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25 Things Every Adult Should Know

May 10, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Some people can’t wait to get their driver’s license, first apartment, and head out into the world as an adult. However, not every adult is so excited about growing older.

Some folks develop Peter Pan Syndrome, which according to Psychology Today, is an individual that is afraid to grow up.

Sadly, there is no escaping the hands of time, and once they start rolling, there’s no stopping them. Not only will your body change, but your brain does too. People expect way more from an adult than they do from a child, which is why you can’t sit and play video games all day.

As you mature, you must be able to do things for yourself and contribute to society. While a 10-year-old can’t balance a checkbook, it’s pretty ridiculous when a 25-year-old can’t either.

25 Things Every Adult Should Know

When you first turn 18, you won’t solve all the world’s problems or all your issues either. However, after you spend some time in the real world, you pick up a few tricks. Here are 25 things that you should be able to do by the time you reach your 25th birthday.

1. Parallel Park

Some areas require you to parallel park to get your driver’s license. However, some states have scrapped this requirement. Still, you should know how to maneuver a car in and out of tight spaces to park on the side of the road or in other situations.

2. Change Your Tire

You must know how to change a tire if you’re going to operate a motor vehicle. You never know when and where you will have a flat or a blowout. Having your vehicle stranded on the side of the road is dangerous, and it can be costly to call roadside assistance for such a trivial issue.

3. Put Together a Good Wardrobe

If you want to have any job, then you need to know how to dress for success. You should at least know how to match your pants with your shirt and coordinate your socks too. People who lack fashion sense stand out like a sore thumb.

4. Unplug from Technology

Depending on your age, you might have already used an old-fashioned map. It would be best to learn how to navigate without conveniences such as GPS, cell phones, and using apps.

5. Ride a Bike

While it’s not a make-or-break kind of thing, you should know how to ride a bike. Children need to learn how to balance themselves, and bike riding helps with that skill. Plus, bike riding is one of the best exercises around, according to Dynasty Tech, as it works for all your muscle groups.

6. Drive a Stick Shift Car

There’s something euphoric about getting behind a stick shift and hitting the open road. Driving a stick is something that is becoming obsolete as more cars are made with an automatic transmission. Still, sport’s cars and some big trucks require a stick to shift the transmissions.

7. Build A Fire

You never know when you might be stranded in the woods and need a fire to keep warm, or you might want to have a fire pit in your backyard. While cheating with chemical igniters seems easy, there’s something extraordinary about being able to build a fire from scratch. Channel your inner Boy Scout and learn how to start an inferno with rocks and sticks.

8. Have Meaningful Conversations

Every adult must learn how to converse. It would help if you had the art of conversation for your job, spouse, and family.

9. Swim

Teaching a child to swim is an invaluable tool that they will use in life. If you go boating, fishing, or even have a pool, you need to know how to stay afloat. According to Kid’s Health, you can drown in less than two inches of water.

10. Handle Your Yearly Taxes

Can you file your taxes? Even if you use an online program that walks you through the steps, it’s a simple task for many that shouldn’t require a CPA to complete.

11. Drive A Car, Period!

Having this item on the list may shock some folks, as everyone wants to drive, right? However, you may not realize that there are people in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and other big cities that don’t have a driver’s license.

Many people in larger cities rely on public transportation to get around. Still, should circumstances change, you may need a car and license to commute.

12. Tie a Tie

Tying a tie is one of those challenging tasks that seem simple once you get the hang of it. If you work in corporate America, you can’t wear cheesy clip-on varieties to work.

13. Make Great Coffee

Even if you don’t like coffee, you should still know how to brew a good cup. You never know when your mother or father-in-law will show up and demand a cup of Joe.

14. Flirt with Tact

If you want to get married or have meaningful relationships in this life, you need to learn how to flirt. Some people have mastered flirting, while others need to work on their game.

15. Cook Simple Things

Living on takeout food isn’t healthy, and it can break your budget. You should know how to make a grilled cheese, spaghetti, open a can of soup, heat it, and do other essential things. Not only does cooking from home save you a ton of money, but you won’t get all the sodium, preservatives, and other harmful things they put into these quick-fix meals.

16. Do Laundry

It seems like laundry would be a simple task, but if you throw everything together, you will have a big mess on your hands. Learning how to sort clothes, treat stains, and apply the proper detergent-fabric softener ratio to each load is essential.

17. Jump Start A Car

Even new cars have significant issues. Batteries going bad can give you problems when the weather changes. You should know how to jump your vehicle so that you can save the tow bill. Plus, you can help a neighbor or relative out too.

18. To Accept and Show Love

Every adult needs to know how to accept the love they’re shown and how to reciprocate to others. Love is a fundamental emotion that everyone needs to thrive. Without love, life would be a very boring place.

19. Apply and Get Jobs

If you want to make some money, you need to have a good resume and cover letter and be able to nail an interview. The most challenging job you will ever have in your life is pounding the pavement trying to find work.

20. How To Fold Sheets and Towels

Okay, so some people still don’t know how to fold sheets or towels regardless of their age. It’s essential to be able to fold your linens to put some order into your closets. Not every adult will learn how to fold a sheet as it’s a rather tedious task, but you should at least attempt it.

21. How To Navigate Public Transportation

If you ask people in Ohio about public transportation, they might have little clue about using it as the only method available is busses. However, if you ask someone in New York about it, then they have all the answers. Whether you live in the mid-west, deep south, or the north, you need to know how to hail a taxi, ride a subway, and get around using public transport.

22. Operate a Grill

If you think grilling out means getting the George Foreman out of storage, then you’re one of the people who this post is about. You need to know how to cook food on a charcoal grill and get the fire going. It’s just another aspect of learning to be an adult and cooking in nature.

23. Iron Clothes

While some folks prefer to use a dryer to do all their wrinkle removal, ironing does a better job. Plus, ironing is much more energy-efficient to operate than a large dryer anyway.

24. Balance a Checkbook

Unless you want to stuff your money in the mattress and risk it being stolen, you need a bank account. Banking 101 teaches you that you cannot go by the balance reported on the ATM receipt. You must know how much is in your account, and the only way you can accomplish this is by keeping a check register. For banking options visit WECU (for Personal Banking in Blaine, WA).

25. Tackle Small Household Repairs

If you own a home, there will always be minor repairs. These repairs are usually things like changing an outlet, swapping light fixtures, or fixing a leaking faucet. Learning to do these small tasks will save you a great deal of money from calling repair professionals.

Final Thoughts on Things Every Adult Should Know

Of the 25 things listed above, how many have you mastered? Did you notate the things you’ve yet to learn as challenges and things to help you grow? Sadly, not every adult will know how to do these things, but it would be beneficial if they did.

20 Ways to Increase Morale in the Workplace and Feel More Productive

May 10, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Morale in the workplace is essential to success and to maintaining a positive environment. Without it, employees are disengaged and tend to be negative, lacking focus and determination. There are ways you can change this and boost morale throughout the entire workplace.

