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15 Behaviors That Reveal Someone is an Overprotective Parent

September 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

A person may be an overprotective parent without even realizing that they are overbearing. It can be challenging to see the signs when you’re the one exhibiting them, but they are there. Being overprotective of children may sound like it could be a good thing, but that’s not the case. When a child has a parent like this, it can be hard for them to grow and develop on their own. Their self-confidence will suffer, and they will always question themselves.

Most overprotective parents have at least a few of the same behaviors. If you know to watch for them, you’ll be able to pick up on the type of parent someone is quick.

Behaviors That Reveal Someone is an Overprotective Parent

1. Overprotective Parents Micromanage

When a parent rules over every part of their child’s life, they are likely an overbearing parent. This habit can cause a child to stop pursuing their interests. Because of this, they may never know what they are genuinely passionate about.

Children should feel able to tell their parents which activities they would like to pursue. This rule applies to choosing new hobbies, sports, or if they want to spend the night at a friend’s house.

2. Going out of the way to Stop the Child from Failing

While no parent wants their child to fail, it has to happen sometimes. The need to prevent failure sometimes stems from not wanting the child to be upset. Other times, it is to prevent the parent from being embarrassed or viewed as imperfect.

No matter what the reason for preventing the failure is, it is a clear sign of overprotecting. It’s not suitable for the child, either. They should be permitted to fail so that they can learn their lessons at an early age.

3. Not Teaching Responsibility

If a parent cleans their child’s room, puts their clothes away, or makes their bed, they may be overprotective. While it may be quicker for the parent to do these things themselves, it isn’t beneficial to anyone involved. Children must learn responsibility at an early age to become responsible adults.

4. Overcompensate While Consoling

Parents are bound to feel bad when their child is upset. They may feel pain as they watch their child cry, pout, or have their feelings hurt. Even still, if they are overly-consoling their child, they may be overprotective.

Children have to learn to work through their emotions alone, which means they have to be allowed to self-soothe. Kisses when they get hurt, hugs when they are sad, or funny jokes to cheer them up are all fine. Don’t bribe them with toys, treats, or anything else over every incident, or they won’t learn to regulate their emotions.

5. Managing Friendships

Parents shouldn’t force their children into friendships with other kids. This statement means if a child doesn’t like their parent’s friend’s child, they shouldn’t have to be friends with them. A parent should let their child choose their friendships and only interfere if a relationship is harmful.

6. Always Telling Them to Be Careful

When a parent is continually telling their child to be careful, they may be an overbearing parent. While it is essential to warn kids of dangers, often scaring the child over every little thing isn’t beneficial.

If a parent is always warning their child that they may get hurt, they may become afraid to try new things. They will question their abilities, and their self-confidence will suffer.

7. Not Letting the Child try New Things

If a child has been playing a sport for years but wants to try something new, they should be allowed. The same goes for when they want to try a new club or camp. They should always be allowed to try new things and experience new situations.

It doesn’t matter if the child isn’t very good at something. They should be able to try anyway so that they can experience it for themselves.

When they can make these decisions for themselves, they’ll thrive because of it. They’ll have a better understanding of their strengths and passions. Plus, they’ll become more independent.

8. Constantly Checking in on Their Kids

Checking in with a child’s teacher each day is overkill because a teacher will reach out if there is an issue. While checking in once in a while is fine, it’s a problem when it is a daily occurrence. The same goes for when a child is at their friend’s house. Checking in once or twice is okay, but every hour is a bit too much.

It might also be a red flag of an overprotective parent if they are continually asking the child if they are okay. Another common question overprotectors may ask often is if the child needs anything. It is normal and encouraged that parents check in on their children. There should be a balance, and the child shouldn’t feel smothered.

9. Shielding the Child from the Real World

Life isn’t all happiness, and a child shouldn’t believe that it is. Instead, children should understand that life is sometimes disappointment or even scary. Parents should teach their children about the real world before they learn about it from their friends.

When a parent teaches the child, they can teach them how to handle situations appropriately. Otherwise, they may go along with their friends instead of making an educated, responsible decision.

