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10 Behaviors That Help Someone Gain a Fresh Perspective

June 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

You’ve probably heard the classic crooner singing about doing things “my way.” What if your way of thinking and doing things isn’t working for you anymore? It’s probably time to get a fresh perspective on your life.

Have you ever watched someone weave a basket? If they tried to use the stiff reeds without soaking them in water, the reeds would crack and break when bent. However, soaked reeds are pliable and can be woven into beautiful baskets.

Do your views and opinions still serve you, or are they so rigid that they break? Learning to be flexible and discovering new ways of thinking can improve your life. It can also boost your creative problem-solving skills.

Ten Ways To Open Your Mind and Gain a New Perspective

Are you stumped with a problem or feel like you have tunnel vision? It’s common for people to get set in their ways and avoid change. If you want to break out of the box, here are ten useful ways to discover new perspectives.

1. Try to Eliminate Words that Limit Your Views

Often your life’s perspective is limited by common but powerful words. One that you probably use daily is “should.” It creates a rulebook of unrealistic expectations in your mind. When people don’t do as they “should” or situations turn out differently than they “should,” you are disappointed.

Here are a pair of words that can create negative energy in your space: “always” and “never.” For example, you may tell your partner, “You always forget important dates.” Perhaps you tell yourself, “I’m never going to prosper like others.”

According to the law of attraction, you manifest whatever you speak into the Universe. If you use “should,” “always,” and “never,” that’s precisely what you’ll get. Your partner will continue to forget important dates, and you won’t prosper.

Try to catch yourself before you say these words. It may not be easy in the beginning, but it will become a habit. Use only those words that praise, uplift, and encourage.

Instead, speak positive affirmations, and the Universe will broaden your views. You may get insight that you’ve never considered in the past. When you have a new perspective, you are only limited by your imagination.

2. Talk to Your Children

Remember the classic tv show where the host interviewed children about various subjects? Your children may say the dandiest things, but their perspectives are fresh and unique. But, unfortunately, they have yet to mature and have their attitude tainted by the adult world.

Of course, they lack the knowledge and life experience that you have gained. However, don’t discount their way of explaining things. It may be a case that the child teaches the parent.

If you really want a singular take on life, talk to your children. Youngsters have a naturally positive attitude and take things at face value. Perhaps you’ve lost some of that childhood wonder, and your kids can help you refocus.

3. Be at One with Nature

It’s challenging to be small-minded when you see the stars twinkling like jewels on a gown of black velvet. But, as you stroll through a local park or a forest, you become aware of a Universe that’s bigger than any of your worries and frustrations. An article published by Extreme Physiology & Medicine states that spending time outdoors can benefit your physiological and psychological well-being.

Taking a walk outside every day is good exercise and helps you reconnect with the Universe. Watching the lively woodland creatures also reminds you of the beauty and sanctity of life. When you feel indecisive or helpless, a long stroll through the woods may open your mind to new possibilities.

4. Surround Yourself with Positive People

Inevitably, you’ll always find a negative party pooper in any crowd. Sometimes, certain pessimistic people are difficult to avoid altogether. However, you do have a choice in how much influence these people have in your life.

If you want to develop more clarity in your perspective, being around positive people can help. When you feel anxious or depressed, it’s easy to be blinded by negativity. On the other hand, optimism is contagious, and it may give you different ideas of how to solve a problem.

Find the happiest people you know and keep company with them. Of course, everybody has bad days, but these folks have learned the secret of resilience. Smile, laugh, and rediscover the joy that is your rightful inheritance.

5. Treat Yourself Right

Everyone likes to feel appreciated and loved, so why not show some for yourself? Of course, it’s okay to have an occasional splurge for that new outfit or a night out on the town. However, you shouldn’t go overboard and jeopardize your financial stability.

Being kind to yourself doesn’t always mean buying things. Instead, take time to work on your hobbies or relax and read a good book. There’s nothing more refreshing than a Sunday afternoon nap or savoring a steaming cup of joe while watching the sunrise.

These little breaks and treats boost your mind and spirits and may reboot your attitudes. So, if you don’t have time to be kind to yourself, make the time. Schedule yourself on the calendar just as you would any other important event.

6. Change Your Scenery to Find New Perspective

If you want to broaden your perspective, a change of scenery may be in order. When you spend most of your time in the same place, it’s no longer a challenge to your brain. You have every picture on the wall memorized, and nothing is new outside the windows.

Not only are you trapped in one place, but your brain may feel stuck in the same opinions. So do yourself a favor and change your scenery. Whether you go on a vacation or a little getaway for a day, the change will do you good.

This is also your chance to revamp your living and workspace. You’d be surprised how a coat of paint can make a room pop. Clear the clutter and surround yourself with only those things that uplift your heart and mind.

7. Practice Meditation

Meditation isn’t as complicated as you may think. An article published by Science Daily says that meditation can help your brain process more thoughts and feelings. So, it’s reasonable to assume that it can also provide new approaches to life situations.

The good news is that you don’t need any special equipment and can meditate anywhere you want. All you need is a quiet place to sit or lie down, close your eyes, and be aware of your inner voice. It may feel a bit silly or uncomfortable at first, but you’ll soon learn how to let thoughts flow through your mind effortlessly.

If you are perplexed about a problem in your life, quiet meditation may help. As you practice mindful breathing and are fully present, your inner voice may give you critical clues and suggestions. Even 15 minutes in a meditative state can be beneficial.

8. Look Through Another’s Eyes

Although the truth is constant, human perception of reality will vary. You may feel buried by the burdens that you carry. However, your problems may seem insignificant when you consider the loads that others carry.

If you need a different angle to view a situation, try seeing it as another person might. Switch roles and consider how you would feel. You can often have a revelation that wasn’t apparent at first.

Sometimes, it can be as simple as asking for an opinion from a trusted friend or family member. These people have your back and will be honest with you, whether it’s what you want to hear or not. Confiding in someone who has more life experience can be the solution you need.

9. Look at the Whole Picture for a Broader Perspective

Do you find yourself focused on a tiny piece instead of the whole puzzle? Like a jigsaw puzzle, your life is a collection of thousands of bitty pieces you’ve gathered over the years. They don’t make sense until you’ve connected them to form a beautiful picture.

When you want a broader perspective, be more open to your senses. Instead of wasting valuable time on petty matters, try to see your challenges. You may have more clarity and direction.

10. Knowing the Difference

Whoever penned the Serenity Prayer had wisdom that was beyond this world. How many times have you fussed over things that were entirely out of your control? Events in your past can’t be altered, and you can get depressed by meditating on them.

When you can discern between the changeable and unchangeable situations in your life, it can free your body, mind, and spirit. You view them differently and know your potential and limitations. Such an attitude can bring you true serenity, courage, and wisdom.