Promoting positivity in this way is fun, and you should view it that way. Don’t think of it as adding more work for yourself, because when everyone is happy, more gets done. Taking the time to boost positivity will make a huge difference that you will notice immediately.

How to Increase Morale in the Workplace

With morale in the workplace, employees will enjoy coming to work and spread positivity. It will help them come up with good ideas and collaborate effectively. These tips will help everyone and improve your work environment for good.

1. Ask Everyone for Ideas or Input

When you ask for input, they will feel valued and trusted. Decisions and ideas shouldn’t all come from one person, so increase positivity in the workplace by including everyone in the process. When an employee’s idea is used, make sure to give them credit, too.

2. Have Short Meetings Frequently to Touch Base

Every couple of days or even every day, have short meetings to talk with the staff. This session allows them to vent, discuss issues, or suggest changes regularly.

If possible, keep the meetings small with only a few people in each session. Keeping the meeting small allows connection and communication on a deeper level.

Please find out how employees are feeling about their job, their co-workers, and even their supervisor. Ask them if they are facing any challenges and if there is anything you can do to help. These questions will lead to more happiness and an increase in workplace confidence.

These meetings are also an opportunity to provide performance feedback, coaching, and training. This time spent discussing the workplace will build trust and help develop better relationships.

3. Do What No One Else Wants to Do

If there is one job that no one else wants to do, then take it on yourself. Determine what the biggest problem is for the employees, and then take it off of their plate. Doing this relieves stress and shows everyone that you are willing to work hard, too.

In this context, modernizing EHS beyond compliance becomes a fundamental aspect of your approach, as you can help implement safety and wellness initiatives that directly address the issues at hand. By actively participating in the modernization of EHS initiatives, you demonstrate that safety and well-being are shared responsibilities that everyone can contribute to, fostering an environment where employees feel empowered and motivated to collaborate toward common goals.

Ultimately, this approach not only enhances the workplace atmosphere but also positions the organization for greater success and resilience in the face of challenges.

4. Be Open and Honest

When things change, be honest about the reason. Open up and explain things, and it will prevent the employees from being angry or frustrated. Hiding problems or avoiding discussions will only make the situation worse.

If you are open and honest, the staff will appreciate and respect you more. They will see that you aren’t trying to hide anything and that their well-being isn’t sacrificed.

Some of the things you should always discuss and be honest about include:

changes within the company
updated protocols
feedback from customers or clients
new things that are in the works
issues within the company
achievements

5. Do Something Special

When each workday is the same, morale can diminish. Break up the monotony of the workweek by planning something special for everyone.

You could consider scheduling back, neck, or shoulder massages to help ease tension and promote relaxation. Another idea is to plan a dance class for an hour each week or hire a fitness instructor to lead an exercise class. You can ask the staff for ideas, too, guaranteeing that they enjoy whatever special event you plan.

6. Make the Purpose of Each Job Clear, So Everyone Feels Valued

When people don’t know the purpose of their job, they won’t give their best effort. Individual confidence in the workplace will fall as no one knows the difference they are making. By making their purpose clear, they will feel valued and find pride in their work.

Tell employees why their job matters and help them understand that they are needed. When they see that they are essential to reaching the business’s goals, you will notice a significant boost in their attitude.

7. Give Recognition

While employees get paid for their jobs, they need more recognition than a weekly paycheck. Recognize effort and hard work, and be sincere when you do. If the staff knows their hard work is recognized, they will strive to be even better than they already are.

When employees receive regular recognition for a job well done, there will be a host of benefits. You will notice higher productivity, engagement levels, loyalty to the company, and customer satisfaction. Plus, of course, recognition will increase morale quickly as employees feel a sense of accomplishment.

8. Keep Things Calm and Organized

If the workplace is hectic and unorganized, it can cause unnecessary stress. Keep things as organized as possible, and promote a calming environment. When you do this, stress levels will decrease, employees maintain a healthier work-life balance, and everything will flow better.

Implementing effective organizational strategies can reduce stress levels, improve work-life balance, and enhance overall workflow. However, achieving this requires more than just a tidy desk; it involves a strategic approach to office layout and design. This is where office design consultants come into play. Their expertise extends beyond mere organization, offering insights into optimizing the physical layout to support a more harmonious work atmosphere.

These consultants can help integrate elements that promote relaxation and efficiency, such as ergonomic furniture, noise reduction solutions, and effective lighting. By leveraging their knowledge, companies can transform their spaces into well-organized, aesthetically pleasing environments that support both productivity and well-being.

9. Teach Employees New Things and Promote Professional Development

Most people want to learn, develop, and strengthen their skills. Spend time teaching the staff to do new things. This could include teaching anything from running a new program to how to do part of your job.

Consider investing in further development opportunities. Allow employees to attend conferences, take classes, and anything else that allows them to grow professionally.

When employees understand how to do things or why they are done that way, it can help promote morale. Teaching them can also increase loyalty because offering these opportunities lets your staff know that you believe in them.

10. Plan Fun Things to Do Off the Clock

While employees likely don’t want to spend all of their time together, they still need to connect on a personal level. Plan something that you know most of the staff will enjoy based on what you know about them. By planning something they enjoy, they won’t dread attending, and it’ll be a good memory afterward.

Don’t plan these events too frequently, however, because everyone has lives outside of work. Every couple of months is enough to promote communication, teamwork, and positive connections.

11. Discuss the Reason for What You are Working On

When the reason is apparent, employees will want to be better. They will feel more driven and engaged, helping to boost morale.

12. Plan Team-Building Activities During the Work Day

Team-building games are helpful for a couple of reasons. These games promote collaboration, motivation, and they foster communication and problem-solving skills. The activities also encourage creativity and productivity.

13. Be Flexible and Allow Others to Be, As Well

Times are changing, and desired work schedules are, too. When you can, let employees pick their work hours. As long as they get the job done well, it shouldn’t matter when they do it.

Instead of enforcing a strict start time early in the morning, let employees choose the time. This way, they come in well-rested and ready to work. If you can’t allow this type of flexibility all of the time, consider implementing it once a week or so.

Doing this also gives them sufficient time for appointments, errands, or family things they need to deal with. Handling those things before work means they won’t be distracted, promoting productivity and morale in the workplace.

14. Encourage Breaks

When employees get breaks during the day, they will come back feeling refreshed. Some employees may insist that they don’t need to take their break but encourage them to take it anyway.

15. Make People Laugh

If you can make everyone at work laugh, morale will soar. Laughing will boost their moods and help form positive connections between employees. A fun way to do this is by presenting funny awards that a custom to the receivers.

16. Provide Food

Feeding people is a sure way to boost spirits and promote positive attitudes. When people don’t have to waste their money on lunch, they’ll feel a little happier and more cheerful. Plus, they will appreciate the kind gesture and be grateful for working in such a caring environment.

