15 Wise Quotes to Help You Beat Your Fear of Change

February 12, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

While change is a normal part of life, it can still be scary. When you become comfortable or accustomed to your life being a certain way, you may develop a fear of change. This fear can hold you back or prevent you from reaching your goals if you let it.

It would be best if you worked to beat your fear of change so that you can embrace life. Even if it seems negative at the time, each change brings new opportunities and experiences to you. You also learn and grow when things change, helping you become a better version of yourself.

As you face a change in your life, make sure you work to overcome the fear. Push your negative thoughts aside and remind yourself that it is okay not to know what is coming. Think of it as an exciting journey and stay open to all the newness that follows.

Fifteen Quotes to Help You Beat Your Fear of Change

To help you beat your fear, read these wise quotes written by those that have been through it before. They will give you some helpful insight into how to accept and embrace change. Plus, the wise quotes serve as proof that good things can come from change.

1. “On the precipice of any great change, we can see with terrifying clarity the familiar firm footing we stand to lose, but we fill the abyss of the unfamiliar before us with dread at the potential loss rather than jubilation over the potential gain of gladnesses and gratifications we fail to envision because we haven’t yet experienced them.” – Maria Popova

Change is scary, but only because it is unknown. You never know what to expect when things become unfamiliar. Try to push those negative thoughts away and instead focus on the things you can gain.

When things change, you have new opportunities and experiences. Be open to these things and make it a joyful experience as you realize change doesn’t have to be wrong.

2. “People will try to tell you that all the great opportunities have been snapped up. In reality, the world changes every second, blowing new opportunities in all directions, including yours.” – Ken Hakuta

No matter what, there are more opportunities out there. Don’t let anyone scare you by telling you that there aren’t. Since things are always changing, new opportunities are still opening up.

So, as your life changes, remember that there are plenty of opportunities for you. Stay open to any possibility, and you will soon begin noticing them.

3. “Life is about change. Sometimes it’s painful. Sometimes it’s beautiful. But most of the time, it’s both.” – Lana Lang

Change is inevitable, and sometimes it isn’t enjoyable. It might hurt you sometimes, but it is still beautiful. Embrace the change and look for the positives as you get used to the newness in your life.

4. “When you embrace change, you will begin to see it as an opportunity for growth.” – Jack Canfield

As things change, you will learn and grow. Embrace change and look for the learning opportunities it presents so that you can become better. When you do this, you will no longer let your fear of change hold you back.

5. “If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living.” – Anatole France

As France explains, you must change if you want to grow. Growth is a part of life, and you won’t be living fully unless you embrace it. Push away your fear of change so that you be excited about the growth that will come.

6. “Your life does not get better by chance; it gets better by change.” – Jim Rohn

You can’t expect your life to get any better if you don’t do anything. Making a change is essential for growth and success. To reach your goals and live a fulfilling life, learn to appreciate the difference.

7. “Change is not something that we should fear. Rather, it is something that we should welcome. For without change, nothing in this world would ever grow or blossom and no one in this world would ever move forward to become the person they’re meant to be.” – B.K.S Iyengar

Change isn’t as scary as you may believe. With change comes new changes and opportunities, and it helps you become the person you’re supposed to be. Remember these words to help you overcome your fear the next time you are faced with a change.

8. “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new” – Socrates

Resisting change will not help you overcome the fear, and it will not help you positively move forward. Stop focusing on the things you can’t change instead of focusing on building a happy, fulfilling present and future.

9. “I’ve learned that fear limits you and your vision. It serves as blinders to what may be just a few steps down the road for you. The journey is valuable, but believing in your talents, your abilities, and your self-worth can empower you to walk down an even brighter path. Transforming fear into freedom—how great is that?” – Soledad O’Brien

Your fear of change limits you and doesn’t allow you to see what your life could be like. As you resist change, you could be missing many fulfilling opportunities or experiencing. Instead, believe in yourself and believe that you can tackle change positively.

10. “You’ve done it before, and you can do it now. See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial energy of your frustration and turn it into positive, effective, unstoppable determination.” – Ralph Marston

Think back on other times in your life when things have changed. You made it through those situations, and things worked out fine. Remember that as you face change again.

If you remember that you have made it through everything in the past, you can beat your fear. Try to push the negative thoughts surrounding change from your mind. Instead, focus on the positive parts of it and on the happiness that you will find.

11. “We cannot become what we want by remaining what we are.” – Max De Pree

You likely have goals in life that you haven’t reached yet. If you want to reach them, you must make a change that will make all of your dreams possible. Don’t let your fear prevent you from reaching your full potential and living the life you desire.

12. “The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.” – Alan Watts

Change won’t make sense until you begin experiencing it. The longer you wait, the longer you will be facing the unknown. Figure out what is happening by diving in and seeing the good things that the change has brought.

The only way to overcome your fear of change is to do as Watts says and join in. Begin learning and growing as new things happen, and your fear will be overcome.

13. “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” – George Bernard Shaw

You can’t move forward or get better if things don’t change. To make progress in life or reach your goals, you must be open and accepting of changes. Try not to think of evolution as a bad thing because it is necessary to make progress.

14. “May your choices reflect your hopes. Not your fears.” – Nelson Mandela

Think about the things you hope for and then make your choices based on that. If you make your choices based on your fear of change, then something in your life will never progress. Accept change because it is the only way to become better and live a more fulfilling life.

15. “Stepping onto a brand-new path is difficult, but not more difficult than remaining in a situation, which is not nurturing to the whole woman.” – Maya Angelou

Change is scary because it is unknown. It might be hard to step out of your comfort zone and try something new, but it is sometimes necessary. Don’t stay in a situation that makes you unhappy or negative simply because you fear change.

Final Thoughts on These Fifteen Wise Quotes and Overcoming Your Fear of Change

Going through changes can be challenging and uncomfortable, but you can do it positively. Push away the negative thoughts telling you that difference is bad. Instead, begin thinking about good things that change can bring into your life.

Even when you think that the change you are going through is bad, there is still good. Look for the positivity in all situations and embrace the little things that bring joy. As you do this, you will begin to accept the change, making your life easier and happier.

Come back to these wise quotes to help you beat your fear of change anytime you need to. Print them out and keep them handy just in case you need some encouragement throughout your day. You don’t have to be afraid of change, and remembering that is key to beating your fear.

15 Positive Affirmations to Reinforce Your Emotional Stability

February 11, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Life can be unpredictable, and you will experience many different emotions as you go along. Things are always changing, in good ways and negative ways, and you can never guess where life will lead you. During uncertain times you may waver, but you can remain emotionally stable even during difficult situations.

To be emotionally stable, you must have the inner strength it takes to face obstacles in life. You must remain calm even when something unexpected happens, handle conflict positively, and be productive even when things are hard. It also helps you think positively and look for the good in all situations.

While negativity may tend to take over your mind, you can train your mind to think differently. By using positive affirmations to reinforce your emotional stability, you can rise above anything that happens. You will also experience peace and happiness, even in times of distress.

While you may struggle at times, you can stay emotionally stable if you maintain the right mindset. You might need to reinforce your emotional stability, and one way to do this is by repeating positive affirmations daily.

Why It’s Important to be Emotionally Stable

Being emotionally stable doesn’t mean that you suppress your emotions or hide them from others. Instead, it means that you acknowledge your feelings and learn from them as you keep moving forward. While you go through hard times, you will handle them better and continue to be happy even as life changes.

With emotional stability, you can learn to understand what your emotions are trying to tell you. Understanding them can help you make better decisions, recognize the source of your feelings, and find a positive way to move forward. All of this leads to happiness, peace, and an overall sense of well-being.

Being stable can benefit your relationships, career, and overall well-being. You’ll be happier, focused on positive things, and more resilient to change. Your life will improve, you will be more successful, and your relationships will be stronger.

