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Neuroscience Explains Why Kids See Fathers as Superheroes

December 4, 2020 by Power of Positivity

There’s nothing as important to a child as their parents. From the cradle, the bond with mom is inevitable. But fathers must work a little bit harder during those first few months to solidify their importance. However, after endless diaper changes and cuddling, the child soon learns that the father is another person in their life on whom they can depend.

As the child grows and develops, their father takes on the role of strength and vigor. Most children grow up with the belief that their father is as strong and powerful as a superhero. When a kid falls and scrapes their knee, they run to mom for comfort, but they run to dad when they need someone to protect them.

The feelings of having a superhuman dad don’t go away as time goes on. Every little girl dreams about her father walking her down the aisle and giving her hand in marriage. She also knows that if anything should go wrong in this union that her dad will protect her.

Fathers Give Comfort Children–Just Like Mom!

There is a sense of comfort that comes from believing that your dad can conquer anything and save you at a moment’s notice. Consequently, it’s an essential part of developing a healthy relationship between the father and child. Men were meant to be strong warriors that protected their families and villages since the dawn of time.

A survey by Ripley’s Believe It or Not to see how children between the ages of 6-8 years old view their dads. Shockingly, more than half of the 1,000 kids stated that they believed their father had superhero powers. Some believe that their dads can read minds, or he has a secrete lair where he keeps his crime-fighting paraphernalia.

It’s apparent that children have superior visions regarding their fathers, but they never let their imagination become limited. Just as a child, watching cartoons believes that animals can talk, people can fly, and you can activate superhuman strength with one magical command. They take comfort in believing that their dad holds that same supernatural powers.

The Psychological Importance of a Relationship with Dad

Children can form bonds with many people. While mom may take the forefront during feeding and the close nurturing of infancy, dad quickly develops a place. The bonding that happens between a child and their father is important for their healthy psychological development.

Have you ever seen a woman that prefers to date older men? One of the first things that people say is that she has “daddy issues.” They really mean that she didn’t have that strong relationship that many daddies and daughters develop, and she is lacking. In return, she tries to fill that void by finding a man that can take the place of the relationship she longed for in her life.

Developmentally, both roles of the parents are essential. Since a child feels safe and secure, knowing that dad will take care of everything, it creates a space or void when they grow up without security feelings. The need for protection and safety is inevitable, so they will search for whatever methods possible to fill that hole.

How Role Dichotomy Has Changed

Times have certainly changed. In previous decades, women stayed home and took care of the children while dad “brought home the bacon.” The role of this dichotomy has changed over the last twenty years. The lines between the roles of mom and dad are blurred.

Females now hold full-time jobs and can be doctors, surgeons, congresswomen, and hold any career they choose. Men can also branch out into new areas such as nursing or preschool teachers. You see an increase in stay at home dads that allow mom to go to work while they do the child-rearing.

Lastly, both parents might work, and a daycare center is responsible for care during the week. With these new roles come changes in the development of some children. They may view their father as the nurturing one and their mom as their safety net, and these diverse views are becoming commonplace.

Society is finally giving mothers and fathers the freedom to choose their roles within the family unit. It’s making a tremendous shift in parenting formalities and the bonds children form with these respective positions.

Fathers and Their Hormonal Shifts During Pregnancy

Ironically, dads don’t carry the baby or experience any of the sensations that a pregnant mother does. Yet, many report that they do have cravings and feel different when their partner is expecting. Could a dad also feel hormonal changes in anticipation of a new baby?

Not only does the mother’s brain encounter seismic changes after the birth of their child, but it seems that dads are altered by hormones too. Albeit, the alterations occur in diverse ways. To confirm this theory, a 2012 Israeli study wanted to see how brains reacted when both mothers and fathers interacted with their children.

Parents both got to observe videotapes of interactions between them and their kids. They were hooked to electrodes to monitor brain activity as they watched the videos. The mothers showed an increase in their minds’ emotional centers, but the fathers increased cognitive function.

To dig even deeper into the switching of parenting roles, they used a same-sex couple to see how dissimilar their responses. The men both showed reactions that would be typical of a mom and dad. This proves that the brain is hardwired to spring into action for whatever the child needs, and a man can serve roles as both mother and father when necessary.

There have been numerous studies conducted on what hormonal responses a woman has after she gives birth. These responses help her to bond with her child. However, a father will also experience many of the same shifts, mainly increasing prolactin and oxytocin. When these hormones boost, it only makes it easier to bond with the child.

The Northwestern University Study

Research shows that many children take school closures in stride.

A study from Northwestern University proves that fathers do experience changes in their body too. Their testosterone levels drop to make them more nurturing. Experts theorize that this could be to keep fathers from wandering, and it keeps their interests engaged where they’re needed, at home.

Current investigations prove that the dad’s stress levels during conception are passed onto the unborn child. The amount of genetic information that is given by the parents to the child is uncanny. However, there is also evidence that you receive vital information from your grand or great-grandparents too.

Did you know that if your great-grandparent had a condition like asthma, you’re at an increased risk of developing this ailment? Genetics is a powerful thing, and your parents can pass both good and bad genes on to you.

What Is Dad’s Role Today?

The impact on a dad through the life of their child is substantial. It should never play second fiddle to that of the mother as both roles are equally important. When dad has a stable and healthy relationship with his children’s mother, then the chances of being involved in their life increase.

Additionally, these children who have both parents working and striving to make them well-rounded typically produce emotionally and psychologically stable kids. Do you remember the vintage cartoon of the Berenstain Bears?

They were a lovely family where both mom and dad support each other and the kids. What’s unique about this cartoon is that the dad always had to hold the mom up so that, in return, she could hold the children up. It was undoubtedly a traditional shift in parenting roles that weren’t apparent when this show aired.

However, in recent years the shift has become apparent, but both parents must equally support one another to raise a well-rounded child. The role of the father in the family unit is expanding. Men no longer go to work from 9-5 pm and come home to be waited on hand and foot by a homemaker wife.

Now, both parents work, and when their workday is complete, they share the home and children’s responsibility. You might see a dad carrying the diaper bag or carrying the child into a public restroom to change a diaper, and society is accommodating for these alterations. Many public restrooms now have diaper changing centers in the male bathrooms too.

Final Thoughts On Dad The Superhero

Mom seems to get most of the attention when a child is born because she carries the baby inside her. The bond between the two of them is apparent. However, dad is just as important as a mom as his strength helps to make the child strong.

Today’s society embraces fathers who do the grocery shopping, take the kids to daycare, become stay at home parents, and make dinner. The role of dads is expanding, and it’s quite liberating for the men who don’t want to be viewed in the typical 1950s iconic male role.

As time goes on, society has realized that fathers can have any role in the child’s life they want. And we should praise them for stepping up and taking on more. It only creates children that are well-rounded when both parents work together for their good. Where would you be without your father?

Don’t Be Afraid of Being Alone. Be Afraid of Being In A Bad Relationship

December 4, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Dating these days is hard because people are afraid of bad relationships. Let’s face it – things are much different than they used to be. Societal values have changed dramatically, and technology has revolutionized the dating scene (and not necessarily for the better).

Even worse, chivalry seems dead, but many modern women don’t mind since they feel more liberated than they did so many decades ago. That leaves men confused and women who like chivalry feeling missing out.

