold a dog at the shelter, the ones that want to cuddle indicate an affectionate puppy.
Jumping: Although jumping isn’t perfect dog behavior, jumping could mean the dog likes you if you’re looking for a dog at the animal shelter. This is a physical demonstration of an affectionate personality.

If possible, try to spend some time with the shelter dog. Watch for these dog behaviors as you decide if they’re the right dog for you.

Why is your dog’s breed necessary to consider?

If a dog’s breed isn’t a good indicator of dog behavior or personality, why is knowing their dog’s breed helpful? A dog breed isn’t always the thing that tells you where you’ll be happy with a dog, but it can guide you to what type of dog will be best for your life situation.

Health issues: Breed information helps set expectations about what a particular dog might need to stay healthy and happy. For instance, Pugs are known to have breathing issues. Great Danes are prone to autoimmune diseases. Knowing a dog’s breed helps you understand what health problems they could be prone to so you can better care for them.
Size: You can’t turn your Dachshund into a Chihuahua. You can’t assume you can carry a Doxie around in your purse like you would a Chihuahua. If you want a small dog, be sure it will stay small throughout adulthood.
Energy level: Even if you view your dog as unique to its breed, you shouldn’t choose a dog that loves to hunt and chase to live in a small apartment.
Lifespan: Your dog’s lifespan is affected by its breed. Knowing how long your dog will live is helpful to see if you’re pushing too much.
Drive: Certain breeds do tasks while others don’t. Your cattle dog may nip at your kids’ heels to control them. Allowing for proper outlets related to your dog’s drive helps them stay happy and content.

Final thoughts on how little breed impacts dog behavior

The dog behavior and breed relationship aren’t as high as most people expect. Dogs have different personalities and environmental experiences that may dictate their behavior. Even dogs of the same breed will have distinct personalities. Owners also dictate canine behaviors. Dogs mirror their owners. They pick up an owner’s anxiety and fear. There is a considerable variation between dogs, even though they look the same. So, don’t judge a dog by a stereotypical view of its breed. The breed is essential to help you choose a dog that is the right size for your home. If you are allergic, you don’t want to pick a dog that sheds. So, although you shouldn’t discount a dog’s breed, don’t let it be the only criteria for choosing a specific dog.

19 Reasons Never to Give an Ex False Hope

July 25, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Breaking up is hard, and it’s even worse if you drag it on. Giving a sense of false hope interferes with both of your abilities to move on. There’s no reason to make it harder when it’s already a tough situation. When you finally break things off once and for all, it can lead them into depression or desperation–both of which are unfair.

It’s a common mistake for people to string their ex along, giving them false hope. While it may seem harmless, it’s detrimental to both of you. There are many reasons never to give an ex false hope, and you must know what they are.

When you give your ex false hope, they hold onto every little thing. They read into everything more than they should, and they’re always looking for more than you can give. It’s based on fantasizing and wishful thinking, and you giving in doesn’t help the situation.

Maybe you can’t give them up, but it’s not fair to string them along. There are many hidden dangers in giving an ex false hope, so don’t ignore them. You don’t want to hurt anyone during this experience, and remember how much your dishonesty can affect your ex.

Nineteen Reasons Why You Should Never Give an Ex False Hope

You’ll think false hope is okay if you don’t know these reasons. It might even seem like the best option at the time, making both of you feel good. However, think long-term and consider how it will affect you and your ex.

1. You Know Their Expectations and Desires

Managing expectations is essential when you want to date people. Your ex’s expectations will be much more intense than a new person’s. Putting your ex in that position is unfair if you know you can’t give what they want or need.

2. They Deserve Someone Who Will Cherish Them

This reason isn’t to make you feel bad. Instead, it’s to remind you that you’re the one choosing not to be with your ex.

Giving them false hope only prevents them from looking for someone who will cherish them. They might not be the right person for you, but they still deserve someone who will love them for who they are.

3. You Have to End Things Twice

One breakup is hard enough, and giving false hope requires you to do it twice. When you get your ex’s hopes up, you’ll eventually have to tell them that you don’t want to get back together. Avoiding this situation prevents you from having to end things twice.

4. False Hope Doesn’t Allow Them to Heal

Giving your ex false hope is highly detrimental because it doesn’t allow them to heal. They’ll continue holding on even after the breakup because you’re still giving them hope.

Your ex can’t address what needs to happen next because you aren’t allowing them to move forward. Their desperation to win you back will interfere with your ex’s healing process. The sooner your ex can move on, the better it will be for the both of you.

5. The Short-Term Effects of False Hope are Not Worth the Negative Effects

Giving your ex false hope allows many positive aspects, but it won’t outweigh the negatives–like feelings of low self-esteem or desperation. Think of the well-being of you and your ex. When you negatively impact the process, the negatives outweigh the positives.

Ultimately, the negatives come back to a feeling of disappointment. Your ex will be disappointed when they find out you’ve been leading them on. It’ll create hard feelings and hinder the healing process.

6. It Makes Your Ex Give into Ignorance

When you give false hope, you force your ex into a position of ignorance. Their ignorance results from your actions, omissions, and character as you make them think they can fix things with you.

7. False Hope Is Dishonest

Letting your ex think there’s the chance to get back together is dishonest unless you intend to see it through. Giving false hope is a lie because you know the outcome while your ex is unaware.

8. You Hinder Their Chance of Finding a Great Match

You’re the one who chose not to be with your ex, so let them find a great match if they can. The longer you give them false hope, the longer they pass up on opportunities to meet new people. You’re ensuring your ex isn’t available to meet their person when they come along.

9. False Hope Forces Them to Go Through Emotional Turmoil

When you give false hope, it causes unnecessary emotional turmoil. You’re forcing them through a roller coaster of emotions when they don’t even know what the end looks like. It’s unfair and insensitive to make them think something more will come of it.

10. Stops Them from Preparing for a Negative Outcome

False hope prevents your ex from preparing for a negative outcome in the situation. You cause them to think that something good will come from the situation, knowing that you don’t intend for that to happen.

Think of their well-being here, and don’t force them to be blinded sided by negativity when they find out the truth. The kind thing to do in this situation is to let your ex handle the negativity once and then let it go.

11. It Causes Obsession and Desperation

Giving false hope can cause your ex to become obsessed with you and the situation. They’ll always want to know what you’re doing and where you are. Even if you know the relationship won’t work out, this situation can overwhelm you and your well-being.

It isn’t beneficial for your ex either, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. You might be giving false hope, but your ex will know something is amiss, causing them to become obsessed with the details of your life. They’ll be so busy fantasizing about what could be that they don’t realize the truth.

12. It Causes Them to Lose Personal Control and Power

You can’t only think of yourself in this situation. Thinking about your ex and their well-being is essential, too. When you give them false hope, it causes them to lose personal control.