17. Practice Gratitude

Show everyone how much you appreciate them, and tell them, too. When they know you are thankful for what they do, they will want to do it even better. Plus, it will boost morale as it creates a safe and comfortable space for employees.

18. Develop a Personal Connection

Learn personal things about everyone, and make it a point to acknowledge life events. When they know you care and support them, they will feel better and more understood at work.

19. Redecorate

Everyone needs some change once in a while, and this includes when they are at work. Redecorating the workplace is exciting, and it gives everyone a fresh perspective. Add plants, too, because studies show that they boost office morale.

20. Allow Others to Work on Their Ideas

When people are allowed to work on their unique ideas, they are more creative and inspired. As long as they get their regular job done, let them explore a little. They might even come up with an excellent idea for the company if they’re allowed to do this.

Final Thoughts on Ways to Increase Morale in the Workplace

Low morale in the workplace can cause tension, stress, diminished productivity, and many other problems. It can also cause the turnover rate to be high. If you notice that your work environment lacks this area, use these tips to increase it.

It benefits the entire company and all of the employees when morale is high. Implementing a few of these ideas will make a big difference.

The Best Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe You May Ever Try

May 9, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Cream of broccoli soup may not sound appealing as summer approaches. However, if you need comfort food, this soup will hit the spot. Broccoli soup contains so many health benefits, and it pairs well with other dishes like salad or pasta.

Cream of broccoli soup has a rich, pureed texture, similar to that of tomato basil soup.

This soup can make a meal by itself or be served alongside family favorites like casseroles, lasagna, or chicken dishes. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, so you can even whip it up on a worknight. No matter how you choose to serve this cream of broccoli soup, we hope you enjoy it!

Here’s how to make this healthy cream of broccoli soup:

What you’ll need:

Cutting board
Knife
Large soup pot
Wooden spoon
Baking sheet
Tongs
Hand blender (immersion blender)

Ingredients:

2 medium broccoli heads
2 medium-sized carrots
1 medium potato
1 small onion
2 garlic cloves
Olive oil
5 cups hot vegetable stock
Two bay leaves
1 cup frozen peas
French baguette (or whatever bread you like)
Softened butter
Fresh parsley

Directions for making cream of broccoli soup:

Chop the carrots, onion, and potato into cubes, then cut the ends off the broccoli. Finely mince the two garlic cloves.
Drizzle some olive oil in the bottom of the large pot. Turn the heat on low and add the onions, simmering until slightly brown. Add the garlic next, cooking for a few minutes.
Then, add the potato and carrots, cooking until slightly soft.
Finally, add the broccoli, mixing it around the pot to coat it thoroughly with the oil.
Now, pour in the vegetable stock. Make sure you warm it up beforehand, so it’s hot.
Next, add in your bay leaves and bring the soup to a boil.
Then, add the cup of frozen peas. Mix them in with a spoon and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes.
Now, grab your French baguette or bread of your choice and cut it into slices. Place on your baking sheet.
Mix a stick of softened butter and fresh parsley in a small bowl. Add minced garlic, and use a small spoon to blend into the butter.
Spread some on your bread slices, and bake at 390 degrees F for 15 minutes (until the crust is crispy).
Now, back to the cream of broccoli soup. Use tongs to remove the bay leaves and remove the soup from the heat.
Use your hand blender to thoroughly blend the soup until you have a creamy, thick texture.
Serve and garnish with cream and parsley. Bon appétit!

If you’re not a cream of broccoli soup lover, we’ll include a broccoli cheese soup recipe as a bonus.

How to make broccoli cheese soup

Ingredients:

5 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small to medium sweet yellow onion, diced finely
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock
2 cups half-and-half (You can use whole or 2% milk, however, this will reduce creaminess).
2-3 cups broccoli florets, diced small + 1 cup stems (optional)
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced very thinly
3/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
3/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika (optional and to taste)
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional and to taste)
pinch cayenne pepper (optional and to taste)
8 ounces grated organic, grass-fed extra-sharp cheddar cheese (save a little for garnishing)

Directions:

In a small saucepan, add 1 tablespoon butter and the diced onion. Sauté over medium heat for about 4 minutes, until the onion turns brown. Stir occasionally.
Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning. Take off the heat and set aside.
In a large, deep pot, add the remaining butter and flour, cooking over medium heat for about 3 to 5 minutes. Whisk this mixture constantly until flour becomes thick. The roux needs to be thick to give the soup the right consistency.
Gradually add in the vegetable or chicken stock, stirring frequently.
Slowly add in the half-and-half or milk, also stirring continuously.
Simmer the roux on low heat for 15-20 minutes or until it reduces and thickens more. Whisk occasionally to keep skin from forming on top.
While the roux simmers, chop up the broccoli and carrots. After it simmers for 15 to 20 minutes, add the broccoli and carrots. Also, mix in the onion and garlic from the other pot.
Add the salt and pepper to taste and the optional paprika, dry mustard powder, and cayenne. These seasonings aren’t necessary, but they do add to the flavor of the soup. Stir thoroughly to combine.
Simmer on low heat for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until it reduces and thickens once more. Whisk occasionally to mix in any skin that forms on top.
While soup simmers, start grating the cheese. We recommend buying a high-quality cheese because this will give the soup maximum flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese because it doesn’t melt well and will affect the consistency of the soup.
Simmer for another 20-25 minutes, adding in most of the cheese. Set aside a small portion for garnishing. Stir in the cheese until it melts and blends completely into the soup, or about 1 minute.

Great news…

Both soups can keep in the fridge airtight for 5-7 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally, or heat on medium-high on the stove. Both the broccoli cheese and cream of broccoli soups are easy to make and require an hour or less of cooking.

Final Thoughts: this cream of broccoli soup is a healthy, easy recipe for the workweek

No matter what season it is, sometimes you get a craving for a warm bowl of soup. Broccoli cheese or cream of broccoli soup is excellent comfort food to have year-round. Best of all, you don’t need to be a five-star chef to make them. Let us know how you like this recipe in the comments!

This Pair of Holland Lop Bunnies Will Brighten Your Day

May 9, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

With their long, floppy ears and chubby bodies, Holland Lop bunnies give us a lot to smile about. They’re simply adorable, and even if you don’t own any, just looking at them online will brighten your day.

Sky and Grace, both two-year-old Holland Lop bunnies, cheer people up every day on their social media accounts. Called “Stayathomebun,” their accounts feature photos and videos of them playing, eating, and posing adorably for the camera.

The bunnies’ owner couldn’t resist the charm of Holland Lops, either. It’s hard not to love such a tiny, fluffy creature that hops around and munches on carrots all day.

“I fell in love with bunnies because they’re just so cute. Motor noses, fluffy paws, beautiful eyes, and all their adorable little mannerisms,” the owner says about why she loves bunnies.

She didn’t always own bunnies, but after caring for a few, she was hooked.

“A few years ago, I volunteered at a rabbit rescue and helped take care of an entire house full of bunnies. After a few months of volunteering, I decided I wanted to take care of some bunnies of my own.”