While all these modern-day changes may be suitable for human advancement, it’s not necessarily the best for dating. You may have noticed this already, especially if you’re reading this article. People are confused when it comes to dating – they’re afraid of a lousy relationship, but they’re also afraid of being alone, so they settle for someone who doesn’t meet their standards. This results in lots of relationship problems.

What keeps a person in a bad relationship?

Many people stay in toxic relationships for various reasons. They think being alone is worse, so they deal with unhappiness and abuse. Here are three reasons people stay in bad relationships.

You think there is no one better.

As mentioned before, dating is hard. Finding someone compatible is like looking for a needle in a haystack. It’s so difficult that it can feel like there are no good prospects out there. When you feel this way, giving up a partner you’ve already snagged off the market can be scary, even if the person is unhappy in the relationship.

Thoughts of everything you have been through can be stifling. You may feel like finding yet another partner to create memories with is impossible. It may seem like so much work to do it all over again.

Going through the dating process all over again can seem tedious, especially if you already think there aren’t good prospects. There is just no motivation to do better when you feel that there isn’t anyone better. You might give up on the idea of being in a happy relationship.

You must change this way of thinking if you’re ever going to be happy. It’s not easy, but you must believe someone is better out there.

Relationship coach Jordan Gray suggests that the best way to meet someone better is to be better. Work on improving yourself, and you’ll encounter someone better than your ex. Remember, you need to leave the current lousy partner as soon as possible because you’ll never find someone if you are stuck with the wrong one.

You feel that you don’t deserve better.

Perhaps you aren’t concerned that you can’t find someone better. It could be that you feel like you are unworthy of someone better. Clinical psychologist Suzanne Lachmann, Psy.D. says that feelings of not deserving better come from things that have happened in a person’s past that influence their outlook, or “in-look,” as Dr. Lachmann puts it.

Something in a person’s past makes them feel like they should be in a bad relationship. Another way to look at it is that something in their past also makes them afraid to be alone, so they stay with a lousy partner.

Dr. Lachmann suggests that this isn’t uncommon. Everyone holds on to something from their past that makes them feel undeserving. For some people, it manifests as staying in a toxic relationship.

It can be hard to change this pattern, but the first step is to realize you need to change. For this to happen, it may take an outside influence to help you see the issues you are dealing with.

You may be financially dependent on your partner.

When you get most or all your financial support from someone, it can be terrifying to think about leaving. The world is expensive and getting pricier by the minute. Good intentions don’t pay bills.

Striving out independently without money, support, or resources can be tough. It can be crippling, which is precisely why you would stay in a bad relationship. However, this doesn’t mean you are stuck. It just means you need to prepare to struggle a little bit, and you need to get creative.

Some programs can help people coming out of abusive relationships. They won’t provide the best resources, but they will provide you enough to get out of the relationship and stand on your own two feet. If you’re worried about handling life alone, you may be pleasantly surprised at how well you handle it when you give yourself a chance to.

Here is why you shouldn’t be afraid to be alone.

Psychologists agree that being alone is better than being in a bad relationship. It might be rejuvenating for a person to focus on themselves. Here are some reasons you should embrace being alone.

You can focus on building yourself up.

Being in a lousy relationship can do a number on your self-esteem. Your confidence may have hit the floor, and you might be at the end of your rope. When you are single, getting your self-esteem back is much easier. This is because you don’t have some lousy partner eating away at your self-love.

If it helps, don’t think of being single as being alone. Think of it as you are dating yourself. Get to know yourself. Find out what you like – what makes you tick. Take yourself on nice dates and buy yourself nice gifts. Make yourself happy. Fall in love with yourself.

When you love yourself, you won’t ever have to worry about being in a bad relationship again. Your self-esteem and self-worth will be so high that no one can bring it down.

You’ll have room in your life for the partner of your dreams.

You can’t meet the right person if you’re in a relationship. The right person will have too much respect for your relationship to deal with you. That’s exactly what you want – someone who respects boundaries.

Don’t miss your Mr. or Mrs. Right because you’re trying to hold on to someone so wrong. It’s scary, but you must believe that there are good, worthy people out there that can make you happy. You also need to ensure you’ve healed from dealing with the wrong person so you don’t let those old feelings affect your new relationship.

You can believe that it’s okay to be alone.

People seem to give the status of “alone” or “single” such a negative connotation. There is absolutely nothing wrong with not being attached. There is nothing wrong with not wanting to be attached.

Society tends to make people think they should be dating by a certain age, married by a certain age, and have kids by a certain age. This may have been the norm at one point in history, but now it’s not. People are more focused on themselves and their careers than ever before.

People are more interested in living life to the fullest before settling down, and that’s okay. If you take the time to entirely focus on the things you want to do before settling down, you won’t have any regrets later in life. You won’t feel trapped, and you won’t feel unfulfilled.

Don’t let anyone pressure you into believing something is wrong with you for wanting to be alone. Embrace all that being alone has to offer.

You’ll discover what you really want in a partner.

Being in a lousy relationship can sometimes cause you to have blinders. You’ll be so consumed with emotions from dealing with your partner that you don’t have time to think about what you really want. You may wish that your partner did certain things or acted a certain way, but it can be hard to think clearly when you’re so emotionally invested in a situation like this.

Being single lets you focus on what you genuinely want in a relationship. The freedom you’ll have lets you truly get in touch with your feelings. You’ll have the added benefit of dating – even if it’s hard – and this can help you discover all the traits you don’t want in a partner.

Final Thoughts on Being Alone Instead of in a Bad Relationship

Humans are naturally social creatures, so it’s no surprise that people don’t want to be alone. However, being alone doesn’t mean you have to be alone forever. Being alone can be a period of enlightenment that helps you grow and become a better person.

One thing is for sure. You shouldn’t stay in a bad relationship out of fear of being alone. No one benefits from a lousy relationship, not even the person that’s making the relationship lousy. If you’re in this situation, the best thing you can do is embrace being alone to have a bright and loving future with the right one. In the end, you’ll be glad you faced your fear.

How to Remove Warts and Skin Tags Permanently

December 4, 2020 by Sarah Barkley

If you have these bumps on your skin, you may wonder how you can naturally remove warts and skin tags. While warts and skin tags aren’t the same, they are similar and can be removed similarly.

Many people are affected by these common skin issues. While skin tags are harmless, they can be painful if you snag or bump them on something. Luckily, there are natural remedies to remove warts and skin tags permanently.

Of course, you should always consult your doctor before taking matters into your own hands. This step is to rule out any other, more serious conditions. While it is easy to recognize these skin conditions, you always want to be sure.

The Difference Between Warts and Skin Tags

The difference between warts and skin tags is simple. Warts, or papillomas, are caused by the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. They have round raised bumps and aren’t dangerous but can be contagious.

Skin tags, on the other hand, are soft, skin-colored growths that form on the skin. They are most often found on your neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and breasts but can appear anywhere there is thick skin or skin folds. Thicker areas of skin or areas where there are skin folds are most susceptible to these formations.

Instead of being caused by HPV, the cause of skin tags is unknown. They are likely due to skin rubbing against skin or another type of repeated friction against your skin. Skin tags are collagen fibers that accumulate in and on the skin.