They relinquish their power to you, thinking you’ll end up together. If they feel desperation, they’ll do whatever you ask to try and prove to you that they’re worthy of your love. While it doesn’t directly affect you, it’s best to think of what your ex needs long-term.

13. The Post-Breakup Desperation Hurts Worse the Longer it Goes On

The longer you give your ex false hope, the worse it’ll feel when they realize the truth. They will find out that your intentions are not what they thought, and it won’t go over well. Don’t hurt your ex anymore than you have to. You might not want to be with your ex, but there’s no need to hurt them any more than necessary.

14. It Makes Them Think They Don’t Have to Work for It

Deep down, you might want to get back with your ex if they can change their ways. In that case, you don’t want to give false hope because they think they don’t have to work for it. If you split up because of specific issues, you want to address the issue immediately.

Don’t let your ex think you’ll get back together with them before they change the issues. If you give false hope, they’ll stick to their habits that you weren’t okay with. Getting back together requires that they work on the issues that caused the breakup. You want them to learn from their mistakes rather than let them assume that you’re okay with their behavior.

15. False Hope Is Manipulative

Being manipulative is never a good look. It’s detrimental to you and your ex, and it doesn’t solve anything. When you let someone believe that you’ll give them what they want, it’s manipulative.

They’ll give whatever they can to ensure they do what you desire, but it isn’t good for either of you. Manipulation is abuse, and you don’t want to be an abuser.

16. It Sets Them Up for Disappointment

False hope sets your ex up for disappointment and defeat. They go through the motions, assuming you want to get back together. Then, when they find out that it was all a lie, they experience unnecessary disappointment.

Don’t be the person who causes someone to feel this desperation. You might not want to be with your ex, but it doesn’t mean you can create a sense of false disappointment. It doesn’t benefit either of you, and it can unnecessarily hurt your ex.

17. They Compromise Their Needs for Yours Out of Desperation to Reunite

When you give your ex false hope, they stop thinking about what they need in life and their relationships. They want to give you whatever you want and need so that they can keep you around. If you know you don’t want to be with them, it’s unfair to expect them to compromise their needs for yours.

18. It Interferes with Their Self-Esteem

False hope can interfere with your ex’s self-esteem. They’ll feel bad about themselves, and the feeling will worsen the longer the situation continues. Let them loose, and their self-esteem won’t receive such a big hit.

19. They Overthink

We all know what it’s like to overthink, and it’s not an enjoyable experience. When you give your ex hope it causes them to overthink. They’ll overanalyze everything you say or do, and it’ll eat them up inside.

Final Thoughts on Reasons Never to Give an Ex False Hope

Holding onto false hope can cause many issues for your ex. While you might not want to be in a relationship with them, it doesn’t mean you want to make to live in pain and desperation. You might try to convince yourself that you’re doing your ex a favor, but that’s far from the truth. Giving them hope only prolongs the inevitable.

15 Ways to Fall Back Asleep Fast if You Always Wake Up At Night

July 25, 2022 by Chris Butler

It happens to everybody once in a while. You fall asleep without trouble. But you are awakened in the middle of the night. You feel as if you just drank caffeine. It’s the dead of night, but your body and mind feel like it’s daytime. Maybe you toss and turn for a couple of hours, hoping to fall back asleep, but feel even more awake. By now, you’re stressed because you can’t relax or sleep. What should you do?

You’re not alone

If it’s any comfort, you’re not alone regarding sleep problems. Lots of people have trouble sleeping. It’s thought that at least 50 to 70 million Americans have sleep disorders. Plus, one in three adults in the United States does not get the recommended seven or eight hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. So, if you’re regularly waking up at night, here are some suggestions to help you fall back to sleep quickly.

15 Ways to Fall Back Asleep if Awakened During the Night

How to relax your brain and fall asleep faster.

1 – Read a book

Apologies to these classic authors, but these books are considered sleepers… literally and by many readers. Certain books don’t hold your interest, so they make your eyes heavy. So, if you wake up in the middle of the night, pull out one of these authors’ books. Hopefully, one of these books will become your favorite way to trick your brain into falling asleep again.

William Shakespeare
John Steinbeck
Herman Melville
James Joyce
Ernest Hemingway
Thomas Hardy
William Faulkner
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Joseph Conrad

2 – Tell yourself not to fall asleep

A study found that people with insomnia fall asleep faster if they tell themselves not to fall asleep. It’s called the Paradoxical Intention. As you lie in your bed with your eyes wide open, all the worries about falling asleep fade away. This habit helps you relax, and before you know it, you will wake up refreshed after a good night’s sleep.

3 – Storytime

Listening to a story helps you get sleepy. You can download an app that is specifically for people who want to fall asleep, or you can listen to an audiobook. It’s worth trying. Maybe a story will put you to sleep just like it did when you were a little kid.

4 – Eat some cheese

It’s thought that cheese is a sleep remedy. Cheese contains tryptophan, which your body needs to make serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin controls your sleep while melatonin regulates your regular sleep cycle. So, if you wake up in the middle of the night, try eating a little bit of cheese. Avoid high-fat cheese. It’ll keep you awake. Instead, choose one of these low-fat options:

Cottage cheese
Ricotta
Swiss cheese
Mozzarella
Muenster
Provolone
Mexican cheese blend

5 – Get out of bed

If you find you’re waking up in the middle of the night, researchers say that getting up is the best thing. Instead of staring at the ceiling for hours, get up and read a book. Avoid using your devices because the blue screens will keep you awake. After you’ve been for a bit of time, you will relax and feel sleepy. Go back to bed.

6 – Take a small amount of melatonin

Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps you sleep. It’s essential that when you take it, you accept the right amount, or it can have the opposite effect and keep you awake. The rule of thumb is to take approximately three mg to fall back to sleep.

7 – Go to bed later

A simple remedy for waking at night could be to try going to bed later. It sounds strange, but if you keep waking up in the middle of the night, it could mean your body isn’t ready for sleep. It would be best if you got in sync with your body clock. Try moving your bedtime back an hour to see if that helps you sleep all night.

8 – Ignore the clock when you must fall asleep

There is nothing worse than waking up and looking at your clock. You may calculate how long it is until you need to get up or how few hours you’ve slept. Constantly checking the clock can be stressful. Try to let go of the time. This will relax you, so you’re more apt to fall asleep.

9 – Gratitude practice

Instead of counting sheep, count your blessings. Start listing all the things you feel grateful for. It can be as simple or complex as you want. Gratitude has a beautiful way of helping you feel positive and happy. Here are some things you could list as you count your blessings:

Family
Friends
Church Community
Job
School
Air
Rain
Plants
Lakes, oceans, and rivers
Clothes you wear
The home you live in
Food you eat
Clean water
Money to buy things
Pets
Neighbors
Car you drive
Bike you ride

Making this list could go on for hours, but hopefully, you’ll relax and feel tired as you marvel at all you have to be thankful for in your life.