Final Thoughts on Gaining a Fresh Perspective

The insights you have in your life act as a powerful flashlight. It lets you know where you are now and where you’re going in the future. Adding some extra wattage with a fresh viewpoint may keep your path brighter.

10 Signs of a Stress Headache (And How to Relieve the Pain)

June 26, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

A stress headache is often called a tension headache, and it can be mildly to moderately painful.

This type of headache is common, and most people experience them at some point in their life. Knowing the signs of a stress headache can help you identify the type, making it easier to relieve the pain.

You can learn to manage tension headaches by making healthy life changes and identifying your triggers. Knowing which situations cause these headaches can help you prevent them or ease their effect. Learning when to take a break makes all the difference, and building coping mechanisms for when you can’t walk away will help, too.

Finding natural ways to relieve the pain of stress headaches is easier than you might think. It only requires a few positive lifestyle changes, and you will quickly notice the difference. Otherwise, the headaches can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 72 hours and cause lots of discomfort.

Headaches happen as a result of stress because it increases cortisol levels in your body. When the levels increase, your fight-or-flight response kicks in, triggering a headache. Other things that can trigger a tension headache include consuming too much alcohol or caffeine, dental problems, prolonged eye strain, smoking, fatigue, or overexertion.

Ten Early Signs of a Stress Headache

1. Headaches Consistently Get Worse or More Frequent

If you don’t usually get headaches and get them regularly, it could be a red flag. An unusual onset of headaches is a significant sign that you are experiencing tension headaches, especially true if the headaches start increasing in intensity or frequency.

The pain from a stress headache is similar to a migraine, so it can be hard to differentiate sometimes. Headaches caused by stress usually don’t affect your daily activities, though, even with worsening symptoms.

2. No Light or Sound Sensitivity

You can generally assume that you are experiencing a tension headache if you are not oversensitive to light or sound. Bright lights and loud sounds won’t help your headache, but they won’t make it much worse, either.

3. Occurs on Both Sides of the Head

This type of headache usually occurs on both sides of your head. The pain will feel like intense pressure, whereas the symptoms of a migraine are so much different. If it happens on only one side of the head, it could be a migraine instead of a tension headache.

4. The Headache Begins in the Afternoon or Evening

If your headaches often begin later in the day or at night, it is a good sign that stress is the cause. As the stresses of your day pile up, a tension headache can set in when it becomes too much.

Finding positive coping methods throughout the day can help release some of the problems later on. You can also try to identify which parts of your day are the most problematic and finding ways to change them.

5. Dull, Aching Pain or Discomfort in the Head, Scalp, Neck, or Shoulders

Anytime you experience pain, tension, or discomfort in these areas, it could indicate a tension headache. You will likely notice a dull, throbbing pain on the top, sides, or front of your head. Your muscles will become tense and hard, especially in the shoulder and neck area.

When you’re experiencing a stress headache, the muscle pain and tenseness will begin before the headache starts. Plus, the tense muscles can continue even after the headache has gone away. e

6. The Headache Is Accompanied by Other Signs of Stress or Anxiety

When the headache comes along with other signs of stress, it’s a good indicator that it is tension-related. You might experience irritability, muscle aches, jaw, neck, or back pain, and insomnia. Additionally, you might notice that you have a short temper.

Another sign of stress that might accompany this type of headache is poor concentration. You might struggle to focus on your daily activities because you are too focused on the dull pain.

Plus, you might have trouble sleeping due to an overwhelming amount of stress. It can make it hard for you to wind down at night, making falling asleep and getting rest will be hard. A lack of sleep can lead to even more tension headaches, too.

Even as you have trouble sleeping, you will feel a constant state of fatigue. You will feel constantly tired, making the situation worse and exacerbating the other signs of stress.

7. You Aren’t Experiencing Neurological Symptoms or Nausea

With a migraine, you will likely experience neurological symptoms and nausea. If you don’t have those symptoms, you could have a stress headache instead. You won’t have a change in vision, hearing, or sense of smell.

Migraines also cause nausea and vomiting, often as a result of neurological changes. If you don’t have nausea, you might have a tension headache rather than a different type.

8. Headaches Occur During Times of Disruption

Anytime your life or well-being is disrupted, you run the risk of developing a tension headache. A disruption could include being short on sleep or missing a meal. Or, it could be that you overdid it while working out or doing other physical activity.

9. Sensation of Tightness or Pressure

Tightness or pressure on your forehead or the sides and back of your head is a sign of stress. It almost feels like a tight band is wrapped around your head, causing a dull, uncomfortable pain.

10. You Don’t Feel Sick

If your head hurts, but you don’t feel sick in any other way, it could be due to tension. A headache with the absence of fever, congestion, or body aches is an indication that you are stressed out.

Seven Simple Ways to Relieve the Pain

Dealing with a stress headache is not a good time, and it can worsen if you don’t find a remedy. The thing you choose to do to relieve the pain will depend on how severe the pain is and the duration of your headache.

1 – Take a Break

If taking a break is an option, don’t hesitate or waste time before stepping away. Tension headaches can occur because the activity you are working on is causing stress. Try taking a break from that activity and working on something else to see if that reduces the pain.

2 – Meditate

Meditation can quickly ease stress and help you feel more relaxed. Practicing meditation is beneficial in many ways, but relieving tense muscles and stopping stressful thoughts is a big part. As you meditate, you can practice breathing techniques, too, which will help even more.

3 – Do Yoga

Yoga will stretch your muscles while helping you relax and think mindfully. Find yoga poses that are best for you and your lifestyle, and try to do them once every day.

4 – Spend Time Relaxing

Making time for relaxation can relieve the pain of a tension headache relatively quickly. Relaxing will ease stress and anxiety, making it easier for you to reduce the pain.

5 – Practice Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is essential if you want to limit stress and anxiety in your life. Self-care involves getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and looking out for your overall well-being. Doing things that you enjoy and spending time on yourself also plays a big role in self-care.

6 – Try Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves having thin needles inserted at specific areas of your body. With acupuncture, energy imbalances and blockages will be eased, which also eliminates pain or tension.

7 – See a Therapist

If your tension headaches become a daily part of your life, it might be worth it to see a therapist. They can help you address the issues that cause tension, stress, and anxiety positively. You will learn to recognize and change negative thought patterns, helping reduce and prevent your headaches.

BONUS TIPS: Other Easy Things You Can Do to Ease a Stress Headache

Aside from the things mentioned before, there are other ways you can relieve the pain of a stress headache. These things include:

using a heat pack or ice pack on the tense area
taking a hot shower
getting enough sleep
resting or laying down
taking a walk
going on a short vacation
spending time exercising
drinking more water
avoiding skipping meals

Final Thoughts on the Early Warning Signs of a Stress Headache and Some Tips to Relieve the Pain

Having a stress headache once in a while is normal, but you shouldn’t let it become a daily event. Find ways to prevent tension headaches from setting in. When you can’t avoid one, make sure to find a way to relieve the pain.