On the other hand, suppressing your emotions can lead to emotional instability. If you don’t experience your emotions as you move forward, they will disrupt your life when you least expect it. Emotional instability also negatively impacts all areas of your life, even if you don’t realize it right away.

Positive Affirmations to Stay or Become Emotionally Stable

Try reciting these positive affirmations daily to bring positive thinking into your life.

1. My feelings develop based on my thoughts and beliefs.

The way you feel and your emotional stability is based on the way that you think. If your thoughts and beliefs are negative, you will struggle to maintain emotional stability. On the other hand, if your thoughts are positive, you will have an easier time.

2. I will acknowledge, accept, and express all of my emotions.

Emotions aren’t a bad thing, despite what many people think. You have to be in tune with your emotions and accept them if you want to be emotionally stable.

Even your negative emotions should be expressed. Studies show that ignoring your emotions can cause depression, anxiety, and other forms of emotional instability. This same study shows that expressing your emotions can lead to emotional stability and overall well-being.

3. I am aware of my emotions.

Being aware of your emotions is essential for emotional stability. By telling yourself that you are aware of your emotions, you will become more aware. You can tune into your emotions simply by speaking this positive affirmation out loud every day.

4. I know that life doesn’t always go the way I want it to, but I trust that it will work out.

If you expect things to always go the way you want, you will be disappointed. You have to change your expectations and know that things won’t always go your way. Only with this information will you be able to reinforce your emotional stability.

By speaking this positive affirmation each day, you will be ready if the unexpected happens. Trust that things will work out, though, even if it is different than you imagined.

5. I am the only person in charge of my emotions.

No one else can control your emotions. Remind yourself of this daily, because you are in charge of the way that you feel. With this reminder, it will be easy to reinforce your emotional stability.

6. I will accomplish small tasks today to help me move forward.

Even if you are emotionally stable, you will have bad days. There will be times that you don’t want to do anything. If you want to maintain your stability, you have to keep moving, though, even during hard times.

The tasks you accomplish don’t have to be big. They can be simple things like getting out of bed, taking a shower, or getting dressed. Once those things are done, you can move on to other tasks such as checking your email or making a cup of coffee.

Doing these small tasks will help you move forward and maintain emotional stability. It will be a signal to your brain that you aren’t giving up.

7. I will recover from any setbacks or obstacles.

You can’t control or predict everything that happens in life. All that you can do is learn from setbacks and obstacles and keep moving forward. With this positive phrase, you will remember that you can overcome any challenge, helping you remain stable.

8. I will look for opportunities at every moment.

No matter what happens, there are opportunities out there for you. Even when things are upsetting or different than you expected, there is something good in the situation. This affirmation will help you see the opportunities that you would have missed otherwise.

9. I can handle stressful situations positively.

Life can’t always be perfect, and encountering stressful situations is normal. Tell yourself that you can handle the stress positively, and you will notice the difference. Handling stressful situations positively is the key to maintaining emotional stability.

10. I am focusing on positive thoughts.

It can be hard to change your thought process, especially when you’re upset, but it is possible. The best way to do that is by speaking affirmations like this one out loud to yourself each morning. Training your brain to think positively can be as simple as telling yourself that you are focusing on positivity.

11. I am emotionally stable.

Your brain believes the words that you say out loud. By telling yourself that you are emotionally stable, you will reinforce your emotional stability. This will help maintain your well-being as you go through your day, no matter what negativity tries to take over.

12. It is okay for me to say “no”.

One thing that can interfere with your emotional stability is being too overwhelmed. When you say “yes” to everything that is asked of you, your well-being will take a hit. It is okay to say “no”, and you should never feel bad for doing so.

If you don’t have time to take on more tasks, be honest about it. Likewise, if you simply don’t want to do something, you don’t have to commit to it. If saying “no” is hard for you, rest assured that the more you say it, the easier it will become.

13. I am open to change and can find the good in new situations.

Change happens no matter how much you try to resist it, so tell yourself that you are open to it. By doing this, the change will be easier to deal with. Plus, it reinforces your emotional stability and makes you even stronger.

Even if you aren’t excited about the change, you must look for the good parts, no matter how small. If you can do this, you will learn to love the change, even as you miss the way things used to be.

14. I will make myself a priority.

You are important, and you must take care of yourself if you want to be emotionally stable. Eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water, and get adequate sleep so that you can be in your best state of mind.

15. I love myself and the person I have become.

If you can love yourself, you can be emotionally stable. Beating yourself up for who you have become will only decrease your emotional stability, so you must learn to love yourself. Not only should you learn to love yourself, but you must show yourself the love you deserve.

Final Thoughts on Positive Affirmations to Reinforce Your Emotional Stability

Life is unpredictable and full of unexpected situations, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be happy. You are in control of your emotions and reinforcing your emotional stability helps more than you know. Use these positive affirmations to be more emotionally stable and you’ll notice a significant difference in your life.

The more often you speak these positive affirmations out loud to yourself, the more helpful they will be. Repeat them each morning and then again whenever you need to reinforce your emotional stability.

Not only will the affirmations help you at the moment, but they will help long-term, too. You will begin to be more positive and emotionally stable with less effort. Use these positive affirmations to reinforce your emotional stability and change your life for the better.

11 Delicious Coffee Recipes You Can Enjoy Year Round

February 11, 2021 by Chris Riley

Looking for comforting coffee recipes? Look no further. We have ten that will soothe your soul during any season of the year.

Coffee is a morning addiction for many! Not only that, there is an equally large population who love to catch up with their pals over a cup of joe. This aromatic beverage is the perfect companion to comfort our mind, body, and soul.

According to numerous scientific studies, coffee provides proven health benefits, and each cup of coffee offers warm, comforting, and intense flavors that tend to linger on for a long time.

So, be it the chilly winter season, drizzling monsoon time, or bright summer days, coffee can be enjoyed hot or cold to match our taste buds and occasions!

Eleven Scrumptious Coffee Recipes to Try

Here are eleven of the choicest coffee-based preparations that you can enjoy with gooey desserts, crunchy sandwiches, creamy puffs, and other decadent preparations.

Recipe #1 – Espresso mug cake.

This recipe is perfect for the untimely dessert cravings, which pretty much occurs throughout the year! This is quite a simple recipe requiring some of the necessary ingredients that make it so much more convenient to make during lazy nights when you crave something sweet and gooey. By preparing this, you can bake your cake and have it too… that too in practically no time.

To prepare this, you need to whisk together 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of baking powder, 1 small egg, ¼ cup coffee brew, 3 tablespoons powdered white sugar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined. Transfer this into a large and lightly greased coffee mug. Microwave the batter for about a minute or two or until the cake is cooked through. Dust with icing sugar or add a generous dollop of ice cream to enter the food heaven.

Recipe #2 – Peppermint mocha.

This dish is a quick and warming coffee-based beverage that you can savor while cozying up in your blanket with that book you are glued to. It has a perfect balance of coffee, chocolate, and mint flavors, something for which you generally have to pay a hefty amount at fancy coffee shops.

To prepare this, you first need to prepare a minty syrup, which you can store in a dry airtight container for later use. Use this syrup to add an amazing minty aroma to several other dishes as well. You can prepare it by simmering a cup of sugar and water each until the mixture starts to thicken slightly. Add a bunch of fresh mint leaves or 1½ tablespoons of fresh mint extract to it. Simmer the mixture until it becomes thick and syrupy. Sieve the syrup, and it is ready to use.

Coming back to the mocha recipe, mix two tablespoons of chocolate syrup with two tablespoons of mint syrup, and 120ml of fresh hot coffee brew. Use a milk frother to make the hot milk frothy or heat the milk if you don’t have a milk frother handy. However, foamy milk adds to the charm of enjoying this peppermint flavored mocha!