10 – Take a walk

It’s a little unorthodox, but many people say that taking a walk if they wake up in the middle of the night helps them. Walking helps release your pent-up anxiety. As you walk, you will relax and feel sleepy. Of course, if where you live isn’t an excellent place to go walking around in the middle of the night, you may not do this. You may be able to walk around your backyard to get the same benefit.

11 – Try breathing relaxation exercises to fall back asleep

Get up and go into another room. Do some calming breathing exercises to release your tension or stress. Breathing can help your mind clear and your body relax. After these exercises, you can go back to bed if you feel tired. If not, keep doing the breathing relaxation techniques until you begin to feel sleepy.

12 – Be sure to follow your regular schedule the next day

If you wake up at night and never totally fall back to sleep, you’re guaranteed to feel tired the next day. Avoid taking a nap or drinking too much coffee to get through the day. Instead, follow your routine. This will ensure that you will sleep well that night. Keeping a routine despite waking up helps your body clock reset, so you’re apt to sleep better.

13 – Be sure to go to the bathroom

Sometimes what’s keeping you awake is that you need to empty your bladder. Before you go to bed, be sure to take care of business first. You may be surprised that this was all your body needed to get a good night’s rest.

14 – Listen to calming music

Listening to music is a beautiful way to relax and fall back to sleep. Create a playlist of calming classical tunes that you like to listen to. Avoid music with lyrics. They may wake up your brain. Let the music carry you away as you listen. Do a couple of deep breathing techniques and allow yourself to drift along with the notes.

15 – Pet your dog

Your dog might not appreciate the interruption, but petting your dog for a few minutes can help you relax. You’ll feel happier stroking your canine’s fur or giving them a little cuddle because your brain releases chemicals that improve your mood. You don’t need to stay at it long because your pet may wake up and want to play. So, try petting your puppy for ten minutes, then head back to bed.

Why Can’t You Stay Asleep?

You probably ask yourself this question. Why do you keep waking up during the night?

If you try all these things and nothing seems to help, discussing it with your naturopath may be good. They can do tests to see if there is a medical reason you keep waking up. Certain medical conditions can interrupt your sleep cycle, including the following:

Allergies
Asthma
Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism
Acid reflux
Sleep apnea
Restless leg syndrome
Depression
Chronic pain
Stress
Age

Final Thoughts on Understanding Why You Can’t Stay Asleep and How to Relax Your Mind

Waking up at night is a common problem for many adults. Waking up during the night can be stressful. Tossing and turning do no good in getting back to sleep. You might eat cheese, do breathing exercises, pet your dog, or go for a walk. Sometimes the simplest things work the best, so don’t underestimate the fact that you may need to go to the bathroom. Hopefully, one of these suggestions will do the trick to help you relax and fall back to sleep quickly, so you’re feeling ready for the following day.

10 Ways to Gain Self-Confidence from Within

July 25, 2022 by Deborah Tayloe

Not loving yourself could affect every facet of your life. You might miss out on the best jobs, and partners, or live life to the fullest. Many people with low self-confidence always end up with the short end of the stick, and these individuals end up in places they don’t want to be.

When you have low self-confidence, it’s always lingering under the surface. Sadly, the low view of yourself sabotages you in ways you never thought possible. You’ll have superior results when your confidence levels are where they need to be.

Believing in yourself and your abilities is a driving force that allows you to take risks, and healthy self-esteem will allow you to reach goals and have meaningful relationships. Is your self-confidence holding you back from having the life you desire?

Ten Ways to Boost Your Self-Confidence

If your self-confidence is lackluster, how can you fix it? How do you increase your views of yourself without becoming arrogant or haughty?

By changing a few things and implementing some new methods, you can see a dramatic overall change. Remember, what’s on the inside will always reflect on the outside. Here are some tips to help you.

1. Exercise Regularly to Build Self-Confidence.

In any self-help article, you will find sections about exercise. Authors highly recommend physical activity because it is vital to health and well-being. A study cited in the National Library of Medicine found a direct link between obesity and low self-esteem.

Being overweight is a challenge, but when you’re exercising daily, it can help you reverse weight issues. Additionally, working out helps keep your joints and muscles from stiffening as you age, and exercise can help you stay heart-healthy and feel great.

Moving and maintaining a proper weight will make you feel good inside and look great outside.

2. Be Thankful for Who You Are and What You Have.

You may not have a lot in this life, but when you have an attitude of gratitude, the Universe will bless you. Why do people focus so much on their collection of material possessions and money rather than other gifts?

Do you have a family that loves you? Many people don’t have anyone to walk this journey in life with them, so you’re blessed. Do you have a job? According to Statista, about 3.6 percent of the American population is unemployed.

The Census showed there were 331.45 million people who live in the USA. Considering 3.6 percent means that 1,191,762 people don’t have a job to care for their families. You’re blessed if you have a job. It may not be your desired job, but you have employment to meet your needs.

3. Start Loving Yourself With Daily Affirmations.

Using positive self-talk is one of the best ways of loving yourself. When you get out of bed each morning, you should cite positive affirmations to get you going. Look in the mirror and tell yourself how beautiful you are and that you love your eyes, hair, and smile.

Your self-confidence will improve as you start speaking positively about yourself each day. It’s hard to be downtrodden when using positive self-talk to fill your love tank.

4. Choose Your Inner Circle Wisely.

If you want to build good self-confidence, you need a robust support system. There will be days when you feel down and out because the world is so cruel. However, when you have people who stand beside you, they can lift you when you need it most.

When self-doubts come to try to tear your esteem down, your friends will help you get back to a place of loving yourself. If you have negative friends who tend to bring you down, it’s time to get new friends.

Surround yourself with people who will empower you for your journey, and you’ll see a drastic difference in your self-confidence.

5. Make a Statement With Your Appearance.

It’s often said that you feel good when you look good. Sometimes the little things can have the most significant impact on you. Taking time to shower, clip your nails, shave, dress stylishly, and make yourself presentable can-do wonders for your self-esteem.

Have you ever got a new outfit and had a little pep in your step because you felt amazing? When you learn to care for your body, you will feel like you’re wearing new clothes daily. Loving yourself boosts your esteem and makes you feel better in everything you do.

6. Develop a Self-Care Routine.

Loving yourself is about more than positive self-talk. It would help if you were pampered on occasion. When was the last time you bought yourself a new outfit?

Sure, you’ve got a family, bills, and other obligations that make you put off buying yourself anything. However, it would help if you learned to care for your needs too. You must get the stylish haircut you want, get a manicure/pedicure, and take a bubble bath with music.