Bunnies have a pretty easy life, filled with eating, sleeping, hopping, and being pet by their owners. Bunnies don’t know how good they have it.

Their owner says this:

“I once heard that a bunny’s life goes something like, nap until you’re hungry, then eat until you’re sleepy, and repeat. Sky and Grace love eating, napping, chinning and binking. They get so excited when they know they’re going to eat some fresh greens and treats. Bananas are their most favorite treat of all.”

Their owner even taught them how to ring a bell! Each time they touch it with their paw, she gives them a well-deserved treat. When the hop bunnies aren’t eating or sleeping, the owner takes them out for some adventures.

“Once, we took Sky to Times Square in New York City to see Samsung use his photo on a billboard. I also have the quiet moments when they just come to me and flop sideways next to me. There’s something therapeutic with spending time gently petting a happy bunny.”

A few interesting facts and tips about taking care of Holland lop bunnies

“Rabbits have scent glands on the bottom of their chins, and they rub their chin on something to mark it as theirs,” the bunny mom explained. “So, Grace will chin something. Then Sky will come over, sniff it, and chin over it. Then, Grace will come back and do the same. It’s fun to watch.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sky + Grace (@stayathomebun)

They also move really fast. When they get excited, they zoom around and do this twisty jump called the binky. Sometimes, Sky and Grace will combine zoomies with a series of binkies. It’s just so cute.”

On their Instagram account, the owner posts their antics often so people can see them zooming and hopping around. She also posts tons of videos of them doing their favorite activity: eating. Bunnies need a ton of food, mostly in the form of veggies, fruit, hay, and pellets.

“Bunnies’ teeth never stop growing, so they need a lot of hay to chew on,” the lop bunny owner explains. “The hay is so important because bunnies need a lot of fiber to keep their digestive system on track. And, be careful with your cords because cords are easy to chew on.”

History and basics about the Holland lop rabbit

Holland lop bunnies originally came from the Netherlands, where Dutch breeder Adriana de Cock created them. He wanted to breed a miniature French lop successfully, so he bred French lops with the Netherland Dwarf. However, the ears were still pointy instead of floppy, a signature trait of the lops. So, to create the ears, he strengthened the lop gene by breeding the offspring with English lops.

The Netherlands Governing Rabbit Council accepted this breed formally in 1964. It was recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1979.

In the UK, the equivalent of the Holland lop is the Miniature Lop, which the British Rabbit Council recognizes. This breed of rabbit is even smaller than the Dutch version. There’s also a breed called the American Mini lop, a totally different breed than the UK Miniature lop. Now that you’ve gotten a little lesson in rabbit breeds let’s get back to the lops.

Holland lop bunnies are known for their small, compact size and round, stocky frame. Part of what makes them so adorable is their plump body offset by their floppy ears. This combination of physical characteristics, along with the bunny’s friendly, docile temperament, makes it a popular pet. Holland lop bunnies are great with children as well, so they’re wonderful companions to have around.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sky + Grace (@stayathomebun)

They weigh between 2 – 4 pounds and have a lifespan of about 7-10 years. Luckily, Holland lops are pretty low-maintenance pets and don’t have many hereditary health problems. You’ll need to brush their coat about once a week to prevent tangles. They do groom themselves often, but eliminating stray hair with regular brushing lowers the risk of your bunny swallowing hairballs.

Make sure to keep lots of hay, pellets, and fresh fruits/veggies on hand. Also, give your bunny plenty of room to roam freely, both indoors and outdoors.

Sky and Grace’s owner gives a last bit of advice: “Last but not least, they also need a lot of downtime to nap, groom, and feel at peace with the world.”

Final thoughts on meeting this pair of Holland lop bunnies

We hope these beautiful Holland lop bunnies put a smile on your face because they sure did for us! After looking at Sky and Grace’s Instagram, you may even feel tempted to adopt a bunny yourself. If you decide to get one of these adorable companions, make sure to research breeders before buying one.

It’s easy to see why so many people have fallen in love with Holland lop bunnies. They’re chubby, stocky, floppy-eared, and fluffy. So what won’t you love about them?

10 Paradoxes That Help You to Live a Meaningful Life

May 9, 2021 by Lakeisha Ethans

A paradox is any statement or saying that, on the surface, sounds ridiculous and contradictory, but in reality, it has a surprising basis in wisdom and reality. Many paradoxes around you are fascinating to examine. On top of that, many of them can teach you valuable lessons. But how can something as simple as a strange-sounding phrase give you that much value? Here are ten paradoxes of life that you can use to live a meaningful life.

1. The more you learn, the less you realize you know.

Have you ever noticed that many people are ridiculously confident when they begin something, only to get shocked when they realize that the subject at hand is much more complex than they initially believed?

This is commonly referred to as the Dunning-Krueger effect. The less skilled someone is, the more likely they are to overestimate their competence. It takes a significant amount of time before someone reaches a level of expertise where they have more positive thinking about their abilities again.

Here’s what you can learn from this for a more meaningful life:

The world is complex, and nothing is as simple as it appears at face value.
The world is constantly changing, with new bits of information that means constant learning is necessary for continued expertise.
There are always blind spots in knowledge, no matter how little or how much you know.
It is wisest to assume you know nothing when beginning forays into a subject.

2. The more you try to control something, the less control you have over it.

Many people derive a sense of security from being able to “control” things, whether that is people, their level of preparation, or their environment. There’s a safe feeling that can come with the ability to make sure everything will plan for obvious reasons.

Of course, all that control doesn’t always mean that things will go to plan, and most things dislike being controlled, which makes them even harder to manage. The more you attempt to dictate things, the less likely things will go your way, and the lower your positive thinking will drop.

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Planning is good, but it is impossible to plan for every possible situation.
Learning to be okay with not knowing what will happen next makes life much more interesting and much less stressful.
Adaptability is more crucial than conscientiousness.
The world is mysterious and cannot be controlled, and there can be beauty in that chaos.

3. The more available something is, the less badly people want it.

A scarcity bias is a strange psychological effect whereby most rare things are viewed in the most positive light. The less available something is, the more likely people are to rave about the desire to get their hands on it. In reality, this has little to no bearing on that item’s actual value.

Worse still, once someone finally gets their hands on the rare thing, they often get disillusioned with it. They realize that the inflated value was an oversell and could have done well with something much more easily available.

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Arbitrary value does not dictate something actual value to you or others.
What everyone wants doesn’t have to be what you want, and you shouldn’t blindly follow a mob.
There can be beauty in things that are not valued, and availability can make things more enjoyable.
Scarcity-based value often involves setting yourself up for disappointment.

4. The only thing that never changes is the inevitability of change.

There’s no way to avoid change. It is simply inevitable, and everything changes, no matter how much it seems like it won’t. Whether it changes in a few seconds, in several weeks, or fifty years, the fact remains that change will occur. Sometimes it’s gradual. Sometimes it’s sudden. All of the time, it cannot be stopped.