How to Remove Warts and Skin Tags for Good

Leaving warts and skin tags on your skin won’t do any harm. However, removing them is relatively easy if they bother you or don’t like the appearance.

1. Try Tea Tree Oil

For this method, you will only need a few drops of tea tree oil and two tablespoons of water. You will mix the oil with the water and then spread it on the raised skin and dry.

Do this around five times daily until the skin is smooth and clear. If you would rather, you can do it once a day and place a band-aid over it each time.

The tea tree oil will kill bacteria, viruses, and fungus as it helps get rid of unwanted warts or skin tags. While it is safe for any skin area, it should not be used near your eyes.

2. Apply Propolis to the Area

This method requires a couple of drops of 50% propolis tincture, which can be found in most drug stores. You will also need a cotton ball and a band-aid.

Once you have all the materials, apply the propolis to your skin in the affected area. Then, place the cotton ball over the top of it and secure it with the hand aid. Do this two times each day until you see the results you desire.

Propolis can prevent infections and viruses, and it can further stimulate your immune system. It will also prevent unwanted bacteria from getting inside as it works to remove the skin tag or wart.

One study on this topic notes that results are inconclusive. The treatment worked on some participants but not on others. Chalk it up as “it’s at least worth a try.”

3. Use Vitamin E

One of the things that can cause skin tags is increasing age. This means that antioxidants can help remove them and prevent any others from forming. Since Vitamin E is an antioxidant, it is the perfect remedy to remove them.

Rub the Vitamin E oil onto the affected area each day until the growth is gone. It should only take a couple of days to do its job.

4. Apply Apple Cider Vinegar

You will need a few drops of apple cider vinegar, a cotton pad, and a band-aid. Soak the cotton pad in the apple cider vinegar and put it on top of the wart or skin tag. Secure the cotton pad with a band-aid and leave it on overnight.

In the morning, remove the cotton pad. Do this each night before bed; you will notice results within one week. The acid in apple cider vinegar will destroy the tissue of raised skin, making it disappear or fall off.

Another option is to do these same steps but only leave the cotton pad attached for thirty minutes. However, if you do it this way, you may not notice the results for a couple of weeks. Or, you could leave it secure for only 10 minutes but do it multiple times a day.

5. Use Garlic

All that you will need for this method is a few cloves of garlic. Crush the cloves and then apply it to the affected area, leaving it overnight. This works due to the garlic’s ability to fight off viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites.

You could also try taking garlic pills to help remove warts and skin tags. It may not work as quickly, but you won’t smell like garlic daily.

6. Rub a Banana Peel on It

Another easy material list for this method, as all you will need is a banana peel. Rub the banana peel on the wart or skin tag for a couple of minutes daily. It may take weeks with this method, but you’ll notice results sooner if you do it multiple times a day.

The banana peel method works because the peel contains enzymes that are known to heal and rejuvenate. Plus, it can dry out skin tags, eventually causing them to fall off.

7. Make a Baking Soda Mixture

This method will work for you if you have a wart or skin tag on your hand or foot. You will mix four tablespoons of baking soda into a large bowl of water. Then, place the affected extremity into the water and let it soak for 30 minutes.

When you remove your hand or foot from the bowl, make sure you let it air drain. This works because of the anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties found in baking soda.

It naturally exfoliates the skin and helps dry up the affected skin. Plus, it destroys the skin tag’s or wart’s structure, helping with permanent removal.

If your wart or skin tag is located in a different area of your body, you can do a similar method. Make a paste out of the water and baking soda and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on the skin for 30 minutes before wiping it off.

8. Apply Fig Juice

All you will need for this home remedy is a couple of drops of fresh fig juice. Apply it to the wart or skin tag, and let it dry while being absorbed by the skin. Do this three times each day for two weeks, and you will notice a difference.

The fig juice contains high amounts of antioxidants and antiviral properties. This helps replenish the skin, remove imperfections, and fight potential viruses infecting the area. Plus, it is beneficial to remove them permanently because it helps stop the cause.

9. Cover It in an Aspirin Mixture

This method involves much prep work, but it is well worth it. Crush up 4 aspirin tablets and add enough water to make a paste. This will only require a few drops of water.

Then, cover the wart or skin tag with the mixture. Put a band-aid over it and leave it overnight. This works because the salicylic acid in Aspirin can treat skin issues quickly and safely.

10. Apply Castor Oil

This method can take up to a few weeks, but it effectively removes warts and skin tags. Apply pure castor oil to the affected area and let it dry naturally. If you do this a few times each day, the antioxidants and antiviral properties will help remove these issues for good.

Caring for Your Skin After You Remove Warts or Skin Tags

After removing warts and skin tags, there is a slight chance an infection can occur. If bacteria get in the area, you may experience some complications. While this is rare, it is still best to be safe and take the proper precautions.

Ensure to wash the area well and keep it clean until it fully heals. You could also apply something with antibiotic properties, such as aloe vera juice or tea tree oil.

Final Thoughts on How to Remove Warts and Skin Tags Permanently

As you can see, many home remedies help remove warts and skin tags. These methods will not only help remove them, but they will prevent them, as well. You likely even have a few of the ingredients at home already.

See your dermatologist if you don’t succeed at removing warts or skin tags at home. These home remedies work for some people but not for others. They are, at the very least, worth a try!

You can try multiple methods simultaneously to get better and quicker results, too. Watch for skin irritation and stop that method if you notice anything unordinary. Also note that you should not try these treatments near your eyes, anus, or genitals–leave these areas to the professionals.

Remember, it isn’t necessary to remove warts and skin tags. If they don’t bother you, rest assured, knowing it is safe to leave them alone. However, if they cause irritation or don’t like them, these methods may work for you.

Surprising Study Shows Half Of Singles Don’t Even Want to Go On A Date

December 4, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Are you single, and you don’t feel like you want to go on a date? You are not alone in that line of thinking.

There was a time when being single meant being on the prowl for that special someone. People had a date lined up every weekend, hoping someone would sweep them off their feet. It was normal, and maybe even expected, that a single person was looking to pair up with someone.

Those days may be over. As more people feel enlightened and motivated to achieve great things in life, they are finding it less important to have a partner. Suddenly, being single is as accepted as being in a relationship. No one even thinks twice about being single for an extended period anymore. It seems Cupid might be out of a job soon.

In a recent study, some light was shed on why many people stick with the single life. It seems that recent social trends and technology are making it harder to date. It’s resulting in single people not wanting to go on dates.

The Study Done by the Pew Research Center

Pew Research Center conducted the study in October of 2019. There were 4,860 participants in the survey, randomly selected across the United States. While participants were selected via phone and mail, the survey was conducted online. Participants were selected from various backgrounds based on age, race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, and political party.

The study involved several questions about dating, which makes dating harder, and their dating preferences. Some of the results were as expected, while others were quite surprising. The dating scene has completely evolved over the last few decades.

Factors That Make Dating Harder These Days

Around half of the participants indicated that dating had gotten more challenging in the last decade. This was true for men and women, but more women indicated that it’s harder than men. That’s part of why online dating has become so popular – it takes some pressure off trying to find people to date.