Recipe #3 – Cinnamon and caramel latte.

This one is a quick and simple recipe to get your coffee fix and de-stress while sipping onto this warm beverage. Savor it any time of the day to make any dull moment a bright one. Frothy milk works perfectly in this recipe, but don’t be disheartened if you don’t have the gadget to make the milk frothy… regular milk will work fine too.

The recipe for this dish goes like this: Boil ¾ cup of water with 1 large cinnamon stick and ½ cup brown sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. Cool this syrup, remove the stick, and store it in a clean and dry jar. Now, add 1½ tablespoons of cinnamon dolce syrup in a cup, ½ cup of fresh coffee brew, and mix it well. Pour ½ cup of frothy milk into the mug and enjoy!

This pairs wonderfully with a slice of coffee cake!

Recipe #4 – Spiced latte.

This has much more flavor and aroma than any other coffee-based beverage. It is milder than a regular coffee but has an excellent dominance of spices and a hint of tea. To prepare this, add a pinch of cinnamon powder, ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder, and ½ teaspoon of sweetened cocoa to ¼ cup of fresh coffee brew.

You may choose to add star anise to the container in which coffee gets brewed. Now pour ¼ cup of Kahlua into the spiced coffee brew and stir in sugar to taste. Top it with some sweetened whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa, and enjoy!

Recipe #5 – Hazelnut macchiato.

This one tastes quite similar to the one sold at your favorite coffee chain. That’s because it contains fresh espresso brew, steamed milk, some vanilla essence, and hazelnut syrup. You need to boil ½ a cup of low-fat milk with a tablespoon of sugar-free vanilla syrup or ½ teaspoon of vanilla essence or sugar to taste.

Cool this mixture and transfer it to a blender, and process until it becomes frothy. Chill it and transfer it to the serving mug. Pour hot hazelnut coffee brew into it and drizzle some chocolate syrup over the frothy milk. Top the beverage with sweetened whipped cream and another generous drizzle of chocolate syrup. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe #6 – Black forest coffee.

This one is a drinkable version of the famous German dessert. You need simple household supplies such as fresh coffee brew, cherry juice or cherry syrup, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream to prepare it. Easy, isn’t it?

Whisk one cup of hot coffee brew with two tablespoons of chocolate syrup and a tablespoon of cherry juice/ syrup/ jam. Mix well until the mixture is well combined. Pour it into the serving cup and top with a generous amount of sweetened whipped cream, maraschino cherries, and chocolate syrup. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe #7 – Eggnog latte.

This beverage speaks volumes about festive drinking. Be it thanksgiving or beloved Christmas. You can have this beverage to make any festive meal exciting. Here is a cold Frappuccino-ish version of two exotic holiday drinks, i.e., eggnog and cold latte.

To prepare this, you whisk ½ cup of eggnog with ¼ cup of milk and a tablespoon of sugar. Transfer this into a blender and blend it with ½ cup of freshly brewed coffee and a few ice cubes. Once the mixture is well blended, serve it into a tall glass topped with sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Recipe #8 – Gingerbread latte.

Re-create your usual latte into a festive dish. This combination of gingerbread and latte is so flavorful and aromatic that you won’t regret twisting this regular dish into a drinkable version. You can prepare it by first boiling 1/3 cup of sugar and water with a tablespoon of grated ginger, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Simmer this mixture for 15-20 minutes and then strain it.

In the serving mug, add ½ a cup of fresh espresso, ¼ cup of this gingerbread syrup, and top it with a cup of dairy (or dairy-free) milk. Top it with sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe #9 – Coffee non-alcoholic martini brew.

This one is for the coffee lovers who enjoy their fresh brew with a dash of alcohol. You can also serve this cocktail with a modern twist to your guests for parties or as an after-party boozy drink. To prepare it, you need 60ml of fresh cold coffee brew.

So, add this brew, 15ml of simple syrup, 30ml non-alcoholic martini, 15ml coffee liqueur, and shake it well with plenty of ice. Strain this mixture into a chilled martini glass or any other cocktail glass of your preference. Serve immediately and say cheers to happy times ahead!

Recipe #10 – White chocolate mocha.

This one is the ideal twist that you want to savor this winter season. So, if you are bored of having that regular coffee as it is or in its many versions shared above, try this white chocolate-based coffee drink that is pretty simple to prepare.

You need to heat a cup of any milk (dairy or dairy-free) until the bubbles start to appear. Remove the pan from heat and whisk in half a cup of white chocolate chips until the chocolate is completely melted and well combined with the milk. Now, add this syrup to 200ml of freshly brewed coffee and then top it with whipped cream.

Recipe #11 – Cold white chocolate mocha.

Finally, you can create a cold latte version of recipe number 10. You add the white chocolate sauce to the cold coffee brew and then blend the two ingredients well until you get a nice froth. Top this beverage with sugar and vanilla mixed whipped cream. Serve it and enjoy!

Final Thoughts: Enjoy These Coffee Recipes Any Time You Need a Pick-me-up

Enjoy these beverages any time you need a quick boost of energy. And feel free to modify them to suit your taste preferences. Once you get the hang of working with these basic coffee recipes, you will feel inspired to come up with your own flavorful twists.

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15 Daily Affirmations to Help You Unlock Opportunities

February 11, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Sometimes life seems to slow down, and you may feel stuck in one place. It will appear as though there is nothing new for you to go after and that you are destined to remain idle. This isn’t the case, though, and these daily affirmations will help you unlock opportunities you’ve never expected.

As you go about your day, use these daily affirmations to give yourself the courage to keep moving. Remind yourself to stay alert and always watch for new opportunities to appear. The world is full of opportunity. You have to be willing, watching, and ready to jump on it.

Even as you wait for an opportunity to present itself, you must keep moving forward. Better yourself as you wait, and keep learning and growing as a person. The more you do this, the more opportunities will come, and the sooner they will appear.

Fifteen Daily Affirmations to Help You Unlock Opportunities

When you feel discouraged, come back to these daily affirmations. They will help remind you that there is more out there and that you can go after new opportunities. Come back to these affirmations to help you unlock opportunities you’ve never expected whenever you need some encouragement and positivity.

1. I am smart and can do anything.

If you acknowledge your wisdom and remind yourself that you are smart, you will be more open to opportunities. When you know how smart you are, you will see that you can do anything. This will leave you ready for any opportunity that arises, and you won’t feel like you can’t do it.

2. I am a leader, and I follow my path.

Leaders are the ones who will unlock opportunities. They set their path and keep moving forward, despite what anyone else says or does. When you are a leader and follow your path, opportunities that you never expected will appear.

When you follow your path, there won’t be as many people going that route. You won’t have to compete for opportunities as often, and there won’t be as many people taking the opportunities before you find them. When you’re on your path, the opportunities will be all yours, meaning you’ll unlock ones that you never expected.

3. Other people enjoy working with me.

If you believe that other people like working with you, then they will. By speaking those words, you will begin behaving in a way that makes you likable. When you know that people like working with you, you won’t be afraid to take new opportunities.

You will always be confident enough to give each opportunity a shot. Plus, you will begin to notice more options, too. This is when the ones you didn’t expect seem to appear.

4. I am open to new opportunities, and I am ready when they come.

You have to be open to new opportunities if you want to unlock them. If you aren’t available and ready, then you won’t unlock the opportunities or see them if they come. Keep an open mind and always stay prepared while watching for opportunities.

5. I am always growing and learning.

If you are always learning and growing as a person, you will unlock opportunities. Repeat this positive affirmation each day, and you will find that it comes true. You will genuinely begin growing and learning, and then the new opportunities will unlock.