Here’s how this insight can help you lead a more meaningful life:

A resistance to change is futile; it will come whether you like it or not, and therefore you should accept it.
Once again, adaptability is more crucial than conscientiousness.
Finding security in temporary things will lead to many feelings of insecurity over the course of your life.

5. An abundance of choices makes choosing harder.

A wealth of choices seems like a lovely thing, but it can create an overwhelming situation where the paradox of choice comes into play. The more options are available, the more you want to weigh each one, and the more afraid you are of getting it wrong.

And, worse still, after all of that, you’re likely to regret your decision when a lot of other potential decisions were available. Your positive thinking can’t handle the fact that it “missed out” on other options, making a choice impossible.

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Less can truly be more in many situations.
Not every choice must be groundbreaking; some can be made for fun.
Instead of regretting choices, learning from their outcomes is best.
Being satisfied with what you can help you reduce regrets.
Comparing yourself and your situations to others and their situations is always going to end in dissatisfaction.

6. Seeking happiness can make you more unhappy.

Have you heard of the Paradox of Hedonism? It refers to the “coincidental” occurrence where happiness tends to find you when you aren’t actively seeking it. It’s the source of the famous quote by Henry David Thoreau: “Happiness is like a butterfly, the more you chase it, the more it will evade you, but if you notice the other things around you, it will gently come and sit on your shoulder.”

This is because pursuing happiness often involves setting lofty goals for an imagined emotional state with no real feeling, meaning, or purpose behind it. As a result, you don’t truly know what happiness looks like, nor are you capable of spotting it when it arrives. You then lose your positive thinking as you grow frustrated with your lack of happiness, which is completely counterproductive!

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Instead of seeking happiness, seek personal growth and improvement for a more meaningful life.
Don’t become obsessed with the idea of finding happiness, as you can make your own by seeing the joy in the world around you.
Allow yourself to feel a mix of positive and negative emotions, and don’t beat yourself up for not being constantly happy.

7. The more you cling to others, the more you push them away.

People in general dislike when others behave with neediness towards them. Clingy people can be suffocating. While it’s okay to be more affectionate than others, you also need to understand that the clingier you are, the fewer others will want to spend time with you.

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Maintain healthy boundaries in relationships with others, whether romantic or otherwise
Give others space when they need it and take time to request space of your own, even if you don’t always feel like you need it.
Respect the desires, time, and effort of others
Relationships should not persist out of obligation
You have no right to control others or demand their time
Let people choose to spend time with you because they like you

8. Failure is necessary for success.

There is such a huge negative connotation to failure. People often act like it’s a surefire sign of something horrible or proof that something is doomed. But you can’t be good at something if you’re not bad at it first. It’s necessary to fail to learn from mistakes and find ways to succeed.

It’s tough to develop positive thinking surrounding failure, but research backs the concept that failure is instrumental to growth and success. It is only really a failure if you decide to learn absolutely nothing from it! Of course, you can’t always succeed because that requires perfection, which is entirely unachievable.

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Find lessons to learn in all your mistakes and failures.
Please don’t beat yourself up over failures; celebrate how they help you to grow.
Pat yourself on the back for small successes.
Understand that progress isn’t linear, and you will continue to fail throughout life, even after you succeed.
There is nothing wrong with making mistakes unless you refuse accountability for them.

9. The more you try to do it at once, the less you get done.

People often seem to believe that multitasking is an inherently good thing. There’s nothing wrong with packing for work while listening to the radio, as those are two simple tasks. But the fact is that trying to do two complex tasks at once will result in a loss of productivity, according to research.

Here’s what you can learn from this:

Mindfully pay attention to and focus on the task at hand, and don’t let your attention be snatched away.
It is better to do one thing well than to do two things poorly
Multitasking isn’t an indicator of capability or intelligence

10. You don’t appreciate what you have until it’s gone.

This widespread concept is awful said with regret and sadness, and yet still, so many people fall victim to this paradox. The reality is that most don’t recognize the value of a part of their life until they notice its absence. There is a lot to be grateful for in everyday life, and you need to appreciate it to avoid becoming the next fodder for this contradictory-sounding concept.

Here’s what you can learn from this–and how it adds to a meaningful life:

Learn to be grateful for everyday things, even having your basic needs met, in a way that ensures you don’t forget your privilege.
Never take the people in your life for granted and communicate well to them about their value to you.
Take regular time to reflect on what you’re grateful for and how to best express that gratitude.

Final Thoughts On Some Life Paradoxes That You Can Use To Live A Meaningful Life

Paradoxes are a little split of ironic chaos in the world we live in, and understanding how they pertain to life can grant you an impressive understanding of the world. Apply this understanding to your ways of living, perspectives, and ideas, and you’ll find that these paradoxes can give your life a beautiful, meaningful life.

How to Make Bavarian Pretzels and Homemade Hummus Dip

May 8, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Most people only eat pretzels at shopping malls or carnivals, but you can make them right at home! When you get them at the mall, they usually come with cheese or garlic butter dipping sauce. We’ll pair the pretzels with a delicious homemade hummus dip to spice things up for this recipe.

Pretzels have been favored by millions since Germany invented them way back in the seventh century. Today, they’ve evolved into a popular bar and baseball game snack with tons of different varieties and flavors. You’ll need some time and patience to make this recipe, so you may want to save it for the weekend. Once you try your delicious creation, though, all that elbow grease will have paid off. Below, we’ll show you how to make homemade pretzels with hummus dip.

Here’s how to make easy Bavarian pretzels and homemade hummus dip

Are you ready to make those delicious pretzels?

Gather these kitchen supplies, first:

Pastry brush
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Whisk
Sifter
Spatula or spoon
Cutting board or baker’s table
Large pot
Food processor

Ingredients for the pretzels:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp instant yeast
1 1/2 tsp brown sugar
2 tbsp softened butter
1 7/12 cup water
1/2 tsp salt
3 tbsp baking soda
Himalayan pink salt

Ingredients for making hummus:

2 cups chickpeas
3 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
Garlic clove
Freshly squeezed lemon
Fresh parsley

Directions for making the pretzels:

First, pour 1 cup of all-purpose flour into your bowl. Next, add the instant yeast, brown sugar, softened butter, and water. Whisk until fully combined.
Rest for 15 minutes. Then, add the salt into the bowl.
Hold the sifter over the bowl, and sift the remaining two cups of all-purpose flour into the mixture.
Use a spatula or spoon to further combine the ingredients for the dough.
Then, spoon out the dough onto a cutting board or baker’s table. Sprinkle some flour onto the dough to keep it from sticking.
Knead the dough into a baguette-like shape. Then, use a knife to cut the dough lengthwise into six smaller pieces.
Use your hands to form the dough into balls. Cover with saran wrap and rest for a few minutes.
Now for the fun part! Take the first piece of dough and roll it into a long, thin rope-like shape. Now, take the ends of the dough and pull them down, forming a hot air balloon shape.
Then, cross the ends over each other at the bottom, and twist them upwards twice. Place the ends in the middle of the top section of the dough, forming a mini pretzel. Repeat this with the other five dough balls.
Next, get out your large pot and fill it about halfway with water. Bring it to a boil, and add the baking soda.
Allow it to fizz and dissolve, then place the first pretzel in the water. Let it rest in the water for 20-30 seconds, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Repeat with the other pretzels, then use your pastry brush to rub melted butter onto the pretzels.
Sprinkle the pretzels with Himalayan pink salt, and bake at 450 degrees F for 10-15 minutes.