One of the most significant factors that make dating harder these days is the #MeToo movement. The study indicated that around 65 percent of men don’t know how to behave on dates with women in the era of #MeToo. The problem is that women vary so much across the board with what is acceptable, and men have no clue what to do or how to go about doing it.

Another factor that makes dating harder is finding someone looking for the same type of relationship. Over 50 percent of participants indicated that this factor is a problem. People define relationships differently, and they have different approaches to beginning one.

Trying to date someone who does not indicate wanting to take the relationship to the next level can be frustrating. That is why it’s important to discuss where the relationship is going early in the process so no one’s time is wasted. Unfortunately, that’s where many potential relationships end, and then you have to start over with the dating process.

Navigating Differences Can Be a Challenge When Dating

While most participants actively looking to date were okay with dating people of different races, many other criteria were dealbreakers. Since people are so different from each other, this can make dating a challenge as you come across qualities that you absolutely will not deal with. In many cases, that is why the relationship never moves forward.

Location and finances were a big deal for survey participants. When asked if they would do a long-distance relationship, they responded about half and half. The same went for dating someone with a significant amount of debt. Most participants, 97 percent, would date someone who made significantly more money than they did, while 86 percent would date someone who made significantly less.

It’s okay to have standards. However, being too picky might cause a person to miss out on someone who would make a great partner. If people could learn to compromise a little more, they may find dating easier.

Why Singles Are Less Inclined to Date These Days

The study indicated that half of the participants did not seek a committed relationship. When half of the available people are not looking, this can put a big dent in the dating game. You must go into the game knowing that one out of every two dates isn’t going to turn into anything. Those are tough odds.

The reasons that singles aren’t looking to date are interesting. Societal norms have changed from what they used to be, so being attached is no longer a priority. In fact, every year, the number of single people in the United States increases. However, it’s not just an American problem. Globally, the marriage rate decreases every year in many countries.

One of the biggest reasons people opt to stay single is that research into being single reveals more ways that single people are happier. No one wants drama in their lives, so it makes sense that scientific research proving the happiness of a single life is affecting people’s opinions on relationships.

One of the big things that research reveals is that single people like being able to do what they want to do without compromise. Dr. Bella DePaulo, Ph.D., social psychologist and author, stated the following:

“A happy life, a good life, is not just about love, not even the most expansive kinds. We humans also crave autonomy and mastering and purpose and meaning. Single people have that autonomy. They are in charge of their own lives.”

As people work harder and harder to achieve goals, especially career goals, it’s easier to maneuver in the ways they need to. If they need to move to a new city for a promotion, they can do it. If they want to make a significant purchase, they don’t have to consult anyone else before deciding.

Two More Reasons People Stay Single

In the previous section, autonomy was discussed. However, there are plenty of other reasons that single life has become so attractive to such a large population. Here are two popular reasons people are staying single.

They Are Content with Friends and Family

Society tends to push dating and marriage hard because being single means being lonely and unhappy somewhere along the line. This could not be further from the truth.

In a study published in the “Journal of Social and Personal Relationships” in 2015, it was shown that single people have more of a social life than married people. They spend more time with their friends and family and feel less isolated. Dr. DePaulo said that single people tend to keep in touch with distant relatives more than people in a relationship or marriage.

They Feel Disappointed by Past Relationships

Sometimes, people are so scarred by their past that they have no desire to be in a relationship. This can be good or bad. It’s good because they want to focus on themselves and find their happiness again. It’s terrible because they’re essentially making future partners pay for the mistakes of past partners.

In this case, they recognize they are not ready to be in another relationship. Depending on how bad the past relationship was, they may never be ready for another relationship. At least this way, they are not leading a person on only to let them down later.

Final Thoughts on the Study and the Staying Single Trend

The research done by the Pew Research Center researchers is exciting but not exactly surprising. We live in an age where people are in their little bubble. The way the world is set up, you do not have to interact with people very much to get through life.

Technology is playing a role in why people want to remain single. We have never been more connected, but somehow, we’re all still so far apart. It’s becoming the norm, and dating isn’t evolving fast enough to match technology. Sure, there is online dating, but most online daters never meet in person.

Everything changes eventually, so there is a possibility that dating will become as integral as it once was. For now, being single is the trend.

Financial Advisors Explain How to Avoid Fighting About Money With Your Partner

December 3, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Are you always fighting about money with your partner? It’s a common argument that’s been occurring since women became liberated enough to have jobs and the freedom to make cash for themselves. Finances can make or break a marriage, but you don’t have to allow it to define your union.

Who can forget the classic show from the 1950’s I Love Lucy? Everyone loved this redhead because of her fiery and tenacious nature and her classic schemes with her best friend, Ethel. While Lucy was a force to be reckoned with, one thing that she seemed to have a problem with was money.

It wasn’t uncommon for her or Ricky to disagree because she overdrew her checking account or spent lots of cash on frivolous purchases. It seemed she always had some explaining to do for keeping things from her husband about their finances.

Times have certainly evolved since that period. Women go to work, hold down full-time careers, and make just as much money as men. It’s only natural that they want to spend money and have a say in the household finances.

Ways to Stop Fighting with Your Partner About Money

Did you know that fighting about money is one of the most common arguments that couples have today? A study found that three-quarters of the American population is stressed about finances, so it’s only natural that it would roll over into their private lives.

Writer and counselor Melody Wilding, LMSW, concurs, citing arguments over finances, says it is “one of the biggest sources of relationship problems — and it can be the toughest to resolve.”

So how can you stop all the fighting about money and quit putting so much stress on you and your significant other? Here are a few ways to help.

1. Pay the Bills Together

In past decades, one person handled all the bills, and the other person didn’t know what was going on. Today’s couples pay the bills together.

When everyone works together, there is no reason for an argument because someone didn’t know what was going on. Transparency is the key to keeping fights to a minimum. If one person does handle things, then they should always keep their partner in the loop.

2. Work from A Budget

Many people find themselves fighting about money because they are spending more than they can pay. Create a budget and live within those means. Try to make the budget realistic so that there is no constant need to borrow from one pot to fill the other.

When you can clearly see what is coming in and going out, it can help put spending into proportion.

3. Hold Financial Meetings

Holding a financial meeting with your partner isn’t high on anyone’s list of things to do, but it’s an essential part of managing finances. You can make projections on your bills for the next year, but they will change by next week.

There are always tons of unforeseen financial events that will pop up, and you must have a reserve and a plan on how to handle them. Keeping both of you in the loop will strengthen your union and keep you from fighting about money.

4. Make Sure Each Person Has A Spending Allowance

It’s not uncommon for one person to hog all the money while the other gets in trouble for buying a burger on the way home from work. There must be an equal amount of money that is allotted for spending by each person. If you work hard and are responsible, there’s nothing wrong with giving yourself a little treat now and then.

5. Discuss All Major Purchases

You’re at home preparing dinner, and you get a call from the dealership. Your husband is there buying a new car. You had no clue that he would trade in his old vehicle, so you are instantly angered by this transaction.

The dealership needs you to come down and sign because he couldn’t get the car without your income on the application. Do you see how a scenario like this can cause a significant issue? Not only was there no communication about the car, but there was nothing said about the financial preparations to make such a purchase.