6. My life is full of new opportunities.

When you say out loud that your life is full of opportunities, you will suddenly notice that it is true. This affirmation will help attract new opportunities to you, and you will be watching for them. Then, suddenly, you will realize that there are opportunities everywhere you look.

By telling yourself that your life is full of opportunity, you will begin to manifest that statement. Not only will you start seeing options that are already there, but you will attract even more possibilities. If you can stay positive and assure yourself that new things are out there, you will find what you are hoping for.

7. I won’t make decisions based on the expectations of others.

Make decisions based only on what you want in life. Don’t let the expectations of others sway you, or you will end up on a path that doesn’t make you happy. If you want authentic opportunities to unlock for you, then you have to be on the path that was destined for you.

This is your life, so keep that in mind if others try to press their expectations on you. Please don’t feel bad for not going along with what they want. You must do what you want and need to do if you want opportunities to unlock.

8. I am attracting opportunities all the time.

Feeling like you attract opportunities will help you do just that. You will be open and watching for opportunities, plus you will seem to draw them to you without even trying. Repeat this affirmation, and you will notice more opportunities unlocking.

9. I am always watching for new opportunities.

Watching for opportunities is the only way you will know when they present themselves. You have to keep watching with both your eyes and your mind because you never know where it will come from. Don’t let an opportunity pass you by because you weren’t watching for it.

By saying this affirmation out loud, you will send a signal to your brain. Your brain will believe the statement, and then you will begin always watching for opportunities. If you ever feel like you aren’t watching, repeat this affirmation a few times.

10. My potential has no limits.

This is true, and if you speak it aloud to yourself, you will begin to believe it. There is no limit to how much you can learn and achieve. You are capable of achieving anything that you set your mind to, as long as you remind yourself that you can.

Any opportunity that presents itself can work out for you. Don’t shy away from new things just because your skillset isn’t where you want it to be. Continue to remind yourself that there is no limit to what you can do.

11. I can handle any new challenge or opportunity.

New things can be scary, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give it your best effort. You can handle anything, and you will grow and prosper as long as you believe you can handle it. Repeat this positive affirmation aloud anytime you begin to doubt yourself, and that feeling will turn around.

12. I am patiently waiting for a new opportunity.

You can’t expect a new opportunity to unlock the minute you want it to. Waiting can be challenging, but remind yourself that you are patient while waiting. If you can do this, you will unlock opportunities sooner than you would have if you hadn’t been patient.

13. The right opportunity will present itself.

Rest assured that the right opportunity will present itself when the time is right. Don’t get discouraged, and don’t begin thinking that you will never have a new opportunity. Things you never expected will unlock as long as you trust that the right opportunity will come along.

Keep your mind open and always watch for an opportunity. You can find opportunities anywhere, as long as you look. The more positive you are, the sooner you will notice them.

14. I must keep moving forward as I watch for opportunities.

Don’t sit idly while you wait for a new opportunity. You must keep moving forward, learning new things, and growing as a person while you wait. If you choose to stay in one place while you wait, you won’t unlock opportunities.

If you want to improve your life and unlock the unexpected, you must keep going and doing your best. Only those who can stay productive while they watch for an opportunity will find the right ones.

15. The world is full of opportunities, and my options will never run out.

The potential for unlocking opportunities you never expected is endless. As this affirmation confirms, the world is full of opportunity. You never have to feel like you have run out of options because there is always something more.

Final Thoughts on Daily Affirmations to Help You Unlock Opportunities You’ve Never Expected

Sometimes you may feel like you are at a stand-still in life. You’re stuck in one place, and nothing new is presenting itself. When this is the case, these daily affirmations can help you unlock opportunities you’ve never expected.

Repeat the positive affirmations mentioned above as often as you need to. They will help you keep an open mind and encourage you to always watch for a new opportunity. You can do anything, so don’t let negativity hold you back from going after something you want to do.

If you can use these affirmations, you will be well on your way to unlocking opportunities. You never know what will present itself to you, so you should be ready for anything. Repeat these daily affirmations as you go about your day to help you unlock opportunities you’ve never expected.

5 Smart Ways Innovators Are Recycling Face Masks

February 10, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Today, with so many people wearing face masks, there is an increasing litter problem on sidewalks, beaches, and parking lots worldwide. Several innovative companies have found creative ways to turn recycled face masks into useful materials. Here are 5 ways these companies are recycling face masks.

How long have face masks been around?

Although face masks are now mandatory in most public places worldwide, many countries have been wearing face masks for decades.

Historians first believed that during the Middle Ages bubonic plague, medical professionals wore beak-like masks filled with herbs to protect themselves while treating patients. Later, they could find no real proof that doctors wore this type of mask. However, a German museum displays two such artifacts that they admit may or may not be forgeries.

Still, according to the National Institute of Health, the use of nose or mouth coverings such as veils, masks, mouth bandages, although infrequently worn earlier, began being more widely used at the beginning of the 20th century.

Surgical masks were first used in operating rooms in the United States in the 1920s. Over time, face masks evolved, being made from various materials, thicknesses, and shapes. Despite the findings that they helped eliminate germs’ spreading, many older surgeons refused to wear them, saying they were annoying.

In the 1940s, the development of washable and sterilizable face masks revolutionized their useability. Disposable masks made of fleece and paper came from the United States in the mid-1960s. World-wide use of reusable and disposable masks is acceptable in most countries today, especially since the pandemic.

What about face mask littering?

Disposable face masks today are many of plastic with only a one time use. This means thousands of face masks are thrown out every day. Face masks are the new litter problems burdening the landfills around the world. Fortunately, some innovative companies are taking notice and finding ways to recycle face mask waste.

Smart ways companies are recycling face masks

These innovators might be on to something big!.

1 – Pressed plastic for protective visors

Plaxtil, a French entrepreneurial company, is recycling face masks, turning them into pressed plastic. At first, they were turning textiles into plastic goods. But since last June, they collected thousands of face masks for recycling.

First, they remove the metal noseband and disinfect the masks with ultraviolet light. Later, they press the sanitized material into the plastic. Finally, they mold it into various types of protective items such as visors or attachments to hold masks in place.

Co-founder of the Plaxtil, Olivier Civil, explained the motivation behind their work, as follows:

“We said to ourselves, these masks mustn’t end up either in the wild or burned. We can recycle them, we can make something out of this material.”

Plaxtil is just one of many companies seeing the problem and taking innovative measures to recycle face masks.

2 – Road paving materials

A group of researchers in Melbourne, Australia, found a solution for discarded face masks. They discovered that they could use old face masks in road paving materials. One kilometer or approximately a half a mile of road uses up to one million discarded face masks. The materials in the face masks, polypropylene plastic, make the roads more flexible and durable.

Research scientists Jie Li and some other scientists at the Royal Institute of Technology published their findings in the journal of Science of the Total Environment.

Road paving is a major operation, so finding materials that reinforce the roads and provide extra resistance for the asphalt wear and tear is huge. Besides these advantages, using discarded face masks for road paving is cheaper, almost half the average cost. Right now, the recycled masks can be used on two of the four layers that need to be put down on roads. They calculate that if they’re using three million masks to pave half a mile of road, they could recycle up to 93 tons of waste that would normally go into landfills.

Holy highways, Batman!

Meet an inspiring eleven-year-old entrepreneur who runs his own recycling company.

3 – Railroad ties, decks, and lumber

After the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas was forced to close down due to the pandemic temporarily, they reopened with new safety measures in place to protect their staff and guests. Along with this, they felt a new vision to recycle the discarded face masks used by their guests.

According to the resort, their innovative idea to recycle guests’ face masks is the first recycling program its kind in the hospitality industry. Working in partnership with a waste management company called TerraCycle, the Venetian Resort collects discarded face masks and delivers them to a recycling facility.