You will boost your self-confidence when you learn to take care of yourself. Though many people love and support you, no one will take care of you as you can. Make sure you have at least a few hours each week for self-care.

7. Focus On Your Talents.

What are the things that you’re good at? Can you style hair like a pro, or maybe you’re a whiz at math? There’s not a person alive who doesn’t have unique gifts and callings.

So many people focus on the faults and failures that they have instead of focusing on the great things. Positive self-talk will get you everywhere in life. You should focus on the good stuff and work on the bad.

When you start talking to yourself like you talk to your partner or children, you will see a drastic difference in your esteem and confidence levels.

8. Change The Way You Think Towards More Self-Confidence.

Do you tend to see things that happen to you through a negative lens, or do you try to stay positive? There is power in positivity; you can’t deny how much better it makes you feel about yourself.

Don’t say how bad you feel when you wake up in the morning and feel horrible. Instead, say things like, “I feel great.” “I feel amazing.” “I am going to conquer the day.”

Stopping negative self-talk is imperative for your journey to enhance your self-confidence. Constantly seeing the proverbial glass as half empty will dramatically affect you. Start looking at the glass as half full even if you don’t believe it. Soon, you can change how you look at things by changing your mindset.

9. Buy the Right Clothes for Your Body.

Everyone has a particular shape, and certain clothes look better on you than others. Have you ever seen someone who could wear a burlap bag and make it look amazing?

On the flip side, you can wear uncomfortable clothes that are too tight or not flattering for your figure. Have you ever had an outfit that looked good on the hanger but was uncomfortable?

If you want to boost your esteem and have a go-getter attitude, you must learn how to dress to complement your shape.

10. Don’t Compare Yourself to Other People.

Everyone has times when they’re jealous of other folks. It’s easy to scroll social media and find people who seem to have a better life than you. Remember one thing; you never know what goes on behind closed doors.

Even the most put-together individuals have skeletons in their closets. People look at Oprah Winfrey and see all her successes. However, many folks don’t know about the struggles to get out of poverty and the trauma she experienced to get where she is today.

The grass always looks greener on the other side, but you must realize that your perception is skewed. It would help if you learned to be content with what you have in this life, as it will affect your self-confidence. Stop watching everyone else’s life and comparing yours and start living to the fullest.

Final Thoughts on Gaining Self-Confidence

It’s only normal to struggle with self-confidence and esteem on occasion. However, there are many things you can do to help you feel more confident and love yourself more. Have you ever heard the saying, “fake it till you make it?”

Sometimes you just need to start acting more confident, and you will see that soon it will become second nature to you. Many people struggle with their confidence levels because of anxiety and depression.

Thankfully, there are things you can do to combat these mental health problems and get your esteem back where it needs to be. What can you do today to start loving yourself more?

10 Ways Drinking Alcohol Harms Your Mental Health

July 24, 2022 by Chris Butler

Drinking alcohol is a coping skill many use to help ease their emotional pain. Though it has a depressive effect and sedates the body, it can cause an alteration in the chemical messengers in the brain. These messengers affect many things, including your behavior and thoughts. For some, even social drinking can harm mental health and emotional well-being.

Social drinking has been widely accepted as usual, and for most people, having the occasional drink typically doesn’t cause any harm. However, when a person drinks all the time, the effects can be catastrophic to the mind and body. One drink starts to impact the area of your brain that controls your inhibition, so you immediately begin to feel relaxed and even more confident.

Sadly, these great feelings are short-lived, and the changes that occur cause other, more sinister feelings to erupt. Have you ever seen someone get angry when they drink? It’s because the brain chemicals are out of whack, and the effect of alcohol is causing them to do and say strange things.

Alcohol affects people differently based on how their body responds, other supplements they take, and the amount they drink. Another negative consequence of too much drink is it slows your response times. It’s effortless to make foolish mistakes while under the influence and not comprehend the results of your actions.

Ten Ways Drinking Alcohol Affects Your Mental Health

The long-term effects of drinking alcohol are undeniable. It can reduce the number of chemicals in your brain, and this can cause serious mental health issues. You may drink more to combat the problems, but it’s only compounding.

Your mental health and alcohol are closely linked. A study by the Australian Government of Health and Welfare found that one in five people who regularly consume alcohol will have mental health issues. Here are some of the mental disturbances that drinking alcohol can do to you.

1. Drinking Alcohol Kicks Anxiety into Overdrive

Many folks who drink to self-medicate already have an anxiety issue. However, alcohol will only sedate those horrible feelings for a short while. You can’t depend on it to solve a common mental health disorder that can be effectively treated in other ways.

While social drinking one small glass might take the edge off at first, soon, you will need two drinks, then three, and even four to have the same effect. This is how dependence is born.

When you binge drink, having a hangover can make your anxiety accelerate. There are better ways to relax, like meditation, exercising, walking in nature, or doing yoga. It’s estimated that about 18 percent of adults in this country have some anxiety disorder, according to a study by the CDC. The American Psychological Association recognizes the following types of anxiety disorders:

GAD
Panic disorder
OCD
PTSD
Social anxiety disorder
Agoraphobia

It’s not uncommon to have one or more of these anxiety disorders together. Some people will have GAD along with PTSD and panic disorder all rolled into one.

2. Drinking Alcohol Contributes to Depression

Drinking alcohol can have a depressive effect on the body, so folks already prone to depression can be severely affected. One way to tell if that social drinking is causing you to be more depressed is to stop doing it and see if your symptoms improve.

Consuming alcohol has a direct effect on the nerve chemicals in the brain, which are responsible for maintaining your moods. If you’ve drunk too much and felt horrible the next day, you may also notice you feel depressed.

Since some of the signs of depression do mimic a hangover, it can be challenging to distinguish. Thankfully, the uncomfortable depressive symptoms usually go away when you stop drinking.

3. Causes Psychosis

Drinking alcohol constantly makes you more prone to psychosis when under the influence. Psychosis is where you lose all bearings and the sense of reality. You may see and hear things that aren’t there, as hallucinations and delusions are commonplace.

Another major issue with psychosis comes when you suddenly stop drinking after your body has become accustomed to its effects. It throws your brain into a tailspin as it no longer has the substance it used to function.

4. Increases Self-Harming Behaviors

You already know that alcohol interrupts receptors and brain chemicals, so it stands to reason that it can make you act impulsively.

Maybe the drink isn’t numbing the pain like you thought it would, so you turn to cut and other self-harming behaviors. It’s not uncommon for people under the influence to engage in self-harm activities, as their rationale and sense of pain are numb when under the influence.