Directions for making the hummus:

In a food processor, blend 2 cups of chickpeas, 3 tbsp tahini, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Add in 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Blend until you have a mealy texture, then add one garlic clove. Squeeze some fresh lemon into the mixture, and use a spatula to combine it.
Next, add 1/4 cup of cold water, and keep blending until fully combined. The texture should now be smooth and creamy.
Scoop out the hummus into a small bowl, topping with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
Plate your pretzels and enjoy!

Tips and tricks for making amazing pretzels

If you’re not a big hummus fan, you can easily make other dipping sauces for the pretzels. Popular options include cheese, honey mustard, beer cheese, ranch, or even chocolate hazelnut if you have a sweet tooth! Actually, the chocolate would make a nice contrast with the salty pretzels.
Boiling the pretzels in baking soda and water gives the pretzels their traditional brown color. It also helps keep the pretzels soft on the inside and adds to the flavor. Chefs use food-grade lye for this step, but baking soda works just as well.
Instead of brushing the pretzels with butter, you can also use egg wash.
You can even make pretzel bites by cutting the dough into tiny, bite-sized pieces!
Alternatives to salted pretzels include cinnamon sugar, garlic cheddar, parmesan, or everything bagel pretzels.

As you can see, you can get really creative with your pretzel-making! Once you have the traditional recipe down, you can start branching off and trying new creations. Pretzels make a great after-school or work snack, and they actually don’t take long to make. The most time-consuming part is probably kneading the dough, but everything else is a piece of cake.

We guarantee these will give the kiosk inside your local mall a run for their money. You may even swear off mall pretzels forever after you try this recipe! Wash it down with a beer, or if you don’t drink, it pairs well with lemonade or iced tea.

Final Thoughts: Making your own Bavarian pretzels and hummus dip is surprisingly easy

Who knew that making pretzels is actually easier than it looks? All it requires is mixing the ingredients for the dough, kneading it, and twisting it into a pretzel. For the hummus dip, you need a food processor and a few ingredients, and you have an easy, healthy sauce. Maybe you’ve been looking for a new after-work snack, or you want to try out a new recipe. No matter the circumstance, these pretzels are light and savory snacks that you can enjoy any time of day.

10 Signs of Anxiety In Children That Parents Don’t See

May 8, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Has your child not been acting like themselves lately? Do you feel frustrated because you know something is wrong, but you can’t put your finger on it? They don’t appear sick, yet they are acting abnormally.

Children don’t come with a manual that helps you detect their various moods, ailments, or issues in life. A good parent must use their detective skills because what appears to be one problem can have a different root cause. One such medical condition is anxiety in children.

Anxiety is the great pretender. It can make even a child think and feel things that are not normal. In adults, this condition comes out in manners that is not always the same for a child.

Children can’t always express what they feel like a grown-up, so they will act out to let you know they’re hurting. It’s up to you to use these “Morse Code” type symptoms they display to dictate what’s going on.

Ten Common Signs of Anxiety in Children (Parents Miss These!)

If you know something is not right with your child, you may be quick to assume they’re being bullied, have an underlying medical issue, or are going through puberty-related problems. However, anxiety in children often comes out in mysterious ways. Here are the ten most common signs of an underlying anxiety disorder in kids.

1. Hyperactivity

When a child is hyper and acting out, you’re probably going to assume they’ve had too much junk food. However, if the hyperactivity issue continues, you may consider a diagnosis like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, things like genetics, environmental toxins, brain injuries, and low birth weight can lead to this neurological condition.

However, just because it seems to be one thing doesn’t mean that’s what’s going on; it can be different. Anxiety can mimic hyperactivity. The child who feels overly anxious may be extra hyper because the angst they feel won’t allow them to relax.

2. Tantrums

Sadly, temper tantrums would appear normal for the toddler age group, but even teenagers can have meltdowns and tantrums when they don’t get their way. Another sign of anxiety is having outbursts. These explosions happen when someone cannot regulate their emotions or moods, and anxiety can certainly put you in a bad mood.

When your child feels horrible and doesn’t know how to put things into words for you, their actions can speak volumes. Having frequent meltdowns in children who usually don’t act this way is a cause for alarm.

3. Conversion Symptoms Like Stomach Aches Other Bodily Pains

One of the most common signs of anxiety in children has everything to do with conversion or somatoform symptoms. The medical condition of functional neurological symptom disorder means that the body converts mental angst into physical symptoms. If your child is complaining of headaches and stomachaches often, it might be anxiety-based.

When a child presents with a stomachache, it would be easy to assume they had a virus. However, when the stomachache is still occurring days or weeks later, then further evaluation is needed.

4. Agitation is a Symptom of Anxiety in Children

Anger is one of the easiest emotions to show, and it seems to be the “cure-all” for whatever someone is feeling. How many times have you been angry in the past week? If someone rubs you the wrong way, anger easily comes to the surface as it’s a powerful emotion.

Your child may be showing signs of agitation and aggression that weren’t a regular part of their personality. These signs can be concerning as they can lead them to trouble at school and at home. Agitation is a common sign of anxiety in children.

5. Restlessness

Have you ever heard the adage that someone was acting like a cat on a hot tin roof? Well, the metal from the roof would burn their feet, so felines would dance around until they could remove themselves from this situation. You may use this term about your child at times.

Does your child pace the floor, look worried, have a hard time focusing on playtime, or refuse to eat? Restlessness is a sign of inner turmoil. Think about the times you’ve felt restless and paced the floor as well as just felt general unrest.

It’s often impossible to put those feelings into words, which may be the reason why your child cannot tell you what’s wrong.

Ten causes of bedwetting in older children–and even teenagers.

6. Refusing to Go to Bed

Anxiety is always the worst at night, and if your child is refusing to go to bed, it can be an indicator of panic. They may fear the dark, the house being eerily quiet, and the overall isolation that comes with the night season.

Depending on the child’s age, they may fear monsters, ghosts, or other things that go bump in the night. If your child is suddenly refusing to go to bed at night, or they need ten drinks and two trips to the restroom before they settle down, it could be anxiety to blame.

7. Crying

Some kids are more emotional than others. Consequently, if a child is more whiny than average or starts to cry a lot, it’s a sign of trouble. You probably won’t guess anxiety as the root cause of a crying child, but it can be.