While you don’t have to discuss every little thing you buy, you should at least limit the dollar amount on items that need both parties’ approval. Realistically, any purchase over $200 should be discussed. When it comes to buying houses, cars, boats, or recreational vehicles, then it’s a given that both must approve.

6. Use A Financial Software Program

Gone are the days of using an old-fashioned ledger and a pencil to keep track of all your expenses. You need a system to make things work. A good accounting program can help you to stay organized.

These programs also allow you to print reports so that the other person can feel involved. Periodically, give your spouse reports to see how much is going to groceries and gasoline, and everything else you spend. There will be less fighting about money when everyone is on the same page, plus having these reports can help you put your spending in check.

7. Skip the Parent-Child Dynamic

It’s both of your money, and one person doesn’t have to scold or punish the other one for overspending. When you create a parent-child dynamic, then you are setting yourself up for some significant arguments. Did you know that financial problems are the second most common reason for divorce?

8. Switch Sides

It’s easy to be the dictator and lay down the law regarding finances. However, it would help if you switched sides occasionally to see how the other person feels. Do you seem like a strong arm that is a bully where finances are concerned?

If you wonder why there is so much fighting about money, then you should mentally switch sides to see how you can change things.

9. Talk to a Financial Advisor

Talking to a financial adviser is a great way to start any union. You can lay out the incoming versus the outgoing, and they will tell you what your situation looks like. You want to save for retirement, vacation, and have some reserves for a few investments.

Getting an expert’s opinion is valuable, especially when you’re starting as a couple.

10. Use Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Though it was often found offensive to make such agreements, prenuptial agreement Illinois have become commonplace. Counselors know that financial problems also end relationships. Since 41 percent of all first marriages and 60 percent of all second marriages end in divorce, it’s wise to prepare. These documents give couples a reason to lay the finances on the table, providing clarity and peace of mind for the future.

Doing this before a wedding or partnership is essential so that everyone is clear on financial standings and obligations before and after the union.

11. Use Automation

If you want to fight less, then you should use automated services for bill pay and such. Did you know that most banks and lenders offer automatic payments for free? When you have things prescheduled, you don’t have to worry about who is paying what and what didn’t get paid. Why mess with something when you can let the power of automation take control?

12. Don’t Keep Things From Each Other

One of the biggest reasons why people fight about money is that they keep things from each other. We’re not talking about $100s here or there as some people hide credit cards or spending problems and drive the other person in debt with them. When you’re married, your credit can be enhanced or broken by your spouse.

When you apply for joint credit, not only does the amount you finance go against your debt-to-ratio, but it also affects your payment history. Many people have their credit scores tank when the other party starts doing things without their knowledge. If you want to keep the fighting to a minimum, you must be transparent about your spending habits and accounts.

Final Thoughts on Arguments Regarding Money

When it comes to explosive arguments, finances hold the top position among couples. Other than infidelity, nothing can bring a couple closer to the brink of ruin than money. In any union, transparency is the best policy.

Since it takes two parties working to make ends meet, both must have a say in the household finances. If one person handles the bills, the other person should at least be allowed to know what’s going on. It’s essential to have small financial meetings each week so that everyone knows where you stand with money.

Never make significant purchases without talking to one another, and always stay on a budget. While money is challenging to manage, both parties have some funds to buy the things they want. It’s no fun to work 40 plus hours a week and not even be able to take yourself out for a treat on occasion.

If you want your union to be happy and blessed, then you will do everything in your power to prevent fighting about money. When you openly communicate with each other about your finances, you can work together and not against one another regarding your bills.

These 15 Quotes Will Help You Feel More Hopeful

December 3, 2020 by Sarah Barkley

When you feel like you need to be more hopeful, it can be hard to figure out how. These quotes on hope will help you find your hope again, however, and encourage you to keep going. With these quotes, you will remember why having hope is so important for your life.

You will be able to work toward your dreams and learn from your mistakes. Plus, having hope will help you get through unexpected obstacles.

Since things do not always work out the way you want them to, having hope is essential. Otherwise, you will get stuck in the hard times of your life, and you will not be able to see a way out. If you feel like you need to be more hopeful, read these quotes, and remember them always.

Fifteen Quotes to Help You Feel More Hopeful

1. “Two words will help you cope when you run low on hope: accept and trust.” – Charles R. Swindoll

As Swindoll explains, accepting and trusting are essential if you need more hope in your life. You have to accept things as they are, but trust that they will all work out for the best.

Keep in mind that trusting that they will work out does not mean they will go the way you wanted. Sometimes, the outcome that is for the best is not the one you desired. Even still, you have to accept it and trust that it is as it should be.

2. “Hope forever tells us that tomorrow will be better.” – Richard Daly

If you have hope, you can rest assured knowing that tomorrow is a new start. It can be a better day despite what happened today or yesterday. If you lack hope, remember this quote and remind yourself that tomorrow will be better.

3. “When you do nothing, you feel overwhelmed and powerless. But when you get involved you feel the sense of hope and accomplishment that comes from knowing you are working to make things better.” – Maya Angelou

Doing nothing will not get you anywhere. Instead, get moving and get involved so that your hope can return.

With work will come the realization that things are moving forward and will get better. If you choose to sit and wallow, however, you will not be able to have hope.

4. “Hope, as it pertains to love, is a good thing because by hoping for certain things such as an extended future with the one you love is made possible.” – John Franks

Sometimes emotions like love can be helped along with a little hope. If you have hope, it increases the possibility of getting what you want. On the other hand, if you do not allow yourself to hope, it may never happen.

5. “We need never be hopeless because we can never be irreparably broken.” – John Green

Always remember that you are not broken forever. Even when things seem like they will never get better, remind yourself that they will. If you can remember that you are not irreparably damaged, you can find hope again.

6. “Plant seeds of happiness, hope, success, and love; it will all come back to you in abundance. This is the law of nature.” – Steve Maraboli

If you plant these seeds in your life, you can expect great things to grow from them. By planting seeds of hope, you will have more hope as time goes on. Plus, you are increasing your chances of achieving what you are hoping for.

7. “Hold your head high, stick your chest out. You can make it. It gets dark sometimes, but morning comes. Keep hope alive.” – Jesse Jackson

Stay strong, no matter what happens in your life. Bad things will happen, but things also always get better. Remind yourself of this when things get hard and keep moving forward and working for more.

8. “If we expect change, we must act on our hope every day until we have accomplished what we wanted.” – Christopher Goodman

Think of what you hope for most and work toward that goal. If you want to have hope, you have to acknowledge what you want and determine what you have to do. Only when you are working toward something will you have the hope of it becoming a reality.

9. “I am not an optimist because I am not sure that everything ends well. Nor am I a pessimist because I am not sure that everything ends badly. I just carry hope in my heart. Hope is the feeling that life and work have a meaning. You either have it, or you don’t, regardless of the state of the world that surrounds you. Life without hope is an empty, boring, and useless life. I cannot imagine that I could strive for something if I did not carry hope in me. I am thankful to God for this gift. It is as big as life itself.” – Václav Havel

You do not have to consider yourself an optimist or a pessimist. Instead, trust that everything works out the way it was supposed to. Keep hope that life will get better because, without hope, you will have nothing, as Havel explains.