Find ways to relax, and learn to walk away and take a break when you need one. Take care of your mind and body, and spend time exercising, meditating, or reflecting. If you experience frequent tension headaches, you can overcome the cycle.

Learning to work with the stress in your life makes all the difference. Avoiding stress is the best option, but that isn’t always possible. Use these tips to relieve the pain of a stress headache and then work to prevent them altogether.

Why Memories Fade Over Time, According to Science

June 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

You might wonder why your memories fade after a while. Can you remember all the details of your childhood, for instance? Probably not; most people just remember a few important events like birthdays or family trips. But, what causes these ‘blips’ in memory over the years?

Scientists believe they have found the answer. A team of researchers at the Universities of Glasgow and Birmingham investigated why memories fade. They sought to understand what information we retain in our memories, and what details we lose. Many theories have been presented over the years. But scientists believe that they finally struck gold with this study.

The study, published May 26, 2021, in Nature Communications, discovered that our memories become less vibrant and detailed over time. Only the gist, the main point, gets preserved in our minds. Everything else becomes fuzzy as time wears on.

Scientists also found that the ‘gistification’ of our memories gets boosted when we recall recent experiences frequently.

How This Knowledge of Why Memories Fade Over Time Can Prove to Be Helpful

This research could help with many facets of life and job fields. For instance, it could reveal important information about the nature of memories in people with PTSD. The study could also have implications in the repeated questioning of eye-witness testimonies. Finally, it could improve memory recall when studying for exams.

It’s important to remember that our memories don’t always match up with reality. In other words, over time, our memories get distorted. When this happens, we may reconstruct them as we see fit; however, in reality, something much different may have occurred. Experts suggest that the contents of a memory could actually change every time we recall it.

However, until now, scientists have had difficulty measuring how our memories differ from the original experiences. They’ve also met challenges in figuring out how memories become transformed over time. So, this is a groundbreaking study when it comes to why, and how, memories fade.

Here’s what the scientists discovered about memories in the study

For this study, the researchers developed a simple task using a computer. It measures how quickly people can recall certain aspects of visual memories when asked to do so. The volunteers learned word-image pairs for the memory task. Later, they had to recall different elements of the image when prompted with the word to test the quality of their memories.

Participants had to indicate, as quickly as possible, certain details about the image. Researchers asked them to recall if the image was colored or greyscale (a perceptual detail). They also asked volunteers whether the image showed an animate or inanimate object (a semantic element).

Volunteers performed these tests immediately after learning the word-image pairs and also after two days. Reaction time patterns revealed that volunteers recalled meaningful, semantic elements faster than the surface, perceptual ones.

Julia Lifanov, the lead author of the study from the University of Birmingham, said:

“Many memory theories assume that over time, and as people re-tell their stories, they tend to forget the surface details but retain the meaningful, semantic content of an event. Imagine reminiscing about a pre-COVID dinner with a friend — you realize that you cannot recall the table décor but know exactly what you ordered, or you remember the conversation with the bartender, but not the color of his shirt. Memory experts call this phenomenon ‘semanticization’.”

Prof Maria Wimber, the senior author on the study from the University of Glasgow, said: “The pattern towards recollection of meaningful semantic elements we demonstrate in this study indicates that memories are biased towards meaningful content in the first place — and we have shown in previous studies that this bias is clearly reflected in brain signals too.

“Our memories change with time and use and that is a good and adaptive thing. We want our memories to retain the information that is most likely to be useful in the future when we encounter similar situations.”

Other findings from the study about why memories fade

Researchers discovered that people tend to pull more from semantic memory content as time wears on. Also, with repeated remembering, this semantic memory bias grows stronger. When the volunteers performed the test after two days, they had slower reaction times to perceptual-detailed questions.

However, when a group of subjects repeatedly viewed the images, it brought about different results. There was a much smaller gap between the detail-rich and concept-based memories. This makes sense because the researchers didn’t give them an opportunity for the memories to fade. Therefore, the images were fresher in their minds, in contrast to the other group being tested.

This study may help researchers better understand how memories affect health in the future. For example, with post-traumatic stress disorder, patients often have intrusive, traumatic memories. They also tend to over-generalize these experiences to new situations. This research could provide scientists with a tool to analyze these maladaptive changes in the brain.

The findings may also help experts understand how frequent interviews may create bias in eyewitness memories. Also, asking witnesses to repeatedly recall the same event can lead to inaccuracies. This study about why memories fade could prove highly relevant to this field.

Finally, the research demonstrates that studying before an exam can improve your memory of meaningful information. Especially when followed by rest or sleep, testing yourself prior to an exam can help boost memory.

Final thoughts on why memories fade over time, according to science

The latest research on why memories fade provides exciting new insight into how our brains work. The scientists found that over time, people tend to skew the details of their memories. They also can only remember certain events, usually the most traumatic or exciting ones. However, until now, researchers had no way of measuring this recall bias, and how the memories transform over time.

In the study, they found that people tend to remember the meaningful parts of memories. This happens so that our brains can adapt in the future when we encounter similar situations. The team hopes the study can help in areas such as PTSD research, eyewitness interviews, and studying for exams.

20 Phrases That Reveal Someone’s Immaturity

June 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Do you have friends, colleagues, or family members that you would call immature? Their immaturity comes from the way they act, talk, and present themselves.

While everyone has an inner child that comes out occasionally, this person takes things to the extreme.

Many things can cause someone to lack the wisdom they need, but most of it comes from age and experience. You certainly wouldn’t expect a person at 18 to be as wise as someone who is 47 years old. Many will learn and grow as they age, but for some, they have personality disorders or other underlying mental health conditions that are causing them to be stunted.

Twenty Sayings That Prove Immaturity In Someone

The easiest way to dictate someone’s maturity level is by the words that come out of their mouth. So here are 20 of the most annoying sayings that are used by those who are a bit immature.

1. “I’m Bored”

Most adults will tell you they have a list of things to do a mile long. However, they see red when their children use phrases like “I’m bored.” A person who uses such words shows their immaturity levels and a lack of ways to effectively keep themselves busy.

2. “You Better or Else I Will…….”

Veil threats are another tactic that the immature use. They don’t know how to vocalize their feelings, so they try to manipulate the situation. According to the National Library of Medicine, a hallmark of the immature is their selfish nature, and they often observe it in children with ADHD.

3. “You’re Only Young Once

When someone refers to being young, they usually want to do something daring or even dangerous. They are taking no thought to the consequences of their actions. It can be a sign of an underlying mental health condition too.