5. Causes Higher Rates of Suicide

A shocking study by the World Health Organization shows that over 700,000 people commit suicide in this country each year. It’s considered the 11th leading cause of death in this country. Self-harming behaviors and drinking alcohol also correlate with suicidal ideations.

Drinking alcohol causes you to be impulsive, take risks you usually wouldn’t take, and not think properly. These issues are a recipe for disaster, and suicide ideation signals that you need immediate help.

6. Mood Disturbances

Inside your brain is communication pathways. This is where the brain sends commands to the other parts of your body. When you want to move your leg, your brain signals your leg to move. It happens so quickly that you don’t know what is happening inside.

When you put alcohol into your system, it alters these pathways and communication methods. Imagine getting water on the hard drive of your computer system. What would happen? It would short-circuit, fry, and not work as well or at all.

You might notice that you can’t think, have a more challenging time with your moods, and your coordination can be off. If you get angry while drinking alcohol, your pathways are more susceptible to the effects, which alter your moods.

7. Alcohol-Related Brain Injuries

What started as social drinking can turn into a habit. Long-term use of alcohol can have severe effects on the brain. The alterations that were once temporary while you drank have now become permanent due to the amount of alcohol consumed.

Your brain can become injured or altered because of this substance. You may notice that you have problems understanding what people are saying, can’t remember things, and lack reasoning skills. Alcohol-related brain injuries are called “wet brain,” it’s just as traumatic as having a brain injury in a car accident.

8. Memory Loss Can Come from Alcohol, Even Social Drinking

If drinking alcohol becomes commonplace, it can cause you to experience amnesia or loss of memory. If you drink until you blackout, you can be unaware of what you’ve done, where you’ve been, or all the in-betweens. It only takes a few drinks for your short-term memory to be impacted.

Sadly, long-term memory loss is possible. Ethanol is the substance found in alcohol, and it profoundly affects the hippocampus area of the brain. If you drink until you pass out, your brain is flooded with ethanol and damaging cells. If the drinking doesn’t stop, a temporary loss can become permanent.

9. Partial or Complete Black Outs

When you’re under the influence of alcohol, you can blackout. There are two different ways this occurs inside the body. A partial blackout happens when you’ve been social drinking and only had a few.

You may forget the names of the people you’re with and have recall issues. The complete blackout comes when you do not recall anything while under the influence. Your cognition is impaired, but so is your judgment.

Have you ever had someone tell you things you did or how you acted when drinking alcohol and had no recollection of them? When your blood alcohol levels rise too quickly, it causes you to blackout, which leaves you vulnerable.

10. Sleep Disturbances

Having a drink to put yourself to sleep is commonplace. However, inducing yourself with alcohol will only help in the short term. The things you took to help you sleep can soon start causing you to get little to no sleep. You may toss and turn and be unable to get any quality rest. Therefore, you need more to produce the same effects as you become immune.

Final Thoughts on Drinking Alcohol and Your Mental Health

The correlation between social drinking and mental health problems is undeniable. The more you drink, the more damage that occurs in your brain. The more dependent you are on alcohol to self-medicate, the more apt you are to cause significant mental disturbances.

Being a heavy drinker increases your risk of developing depression and anxiety. Another shocking statistic from this study shows that those who have anxiety and depressive disorders and start drinking are more likely to form a dependence.

Some people cannot tolerate an occasional social drink, as drinking alcohol takes hold of them and rules their life. Your genetics, personality, and mental health dictate whether having even one drink is safe.

Kind Nurse Designs Adult Bibs That Look Like Shirts, Restoring Dignity

July 24, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

Paige Meyer, a young nurse from Australia, designed dignity bibs for her patients to help them feel more comfortable. During her career, one of her tasks involved feeding patients who could no longer do so alone.

Paige put adult bibs on them to keep their clothes clean but never liked traditional bibs much. Since they’re associated with babies, she felt they might humiliate her elderly patients. They never disliked the bibs, but Paige’s intuition told her they deserved better.

Plus, she had firsthand experience with the degrading nature of adult bibs when her grandma’s dementia worsened. Her caretakers supplied her with a bib during mealtimes, which wasn’t easy for family members to witness. After all, no one wants to watch their loved ones suffer.

So, based on her experiences with adults in her care, Paige wanted to create dignity bibs instead. They resemble everyday button-up clothing so patients won’t feel embarrassed at a meal. This aesthetically pleasing clothing provides protection functions like regular vinyl bibs, making meals more enjoyable for patients.

“Dignity bibs are designed to protect clothing from mealtime mishaps while providing dignity by not looking like a bib,” she told The Courier.

“Our dignity bibs are designed and made by a nurse to help ease of use by both consumer and nurse. As a nurse, my aim is to promote dignity to all of my patients and believe this is just one way I can help.”

During the pandemic lockdowns, Paige had much extra time on her hands. When she wasn’t working, she began sewing the dignity bibs after rekindling her passion for the hobby. She discovered a unique pattern for the shirt covering and transformed it into an original design.

Then, she challenged herself to sew fifty per month during 2021. She planned on donating them to the area’s special schools and nursing homes.

Kind Nurse Sews Adult Bibs That Look Like Shirts For Her Patients

In her interview with The Courier, she explained a bit more about her inspiration for taking on this incredible project.

“I’ve just finished my nursing degree, and through nursing and learning to nurse and working as a nurse, it’s all about promoting dignity wherever you can … but the big gap I always found and had trouble with was putting bibs on adults and them losing their sense of dignity as soon as you put a bib on them,” she said.

Thankfully, her new design seems to be a hit with both patients and families alike.

“They use the front panel of a button-up shirt and once placed on top of the clothing, they just look like clothing. It’s less confronting for family as well because it looks like normal clothes.”

You can find a variety of designs for these trendy products online. One of the most well-known patterns comes from an Etsy store called Fabric Greetings. Their downloadable digital patterns cost $7.25 each and have received over 245 rave reviews.

The shop owner described the inspiration behind the design on the item’s main page.

“This bib was designed for a friend who had that same problem. He now shows up to dinner with one of his dignity bibs in hand. One of the nice things about these bibs is that each bib comes with a pocket – sometimes two. Great place to store your hankie or medicine container,” the description states.

How To Make Your Own Dignity Bibs

The owner added that they designed the bib using upcycled men’s shirts. However, you can use other shirt sizes to make them for children or young adults. For example, the bibs can also work for children with special needs. Patients with severe dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders can also benefit from the bibs.

The description continued: “If you have a basic knowledge of sewing and a sewing machine that does straight and zig-zag stitching, this bib can be made with no problems. If you have a serger, the process is even easier. When your bib is finished, it will cover the lap of the wearer when he is seated. So it is much longer than most adult bibs. I have made these bibs from denim shirts, regular oxford cloth, and flannel shirts. Whatever you have on hand works.”