Remember that kids see plenty of scenes on television or social media that are worse than real life. Allow them to have a real-life grasp of what the world is like. While overprotectors think they are helpful by shielding their child, they are doing the opposite, instead.

10. They Fight Their Child’s Battles

When a child fights with their friend and the parent gets involved, they are an overprotective parent. Likewise, if a child gets in trouble at school, and the parent argues about the punishment, it’s a good sign.

For the most part, children should fight their own battles, especially with their friends. They should be the ones to address their teacher when they feel they’ve been maltreated, too. A parent should only get involved when there is an excellent reason to do so.

11. They Fix all Negative Experiences and Get Angry Over Them

Parents naturally want their children to have the best life possible. Sometimes, they’ll even go to extremes to ensure their child never experiences a negative situation. This habit teaches the child that life is perfect and that bad things never happen.

As you can imagine, teaching a child that the world is perfect is a terrible idea. It sets them up for massive disappointment and can make negative situations seem even worse for them. Children have to experience hurt and disappointment to develop emotionally. If a parent allows the child to be disappointed now, they’ll be more resilient in the future.

12. They Don’t Allow Their Child to do Things Alone

Children are capable of more than we give them credit for. Letting the kids do things on their own will raise their self-esteem and make them more competent in the future. This type of parent may think that helping their child with everything is a good thing. This notion isn’t right, however, and it can cause problems for the child in the future.

Let children do things on their own and explore the world around them while they can be seen. This allows them to explore freely while also having a safety plan of an adult nearby. It will boost the child’s confidence and self-esteem.

13. They Aren’t Allowed to Spend Much Time at Friends’ Houses

An overprotective parent may not let their child spend much time at a friend’s house. This is true even when the parents know and are comfortable with one another.

You may notice that the parent always goes to friend’s houses with the child. Another sign is that the child isn’t allowed to go to sleepovers or camps.

14. The child Isn’t Allowed to Make Decisions

As explained before, children should be allowed to make some decisions for themselves. Of course, if it is a safety or health concern, the parent should make the best decision for their child. For smaller things, however, a child has to have the freedom of choice.

They should be allowed to choose their clothing (as long as it’s weather appropriate) or what they will drink. Another choice kids can easily make is which snack they want or which book they want to read.

15. Children are Not Allowed to Have Privacy

If a parent reads their child’s journal or diary, they may be overprotective. Likewise, if their child isn’t allowed to close their bedroom door, they are probably overbearing. The child may not be allowed to have secrets, and phone conversations have to be heard by the parents. This is destructive to children, especially as they grow into their teenage years.

Final Thoughts on Behaviors That Reveal Someone is an Overprotective Parent

It can be hard not to be an overprotective parent if it is generally in your nature. Being overbearing isn’t beneficial to the parent or the child, however. Once you know the behaviors that reveal someone is overprotective, you’ll be better able to watch for it. If you find that you are overprotective of your kids, now is the time to make a change.

Therapists Reveal 13 Reasons Couples Fall Out of Love

September 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Is your union secure, and you feel that you will never fall out of love? Don’t be so sure that you and your partner are solid. You’ve probably heard that 50 percent of all marriages in this country end in divorce.

The American Psychological Association backs up this statistic. Breaking up is hard to do, yet sadly many couples don’t make it beyond the five-year mark. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way to tell if you and your significant other will fall out of love long before it happens?

Thankfully, there are ways to tell if your relationship will last. You can examine things like your communication skills, bedroom habits, and how often you argue as indicators if you will make it for the long haul.

Here are thirteen signs that point to a rocky relationship that might not make it to forever.

1. You Take Your Anger Out on Each Other

Did you know that when you love someone, you are more likely to take your anger out on them? The key is that you interact more with your partner than you do anyone else, so it’s only natural to take out some of your frustrations on them. A study conducted in 2014 showed that this aggression is harmful to a relationship, and it pushes your lover away rather than bringing them closer to you.