4. “I Don’t Want to Wait”

In the real world, you can’t snap your fingers and have everything happen the way you want. It would help if you took things as they come, and sometimes that requires waiting. Someone who makes comments about not wanting to be patient and wait just shows their level of immaturity.

5. “I Didn’t Do Anything Wrong.”

The immature person is always pointing the finger at the other person. They don’t like to take credit for anything that’s been done wrong, so they will gladly throw someone else under the bus if it gets them off the hook.

6. “I Don’t Feel Like It”

Sadly, everyone must do things in life that they don’t feel like doing. If you’re constantly whining about not wanting to go to work or do household chores, it shows that you need to grow up a bit. Life is full of things that no one feels like doing, but you can’t make those around you miserable about it.

7. “Do We Have Too?”

If a person asks you if they must do something, it’s as if a child is asking their mother or father for permission to skip this task. Unfortunately, while it’s commonplace at home, it’s not so prevalent in the workforce. Sadly, the world doesn’t revolve around one person, so they can’t always get out of things that must be done.

8. “It’s Not Your Money; It’s Our Money”

When someone uses this phrase, you can tell it’s a splurge purchase that isn’t in the budget. They will use these manipulative tactics to try to persuade you to allow them to do what they want. It can also be seen as a threat that they can and will spend how they see fit.

9. “I Didn’t Know It Was That Important”

Perhaps, your partner didn’t pay the electric bill, and now you’re facing a disconnection. Sadly, they try to justify their behavior by using statements that say they didn’t realize the importance of the situation.

Whatever “it” was that they forgot to do, it was probably necessary. So, this phrase was a cop-out when they failed on their responsibilities–a definite signal of immaturity.

10. “No One Else Will Do It, So I Will”

This person thinks they’re the only one that can fix the issue. They have an inflated view of themselves, which is immature as well as arrogant. However, once people mature a bit, they realize that it’s not all about them and their abilities.

11. “I’ll Show You.”

Isn’t it irritating when someone feels they need to prove you wrong? Using a phrase like “I’ll show you” is challenging in nature. They think that what you said was a threat, so they intend to make a learning experience from this situation.

12. “Shut Up”

Two of the rudest words in the English language are “shut up.” Someone who uses such phrases shows that they haven’t matured their vocabulary. Using terms like “Would you please be quiet” is much better.

13. “I Don’t Care What Others Think”

While you should never live your life in fear of what others may think, making such a flippant statement is from someone who just doesn’t care. When you’re younger, you tend to be a little freer-spirited, but you learn that you need to keep the peace as you age. Your actions shouldn’t be offensive to others, no matter what they think.

14. “Leave Me Alone”

If you step on someone’s toes or say something they don’t want to hear, you may be told to leave them alone. While they’re trying to tell you that they need some time and space to cool off or process what they’ve heard, it comes out all wrong.

15. “I Can’t Even Right Now”

Imagine you told your employee that you needed them to get a report done by 2 pm. It was a rushed issue that needed their prompt attention. They didn’t like what you said to them, and they looked at you with disgust and told you, “I can’t even right now.”

Sure, it may be enough to get them fired, but it’s also their way of telling you they’re overloaded. They lack the proper vocabulary to communicate effectively, that they’re overwhelmed. Of course, it’s very childish to make such statements, but it’s a sign they’re not mature.

16. “Whatever”

One-word slams like “whatever” are commonly used to blow someone off. Then, when the immature doesn’t want to continue the conversation, they are eager to shut it down with a flippant comment.

17. “I Hate You”

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard your child tell you a time or two that they hate you. It’s expected to say such things when you’re an adolescent, but these words should never come out of your mouth when you’re an adult. Again, it’s a way the immature uses their words to fight their battles.

18. “Talk to The Hand”

In the 1990s, teenagers started throwing up a hand and telling people to talk to it. Well, what they were saying is they didn’t have the time or energy to deal with you at that moment. So, it was a less subtle way of telling you to shut up.

It’s an old saying that’s still circulating, especially with the older, immature generation. When someone throws up their hand and turns and walks away, it’s a real sign of their lack of maturity.

19. “That’s So Not Cool”

The average person speaks more than 7,000 words each day, according to Linked In. However, some of those words may be a bit hard to hear for those who lack maturity. If they don’t like what you have to say, then they may counter with something along the lines of “That’s not cool.”

While you may feel that you’re talking to a teenager, the words can come out of an adult’s mouth just as quickly. Unfortunately, this individual good communication skills.

20. “Are You for Real?”

Have you ever told someone news, and they turn around and look at you and say, “Are you for real?” It’s a sign that their maturity level isn’t quite on point. Unless you tend to joke around a lot, there’s no reason to doubt your words or hope it’s a twisted joke.

Final Thoughts on Identifying Immaturity In an Adult

There are tons of little phrases used every day by those who lack the maturity to communicate with others in the world around them. Have you ever heard someone who curses all the time? The Scientific American states that people curse when words fail them.

However, real immaturity comes from a place of being stunted or not fully developed. Many teenagers turn 18 and expect it to be a magic number that transforms them from childhood to adulthood, but this is not always the case. If someone is immature, misses social cues, or never hits milestones, there could be a condition such as autism spectrum disorder or ADHD to blame.

The key is not to judge too quickly when it comes to immaturity, as each person walks a different path in life. Some mature too fast and others not quick enough. However, it’s learning to all live in harmony that counts.

15 Behaviors That Reveal an Unhealed Woman

June 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Many television shows and movies have shown what it’s like to be involved with a crazy partner. Flicks like Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and Fatal Attraction come to mind. These shows portray an unhealed woman who undoubtedly has some underlying mental health disorder fueling her destructive behavior.

Some people are a walking disaster, and their unhealthy traits affect friends and lovers. The sad fact is that many of these women don’t know how out of line they are with their relationships, yet they probably don’t realize why they’re so unlucky in love. The brokenness inside this broken person makes them drawn to people who will use and abuse them, which worsens matters.

If you’re dating someone like this, or perhaps you feel you are such a woman, you should know there are things you can do to stop these negative behavioral patterns. Although unfortunately, most hurting people don’t realize they’re unhealthy until they come face-to-face with the gravity of their actions.

NOTE: Ladies, please don’t feel like anyone’s singling you out–we have a second article on the traits of an unhealed man, as well!

Fifteen Behaviors of The Unhealed Woman

Whether you want to avoid this person or get her help, you need to know what classifies someone as unwell. Here are 15 key behaviors that indicate someone has some underlying issues that need to be addressed.

1. She Lives in Her Head

Her thoughts are troubling, and she doesn’t know how to vocalize what’s going on inside her mind. She can escalate a situation until it’s blown out of proportion inside her head. She doesn’t even need to open her mouth.