10. “Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.” – Jonas Salk

Dream big and imagine what your life could be like if you achieved all of your goals. Then, be courageous and start working toward that life, no matter how scary it may be to begin. This is when you will have the most hope because you will have begun the process to get there.

11. “It’s always something, to know you’ve done the most you could. But, don’t leave off hoping, or it’s of no use doing anything. Hope, hope to the last!” – Charles Dickens

Try your hardest, and if things do not work out, remain hopeful, and continue working hard. Your hard work will make you feel better, and you never know when things will work out. If you have nothing to hope for, there will be nothing to work for, so always have hope.

12. “Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible.” – Helen Keller

Hope can open your eyes to so many things. You will be able to do more than you ever thought possible. If you just hold onto hope and keep working toward your dreams, you will achieve them sooner than you thought.

13. “You may not always have a comfortable life, and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once, but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” – Michelle Obama

Things will not always be perfect, and, inevitably, seemingly bad things happen sometimes. Even still, the things that you do each day are changing the world a little at a time. With hope, you can make a bigger difference than you ever thought you could.

14. “Every area of trouble gives out a ray of hope, and the one unchangeable certainty is that nothing is certain or unchangeable.” – John F. Kennedy

When bad or worrisome things happen, hope can grow from them. Since you can change anything, obstacles should only show you that you are getting closer. Get through those hard times, and you will be allowing yourself to move forward positively.

15. “No matter the number of times you fail, you must be determined to succeed. You must not lose hope. Don’t stop in your storm. Don’t give up so easily.” – Tony Narams

You will not always do everything correctly the first time. To learn, you have to fail every once in a while. So, when failure happens, remain hopeful because it means you are that much closer to succeeding.

To give up hope during the hard times, you will be forcing yourself to stay in that bad stage of your life. You owe it to yourself to get out of that situation and into something much better.

Final Thoughts on These Quotes Will Help You Feel More Hopeful

You will inevitably feel like you are losing hope sometimes. These quotes will help you feel more hopeful during those times in your life and help you regain your stamina. If you can remember these quotes and regain your hope, you will get through the hard times.

Always remember that things will not always be perfect. You will not always get what you want the first time you try it, so keep working on it. Remain hopeful that it will work out eventually and that when it does, it will be at the perfect time.

When you are feeling a little hopeless, remember the encouraging words of these quotes. You are not alone in that feeling, but it is important to get through it and find hope again.

Why It’s Good To Avoid Dating People Who Call Their Ex Crazy

December 3, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Why is dating people so difficult these days? What happened to meeting and connecting instantly, falling in love, and living happily ever after. Sadly, fairy tales are just stories written for the daydreamer.

You can meet someone good and have a long-lasting union with them, but you must wade through the mounds of the wrong people to find the right one. No matter how hard you try, some relationships aren’t good. You can put all your time and effort into them, but some things aren’t meant to be.

When a couple splits, there are two choices. You can either leave the relationship and try to find the good in the time you spent together, or you can blame the other person and act like they sabotaged things. Be careful which path you choose as people are watching and listening to how you act, and it could affect your next relationship.

Talking Smack About Your Ex

You’ve just met a guy, and he seems like the perfect package. He’s gorgeous, has a great job, and appears to be going places in life. However, one thing seems to bother you, and that’s the fact that he talks about his ex-girlfriend in a derogatory manner. (Of course, this can be a guy or a girl, this goes both ways!)

You may be eager to believe his side of things but remember that there are always two sides to every story. Dating people can be difficult, and personalities don’t always mesh well. However, that doesn’t give anyone a right to call them names or destroy their reputation because things don’t work out.

The biggest problem is that when you end a relationship and talk bad about the other person, it can affect your current love interests. It’s quite a selfish move to put all the blame on the other individual and can be a sign of narcissism.

Let’s assume you’re a guy, and you’ve met a girl that you think is picture-perfect. The only problem with her is that she is continually going on about her ex. She has outlandish love tales gone wrong and seems to ruminate on what a bad person she was with.

People who tend to cast the blame on everyone else are manipulative. They cannot see the wrong in themselves, which can be a red flag about your relationship’s future.

7 Red Flags to Avoid Getting Hurt When Dating New People

Dating people can be fun and adventurous, but you want to make sure that you get someone who is mentally able to have a relationship. If an individual is talking bad about their ex, it’s a red flag, but there are some other warning signs that you should watch for that can reduce your chances of dating the wrong one.

1. They Aren’t Consistent

There’s nothing worse than dating people that aren’t consistent. They may text you one day paragraphs about their life and how they feel about you, then you won’t hear from them for a week. Another classic problem with the flaky individual is they make plans and cancel them at the last minute.

Don’t try to convince yourself they’re busy or didn’t have time to respond to you. People make time for the things that they want to. If they’re ignoring you, then it’s a sign of a deeper problem that will only cause you heartache down the road. It’s likely that this individual has a commitment issue and has several others on the line stringing them along with you.

2. They Constantly Threaten to Break Up

Some people run hot and cold. Your relationship started in a whirlwind, but now they threaten to break up every time something doesn’t go their way. Did you know that this is a form of manipulation to get you to cave to their demands?

They really want to say to you that the relationship isn’t working for them, and they’re considering dating people and ending your association. Rather than just being honest, they turn it around and make you think it’s your fault.

It can be quite exhausting when someone is constantly changing their mind. Do you really want to be in a relationship where someone is always threatening to leave? What if you get married or enter a committed union, and they’re still threatening this same stuff a decade from now?

Being with someone who is so manipulative can take a toll on you. Pretty soon, you will stop being so upset when they utter these words and learn that they change like the weather. Still, you should avoid being with someone who turns things back on you as if everything is your fault.

Never do these things after a breakup.

3. No More Dating People Who “Jokingly” Cut Your Down

Williams Shakespeare made a profound statement when he said that many truths are said in jest. People often use humor to hide their true feelings. When dating people, watch out for the person who is undercutting you and labeling it as a joke.

Somethings aren’t funny. They may try to tell you that they’re just teasing or that you need to stop being so sensitive. If the “jokes” are at your expense, then you need to trust your gut instincts.

Someone worthy of dating would never do anything to fill you with so much self-doubt that you fall for their criticisms. Plus, it can be really damaging psychologically to be continuously put down by someone who claims to be in your corner. If you’re in a healthy relationship, you can critique each other with kindness.

4. They Promise to End A Relationship For You

When a person is obviously already in a relationship, watch getting involved. They may promise that they will break up with the other individual for you, but the chances are that they won’t. How many times has someone had an affair on the side and kept it from a spouse for years?

Never put yourself in love danger by being with a serial cheater. Don’t think that you have something that will make them change, and you’re probably not the only person they’re stringing along.

5. They’re Arrogant and Cocky

There’s nothing worse than dating people who brag about themselves continuously. This person talks about themselves so much that you’re embarrassed to take them around your friends. They come off as the ultimate authority on every subject, and you might believe them in the beginning.

The problem with this superior behavior is that they try to hide their underlying insecurities by coming across as defensive. It’s also hard to decide if they’re confident or cocky, and it can make all the difference. Sometimes people will develop the characteristics of their parents.

If their mom or dad bragged all the time, then it can be a learned behavior. However, you don’t want someone who acts superior to you or anyone else as it’s hard to get over. If you are getting red flags about their cocky attitude, you may need to reevaluate your relationship.