2. There’s No Gratitude

Do you appreciate it when your partner spends the whole day cleaning and making a home-cooked meal for you? You should always pay attention to the smallest of things, and make sure you thank them for their efforts. Did you know that when you take a partner for granted, you undermine your relationship?

When you forget to say how thankful you are for their efforts, then you can compromise the physical and emotional health of the relationship. Gratitude should always be a part of your love language.

3. You Try to Change Each Other

One of the easiest ways to fall out of love is when a person won’t align with your perfect idea of a mate. Did you get together with your partner in the hopes that they would become someone else? Having a long-term relationship with someone who you want to change is never going to work.

Have you ever heard the old saying that a tiger doesn’t change their stripes? It’s because they can’t change who and what they are to appease you. Sure, some natural changes occur when you’re in love, but don’t expect to make them an entirely new person to fill your needs as it won’t work.

4. You Forgive, But You Don’t Forget

Every relationship has issues that require you to ask for forgiveness. While you forgive your partner, you must also forget the matter. Now, your brain can’t forget, but you can’t bring up the previous issues every time they make you mad in the future.

When one person is keeping score of the other’s wrongdoings, it sets a negative relationship dynamic. Part of loving and forgiving your spouse means that you release the issue and don’t use it to browbeat your partner with in the future.

5. There Are Trust Issues

When there are trust issues in a union, it makes for a rocky relationship. Sure, trust is not an easy thing to build, mostly if you’ve been burnt in the past. However, you must have a little faith in the person you are with if you want to grow old together.

When the foundation of your relationship is shaky from mistrust, then you can ensure that there will be physical and emotional problems with your union. At one point, you can almost guarantee that your partner will become tired of the trust issues and walk.

6. The Relationship is Full of Secrets

Do you have secrets that you keep from your partner? When you’re in a long-term relationship, it’s no fun to keep secrets. Sadly, many secrets cause you to lie.

When a partner tells the other that you can’t handle the truth, then they are saying that they don’t trust you with everything. Secrets in a relationship are one sure way to fall out of love.

7. There is No Compromise

What fun is a relationship if you never get any say? If you pick the restaurant this week, then your partner should get to choose next time. When one person dominates the union and makes all the decisions, it’s hard for the other person to feel important. Relationships are all about give and take, and compromise is essential.

8. You’re Not on The Same Page

For a relationship to be successful, you must both be going in the same direction. While you may think that love conquers all, it doesn’t. You must agree on the fundamentals, like if you want kids, saving money, and where you will live.

It’s easy to fall out of love when your goals don’t align. The differences between you and your spouse may start as a small annoyance, but they can fester into a significant wedge if allowed.

9. You Won’t Take Any Blame

Remember, as a kid, when nothing was ever your fault? You would always point your finger at your sibling or a friend to keep from getting into trouble. Sadly, this behavior can carry on with you into adulthood, causing you all kinds of problems.

You are not perfect, and your spouse can’t expect that you will be. However, it would help if you took your share of the blame with household and relationship issues. Let’s assume that you go over your grocery budget by $500 this month.

Rather than putting all the blame on your spouse, you must also take your part in the responsibility. Even if your partner does all the grocery shopping and cooking, you still have a hand in the matter. It may be that they need help with this aspect and rely on fast food and fancy eateries to cope with a lack of time.

Since groceries and eating is something you both enjoy, you must equally take responsibility in matters such as this one. Don’t be so eager to blame shift, or it’s one of the signs that you will fall out of love.

10. There Are Unrealistic Standards

Humans make mistakes, as no one is perfect. Your spouse is doing the best they can, but they are not infallible. If you expect your partner to be 100 percent perfect all the time, then you have unrealistic expectations.

When one person has such high requirements of the other one, it’s easy to become frustrated. Your partner will think that they can never please you, and you will feel that your partner doesn’t measure up. Stop playing the judge and quit expecting perfection.

11. You See Your Partner as Inferior

Relationships, where one person elevates their worth above the other is a recipe for disaster. When you have contempt for your significant other, it’s a telltale sign that divorce is looming. Do you continuously criticize what they do, show disrespect, are defensive, and stonewall them?