This facility cleans and shreds them, making them into raw materials used to make railroad ties, composite lumber for shipping pallets, and composite decking materials. Before this project, Venetian Resort recycled their trash, but much of it still went into landfills.

Venetian Resort stated the following:

“Through this program, between 55% to 60% of waste is diverted from local landfills, a number that far surpasses the national average of 32% or the state average of 23%.”

This project is part of TerraCycle’s global sustainability plan called the Sands ECO360, which pulls together responsible businesses with the hopes of encouraging others to find ways to recycle to help the environment.

4 – Three-legged stools

Surprisingly, this story’s not about a company but a concerned citizen. Kim Ha-neul is an individual bothered by all the face masks he saw littering the streets and sidewalks.

This college senior knew that face masks were made of polypropylene, which is a type of plastic. He reasoned that since plastic is recycled all the time, why couldn’t face masks be recycled. With this in mind, he set up mask collection boxes around his university in Uiwang City, just south of Seoul. He collected over 10,000 masks and more than a tonne, approximately 2,204.6 pounds in U. S., of defective covers donated by a nearby factory.

He put these masks in storage for four days to ensure they won’t transmit the virus and then work recycling them. After he removes the elastic and wires, Ha-neul heats the mask to 570°F, melting and molding them into an 18 inch, red, blue, or white three-legged stool. That depends upon the color of the face coverings he’s recycling. Ha-neul hopes to make other furniture pieces in the future, such as chairs, tables, and even lights.

He’s setting up face mask recycle boxes around his city and others to collect more discarded face-coverings In fact, he hopes that his government takes notice and uses his idea. Ha-neul’s three-legged stools aren’t for sale yet, but he’s been an inspiration to many of his fellow students.

Art student Park Sung-chan, aged twenty, summed it up by saying this,

“It has such a strong message. This will remind us what we’ve been through in 2020 with the coronavirus and is also environmentally friendly.

Kim Ha-neul is an inspiration to everyone. His one small idea eliminated thousands of pounds of face masks waste. How smart was he for turning them into useful products? And as Ha-neul’s friend says, the stools are a memento for everyone of what we’ve been through in 2020.

5 – Recyclable plastic

Watching discarded face masks and other trash collecting on beaches and cities across the country, one man decided to do something about it. Jack (Tato) Bigio co-founded UBQ Materials in Israel.

Every week, the UBQ factory located at Kibbutz Ze’elim in southern Israel collects 30 tons of garbage from diapers, plastic bags, and face masks. Once collected, they transform them into heavy-duty and durable sustainable materials.

The factory runs partially on solar power. In fact, it’s the first factory in the world to recycle every type of waste to make reusable material. UBQ just announced a recent partnership with Mainetti, a retail supplier of plastic clothing hangers. They also supply McDonald’s with the materials they need for their trays and other products.

Bigio sums up the vision of UBQ Materials by saying,

“For us, waste is a locally available natural resource; for others, it’s a problem.”

Final thoughts on how innovators are recycling face masks

The global pandemic continues to spread throughout the world. And so does the growing need to find creative ways to recycle disposable face mask litter. These innovators see the problem. But instead of sitting on the sidelines, they came up with creative ways to turn waste into a new resource. Their actions inspire and hopefully remind everyone that it only takes one small idea to create a solution for a big problem.

20 Positive Affirmations to Help You Free Your Mind of Biased Thinking

February 10, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

To be biased means being prejudiced about something, someone, or a group of people. Everyone is a little biased, even if they don’t want to be. The good news is that although the biases don’t just disappear, you can free your mind of biased thinking.

If you ever find yourself in favor of or against someone or something, it is a bias. Sometimes these biases are formed based on past experiences. Other times, preferences are developed based on personal history.

No matter how biases form, they can weigh on you. They may overcome your thoughts when you don’t want them to, and it could interfere with your behavior. Biases could stop you from experiencing new things and meeting new people.

The key to freeing your mind of unbiased thinking is to change your mindset and treat everyone with kindness. Spend time trying to learn about things you don’t understand, and surround yourself with diversity. Plus, many positive affirmations can help you to free your mind of biased thinking.

Positive Affirmations to Help You Free Your Mind

1. I can think with an open mind.

Thinking with an open mind is essential to changing your thought process. To free your mind, you have to open it and experience new things.

2. I will not make assumptions.

Making assumptions is being biased, so tell yourself you won’t do that. If you tell yourself not to make assumptions, you’ll be less likely to think that way later. Repeat it to yourself as often as is necessary because making assumptions could cause problems.

3. I have mental clarity.

Being able to think clearly can help free your mind. You can be kinder and relate to others more, and you will be able to listen and learn. Plus, when your mind is clear, you will be more open to new things and ideas.

4. I am empathetic.

Being empathetic means being able and willing to see things from someone else’s perspective. It is a way of feeling what the other person feels and understanding them better.

Try to figure out what others are thinking and learn their motives and behaviors. Then, imagine how you would feel if you were in their shoes. Doing this can help you become more unbiased.

5. There are no limits to my mindset.

The more you learn, the less biased you will be. Your mind has no limit, and you can continue learning and growing all the time. Take in information whenever you can, and make it a habit to say this affirmation daily.

6. I enjoy spending time with people who are different than me.

If you aren’t used to people who are different than you, it might be uncomfortable at first. With this affirmation, you will be more positive and open-minded going into it. This affirmation will help you enjoy the time you spend and make you want to do it again.

This means that you have to get along with people who aren’t like you. They may think and act differently, or they may have different views than you have.

7. I am controlling my thoughts.

You are the only person in charge of your thoughts. If you feel these thoughts creeping in, change your mindset and start thinking positively. Before you know it, you will be associating that bias with something positive.

8. I will learn about things I do not understand.

To overcome bias, you have to learn about things you don’t understand. Become aware of the world around you and learn about the things you have a bias toward.

9. No two people are the same, and that is okay.

If everyone were the same, the world wouldn’t be a fascinating place. Stop putting people into categories or comparing them to other people. Everyone is unique, and this affirmation will remind you that being different is a good thing.

10. I will treat everyone equally.

Even if your thoughts aren’t perfect or you aren’t where you want to be with your biases yet, the way you treat people is most important. Treat everyone the same, and you won’t have to worry about biased thinking taking over. Give everyone the benefit of the doubt, and speak to everyone the same way.

11. I can think with an unbiased mind.

By telling yourself you won’t have biased thinking, you can free your mind of these thoughts. Hearing yourself speak the words out loud will help your brain process them. This will help you as you go throughout your day, allowing you to stress a little less.

12. I will find answers for myself rather than relying on others for information.

When you get answers from other people, you may not be getting the complete information. Go to the source and find solutions to form an opinion on your own with an open mind. Then, you can rest assured that your thinking isn’t biased.

13. I will ask any questions that come to mind so that I can understand.

Asking questions is the best way to learn. Make sure to ask someone who knows the answers and not someone that only vaguely gets it. Listen when the answers are given, and take in what you are told.

Remember always to ask the questions respectfully. Most people don’t mind explaining or sharing details when someone is curious, but you must be kind as it you ask.

14. I listen to what others have to say before I make up my mind.

If you made decisions based only on your negative thoughts, the findings wouldn’t be for the greater good. Instead, listen to what others have to say and hear them out as they explain. Take their thoughts into consideration along with your own before you make up your mind.

15. I treat everyone with respect, even if I disagree with them.

Treating people with respect is essential to freeing your mind of biased thinking. If you treat everyone like they are necessary (which they are), you can think with an open mind.

Disagreeing with someone doesn’t give you a valid reason to disrespect them. Disagreements are a part of life, and you can still interact positively with someone you disagree with. Show respect in all situations, and you will be able to clear your thoughts of bias.