6. They’re Like Dating a Child

Do you feel like you’re babysitting? Does the person that you’re with not know how to do anything for themselves? It’s great to be a supportive partner, but you want to make sure you’re not taking on a parenting role.

Some people have Peter Pan Syndrome, which means they don’t want to grow up. However, you don’t have a choice, and they must be willing to step up to the plate and take care of their business. While these people can be charming and fun to be around, so can a toddler.

7. Pressure You into Things You Don’t Want

No one should ever pressure you to do or be something that you’re not. If you don’t have feelings for a person, then don’t hang around thinking that things will get better. When you feel that they’re only a friend, then you should keep things that way.

The worst thing you can do is enter into a relationship with someone you don’t have genuine feelings for. If they don’t feel like a keeper, then let them go. You can use the catch and release philosophy in the dating world too.

Not every fish in the sea is one you want to bring home as a prize. Don’t get so caught up in having someone that you choose to have the wrong person. You owe it to yourself and the other person to be honest about your feelings.

Final Thoughts on Dating People Who Disrespect Their Ex

As you can see from this list, talking smack about your ex is just one of the red flags you should be concerned about. Some people are right for you, and then some fill your needs for right now.

If you want something long-term that will last, then you should be careful about dating people that are giving you indications that the reason their last relationship ended has nothing to do with the other person. There are toxic individuals out there, and you don’t want to become entangled with them.

15 Behaviors That Reveal a Sugar Addict

December 3, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Are you a sugar addict? Can you go one day without a sweet treat?

Did you know that sugar is eight times more addictive than cocaine, heroin, or LSD?

Yet, you can buy it at every grocery store, gas station, or vending machine across this country. The more sugar you eat, the more it will overcome your addictive pathways, making you want more. Once this substance hits your bloodstream, it tells the brain to release the chemical dopamine, which helps you feel a rush or high.

Sadly, the buzz you feel from sugar only lasts a short while. In the time it takes you to finish that piece of chocolate cake, your dopamine levels have already fallen, and the craving for more sets in. Therefore, you don’t need it, but you must have that second piece of cake.

No matter how full you are, your body wants more sugar. So, you indulge in giving those feel-good receptors another buzz. The scary part is that the signals that tell the brain that you’re full is now saturated in dopamine, and your body listens to the sugar cravings instead of actual hunger pangs.

Another problem is that the on and off switch for hunger is now malfunctioning, and you will eat way more than you need. When you become a sugar addict, one piece of cake won’t do. Even if you’ve just had a big meal, you still need the sugar to complete it.

The more sugar that you consume, the more your tolerance only intensifies. Like cocaine or other drugs, you will need more to give your body the same boost after extended use.

15 Signs You Are a Sugar Addict

Just like someone who is addicted to drugs, sugar addicts show similar patterns. Many people believe they like sweets, but they don’t have a problem as they keep things under control. Sadly, denial is a big part of any addiction, even one that involves something considered safe. Another factor to consider is that your children are watching and learning your bad habits.

Thankfully, there is help for you. Here are 15 ways to tell that you have a problem with sweets.

1. You Hide So People Don’t See You Eating Sweets

As with any addict, you’ve started hiding so that people don’t know your secret. You slip into the pantry to polish off a whole box of snack cakes before getting caught. You don’t know how much you eat because you’re eating in a binge method for the little time you have to yourself.

2. Your Attempts to Cut Down Have Failed

You’ve been on every diet from Keto to Weight Watchers to get these sugar cravings under control. However, the late-night snacking and endless cravings won’t stop. You become so desperate for sugar that you will do just about anything to get it.

3. Everyone Is Worried About Your Sugar Consumption

Friends and relatives have said things to you about your sugar consumption. Your doctor is worried that you may be a sugar addict and considers you to get counseling to help. You’re tired of hearing the helpful banter from the concerned, urging you to change your eating habits.

4. You Have a High Sugar Intolerance

While everyone else at the dinner table takes one modest piece of the pie, you watch the leftovers and dare anyone to touch it. The other people feel satisfied and overfilled with one slice, but you can do 2-3 pieces without issue. Your sugar tolerance is much higher than those around you as you have been an addict for some time.

5. You Have Withdrawals If You Don’t Eat Sweets

If you run out of sweet treats at your home, you will start to have withdrawal issues. You feel famished often, but it’s not healthy food your body wants. You must feet the junk food junkie inside, and if you don’t get your sugar fix soon, you will have headaches and all sorts of issues.

6. You Find Your Emotions Are Tied to Junk Food

The first thing you run to when you are feeling any emotion is sugar. You find yourself pouring over a half-gallon of ice cream when your day was terrible. You find that every emotional moment from happy to sad revolves around sugar.

7. You Have Health Problems from Being a Sugar Addict

Your doctor warned you that your pre-diabetic or had developed diabetes. You’ve eaten so much sugar and packed on a few pounds that your body cannot process all the extra glucose. Things have really gone downhill, yet you don’t know how to stop.

8. You Don’t Mind Making Sacrifices for Your Sugar Rush

Sure, it doesn’t mean anything to you to drive an hour to get those gourmet cupcakes that melt in your mouth. You will spend frivolously and go out of your way to feed the sugar demons inside.

Learn why pregnant women should avoid artificial sugars at all costs.

9. You Ruminate About Eating Sweet Treats

While some people have cravings for comfort foods and down-home cooking, you dream of chocolate cake with German chocolate frosting, donuts as big as your head, and bowls of ice cream that could feed four people. Is it any wonder that you have an issue with late-night snacking?

10. You Reduce Temptation by Avoiding Social Scenes

You want to get this sugar addiction under control, so you’ve started to avoid settings where you know you won’t be able to control yourself. Forget birthday parties where there are cake and ice cream. You know that you will keep going back for more and make a spectacle of yourself.

11. You Hide Snacks So No-One Can Get Them

You’ve resorted to hiding food so that no one in the house eats your stash. You have cookies in your sock drawers and popsicles in a green bean bag in the freezer. By now, you’re an expert in keeping all things secure so that no one eats your treats.

12. You Feel Lazy and Sluggish After Eating Sugar

You feel famished and give in to your cravings, and then you feel so tired that you can hardly function. Your body wanted that sugar so bad, and now you feel as if the only energy you have is enough to take a nap.

13. Sugar is Dominating Your Life

You know you have a problem, everyone around you knows you have a problem, but you can’t break free. Sugar is becoming an essential part of your life. You can’t imagine going one day without something sweet. You’ve got so desperate at times you’ve eaten a can of icing or brown sugar out of the bag.

14. Your Mood Fluctuates and Tanks Without Sweets

Your moods are like a roller coaster all day long. If you don’t get sugar, then you will be an emotional wreck. What you don’t know is that because of your addiction, your brain now needs that sugar to regulate your dopamine levels.

15. You’re Constantly Worried About How Much Sugar You Eat

You’ve become cognitively aware that you have a problem. You start in the morning, counting how many carbs or sugar grams you’ve eaten. However, you don’t care and binge thinking that you’ve already ruined today and will try again tomorrow.

Taming Your Addiction

When you review the list of these 15 common behaviors of the sugar addict, do you feel like it was written about you? Don’t feel upset with yourself because you have a problem as you can get help. Robert Lustig from the San Francisco branch of the University of California conducted a study.