The innovation even comes with a piece of velcro to connect the straps behind the wearer’s neck. Throw it in the washing machine with other clothes to clean it after mealtimes.

If you don’t have a sewing machine, no need to worry. You can still buy stylish adult coverings through many retailers online.

Ms. Meyer had already sewed fifteen of these coverings at the start of January 2021. Her mom and younger sister also helped her since they knew the positive impact it would have on patients.

“Watching nan … was a particularly big eye opener for the fact that as a family member it was hard to see. As a nurse, it’s hard not being able to do anything, but as a family member, it’s hard seeing it,” Paige said.

Paige set up a Go Fund Me page to help raise money for the sewing and transport of the bibs. While it’s no longer active, she was able to raise over $1,200 to support her goal.

Generous Nurse Restores Dignity to Patients With Stylish Bibs

Mealtimes shouldn’t be a humiliating or stressful experience for patients who need help with feeding. However, Australian nurse Paige Meyer found that the adult bibs used in most care homes looked childlike. She also watched her grandma with dementia suffer through mealtimes and felt elderly patients deserved more respect.

Wanting to give her patients a more dignified experience, she decided to sew new bibs for them. Instead of having an unsightly vinyl appearance, these resemble button-up denim shirts.

This helps patients look forward to mealtimes and keeps their dignity intact. If a relative needs help feeding, consider buying them a fashionable bib. It’s a small gesture that shows them you care, and they will certainly appreciate it!

How to Make a Ginger Turmeric Cleanse to Reduce Inflammation

July 24, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

A ginger turmeric tonic or cleanse can offer significant health benefits. Ginger and turmeric both have potent antioxidants that reduce free radicals. They also lower inflammation and ease stomach pain or digestive issues. In addition, people have used ginger and turmeric for centuries in herbal medicines to ward off respiratory illnesses.

As you can see, both of these roots can improve your health and stave off diseases. When combined, they make a potent natural remedy indeed. Below, we will expand upon the advantages of this cleanse and tell you how to make it at home.

Powerful Ginger Turmeric Cleanse For Reducing Inflammation

Key Ingredients

Two cups of water
2 teaspoons organic ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon organic ground ginger (or grated, if you have the patience)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Juice of 1/2 a lemon
1 pinch of cayenne or black pepper (this helps with the absorption of ginger and turmeric)
1 tablespoon raw honey (optional)

Instructions

Bring the water to a boil and add the turmeric, pepper, ginger, and cinnamon. Reduce to a simmer and let cool for about 10-15 minutes.
Strain the syrup over a small heat-resistant bowl.
Then, in another bowl, mix the lemon juice and optional honey. Once fully blended, add to the ginger turmeric mixture. If desired, you can add more water to increase servings.
Let the liquid sit until it cools to room temperature.
You can serve it cold over ice or as a hot tea if you prefer. For a bonus, slice lemon for added zest and flavor!
Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container for up to two weeks.

Other Delicious Ginger Turmeric Drink Recipes

Here are some other delicious ginger turmeric beverages you might enjoy.

Turmeric (Golden) Milk

This tea gets its name from the rich yellow hue produced by turmeric. It’s a popular drink in India as turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for millennia.

Ingredients:

1/2 to 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric powder (if using fresh turmeric, add more)
A pinch of ground black pepper
2 cups coconut milk or oat milk
1 teaspoon ghee or butter
A teaspoon of honey for sweetness

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl. Then pour into a saucepan.
Bring the mixture to medium heat and let the tea simmer for 10 minutes. Don’t boil it since this will reduce the potency and effectiveness of the tea.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve while still hot.

Ginger Turmeric Milk Tea

This recipe is similar to the one above, except you won’t use ghee or black pepper this time.

Ingredients:

1 cup of coconut or almond milk
1 teaspoon coconut oil (for richness)
1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ inch ginger root, grated (or ground ginger)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of honey (add to taste)

Directions:

Blend all the ingredients in a small bowl.
Pour into a saucepan and heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
Let the mixture simmer but don’t allow it to boil. Heating destroys some of the antioxidants present in turmeric.
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes. Serve with sliced lemon if desired.

How Ginger Turmeric Tea Fights Inflammation

Not all inflammation leads to disease in the body. In fact, we need healthy amounts of inflammation as part of our natural defense system. Inflammation occurs when your immune system sends white blood cells to fight an infection or heal injuries. In general, acute inflammation doesn’t cause long-term damage and protects the body from disease.

However, chronic inflammation triggered by stress, environmental toxins, or an autoimmune disorder can have a disastrous impact on the body. Studies show that when inflammation lingers, it can lead to conditions like cancer, strokes, heart disease, and diabetes. It may also result in arthritis, asthma, obesity, dementia, and other severe imbalances in the body.

Luckily, studies also reveal that ginger contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The research discovered that compounds in ginger like gingerols, shogaol, and paradols might even ward off cancer. In addition, the findings revealed that ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties improve cardiovascular disorders, diabetes mellitus, and gastrointestinal health.

Research shows that turmeric offers similar benefits for mental and physical health. Turmeric contains a potent polyphenol called curcumin, which gives the spice its rich yellow color. It helps relieve oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and anxiety.

Some people find that curcumin or turmeric offers pain relief after a workout. For highly active people, this may help increase performance and stamina.

A Study Proves It

However, those without known health conditions can still benefit from turmeric. A 4-week study measured the effects of turmeric on 60 healthy adults aged 60-85. Researchers found improved mood and lower stress in participants after taking 400mg daily during the study period. The researchers also discovered that participants had improved memory and attention after supplementing with turmeric.

So, everyone can benefit from drinking ginger turmeric tea and other beverages. However, it’s important to remember that ingesting turmeric alone may not have the same results. The body doesn’t normally absorb it well due to its poor bioavailability. As suggested in the recipes above, taking it with black pepper significantly increases absorption. In fact, some research suggests that it could enhance bioavailability by 2000%!

Hopefully, you will reap the benefits from this ginger turmeric cleanse and enjoy its healing properties.

Final Thoughts on Ginger Turmeric Cleanse For Improved Health

Cultures worldwide have made ginger turmeric drinks for many years to enhance health. Both roots contain potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that ward off chronic diseases. In fact, research shows that, when taken together, ginger and turmeric could even heal cancer.

They can also reduce pain, lower blood pressure, and alleviate stress in the body and mind. While ginger turmeric tea isn’t a miracle drink, it can provide healing when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Along with taking ginger turmeric supplements or beverages, getting plenty of rest and eating a balanced diet can restore health. Also, make sure to move your body regularly, practice mindfulness, and laugh often!

20 Signs Reveal That Your Partner Is Your Forever Person

July 23, 2022 by Chris Butler

You’re smitten with someone and believe they may be “the one” you will love forever. However, the classic question remains how do you know for sure? Is this the person your one true love or soulmate?