When their emotional load becomes more than they can handle, they can have these outbursts to help them feel better. Crying is a natural way to release pent-up angst, and they may be trying to get what’s on the inside to the outside.

8. Refusing to Go to School or Other Activities

Does your once social butterfly now prefer to stay in their bedroom alone? You can expect that as a child ages they will like their alone time, especially during the teenage years. There are many different types of anxiety, and one type of anxiety you should watch for is the social variety.

Social anxiety can make life so difficult for a person who must go to school and activities each day. They may fear things like people laughing at them, not being good enough, or falling in front of others. Anxiety can make a person think about all sorts of things that aren’t true, and social anxiety is a severe mental condition.

If this condition is left untreated, it can turn into agoraphobia, which is where the child will be fearful of even leaving home. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, children who have agoraphobia feel trapped in situations where escape might be difficult.

9. Worrying About the Future

Fears about the future are typical as an older child considers their life’s path. However, when they cannot control these worries and seem to take over their life, it can be a sign of anxiety. It’s advisable not to allow your children to watch the news or any programing with violence in them.

Even all these crime scene and detective shows can be too much for their minds to handle. You can cause anxiety in children by allowing them to watch programs on television beyond their grasp. Monitor the video games they play, the shows they watch, and the websites they visit on the internet, as these can help to add fuel to the fire of anxiety.

10. Irrational Fears

Children often have irrational fears, such as the boogeyman or monsters living under their bed. While it’s normal to experience some of these problems, it’s often easy for these fears to take over their life. The world excites the paranormal and explores such things, but it might be too much for a child who delves into this realm.

As parents, it’s essential to address irrational fears on a level that your child can understand. Irrational fears can cause significant anxiety, and it’s something that can often be prevented by monitoring their intake. However, some children are genetically disposed to anxiety, so you need to be on higher alert for such issues if it runs in the family.

Final Thoughts on Recognizing the Red Flags of Anxiety in Children

Anxiety in children is a complex condition. It affects more than seven percent of kids between the ages of 3-17, according to a study referenced by the National Alliance on Mental Health. However, it affects about 19 percent of the adult population.

Studies show that most people who have this mental illness usually have an onset of symptoms before they’re 21 years of age. Sadly, it can also develop after trauma or a period of severe illness. As parents, you must constantly be on guard and aware of your child’s symptoms complaints about feeling.

What seems like a textbook case of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder can be anxiety-based? Since there are various branches of anxiety, like general, obsessive-compulsive, panic, and agoraphobia, it’s hard to pinpoint the type you’re dealing with in your kid. It’s essential to get the help and guidance of a trusted counselor to help address these mental health concerns and identify the type.

Living with anxiety is never easy, regardless of your age. Sadly, when you’re a child and cannot fully articulate what’s going on inside the body, the parents must become a detective to resolve.

Inspiring Mother Shares Her Weight Loss Journey With the World

May 8, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Alexa, an inspiring mother to a 3-month-old baby girl, reclaimed her health and now shares her journey with others. She also promotes body positivity, helping everyone remember they are worthy of self-love. Despite being a busy mom, Alexa wanted to make sure she took care of herself as well. Here is her story about how she took her health back.

“My fitness journey actually started in the fall of 2018. At my heaviest, I weighed 272 pounds, so I started going to the gym. About a year later, I had lost 50 pounds, and then I just kind of hit this wall,” Alexa said. “I wasn’t really losing weight. I finally got back into it, and I ended up getting pregnant.”

A moment of awakening

This changed Alexa’s life forever, and pretty soon, the stress of becoming a mom got to her. She knew she needed to get back on track and focus on her health once again.

“This last October, I delivered a beautiful baby girl. After I delivered, I lost probably 15-20 pounds immediately, and then I started eating whatever I wanted. I weighed myself at the doctor, and I was 255, and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh! This is horrible!’”

The weight gain came as a shock to her, but she didn’t let it keep her down. Instead, she decided to shift her focus from losing weight to just keeping herself healthy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ALEXA (@muscle_mama_)

“It was really demoralizing, honestly, I realized at that moment. I said, ‘I have to take my health back again.’ I started working out again, and now I am down to 238. For me, this time around, it’s about creating a lifestyle that I can maintain for my family, for my daughter, and for myself. I want to be comfortable again in my own skin, and I’m getting there.”

The inspiring mother promotes body positivity as well as fitness

Alexa will not allow her daughter to grow up ashamed of herself.

“I wear crop tops to the gym all the time with my little “mum tum,” and I rock it. Yeah, you can see my stretch marks from being pregnant, but those are battle scars. We need to learn not to be ashamed of our bodies. Girlfriend, I’m here to tell you, you know what? You wear the short shorts, wear the crop top, and be confident.”

Alexa says she wants her daughter to grow up loving her body instead of hating herself.

In a powerful Instagram post, Alexa says:

“Women don’t just hate their bodies, we are taught to.

I refuse to let my daughter learn this nasty habit. As babies, we all had little rolls and thick thighs. So when did that stop being acceptable and start being unattractive?

We are taught to pick ourselves apart for being too fat, too skinny, too ugly, the list goes on and on. Constantly focusing on the negatives instead of looking at the positives and just how far we come.

I could easily sit here and say my stomach’s too fat in this picture, or my back roll looks huge. Honestly, though, my mindset has changed. I feel proud of how far I’ve come. How much more toned my stomach is than a month ago or smaller my back roll is. We have to learn to build ourselves up instead of ripping ourself apart.

So teach yourself, your daughters, your friends, your family, hell even strangers, as women, we are all beautiful. We all have imperfections and quirks that make us perfectly us. Embrace them. Focus on the positives and how far you’ve come.

Above all, though, love yourself.”

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A post shared by ALEXA (@muscle_mama_)

More people should remember this advice, as we often get caught up in comparing ourselves to others. We never feel good enough this way because someone always outshines us. We can never keep up, and we end up feeling defeated.

However, instead of bringing yourself down, lift yourself up, as Alexa said. Focus on what makes you beautiful, and hold onto that image of yourself. This way, your inner self-talk will slowly start becoming more positive.

The inspiring mother has a few words of wisdom for those wanting to become healthier.

“My advice for people who are just starting out is to not get discouraged. When you see a picture on Instagram and the person has lost 100 pounds, that didn’t happen overnight, and it wasn’t a linear line for them.”

Oftentimes, we forget that social media doesn’t show the whole story. A lot happens behind-the-scenes in people’s lives, but we only see a few moments of that. You never know how long it took them to get to that point, either.

“They probably lost a bunch of weight, they probably gained some, then they lost some more. It’s a constant fluctuation and you have to mentally be able to handle that and get back in the game. Find something that’s easy to maintain, find things that you enjoy during the workouts, or get out and walk.”

As Alexa says, it’s important to find something you enjoy doing, so the exercise is more comfortable to stick with. After you get started, the workouts will become second nature, and you’ll even look forward to them!