He found that about ten percent of the population has a sugar addiction and needs help. Don’t be so quick to think it’s always the person that is overweight is the one suffering. People of all shapes and sizes can have this monkey on their back.

When you want a sweet treat, try one of these foods to satisfy the craving:

An apple
Watermelon
Canteloupe or honeydew melon
Banana
Berries
A handful of grapes

These are healthy sweets that your body will digest more easily but satisfy your urge for a treat.

The 411 on Artificial Sweeteners

One trick that many people try to do to avoid eating sugar is they load up on artificial sweeteners. Now, it sounds like a good idea as you’re not getting the calories or fat, but it can be counterproductive to your brain.

When manufacturing companies use Splenda and aspartame, it may not have the caloric implications, but the brain still registers it as a sweet. It can feed your sweet tooth and make you crave sugar. The concept behind it is good, and they work great for some people.

Sadly, artificial sweeteners can still make you crave sweets. How many times have you seen someone drinking a diet soda while they washed it down with a pizza, breadsticks, and a candy bar? Try using all-natural options like stevia and xylitol.

Final Thoughts on Sugar Addiction

Addiction is a derogatory term that means that someone has lost control over something in their life. Some people medicate their troubles with cocaine, heroin, or opiates, and others turn to the local vending machine or bakery to get their high. Both types of addiction will kill you, but the sugar addict is more socially accepted.

15 Quotes on Teamwork to Never Ever Forget

December 1, 2020 by Sarah Barkley

Not everyone enjoys working as a team, but there are many benefits to teamwork that cannot be ignored. These quotes on teamwork will explain why working as a team is best and successfully working together.

If you follow the advice and remember the insight provided in these quotes on teamwork, you will quickly see the difference. You will have more balance in your plan, and you will have strong people in the areas where you are weak. Plus, you can split the work, making it get done quicker and more effectively.

These Fifteen Quotes on Teamwork Will Keep You Motivated

Sharing the credit isn’t bad because you know how the work came together. Plus, you know the role you played, even if no one else does. The next time you are working as part of a team, remember these quotes on teamwork.

1. “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” – Andrew Carnegie

When working toward the same goal as others, it is best to join forces and work together. This way, each person could work on a different aspect, resulting in quicker and more efficient progress. You will be able to accomplish what seemed impossible if you have the help of other like-minded individuals.

2. “Great teams do not hold back with one another. They are unafraid to air their dirty laundry. They admit their mistakes, their weaknesses, and their concerns without fear of reprisal.” – Patrick Lencioni

Teammates should always admit when they have made a mistake. This is the way they grow and become better.

Plus, it allows others to see where the weaknesses lie so that someone else can come in strong in that area. You can’t be afraid to speak up and be honest because true teamwork means that you all work together positively.

3. “There is no such thing as a self-made man. You will reach your goals only with the help of others.” – George Shinn

At some point, everyone needs a little help. Even the most successful people needed some help along the way. If you want to be successful, you have to ask for help and work together as a team, at least some of the time.

4. “Many ideas grow better when transplanted into another mind than the one where they sprang up.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

Telling others your plans and ideas isn’t a bad thing. Instead, it can help the idea grow into something even better, allowing it to become a reality.

Remember to share the things popping up in your mind with your teammates so that you can all work together. Then, the idea that began growing in your brain will branch out and grow from the minds of many. With that, you can achieve what no one else can.

5. “It is the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) that those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed.” – Charles Darwin

Nature intended for living beings to work together. Think of the animals you see in packs and the ones helping one another achieve a goal. This is because it is natural and effective among all living creatures.

As Darwin explains, those who work together have prevailed more effectively than those who didn’t. Keep this in mind as you are working with your team, and you’ll be well on your way to success.

6. “With teamwork, we are able to multiply our output and minimize individual input.” – Ogwo David Emenike

Working as a team will lead to more being accomplished with less work from each person. When working together, you will focus and perfect certain aspects, while others will work on separate parts.

Then, when you have all finished, you will be able to put all of your work together toward the same goal. This means more work is being produced, and it will be of higher quality. Plus, you won’t have to do it all yourself, allowing you more time to focus on the details.

7. “A group becomes a team when each member is sure enough of himself and his contribution to praise the skills of others.” – Norman Shidle

Praise the skills of your teammates, as Shidle suggests. When you can do this, you will show that you are sure that your contributions are beneficial. Plus, it will boost the morale of your teammates, helping them work more effectively.

8. “Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.” – Mattie Stepanek

Working with a group of people will make you all stronger. It will increase the chances that you will be successful in achieving your goal. With many brains working on the same idea, the results will be better than you could have imagined.

9. “You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.” – Jim Stovall

Please pay attention to what your teammates are doing and give them encouragement and praise whenever you can. This will help build them up, which will make your team so much stronger. If you can do this all of the time, then your team will win no matter what.

10. “To collaborative team members, completing one another is more important than competing with one another.” – John Maxwell

Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. A team’s goal should be to fill all of the spots with strong people in that area.

So, help your teammates when you can and allow them to help you, as Maxwell explains. Remember that one of you may be able to do something the other can’t. Keep this in mind, and you will always complete your team rather than competing and working against one another.

11. “Individual commitment to a group effort — that is what makes a teamwork, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” – Vince Lombardi

When an entire group is committed to the same goal, taking a team approach is the best option. This is what makes teams successful and what makes everything in life work out. Teams are necessary to achieve anything worthwhile.

12. “At work, or anywhere in life, people should be a team, working for the best of all, not protecting individual egos.” – Jay Woodman

When you work as a team, you will see quicker results that were easier to achieve. This will benefit everyone involved, rather than only benefiting one person. Allow others to take some of the credit because that is how life is supposed to work.

13. “The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime.” – Babe Ruth

When a team comes together and fills in where needed, they will be successful. Even if everyone was good on their own, the entire team fails to work together. On the other hand, by working together and collaborating, you will reach all of your team goals.

14. “We’re a team. It’s part of our job to help each other out and to forgive each other quickly. Otherwise, we’d never get anything done.” – Jeramey Kraatz

As a team, you have to help each other. Plus, you have to forgive one another for mistakes. Without working together or without forgiveness, you will never be able to achieve anything. Remember this, and be always forgiving so that you can reach your goals and come out stronger.

15. “No matter how brilliant your mind or strategy, if you’re playing a solo game, you’ll always lose out to a team.” – Reid Hoffman

You can be the smartest person you know and still fail if you go up alone against a team. Even with a fool-proof strategy, you will struggle on your own. With a team, however, you will get farther and accomplish more.

Final Thoughts on Quotes on Teamwork to Remember Always

Working as a team isn’t always easy, but, as these quotes on teamwork explain, it will be well worth it. You can achieve more, reach your goals quicker, and experience less stress if you work on a team.

When working on your own, you will have weaknesses that may not be fulfilled, leaving you vulnerable. However, with a team, those weaknesses can be fulfilled by someone strong in that area. Remember that no one is perfect at anything, which is where a team will come in handy.

These quotes on teamwork also remind you that you will split up the work when working as a team. The entire thing won’t be on your shoulders, which will allow you to focus on your part even more.

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