Twenty Signs You’ve Found Your Forever Person

Contrary to popular belief, making a relationship work takes more than love. You need honesty, compassion, loyalty, and hard work. If you listen to your heart, you’ll notice these twenty signs that reveal you’re with your forever person.

1. You Have a Simultaneous Love Connection

Maybe in past relationships, you were the one who fell in love first, or vice-versa. What if you and your current mate fell for each other simultaneously? It’s a good chance that this loving relationship was in the stars and you’ve found your forever person.

2. You are Best Friends With Your Forever Person

Using “friends” in a romantic relationship is poisonous for most people. However, you’ve discovered that your partner truly is your best friend. Shouldn’t friendship be as much part of a loving relationship as a physical one?

Research published by the National Library of Medicine suggests that friend-first initiation may be more prevalent than romance between strangers. Of course, it may have been love at first sight for you. Either way, a loving relationship usually develops into one of the deepest friendships imaginable.

3. You Don’t Have to Say a Word

Love is just as much a language of the heart as a verbal one. Consider how often you look into your partner’s eyes and know their thoughts. They also amaze you when they understand your feelings and needs without you saying a word.

Sure, such subliminal communication isn’t a substitute for verbally expressing your love, needs, and concerns. It’s just a beautiful touch of spiritual grace in a loving relationship. These are the times you know you’re committed to each other body, mind, and spirit.

4. You Can Be Genuine Around Your Soulmate

An article published by the Review of General Psychology states that authenticity facilitates your psychological well-being. Most couples agree that genuineness is essential for a lasting and loving relationship.

When you’ve found your soulmate, you’ll discover that you can be yourself with them; they feel the same when they’re with you. There’s no need for facades or hiding your real emotions. Your loving acceptance of each other encourages authenticity and honesty.

5. You Gravitate Toward a Forever Person

The law of attraction also works with finding your soulmate. Since like attracts like, you naturally gravitate to someone like you. They share some of the same interests and want similar things in life.

6. Your Spiritual Vibrations Get Higher

Did you know that everything in the Universe is tuned to a specific frequency? The more spiritually minded you become, the higher your frequency. You’ll notice more positive and higher vibrations when you’re in the right loving relationship.

7. The Spiritual Paths Soulmates are On Target

Your life’s path is just as unique as your fingerprint. However, when you find your soulmate, the merging of your paths shows similarities. You share some of the same dreams, aspirations, and the desire to share your journey.

8. You Feel Like You’ve Known Your Forever Person Your Entire Life

Have you ever met someone for the first time and felt you’d known them for a lifetime? Some may say that it’s dé·jà vu or connecting with a lover from a past life. You know you’re with the right person when your spirits resonate with attraction and familiarity.

9. You Meet Them at the Perfect Moment

One of the most beautiful gifts of the divine is meeting your lover when you need them most. Maybe you were experiencing a devastating loss or crisis of faith. You’ll probably discover later that they needed you just as much as you needed them.

10. Your Inner Voice Confirms: They Are Your True Soulmate

Do you take time to listen to that small, still voice that speaks to your heart? Your higher self knows you better than you do yourself. When you’re in a loving relationship, it will confirm that you’re both on the right path.

11. You Respect Each Other’s Opinions

Wherever there are two people, there will always be a difference of opinion. If a couple doesn’t respect each other’s thoughts and ideas, the relationship won’t last. You feel secure when you and your significant other can disagree but still respect and love each other.

12. Forever Partners Bring out the Best in Each Other

Does your mate encourage and make you feel like you can conquer anything? This supportive love is a significant component of a forever relationship. You do the same for them, striving to be the best version of yourself.

13. You Love Them Even at Their Worst

Nobody is perfect, and even the most charming soulmate can have bad days. How does your partner react to your mistakes, shortcomings, and emotional meltdowns? If you can see each other at your worst and still be in love, you can be sure it’s real.

14. You Listen to Each Other

Too many couples go through the motions and “hear” each other. Their partner’s conversation goes in one ear and out of the other. Then, they wonder why their relationship falters due to poor communication and misunderstandings.

In a healthy, loving relationship, you actively listen to each other. You don’t interrupt and think about their statements before you reply. You mirror the other’s emotions and maintain receptive body language.

15. You’ve Finally Released the Past

Let’s face it; everybody has a few skeletons in their closet that rattle from time to time. However, you can’t fully bond with your soulmate if one or both of you are shackled with past baggage. You know you’re with the right person when you can finally leave the past and walk with them into the present and future.

16. You’re More Compassionate with Yourself

How many people would be in your circle if you treated them like you treat yourself? You’d probably be losing relationships left and right. Thankfully, you learn to give yourself a break when you’re with your forever person.

You become less judgmental, and you are more accepting of yourself. When you make mistakes, you apologize, make amends, and try to improve. You follow your lover’s example by being compassionate towards yourself.

17. Forever Partners Pick Each Other up When You Fall

Anybody can be madly in love when everything is going their way. The sun is shining, and the world’s a perfect place. It’s another story when the storm clouds roll in, and problems and mistakes darken your outlook.

You know you have a forever partner when they reach down further than you can reach up to them. They pick you up, dust you off, and encourage you to keep trying. You find that commitment and compassion sustain your relationship as you do the same for them.

18. You Can Still be an Individual

It’s a lovely metaphor to consider that you and your soulmate are one. It exemplifies how you work and love in tandem, like one flesh. The spiritual gist is inspiring, but it can’t be a literal interpretation.

Even though you feel eternally connected, a couple comprises two individuals. In human relationships, opposite attraction is just as important as similarities. You both need your interests and hobbies to maintain who you are.

In a healthy relationship, neither partner has a problem with allowing each other their right to individuality. The good news is that you’ll have more exciting things to discuss. You’re a complete person by yourself, but having someone special in your life puts a spring in your step and boosts your joy.

19. A Forever Person Knows How to Make You Laugh

Humor is a soothing balm for your heart and soul. Having a chronically grumpy and pessimistic partner is unpleasant, especially when considering forever. Spending time with your true soulmate will make you smile and laugh more.

You know how to tease each other good-naturedly, and they know how to make you smile. It’s those little inside jokes or their amusing observations that make you giggle and want more. They are a source of joy and light that strengthens your spirit.

20. You Can’t Imagine Being Without a Soulmate

In previous relationships, you stayed though you had many doubts. However, with this person, you can’t imagine spending one day without them by your side. Your connection with this person is much deeper than other people from your past.

Final Thoughts on Finding Your Forever Partner

Most people dream of finding their eternal soulmate to fulfill their lives. You may have a few broken relationships before you find that person. However, when you find them, the Universe will send you signs so you’ll know for sure.