16. I do not let biases affect my thinking or change my behavior.

As explained before, everyone has biases, and the tendencies don’t merely disappear. You can’t let those biases change your behavior or the way you treat people. Think positively, treat others well, and always behave in a positive way.

17. I am friendly to everyone.

Even when you don’t agree with someone, you should be friendly to them. Being kind to everyone opens you up to more knowledge and will further free your mind. Don’t hold back on being familiar with someone just because they are different than you or because you don’t understand them.

18. I think positive thoughts in the presence of others.

When you are around other people, you should focus on keeping your thoughts positive. Keeping your thoughts positive is especially important when you are around people, things, or groups you may have biased thinking about. If you can keep your thoughts positive, you will free your mind of those negative thoughts.

19. I embrace the things that make people different.

The things that make people different aren’t bad, and no one should be made to feel like they are. There are beauty and happiness in all people, and you have to look for it to find it. Always remember that the things that make people different are what make life so exciting.

20. I am kind and compassionate.

If you are kind and compassionate to everyone you interact with, you will be freeing your mind of biased thinking. By being kind, you are making it clear to yourself that everyone deserves kindness. Practice compassion by trying to see the world from their view.

Final Thoughts on Positive Affirmations to Help You Free Your Mind of Biased Thinking

As much as you would like to be unbiased, it just isn’t possible. All humans tend to be biased in some regard, but the way you react to your biases is what matters. If you are kind, compassionate, respectful, and friendly to everyone, you can free your mind of biased thinking.

Before you begin each day, say some of these positive affirmations aloud to yourself. They will help you overcome biased thinking and clear your thoughts. Having an open mind will help you accept others and learn more about things you don’t understand.

Don’t let your biased thinking stand in the way of new experiences and meeting new people. Embrace life and all it has to offer and learn to be positive even when you aren’t entirely comfortable. Remember these positive affirmations and repeat them anytime you need to free your mind of biased thinking.

15 Habits That Make You Oversleep in the Morning

February 10, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Oversleeping interrupts your daily scheduling, making it difficult to get to work or school on time. It makes you feel sluggish and groggy. You may wonder if there are things you’re doing that are causing you to oversleep.

Are you getting too much sleep, or just oversleeping?

Getting excessive hours of sleep is called hypersomnia, which means long sleep. It’s not a common condition. Indeed, it affects only 2% of the population. If you believe that you require inordinate amounts of sleep, you should visit your doctor. They can help you get the slumber you deserve and need.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this chart explains how much sleep you need:

On the other hand, it’s natural for everyone to hit the snooze button too many times once in a while. When it becomes a habit, you must examine your nighttime routines.

What nightly habits might cause you to oversleep?

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to be your best at work, school, and home. Here are the habits that could be causing you to oversleep.

1 – Going to bed too late

It’s tempting to want to go to bed late, especially on the weekends, since you don’t have work the next day. If you’re prone to oversleeping during the week, your late weekend nights could be the cause. Everyone is different, and some people can mix up their sleep schedule routine with no effects. But if you’re having a hard time getting up on weekdays due to oversleeping, it could be due to your late nights on the weekends.

2 – Drinking alcohol late at night

If you’ve been drinking alcohol, you may fall asleep quickly but then wake up in the middle of the night. This is because once your body detects alcohol in your system, it affects your REM sleep. REM is a sleep cycle you go through several times every night. It causes your brain to increase its activity and helps you learn. If you’re not getting enough REM sleep, it can interfere with your brain function. Long story short, after lying awake until your body finally metabolizes the alcohol, you fall asleep but then oversleep in the morning.

3 – Stress

The extra stress at work or school or hectic days at home can be exhausting physically and mentally. When you’re stressed or worried, it affects your sleep patterns keeping you awake at night. You may feel emotionally exhausted but fall asleep, or you wake up in the middle of the night worrying. When you do finally fall asleep, you oversleep. It’s a vicious cycle. Try to find ways to reduce your stress levels.

4 – Poor sleep hygiene

Sleep hygiene is a relatively unfamiliar term to many people. It basically means that you have wise practices at night that help you fall asleep. The CDC recommends that you.

Turn off your blue screen technology an hour before bed.
Keep our bedroom just for sleeping or intimacy.
Don’t eat your meals or snack close to bedtime.
Avoiding caffeine several hours before bedtime

Sleep hygiene makes a big difference to the quality of your sleep. What are signs you have poor sleep hygiene besides oversleeping?

Frequent yawning
Feeling irritable
Sleepy during the day
Fall asleep when you sit down

5 – Eating meals (or snacks) too late

Late evening meals or snacking late at night interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep all night. One study found that late-night eating can result in hyperglycemia or high blood sugar, which is a symptom of diabetes. When you eat near your bedtime, it slows down your body’s metabolism, making it difficult to digest. Having food in your stomach late at night makes falling asleep difficult.

Plus, if you’re eating foods like chocolate or caffeine products, it may cause you to wake up in the middle of the night. Another side effect of late-night eating is acid reflux or stomach ache. All these things can cause you to fall asleep in the early morning hours. This means your deeper sleep is in the morning when it’s time to get up. If you don’t oversleep, you’ll feel groggy and foggy-brained.

6 – Medication

Another contributing thing that causes you to oversleep is medication. Certain medications can disrupt your sleep. These include

Antihistamines
Muscles relaxants
Antidepressants
Corticosteroids
ACE inhibitors
Beta-blockers

Be sure to talk with your doctor if you’re taking any of these medications and not sleeping. It can be very frustrating being on medications that help your body, but they mess up your sleep. When you’re so tired, you oversleep in the morning, making it difficult to function at work, school, and at home.

7 – Not having a regular sleep schedule

This sounds like a simple thing, but maintaining a regular sleep schedule is important for you to get up in the morning. Your body thrives on routine. When you keep a traditional wake-up time and bedtime, you’ll feel better and won’t oversleep the next morning.

8 – Sleep apnea

When you wake up dozens of times at night, you’ll probably oversleep in the morning. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes your breathing to stop and start all night. Snoring loudly and feeling tired the next day could mean you have sleep apnea. Causes of sleep apnea include

Being overweight
Having a narrow airway
Being a man
Smoking
Being older
Drinking alcohol or tranquilizers
Certain medications
Congestion

If you think you have sleep apnea, be sure to speak with your doctor. There are new ways to help control sleep apnea, so it doesn’t disrupt your life.

9 – Overeating carbohydrates

Eating too many carbs can elevate your blood sugar, giving you energy for a short time, making you feel exhausted and tired afterward. These bursts of energy and tiredness interfere with your sleep. You may fall asleep only to wake up in the middle of the night, causing you to oversleep.

10 – Not setting an alarm

Set your alarm so that you can wake up with the light of sunrise. Sunlight stimulates your body to wake up, while darkness signals your body to wind down for bedtime. Get an alarm clock or set an app that gets you out of bed. Some alarms are especially loud or vibrate your bed. Don’t neglect this simple habit because if you skip setting your alarm, good chance, you’ll oversleep.

11 – Depression

Depression is something that can lead to oversleeping. If you struggle with depression, it can leave you wide awake at night, resulting in oversleeping in the morning. This makes it hard to get up in the morning, interrupting your routine, which in turn can make you feel depressed and worried. If you think you’re struggling with depression, talk with your pastor, a counselor, or your doctor to get help.

12 – Poor ventilation

Poor ventilation in your bedroom at night can affect your ability to fall asleep and get up in the morning. If your bedroom is hot and stuffy, this can keep you awake. Also, be sure to check your CO2 monitor to be sure there isn’t any concentration of CO2 in your bedroom. Open your windows at night or turn on a fan to circulate the air throughout your bedroom.