Her mind lives in constant angst, and she always has something going on. It’s troubling to try to reason with someone who lives in a fictitious world, as she’s created this realm for her security.

2. She Equates A Romantic Relationship with Happiness

The unhealed woman believes that having a man and being in a relationship equals happiness. She will hook up with anyone just so that she isn’t alone.

She believes that having the right man on her arm will bring her the happiness she deserves. Sadly, it usually just causes more problems. This is because happiness comes from within and is not something anyone else can provide.

3. She Overreacts to The Smallest Things

She makes mountains out of molehills. This behavior occurs because her anxiety is on overdrive. She will overreact to what you think is something insignificant. The things going on inside her mind and the trauma that happened to her in the past dictate her responses.

The constant upheaval has almost become a comfort zone because she doesn’t know a life that is any other way.

4. She Believes Love Will Save Her

She is looking for the prince to show up on a white horse and save her from herself. This lady believes in fairy tales and often lives in a fantasy world. She expects her romance to be as stunning as those from famous movies.

If things aren’t going the way, she feels they should. She picks and badgering for change. Her perceptions are delusional, and her expectations unrealistic. She will put demands on you that there’s no way you can meet.

5. She Has Poor Boundaries

Boundaries are something the unhealed woman doesn’t do well. She doesn’t mind stepping over those lines because she feels entitled. Forget having a sense of privacy or trying to keep things from her; she will turn into a mad detective and sniff out anything you hide.

You may feel that you have to account for every move you make, but remember that her insecurities make her so overbearing. The unhealed woman is afraid you will leave her, which many others have likely done.

6. She Drowns in Her Desire to Please Others

She equates her worth by pleasing others. A unhealed woman will lie, cheat, steal, and manipulate to have you think she is worthy of you. She wants to please you so much that she’s forgotten what she truly needs in a relationship.

7. She’s Extremely Insecure

Her insecurities take center stage in your relationship. For example, she may ask you 50 times if you like the dress she’s wearing as she’s afraid it might make her look plump. She needs your constant affirmations to make her feel that she’s okay, and if you cannot provide these to her, then her mood can turn on a dime.

8. She Attracts Toxic Partners

Like calls to like, or so the old proverb says. She, no doubt, has been unlucky in love because of the choices she’s made. She’s often attracted to the bad boy who lives on the edge and has had a few run-ins with the law.

9. She Never Learns from Her Mistakes

She’s the kind that touched the stove even when her mama told her not to. She does the same things over and over because she never seems to learn anything from her mistakes. She will mess you up and make your life crazy, as you will forever be cleaning up her messes.

10. She Needs Lots of Attention

Being in a relationship with this woman, romantic or otherwise, can feel like a chore. She clings to you tighter than a cat in a thunderstorm. She needs your undivided attention 24×7, and she’s not afraid to monopolize your time.

Be careful when dealing with attention seekers, as they will create drama and situations to be in your life. She’s probably lived in so much drama in her life that she doesn’t know how to live without it.

11. She’s Always Trying to Fix Things

It may drive you crazy, but she tries to fix everyone around her. But, again, you must realize that her lifestyle of chaos has created an atmosphere where she constantly feels compelled to make changes. As a result, she may be overly critical and try to make you change things about you that don’t suit her.

12. She’s Regularly Playing the Victim

Have you noticed that she always plays the victim? It doesn’t matter what happens to her or who’s on the other side; she is always guilt-free in the matter. She’s played the victim so well that she’s even begun to believe it herself.

This manipulative tactic has become a part of her identity. You may feel like you need to be her savior, but don’t get sucked into the drama. You can listen, but you need to set firm boundaries on how far you will go with her and her constant problems.

13. She’s Easily Jealous

Having friends or a relationship with someone other than her is problematic. She is extremely jealous of your other friends or even a lover. She wants to be the center of your world and doesn’t take too lightly to other people interrupting your time with her.

According to the National Library of Medicine, most domestic violence cases start because of jealousy. Don’t think just because she’s a woman that she won’t turn violent if she feels her position is threatened.

14. She Micromanages Your Life

You feel like your life is not your own when she is around. She micromanages every aspect of your day and is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that she knows your every move. You must realize that she’s controlling, but the power issues stem from her life being out of control.

These women aren’t born that way but tend to evolve after years of blows to their psyche that change them. According to Medical News Today, people who have personality disorders tend to be controlling, as well as those who have been victims of abuse. So, if they want to know where you are at every minute, scan your phone and other online devices looking for dirt on you, or try to control your access to your family, then you should run.

15. She’s Manipulative

Men don’t usually cry crocodile tears quite as well as a female. She’s learned how to use her tears to manipulate you into what she wants. For instance, if you say you’re not going to the movies and watching something she wants to see, her tears may show up to try to manipulate you into going anyway.

She can play the guilt card better than anyone, and if she doesn’t get her way, look out!

Final Thoughts on The Unhealed Woman

Everyone has things in their life that have happened to mold and shape them into the person they are today. However, the unhealed woman has been through something that has negatively altered her. She may be a victim of abuse or has grown up in a dysfunctional home where she was neglected, and her needs didn’t matter.

Trying to have a relationship with her is going to be difficult. Her needs will always overshadow yours, and she will never see what she does to you as wrong. An unhealthy woman can mess you up whether your lover or just friends, so be careful when getting involved.

Overweight Man Loses Weight, Totally Changes His Life

June 25, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

When one overweight man decided to get healthier, it totally transformed his life. He had so much more energy, positivity, and freedom to live the life he deserved. Here’s his incredible weight loss story about overcoming the odds, and all the struggles he faced along the way.

“My heaviest weight was 406 pounds,” Tony says. “I was also pre-diabetic and I had sleep apnea, where in the middle of the night I would just stop breathing in my sleep. It was not a life.”

He goes by the name “Focus Fight Finish” on Instagram, which describes his journey perfectly. First, he decided to focus all his energy on achieving a goal. Then, he didn’t stop fighting until he reached it. He finished victorious, all because he never gave up on himself, even when things got tough.

Tony said this:

“I, like most people, have started my weight loss journey multiple times, I was a classic yo-yo dieter. I didn’t fully commit to losing weight until my son was born almost three years ago, and I had to make a change for him. In the beginning, it was actually pretty exciting; this time felt different.

“So, one of the first things I started doing to lose weight was to get my nutrition plan dialed in, because I knew this wasn’t gonna take like a couple of weeks. This was gonna be a lifestyle change, a whole restructuring of my life.”

And as far as working out goes, I had so many joint issues because of my weight that really all I could do was walk and do the elliptical. So that’s what I did – I spent hours and hours on the elliptical. It was very low impact, but a very good use of cardio, and it really helped in the beginning to get me moving and get a sweat going.”