“I really hope that you take the first steps because those first steps, while they are the hardest, they’re the most worth it in the end,” the inspiring mother says.

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A post shared by ALEXA (@muscle_mama_)

Final thoughts: This inspiring mother loses weight and shares her story with others

Oftentimes, weight loss involves a lot more than just a physical transformation. Your mental and emotional outlook improves as well, and your confidence soars. Alexa experienced all of this with her health journey and wanted to share her story with others. She hoped that someone out there might want to start their fitness journey after seeing her triumphs and struggles.

Just remember that it won’t always feel like a walk in the park, but the struggles build your character. When you don’t want to work out, but you still hit the gym, that’s when you find your inner strength. No matter what you look like, workout with confidence and remember that the real transformation lies within.

Your Partner May Be Falling in Love If…

May 8, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

A new relationship can leave you feeling ecstatic, delighting in every moment together. After a while of this, you might begin to feel like you are falling in love. This emotion is scary, especially if you don’t know if your partner feels the same way.

Since everyone shows love differently, it can be hard to know for sure. While you can hope that your partner is open about their feelings, they might not feel comfortable admitting their love. Being uncomfortable doesn’t mean they haven’t fallen in love, but it means that you must look for the signs instead.

Falling in love is exciting but scary, so knowing what to look for can help ease your anxiety on the matter. Some people express their love through actions, and others do it through words. Others struggle to express it at all.

No matter how your partner shows love, you can look for some of these signs to know for sure. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t notice any of the signs yet because love happens on different schedules for everyone. Please note these signs and watch for them the next time you spend time with or talk to your partner.

Your Partner May Be Falling in Love If…

1 – They Show Interest in You and Your Life

If your partner cares about you and shows a true interest in you and your life, they might be falling in love. They will care about all of the things that interest you or that are important to you. Plus, they will even care about the little tidbits of your day that don’t mean much, but you like to talk about anyway.

Someone that loves you will be interested in you on this level. It allows for trust, confidence, and a deep connection between the two of you.

2 – They Want to Be There for You When You Are Sick

When someone isn’t in love, they will not want to care for you when you are sick. If your partner is willing to not only see you at your worst but care for you, too, they might be falling in love. At this point, their feelings for you have become deeper than a casual dating situation.

3 – They Want to Talk to You

Your partner may be falling in love if they want to engage with you and have discussions. They will initiate conversation, so you won’t always be the one reaching out, either. As they fall in love, they will want to know more about you, so wanting to talk often is a good indication.

4 – They are Thoughtful

If your partner randomly brings you gifts or sends flowers, they might be falling in love. Even cooking your favorite meal or bringing you a coffee during a long workday is a good indication. Anything that shows they have been thinking about you is a good sign romantically and emotionally.

Sometimes they might leave you a little note to let you know they are thinking of you. They will also shoot a quick text message between tasks at work to wish you a good day. No matter what it is, if they go out of their way to do something thoughtful, they may be falling in love.

5 – They Include You and Want to Be Involved in Your Life

When someone is falling for you, they will want you to be involved in their life. They will want you to go to family events, office parties, and even out with their friends. Plus, they will want to be included in your life, too.

They will want to go to all the same events for your side of the family and friends group, too. Sharing your lives will begin to become normal, and your two lives will merge. While you will still be an individual, you will notice that you start spending more time together around others.

6 – They Want Your Loved Ones to Like Them

If your partner wants your friends and family to like them, they are probably falling for you. They will make an effort to win your loved ones over, and they will likely be anxious before seeing your parents.

When someone isn’t in love, they won’t worry about winning over the people that mean the most to you. They won’t be nervous or worry about making a good impression. There is a clear difference in this regard when it comes to looking for signs of love.

7 – They Talk About You to People They Know

When someone is experiencing those first signs of love in a relationship, they can’t stop talking about their partner. They will want their friends and loved ones to know that they care about you and talk about your accomplishments.

This type of bragging is different from people that brag about their latest fling without any emotion. Those that brag about a fling only wants to point out the physical qualities. Someone falling in love will talk about you on a deeper level.

8 – They Do Things You Like to Do

Even if they usually wouldn’t do something, they will do it if it means spending time with you. Your partner might do this not only as a way to spend time but also to connect on a deeper level. Participating in the things you enjoy helps keep the connection going, making it worthwhile to your partner.

Doing things that you like to do could involve any activity. It might be exercise, watching dramas, or walking around your favorite store. Just remember that you should do things they like to do, too, even if you usually wouldn’t.

9 – They Make You Feel Safe and Don’t Put You in Uncomfortable Situations

A partner that loves you will never willingly put you in an uncomfortable position. They won’t pressure you to do things that you don’t want to, and they will respect your boundaries. Someone falling in love will also make sure to communicate with you and establish what you are comfortable with.

Your partner will also never put you in a position where you feel out of place or excluded. That type of position is sure to make you uncomfortable, and they will acknowledge that.

If your partner loves you, they will keep you safe, and they will do whatever they can for you. They will put themselves at risk to keep you from getting hurt and would never do anything to put you at risk.

10 – They are All-In

If your partner is falling for you, then they will be committed to you. They won’t want a fling and won’t be pursuing other people at the same time. If you bring commitment up, they won’t shy away from it but will openly talk about it.

You can’t just listen to them say that they are all-in, though. If your partner is falling for you, they will make an effort to be there for you, too. They will be all-in for all aspects of your life, not just when it is convenient for them.

11 – They are Honest with You and Share Anything You Want to Know

Love and respect go together, and they don’t respect you if they aren’t honest with you. A loving partner will be open and honest about both the big and little things. They won’t tell you what you want to hear unless it is true, so you never have to worry about being placated.

You won’t feel manipulated by them because you know they are straightforward. Your partner usually won’t be worried about telling you the truth, and even if they are a little anxious, they’ll do it anyway.

12 – They Make Plans with You in Advance

When your partner makes plans with you weeks or months in advance, they might be falling in love. Making plans is a subtle way they let you know they are in the relationship for the long haul. They want to plan a future with you and will make an effort to do so.

So, if your partner asks them to go to a wedding with you in the future, it is a good sign. Inviting you to a future event means that they plan on sticking around for a while, allowing the two of you to look forward to things together.

13 – They Always Make Time for You

Even when your partner is extremely busy, they will make time to spend together if they are falling for you. They prioritize your presence in their life, meaning you are essential to them. Making time even amid a hectic schedule shows that they are serious about your relationship together.

Final Thoughts: Your Partner May Be Falling in Love If…

While it might be hard to tell if your partner is falling in love, these signs might help. You can tell if they are all-in or if they are viewing your relationship as a casual fling. Sometimes these signs will be an indicator, but other times you will know if someone is falling for you.

Love is such a confusing but exciting feeling, and if you aren’t feeling as strongly as they are yet, it’s okay. You can ride out the relationship and see where it takes you because there is no timeline for falling in love. Otherwise, embrace this time in your relationship and watch for these signs from your partner.

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