13 – Napping during the day

When you sleep during the day, it interrupts your ability to fall asleep at night, which in turn causes you to oversleep in the morning. Try to avoid napping during the day. Instead, get outside and go for a walk. Or get involved in a project or hobby to stave off your tiredness. Don’t drink coffee since the caffeine will have the same effect as a nap keeping you up at night.

14 – Uncomfortable at night

If your mattress is uncomfortable, or you’re too hot or cold, this can interfere with your ability to sleep at night. Keeping your bedroom around 65 degrees is considered a good temperature to help you sleep best.

15 – Lack of exercise

Exercise and sleep go together. When you are getting enough exercise, you’re more likely to sleep well at night. Plus, when you’re feeling well-rested, you’ll have the energy to exercise every day. Try to exercise during the day. Some people suggest that exercising at night may keep you awake, while others say this isn’t true.

Find a time to exercise that works best for you. You can also try yoga at night to stretch to reduce stress and feel relaxed, so you can fall asleep and wake up refreshed in the morning.

Why is sleep so important?

If you’re not sleeping well, you will oversleep. Lack of sleep can not only make you feel unhealthy, but it can also have other negative impacts on your body. Short-term effects include these:

Sleepiness during the day
Irritability
Lack of focus and alertness
Slower motor skills

Besides these things, here are a few other reasons why sleep is so important for your body.

High blood pressure: Individuals who can’t sleep have increased blood pressure levels. This can result in an increased risk of heart disease.
Mood disorders: Lack of sleep over an extended period can lead to mood disorder problems. Moods like anger, sadness, and stress result when you don’t get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can also trigger panic attacks, hyperactivity, and bipolar disorders in some people.
Arthritis and other pain problems: If you struggle with lack of sleep, it can cause you more pain symptoms like inflammation like arthritis.

Final Thoughts on Improving Your Nightly Habits, So You Don’t Oversleep in the Morning.

An occasional oversleep is expected when you’re not sleeping at night. If you struggle with getting up in the morning, try to establish good habits to promote your sleep during the night.

Loyola University Psychologist Explains Differences Between Love and Attraction

February 10, 2021 by Deborah Tayloe

You’ve probably felt that moment when sparks fly between you and someone special. It’s thrilling when you experience your first feelings of affection, even as strong as love. Perhaps you’re getting these feelings from an instant attraction you share when you meet someone’s eyes across a room. Sometimes the draw can be so strong that it confuses you.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever been confused about your feelings for someone. It can be hard to tell the difference when you’re feeling attracted to someone or you’re in the cupcake phase of a relationship. Luckily, this article contains information to help you sort out your feelings.

Is It Attraction or Attachment?

Many people aren’t aware that attraction is a part of love. Scientists have divided love into lust, attraction, and attachment.

Lust is self-explanatory, and it’s not hard to figure out when you’re feeling that way, as some particular reactions happen to your body. The attraction is just that – being attracted to the person can quickly lead to lust. However, attachment is what people are referring to when they say love.

Attraction and attachment can feel the same, leaving you confused about your feelings. It’s a common confusion, and just about everyone experiences this at least once in their life.

Trying to figure out the difference between attraction and attachment was a subject of an article written by psychologist Theresa E. DiDonato Ph.D., assistant professor at Loyola University Maryland. She explored the idea that people sometimes have trouble telling the difference between true love and instant attraction. According to her, the two are both powerful emotions and can be intertwined in ways that can get confusing. However, some subtle differences can help you figure out your genuine emotion.

Goals Make the Difference

According to Dr. DiDonato, one of the most significant differences is the goal of your emotions. For example, when you need attachment, you aim to get close to the object of your affection. You’ll want to feel connected and possibly share your life with that person. You might feel true love if you desire to have someone around you often.

On the other hand, attraction can be more temporary. You desire to fill, and once it’s done, your desires are gone. Although the attraction may occur again, you won’t feel like sharing your life with the person.

While these two goals are specific and different, it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between your emotions. Emotions can cause your thinking to be clouded so you need to look for other clues.

Other Differences Between Attraction and Attachment

Goals are not the only way to tell what you’re feeling. It’s not even the best way. You may need to consider multiple points to work out your emotions.

Dr. DiDonato pointed out other differences that can help you distinguish which emotion you truly feel. Here are some of the points she made.

If you would be willing to sacrifice for the person, that’s attachment. It’s attraction if not.
If this person fulfills your need for support (emotionally and mentally), there could be a desire for attachment involved. If not, it’s merely attraction.
The desire for attachment gives you the confidence, to be honest and authentic. If you feel the need to deceive the person for any reason, you are feeling attraction.
If intimacy has become something more important than lust satisfaction, that is a clear indicator that you may be attached to the person.

The last point is not always as clear-cut as the other points. Dr. DiDonato said that intimacy or intimate attraction sometimes could launch attachments or the desire for it. Therefore, even if you only feel an instant attraction, further exploration of that attraction can make you crave a close relationship with that person.

All the points that Dr. DiDonato wrote to make a lot of sense. Think about how relationships are started. It’s doubtful that people form relationships with someone they are not attracted to. However, people start relationships before they fall in love all the time. That is a clear indicator that instant attraction can lead to love.

Some wait a while before becoming intimate, while others may wait until marriage. Sure, they are attracted to each other but choose to develop an attachment before exploring close bonds. This is not to say that falling in love is always a choice. Sometimes, it just happens unexpectedly. However, it is easy to see the difference between love and instant attraction in this case.

Love: A Chemical Reaction?

For a long time, scientists have explored attachment and attraction on a chemical level. However, neither emotion comes from any reactions in your heart (although both may cause your heart to beat faster). It has been proven that these emotions either happen or are enhanced by chemical reactions in your brain.

Since both emotions can stem from reactions in your brain, this could be why people get the two confused. However, they occur from different chemical reactions in different brain areas. That is one reason you can experience both emotions at the same time.

According to researchers at Harvard University, the chemicals responsible for attraction are dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. The ones responsible for attachment are oxytocin and vasopressin. While there can be some slight overlap, these sets of chemicals cause different reactions in your body.

Behavior from Attraction Chemicals

It may surprise you that the chemicals responsible for your feelings of attraction are the same chemicals responsible for drug addiction sentiments. That may be scary, but it doesn’t mean you’ll be addicted to the person you’re dating. It merely means that dating an attractive person gives you the same euphoric feeling you’d get from being high (no matter how you phrase that, it sounds strange).

These chemicals can cause you to feel giddy and excited. They can also cause you to eat and sleep fewer hours. It seems that dating an attractive person keeps you alert and may help you lose weight! It seems like a win-win situation.

If you notice these feelings or behaviors happening to you, there is a good chance you’re feeling the pull of attraction. If you experience them enough, you could bounce over to attachment.

Behavior from Attachment Chemicals

The behavior you get from attachment chemicals may not be as exciting as the behavior you get from the attraction, but the actions could be more stable. These chemicals cause bonding behaviors. The researchers at Harvard said that these bonding behaviors could include activities like breastfeeding and childbirth.

Before you start thinking that your partner’s bond is the same as the bond with your baby, don’t forget that the difference is that you’ve had the attraction phase and likely the lust phase with your partner that you didn’t have with your baby. That’s what makes the attachment a romantic attachment. However, the bond is just as strong in both situations.

The Downside of Chemical Love

In general, being in love is a great thing. However, you’ve probably heard the saying, “love can make you do some crazy things.” This couldn’t be more accurate.

All those chemicals floating around your body can affect your hormones and cognitive functioning. You could make irrational decisions simply because the chemicals flood your judgment, especially if the relationship goes sour. Science has shown that these are the same behaviors that drug addicts exhibit.

Generally, this is nothing to worry about. Those irrational decisions are usually harmless ones. However, you may need to step back if you make decisions that can harm yourself, your livelihood, your partner, or someone else.