The journey from overweight man to fitness guru

Tony faced many challenges along his fitness journey. However, the drive to transform from being an overweight man to a fit one kept him going. When things got tough, he got even tougher.

“For me, it didn’t really get hard until like four to six months in where I already dropped a lot of weight, but then my weight loss was starting to slow down. That’s when it got hard and that’s when the real work took place,” Tony said, “and in that beginning time, one of the biggest obstacles I had was just time. Nobody has time to work out. I didn’t have time to work out; you have to make time, and I found the time.

“I had to wake up at 4 o’clock in the morning, be at the gym by 4:30 AM, so that way I could be back home, have a shower, change, and help with the baby,” Tony explained, “and then be out the door by 7:30 AM so I could drive to L.A. and work. That was just my schedule, and that’s what I had to do.”

Tony’s advice for anyone wanting to lose weight

“If you are 406 pounds, you don’t need a diet, you need a life change. Forget having a diet – have a complete restructuring in your brain with your relationship with food,” Tony says. “And as for workouts, honestly, do whatever you enjoy. Don’t feel like you need to go into the gym every single day and just kill it and go beast mode; that is not what you need in the beginning.

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A post shared by TONY REYES | Health & Fitness (@focusfightfinish)

Honestly, if you just hit 10,000 steps walking at a medium pace every single day, you are gonna see incredible results. Just be active, be moving, that’s all you really need.”

Taking his own advice, he’s now lost 150 pounds. While he’s very proud of his transformation from an overweight man to being fit, he’s not done yet. He ran his first marathon last year and is currently training for a triathlon. However, for him, it’s not about the bragging rights – it’s about health.”

“While the number is cool, the number doesn’t matter. As long as you’re healthy, as long as you feel the effects of your journey and you feel good, that’s the number that you should be at and that’s where you should be happy with,” he says.

The positive things that have come from his transformation

Tony says that his son and family motivated him greatly to achieve his goals. However, his personal motivation came from wanting to reach his full potential. He will continue striving to achieve his personal best no matter what.

So far, he’s pleased with his progress. He’s enjoying a life free of sleep apnea, pre-diabetes, and being uncomfortable in his skin, in general. He also loves being able to fit in amusement park ride and plane seats, something he couldn’t do before.

His advice for anyone who wants to transform their health?

“Write down the steps that you wanna take to make sure that you achieve those goals, and write down why you started in the first place. Make sure that is written down somewhere where you’ll see it every day,” he says.

“When I first started, I put it up on my wall right next to my bed. I needed it there; I wanted to read it every single day, and that’s what it took. That is my biggest tip for you, to make sure that you keep doing what you said you’re gonna do, and maintain that weight loss journey.”

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A post shared by TONY REYES | Health & Fitness (@focusfightfinish)

Final thoughts on an overweight man who lost weight and changed his life

Being overweight puts a lot of strain on a person, both mentally and physically. When Tony transformed from being an overweight man to a gym buff, he saw so many benefits. Not only did his physical health improve, but his whole outlook on life also changed as well.

He had more energy for himself, his family, and just enjoying life. He was no longer a prisoner in his own body. Tony now uses social media to inspire others with his weight loss journey and spread his message on health. Hopefully, his story motivated you as well!

This Corgi Understands the Importance of a Fun Morning Routine

June 25, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Milton, a 7-month-old Corgi puppy, always gets his day started on the right note. He could definitely teach us a thing or two about the importance of a morning routine. Corgis are well-known for having big, interesting personalities, and Milton is no exception. His owner Maddie describes one of her favorite things about the adorable puppy below.

“One super unique thing that Milton does that I really love about him is his morning stretches. This started the first day that we brought Milton home, and as he was getting used to his crate training and his routine with us,” Maddie says. “Now, the first thing he does every morning when I let him out of his crate is run up to me and get into a big stretch, right before I get to hug him and pet him for the day.”

Just like humans, dogs also need a good stretch before they start their day! It helps loosen the joints and muscles and helps shake off the slumber. Especially for dogs kept in crates, they’ll want to stretch out when they wake up.

On her blog, Maddie says that crate training is important for dogs. It helps them learn that the crate is a positive place and also aids in potty training.

Basically, you get your puppy to feel comfortable with a crate by throwing treats inside. Then, close the door briefly and repeat the process, increasing the amount of time he’s left in the crate each time. You may also want to keep the crate in your bedroom and place a blanket over it. This makes the puppy feel safer and more comfortable.

Why crate training is important for Corgi puppies

As far as potty training, you’ll want to take a new puppy out every few hours, including at night. Then, throw a treat into his crate when he comes back to increase the positive association. Luckily, Maddie says that Milton never whined in his crate, so he’s a well-behaved pup!

During the day, she recommends crating your pup after playtime or when you’re not watching them. Also, when you eat meals, it’s important to keep your pup in a separate space. Why put the pup in a crate so often? Well, for one, it’s an important part of the potty training process.

Dogs don’t like to use the bathroom where they sleep. So, by putting them in a crate when they’re most likely to need a potty break (i.e., after playing and eating), it shows that you control when he goes outside. That way, he learns to associate going outside with potty breaks. Make sure to take dogs out every three or four hours, especially as puppies. Bottom line: crates help control the potty breaks, as well as offer dogs a safe space.

Before getting Milton, Maddie made sure to learn all she could about the Corgi breed. In addition to the crate training, she also researched potty training, sleep patterns, and a basic Corgi puppy shopping list. With all that information, she felt ready to adopt her favorite dog breed finally.

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A post shared by Milton and Maddie (@milton.the.corgi)

“So we brought Milton home on January 16, 2021. I particularly wanted a Corgi because of how goofy and smart they are. And seeing the Corgi community on social media, I think, was what really got me hooked. His personality was honestly evident the very first day we brought Milton home,” Maddie said.

The little Corgi with a huge personality

“He immediately started playing with his toys and walking around in the typical, funny Corgi way. By day three, he had even mastered the ‘sit,’ so we knew that Milton was something special. I think Milton’s big personality has been the biggest factor that pushed me to want to create social media accounts for him,” Maddie said.

“For example, Milton loves sleeping and playing with the toys on his back. I feel like multiple times during the day, I can look over and just see him lying on his back either passed out or, you know, playing with the toy, so that’s just one super fun thing that I get to feature on social media and show people.”

Corgis have a stereotype of being silly, fun-loving dogs, which makes them popular pets. Not to mention, they’re adorable, fluffy, and smart, so what’s not to love?! While Maddie had a few surprises with owning a puppy, she wouldn’t trade Milton for anything.