18 Things to Say to Be a More Supportive Friend

July 23, 2022 by Deborah Tayloe

Genuine friendship is a treasure that far exceeds any wealth the world may hold. It takes work and dedication, like a garden, to cultivate a relationship and make it last. You’re supportive and try to reassure each other, especially during difficult situations.

Eighteen Things to Say to Be More Supportive and Have a Stronger Friendship

As in any relationship, your friends are with you to weather the best and worst of times. How can you boost your buddy’s spirits when they are down or in a dark place? Here are 18 things you could say to reassure them of how much you care.

1. “I Believe in You.”

One of the most supportive statements you can offer a friend is to tell them how much you believe in them. You reassure them when they are at their lowest point and doubt their strengths and abilities. Love and acceptance are basic human needs, and you can offer these to your friend.

2. “I Can’t Stop the Storm, but I Can be Your Umbrella.”

When family or friends experience loss or other adversity, well-meaning people often say the wrong things. You can’t promise them they needn’t worry because everything will be fine. However, you can be supportive and reassure them that you’ll be at their side.

3. “I Love and Accept You Just as You Are.”

Best pals see each other for who they are and love them anyway. By loving and accepting them, you build their self-worth. They don’t have to look or be like anyone else for them to hold a special place in your heart.

4. “Your Past Mistakes Don’t Define You.”

Is it difficult for you to see your friend chronically kicking themselves for past mistakes? Often, it’s easier for folks to forgive others than to forgive themselves. Be supportive and encourage your friend to show themselves more forgiveness and compassion.

5. “You’re More Than Enough.”

The next time your friend feels down and less than, be the sunlight that brightens their day. Tell them that they’re more than enough and more incredible than what they can ever imagine. Please pay them a sincere compliment and boost their mood.

6. “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay Sometimes.”

Of course, you want to be supportive of your best buddy with words of encouragement. You may be quick to say, “be strong” or “you’re going to be okay.” But everyone has a right to grieve, feel vulnerable, and unsure.

They shouldn’t feel guilty if they need some time to fall to pieces and not be okay. Encourage them with your love and support, and your presence is a gift when you’re there for them.

7. “I’ve Always Admired Your Strength.”

Have there been times in your relationship that your best friend has been your anchor? Tell them how much that means and their strength inspires you. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to lift their spirits too.

8. “Please Let Me Help You.”

Many people feel that it’s a sign of weakness to ask others for help. It shows great strength and courage to swallow your pride and let someone lend a hand. Your best friend may be struggling with a problematic situation, and they feel embarrassed to ask you to intervene.

You can be sensitive to their feelings while still offering your assistance. They may feel relieved that someone cared enough to ask. You can also provide something more specific like taking them somewhere special, or you can help by babysitting their kids for a day.

9. “I’m Not Your Judge or Jury.”

It’s only human to reach out to a hurting friend and try to fix things. If you get into this mindset, you may become their adviser rather than their supportive friend. Even when they’re asking you what to do, they want you to confirm the decision they’ve already made.

Avoid judgmental statements and tell them what you would do if you were them. If their thinking is awry, let them come to that conclusion themselves. It’s refreshing and reassuring when you lend an empathetic ear without condemnation.

10. “Those Toxic People Don’t Deserve Your Time.”

Sometimes, your best friend may be in a toxic relationship, or they may have just experienced a breakup. They’re shattered, and they may feel that the broken relationship was somehow their fault. You must reassure them of your friendship and make sure you let them know that you’re on their side.

You can tell your friend they deserve better without indulging in name-calling and insulting the other parties. If a person doesn’t want to treat them with love and respect, they miss out. Let them know how much you value and appreciate your friendship.

11. “Take all the Time You Need.”

Patience is not a virtue that naturally comes to humans. The only way to learn how to be patient is to go through adversity. When you use your painful experiences and tools, you are more patient with yourself and others.

Time and patience are also beautiful gifts in a friendly relationship. Allow them time to make crucial decisions or to heal. They will appreciate your kindness and lack of pushiness.

12. “Being Your Friend Makes Me a Better Person.”

The beauty of companionship is that you bring out the best in each other. How has your pal been an inspiration and positive influence for you? Tell them what a blessing they are to you, and make sure you let them know that they make you a better person.

13. “I’m Sorry; please Forgive Me.”

According to an article by UCLA-Berkeley, forgiveness may boost your relationship satisfaction. People will have shortcomings and hurt even the ones they love the most. While offending others may be inevitable, it doesn’t mean that these offenses must linger without apology.

It takes a big person to admit they’ve done wrong and ask for forgiveness. If you’ve hurt your friend, even unknowingly, be quick to ask them to forgive you. Then, try to be supportive of your friendship by making amends.

Take note of what you did wrong, so you can try to avoid the mistake in the future. Make sure you validate their feelings, even if you disagree with what they’re saying. Whether or not you intended the offense, your actions caused pain.

14. “I Accept Your Apology and Forgive You.”

What if your friend has done something to hurt you? If your friendship is genuine, they won’t rest until they’ve made it right. The essential thing to remember is not to allow bitterness to darken your spirits.

Holding a grudge can affect your entire well-being, says an article published by the Mayo Clinic. You can become anxious and depressed and can’t enjoy the present because you are stuck in the past. According to the article, learning to forgive may lower stress levels and improve mental health.

Your pal will be supportive and empathetic of your feelings. You can’t forget the transgression, but forgiveness allows you to leave it in the past. When they apologize, forgiving is more meaningful than harbor bad feelings.

15. “Have You Considered This Perspective?”

You can always count on a genuine friend to tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear. They’ll give you an honest opinion out of love even if the truth hurts a bit. You’ll do the same for them and help them explore other perspectives when they need solutions.

16. “Your Smile Makes Me Happy.”

What are some of the things about your companion that make you crave their company? Maybe when you’re having a bad day, all it takes is their smile to cheer you. It could be their infectious laughter or what brilliant conversationalists they are.

17. “I’ve Always Trusted Your Opinion.”

A solid friendship strikes a healthy balance of give and take. You both stand in the gap for each other. When you help someone and sense their gratitude, you may feel just as wonderful as they do.

Remember when your pal was your rock in a time of crisis? They have your best interest at heart and wouldn’t steer you wrong. They’ve had a lot of experience, and you value their opinion.

18. “You Deserve the Best in Life.”

It’s also important to be supportive during joyous occasions. Be genuinely happy for your friend’s success and other blessings. Stand with them on the mountain tops; you must be part of the joy they deserve.

Final Thoughts on Things to Say to be a More Supportive Friend

Weave the fabric of friendship with wefts of love and warps of strength. Honest communication is essential to keep your relationship happy and healthy. Knowing what, when, and how to say something meaningful to them can make all the difference.

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Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!