Does Instant Attraction = Love at First Sight?

Some people believe in love at first sight, while others don’t. However, attraction is a part of love, and instant attraction happens often. Therefore, in a sense, love at first sight happens a lot more than you think.

What doesn’t happen often is an attachment at first sight. This can be strange and possibly even alarming since attachments typically take time to develop. There may be some mental illness going n when this happens, but that’s a discussion for another article.

Final Thoughts on the Difference Between Love and Instant Attraction

After reading this article, you should be clear that attraction is simply one part of love. Therefore, there isn’t a difference between the two. You could say that attraction is simply beginner’s love or love without an emotional attachment. You could even go as far as saying that attraction is the idea of the possibility of love.

None of these definitions would be wrong. Attraction, even instant, is a version of love that hasn’t yet developed into a commitment. It can fizzle out as quickly as it develops. Love, it seems, is a fickle emotion.

20 Items to Avoid Buying at the Grocery Store

February 10, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Supermarkets of today have become mega centers where you can get an oil change, have your hair cut, and buy school clothes along with your groceries. However, while it’s convenient to buy things at a one-stop center, it’s not always the best price. You will pay for the convenience of getting everything in one place.

Never Buy These Twenty Things at The Grocery Store

Most families are on a budget. It seems logical to buy everything you need locally, but it’s not always the best price. Here are a few things that you should shop online or at other stores to get the best deal.

1. Diapers

Did you know that the average baby uses 2,500 diapers a year? Mom Informed states that buying in bulk is always the better option as they cost way less than a small pack at your local store. Using online mega-sites can be helpful, as is shopping at your local bulk warehouse.

Cloth diapers are a great alternative, but most prefer the use of disposable diapers. A 40 pack at your local supermarket is going to cost you about 26 cents per diaper, while a bulk package can give you a price of around eight cents per unit. Now, since you’re going to need many of these diapers, it’s best to use the cost-cutting option.

2. Greeting Cards

Greeting cards start at about $4.00 each, and they can go all the way up to $12 for the ones that sing and have pop-ups. Now, it’s silly to spend this much money on a card that most people are going to throw away. You have two cost-cutting options.

First, you can go to your local dollar store and get any card you want for $1.00. Don’t worry because these stores usually have a nice variety too. The last option is to buy a bulk pack of miscellaneous cards. You can get some for every occasion and in size for about $10 for a package of 25 or more.

3. Magazines

Grocery stores put magazines on the racks as you check out to lure your attention. You will pay anywhere from $4-$10 for one of those books. However, if you get a subscription to your favorite publication, then you can save significant money.

You can get a whole year of delivery for about $15-$20. Another option is to check out your local library as they keep a large selection of magazines that you don’t have to pay one dime to read.

4. Toilet Paper

Toilet paper comes in all varieties. If you want the stuff that’s good enough to sew into a shirt, then you will pay more. However, when it comes to your TP, always try online services in bulk.

Many places like Amazon have amazing deals that no grocery store in your area can beat. Quit paying more than .50 cents a roll as it’s too expensive.

5. Bottled Water

Why everyone thinks they need bottled water is a mystery. Most water in your home tastes fine, and you can even run it through a filter for higher quality. All those plastic bottles are overkill on the planet as many don’t recycle them. If bottled water is a must, buy it in bulk at a warehouse club find an affordable price per unit.

6. Batteries

Few households in this country can live without batteries. However, it’s best to buy batteries in bulk as they’re much more affordable. Choose a bulk membership store rather than your local grocery store.

A two-pack of D batteries might set you back $4-$5 for the excellent kind, or you can get a monster pack for $20. The savings are hard to deny.

7. Dog/Cat Food

Dog and cat food is expensive, and the quality is usually lackluster at supermarkets. Use a store that specializes in pet supplies to get the best bulk deals. There are also subscription services that you can order from and get it shipped to your door for less.

Lastly, local feed stores offer one of the most incredible and most economical options for you.

8. Coffee

There are a few options for cost-effective coffee:

Delivery services have great pricing.
Office supply stores often have the best deals, which may shock you.
Your local warehouse store is an excellent place to look.

Buy the whole bean and grind your own so that it lasts longer and is fresher.

9. Baking Mixes

This may blow your mind, but you can make baking mixes at home with everyday staples. Stop paying a fortune for four, salt, baking powder, and a pinch of sugar in a box. You can buy nearly all the stuff to make ten times the amount you get in an all-purpose baking mix.

10. Celebration Cakes

The deli counter loves to lure their customers with custom cake creations that look amazing. They can write your name, use balloons, and create a culinary masterpiece. The only problem is that all of this comes at a price.

The average size cake purchased is one-fourth of a sheet, and it will set you back around $20. Plus, most store-bought cakes have a horrible taste and use pure grease for the icing. You can bake a delicious cake at home for around $5, or you can head to your local bulk food stores that have the same abilities as a supermarket for less money.

11. Birthday and Other Party Supplies

Why do people spend a fortune on paper plates and streamers that will all end up in the trash anyway? Head to your local dollar store to ensure that you get a fair price and don’t overpay for stuff going to the dump.

12. Frozen Pancakes and Waffles

Do you know how easy it is to whip up a batch of pancakes, and it’s inexpensive too? You can make larger batches to freeze for a quick breakfast. You can pay pennies for each pancake as opposed to up to .35 cents per unit. The same savings can be observed with waffles too.

13. Alcohol

One of the most significant sources of revenue for your local supermarket is beer and wine. However, use a warehouse club to get all your purchases for less. Did you know that many state laws regarding alcohol allow you to buy booze at these stores without a membership?

14. Bread

Use local bakery outlets to buy your bread. You can get many loaves for the price of what you would pay for one at the grocery store. Stock up and put it in your freezer.

15. Gift Cards

Gift cards make life easy when it comes to birthdays or other celebrations. However, buying them at the supermarket isn’t always the best option. You pay face value, but you miss out on the other perks.

Many restaurants offer a deal if you buy a $20 card, you get a $5 free. Or, what about Costco’s great card where you get $100 worth of any cards you want for the low price of $80.

16. Light Bulbs

Gone are the days where you could get a light bulb pack for $1.00. The new incandescent bulbs are expensive, and according to ZD Net, it’s because of the technology used to make them. However, you can find good deals at Amazon or at a warehouse club that carries bulk options.

17. Cooking Utensils

Walking through your local grocery store, you will see utensils and other baking goods hanging around. These are again geared at being impulse buys. They want you to see something you can’t live without. It would help if you resisted the urge to buy these impulses.

If you need baking goods, check out a home goods store to get rock bottom pricing.

18. Toothbrushes

Your friendly dentist gives out free toothbrushes each time you visit. If you have children, their local school also gives out these aids. Now, why would you go to the supermarket for your toothbrushes?

If you visit the dentist two times a year, they should keep you stocked without spending a dime.

19. Spices and Herbs

Have you seen how much some of the herbs and spices are at the store? It’s unbelievable that the average bottle is around $4 and can go up to $20. Find a bulk food store that allows you to buy in bundles or by the pound.

You will get three times as much as you would by shopping at a store. Plus, what if you only need a tablespoon and you must buy a whole jar; it’s just a waste of money?

20. Snack Cakes

You know all those little snack packs that they wrap conveniently for you? Well, they’re charging you a mint to do all that work. Why not buy a big bulk of snack crackers and then wrap them in individual bags? The savings will be quite significant if you have a large family and you pack lunches.

Final Thoughts on What Not to Buy at Your Grocery Store

What things do you buy that you see a potential for savings by shopping around? While your local grocery store is a great place to get many things in a rush, it’s not always the most economical way to buy. Remember, it pays to do some research, especially when it comes to commonly used items like toilet paper and diapers.

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