“The most rewarding thing about owning a pet and a dog, in particular, is seeing their personalities grow and develop. Getting Milton as a puppy, I had a special privilege in doing this because you’re really getting them from the very beginning when they’re just this little ball of fluff,” Maddie says, “and you’re seeing them grow honestly so quickly into these full-grown dogs with these unique personalities and fears and likes.”

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A post shared by Milton and Maddie (@milton.the.corgi)

Maddie also loves that Milton always knows how she feels. When she’s sad, for example, Milton can immediately sense that and runs over to comfort her.

Maddie’s advice for anyone who wants to adopt a pet:

“I would start by examining your lifestyle and figuring out if you can accommodate a pet, and more specifically, what sort of pet would fit your lifestyle and your needs. Having a pet is truly an unforgettable journey, and thank you for letting me share mine,” she says.

Final thoughts on the Corgi who understands the value of a morning routine

All dogs have their own unique personalities, including Milton the Corgi. For a tiny 7-month-old pup, he certainly makes his presence known and takes pride in his uniqueness. Every morning before Milton greets Maddie; he does a big stretch when he comes out of his crate. It’s adorable to watch, and it’s one of Maddie’s favorite things about him.

It’s always fun to watch your dog grow up and get to learn his little quirks and cute habits. What do you love most about your dog or pet? Let us know in the comments!

10 Things That Prove You Have an Unbalanced Throat Chakra

June 25, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Your throat chakra allows you to express yourself and recognize the truth in the world around you. When it is open, you will feel balance and harmony in your life, and you can express yourself accurately. You won’t be afraid to speak up honestly; your confidence will always outshine your fears.

If you ever find that you can’t speak your truth whenever necessary, it could be that your throat chakra is blocked. You will also likely hold back when expressing your needs and desires. These signs indicate that your throat chakra isn’t functioning optimally, and you should work to open it.

Your throat chakra is also related to knowledge, thoughts, judgmental capabilities, wisdom, creativity, sincerity, and steadiness. This chakra is located near the base of your neck and is considered the center of expression. Being the center of expression is because it transforms your thoughts into information and verbal communication.

Unfortunately, your chakras can become blocked or closed, resulting in unpleasant symptoms. The physical or emotional symptoms hinder your daily life and development. Specific signs can prove that you have an unbalanced throat chakra, and then you can learn how to fix it.

How the Throat Chakra Gets Blocked

Telling a lie is a sure way to close your chakra. Even with good intentions, lying hurts you. Every lie blocks your energy, no matter how small, so always focus on honesty.

Other times, your chakra can become blocked when you receive criticism. Not all criticism blocks your chakra, but your energy fields get a little more jammed whenever you feel judged. Your chakra can also become blocked when you are afraid to tell the truth or worry that it will cause conflict.

If you experienced a traumatic childhood, it could cause you to have an unbalanced throat chakra now. You may have been verbally or physically abused bullied at school, or you weren’t encouraged to express yourself. Any of the situations could cause you to have emotional scars that haven’t healed yet.

Things That Prove You Have an Unbalanced Throat Chakra

These traits show that your throat chakra might be out of balance.

1- You Exhibit Negative Behaviors

If you behave in a negative way that is unusual for you, it could be a sign of a blocked chakra. You likely need to rebalance your chakra when you become arrogant, manipulative, or deceptive. By balancing it, you will experience practical and truthful communication instead.

2 – You are Afraid of Conflict

Being afraid of conflict is an indication of a blocked chakra. You might become nervous when expressing the truth, and it might even be difficult for you. These feelings sometimes lead to stoic, fearful, and quiet behavior.

3 – You Have Frequent Health Problems

Your energy fields have a direct effect on your overall health. Some of the issues you might experience include:

sore throat
asthma
anemia
fatigue
dizziness
hearing problems
dental issues
mouth ulcers
neck pain
headaches
thyroid issues

If you experience physical ailments due to a blocked chakra, it likely means it has been blocked for a while. Learning how to fix it and open your chakra up is essential to overcome these issues.

4 – You Have Low Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

If you can’t communicate harmoniously, you will lack self-confidence and self-esteem. Without confidence, you can’t speak authentically with courage. You will feel like you can’t express your emotions and thoughts or even stand up for yourself.

5 – You Have Trouble Listening to Others

Your chakra might be unbalanced when you aren’t paying much attention to what someone is saying. Struggling to listen could be because you are lost in your thoughts or trying to think of what to say next. Or, it could be that you are talking too much to recognize what the other person is saying.

6 – You Can’t Find the Words You Need, or You Are Afraid to Talk

If you can’t find the right words or are afraid to speak up, it could be a blocked chakra. Sometimes, you might even feel guilty for expressing yourself. You are more comfortable denying your needs or desires than speaking up, and you always choose others over yourself.

7 – You Have Social Anxiety

Having an intense fear of speaking to others or expressing yourself is a sure sign that your energy field is blocked. Left unchecked, this fear can negatively affect your daily professional and personal life.

The idea of public speaking might even cause a panic attack. You might avoid social situations entirely and feel more comfortable alone at home.

Social anxiety usually stems from unpleasant events in your past. You might have been punished for expressing your opinions and beliefs. Or, you may have been publicly humiliated for doing so.

8 – You Self-Isolate and Tend to Be Shy

It is a sign of a blocked chakra if you isolate yourself or are shy when in a group of people. You might feel close up whenever someone tries to talk to you. This behavior indicates that you carry shame with you and should let it go.

9 – You Think There is No Reason to Speak Up

If you think you don’t have a reason to express yourself, you should work on reopening your throat chakra. This thought might manifest as people will misunderstand you if you speak up. You will believe that trying doesn’t make sense because no one takes you seriously anyway.

10 – You Feel Less Creative Than Usual

Experiencing inhibited creativity means that you are struggling to express yourself. You might feel judged for your creative work or living on auto-pilot and can’t create anything worthwhile.

How to Balance Your Throat Chakra

Now that you have identified your issue, here are nine easy ways to fix it.

1 – Do Neck Stretches

Neck stretches help open the area around your neck while balancing your chakra. It eases and prevents stress and tension in your neck and throat area.

2 – Focus On Your Breathing

By focusing on your breathing, you will ease stress and get rid of toxins. You will also stimulate your chest and throat, balancing your chakra.

3 – Do Yoga

Yoga releases tension near your energy fields, helping restore energy flow. When it comes to the throat chakra, you should try the following yoga poses:

should stand
plow
fish

4 – Spend Time Writing

Writing can release stress and activate your creativity as you express your feelings. You can write in a journal, which also helps you listen to yourself and your inner-most emotions and thoughts. Write whatever comes to mind because that will help you find balance.

You can also write letters, even if you choose not to send them later. If you have things you want to say to someone but don’t know how to do it, write out all of your feelings. Write everything you want them to know, and you will quickly feel better.

You might decide to send the letter later, but you don’t have to unless you are comfortable. If it makes you feel better, you can destroy the letter or save it for yourself to read again later.

5 – Keep Your Neck and Spine Aligned

When your neck and spine are misaligned, it causes a buildup of stress and tension. It can lead to neck strain and hyperextension if it becomes too bad. When this happens, your throat chakra can’t remain open, so make a conscious effort to stay aligned.

6 – Release all Negative Emotions

Spend time working through your negative emotions, and then release them. These emotions include hurt, guilt, resentment, and past trauma. Releasing these feelings will help restore balance and alleviate the blockage.

7 – Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Focusing on mindful words and actions will help you balance your throat chakra. Speak honestly and openly with the people in your life, and using mindfulness will become an easy thing to do.

8 – Implement the Color Blue

Blue is the color associated with this chakra, so incorporating it into your life is beneficial. It will calm your emotions and bring you peace of mind. You can use the color blue in your décor, on your walls, or anywhere else you will see it often.

9 – Reparent Yourself

Reparenting yourself can increase your self-confidence and self-esteem. You will feel more comfortable speaking up and telling your truth. If your parents were overly strict and critical of you, reparenting yourself is essential.

Final Thoughts on Things That Prove You Have an Unbalanced Throat Chakra (and how to fix)

If you have an unbalanced throat chakra, figuring out how to fix it is essential. It directly affects your overall well-being, communication, and self-expression. All of these aspects can hold you back professionally and cause issues in your personal life.

Luckily, you can balance your chakra in many ways, ensuring options that work for your lifestyle. Don’t ignore the signs of a blocked chakra. Fix it so that you can live a fulfilling, meaningful life.

Make These Incredible Cement Decorations for Your Home

June 25, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Cement decorations may not sound very appealing for sprucing up your home, but hear us out. They’re pretty inexpensive to make and only require a little time and elbow grease. Not to mention, they’ll look great with pretty much any decor and wall color!

It may sound strange, but concrete and cement decorations as well as unique pieces like temple bell large for homes have become more popular recently. A simple Google search reveals tons of different ideas using cement. Here are just a few you can find online:

tea light candle holders
hand jewelry holder
planters
tables
bookends
table lamps
wall clocks

The list goes on, but you get the idea. Cement is incredibly versatile and provides a neutral backdrop for myriad design options. Today’s decor trends show that it serves a greater purpose than just flooring or foundations for homes. It’s a sturdy material that doesn’t require much maintenance, aside from occasional dusting or mopping.

The professionals at Master Mix Concrete are known for their unwavering dedication to providing superior service. Their commitment to meeting diverse client needs with precision makes them a standout in the industry.

So, if you’d like to get in on the cement crafting trend, read on for some interesting decor ideas.

Here are a few amazing cement decorations you can make for your home:

What you’ll need to make the cement decorations:

Thick gloves
Large bowl for mixing the cement
Cement
Water
Wooden spoon or paint stirrer
Cutting mat
Painters (masking) tape
Small plastic bucket
Wooden rod
Sanding block
Medium-sized plastic bag
Scissors
1 L tall plastic water bottle
A small piece of rope
Colored tape

Cement decorations you can make for your home:

Try these ideas.

1 – Paper towel holder

1. To make this, start by putting on your gloves to mix the cement.
2. Grab the large bowl, filling it with a few cups of cement.
3. Pour enough water into the bowl to cover the cement almost entirely.
4. Next, mix it with the paint stirrer until all the clumps are gone.
5. Now, get out your small plastic bucket. Set it on your cutting mat or some other surface you don’t mind getting dirty.
6. Now pour enough mixture into the bucket to create a paper towel holder (about 1- 1 1/2 inches thick).
7. Tear off two pieces of painter’s tape and place them side-by-side and vertically over the top of the bucket.
8. Grab your wooden rod and stick it through the middle of the tape pieces. Push it about halfway down into the mixture and let it dry.
9. Once it’s dry, remove the pieces of tape and carefully pull the paper towel holder out of the bucket.
10. Use the sanding block to smoothen the surface of the cement on the top and sides of the holder. Once you’re satisfied with how it looks, place a paper towel roll on it and enjoy your masterpiece!

2 – Jewelry/keys/miscellaneous items holder

First, put on your gloves. Then, grab the plastic bag and fill it about 1/3 full with the cement mixture.
Squeeze the air out of the bag and seal it tight. Now, lay it on its side and place a somewhat heavy object in the middle, like a jar of candy. Allow it to dry.
When it’s dry, take the jar off the bag. Then, use scissors to cut the bag open.
Take the cement decoration out and use the sanding block once again to remove any rough edges.
Use the holder to store your keys, jewelry, or whatever items you like!

3 – Door stopper

For this one, first, find a small piece of rope. Make sure it has knots on each end.
Use a small knife or boxcutter to cut the water bottle. You want the bottom part to be slightly larger than the top.
Fill the bottom half of the bottle almost to the top with cement. Leave about half an inch of room on top.
Now, shake the bottle to get any clumps out. Grab the rope and push it into the bottle, making sure the knots are covered. Allow it to dry.
Use a knife or scissor to cut the bottle away from your cement decoration.
Now, you know the drill – use the sanding block to smooth the top and sides.
Place three strips of colored tape around the cement if you’d like. This touch adds color and will make it look more aesthetically appealing. Now you have a cute, interesting little doorstop that you made yourself!

4 – Other tips for these cement decorations

Keep in mind that you can always paint the cement if you don’t like the drab, gray color. It adds an extra step, but it will bring more color and life into the environment.
If you enjoyed these projects, you could create even more fantastic items with cement! We gave you some ideas above to get you started.
If you’ve never worked with cement before, you’re probably wondering where to buy it. First, check your local home improvement stores for ready mix cement. They should have several inexpensive options.
Always make sure to cover your skin and wear gloves when working with cement. According to OSHA, wet cement can lead to skin irritation and even blistering in some cases.
Concrete generally sets in 24-48 hours. Therefore, to be safe, you should probably wait at least two days before sanding the items.
If you spill any cement, try to clean it up right away. If it’s dry, use a simple soap solution to lubricate it. Then, use a metal putty knife to pry the cement from the surface.

Final thoughts about these incredible cement decorations for your home

As you can see, these cement decorations can bring new life into your home. They’re inexpensive to make and will last forever because of their durability. It’s also fun to make something yourself that serves a purpose in your home. They’re decorative cement pieces, but they are also highly functional.

You don’t have to replace your paper towel holder anymore because your new cement one will stand the test of time. The keyholder also provides a nice spot to store essential items. Finally, you won’t have to deal with doors mysteriously closing any longer with your cement doorstopper.

Do you have any ideas for cement decorations? Let us know in the comments!

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