These are all indications that there is a deep rift in the union. A study in 2010 found that when one party shows content for the other, then it’s the “kiss of death” in a relationship.

12. Your Emotions Share No Similarity

Everyone has different emotions, but it can complicate things when conflict arises. If one person cries when they feel rage while the other hardly sheds a tear, it can be hard to be on the same page. Your emotional ranges don’t have to be the same, but they need to complement the other one.

For instance, if one person tends to shout and call names when you’re arguing, it can make the timid person who would never say anything wrong about you feel awful. You should have emotional similarities, or the imbalance can cause you to fall out of love.

13. You Stop Going on Dates

It takes a lot of hard work to keep a relationship alive, and it’s easy to fall into old routines. Once you commit to living together, you must try hard to make sure that romance doesn’t become automatic. Most couples waste their time on mundane tasks like grocery shopping, paying bills, or working.

However, everyday life can be far from romantic or exciting. You must make a special effort to ensure that you still do all those little things to keep the spark alive. Take your partner to the movies or out to a nice dinner.

You must put as much work into your relationship to keep your spouse as you did to attract them. Yes, you must still go on dates, even if you’ve been together for 20 years.

Final Thoughts on Recognizing the Traps That Cause Couples to Fall Out of Love

Do you see things on this list that show that you are in a rocky relationship? You can alter the course of your union by making some changes now. If you can’t seem to get on the same page with your partnership, then ask a counselor to help you sort things out.

It’s easy to fall out of love when massive issues make everyday life together challenging. So, if these issues exist, then you must work hard to alter then for the sake of your relationship.

Science Proves That Negativity is Toxic (and How to Boost Positivity)

September 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Negativity is toxic for many reasons: 1) it destroys your mental health, 2) it can actually make you physically sick, and 3) it just brings the mood down for everyone else around you. Negativity just can’t exist if you want to create a positive life. That doesn’t mean you can never have a bad thought, but for the most part, concentrating on the positives in life helps you attract more of the same. If you only focus on everything going wrong, you miss out on the beauty right in front of you.

Many people wonder how to find this elusive happiness that everyone talks about. It doesn’t actually exist tangibly, so this means it comes from our own minds. Therefore, we can feel happy whenever we choose because we get to control our emotions. With that said, this doesn’t mean that feeling good all the time happens overnight. It takes practice to train your mind to see the good in bad situations and circumstances.

Below, we’ll talk a little more about why negativity is toxic, and how you can engage in positive thinking to turn things around.

Science proves that negativity is toxic

“You can’t litter negativity everywhere and then wonder why you’ve got a trashy life.” – Unknown

If you’ve ever been around someone at work or school who just seems down in the dumps all the time, you know how it can affect everyone around them. In a work setting, it brings down the mood of the whole team because people can feel that energy. Just as positivity is contagious, negative moods are as well. You might think that negative moods or thoughts don’t really cause harm, but science proves otherwise.

Negativity is toxic because it can cause mental health problems.

Just as positive thinking can promote a healthy mindset, negative thoughts can do the opposite. When you constantly entertain negativity, you start to seek out experiences and people that reflect your mindset. The quote from Buddha that says “What you think, you become” very much applies here. Everything in life comes down to your mindset and the way you approach obstacles.

As they say, it doesn’t matter so much about the situation you face. Instead, it’s the attitude you have about your circumstances. A positive attitude can help you overcome any challenges. But negativity tends to drain your energy, rendering you powerless and stagnant. Studies have shown that a negative disposition can actually cause some of the world’s most common mental illnesses, like anxiety and depression. In fact, a U.K. study of more than 30,000 people, the largest of its kind, found that traumatic life events played more of a role in mental illness than even genetics or life circumstances.

The study

“Whilst we know that a person’s genetics and life circumstances contribute to mental health problems, the results of this study showed that traumatic life events are the main reason people suffer from anxiety and depression. However, the way a person thinks about and deals with, stressful events is as much an indicator of the level of stress and anxiety they feel,” said lead researcher Peter Kinderman, Head of the Institute of Psychology, Health, and Society.

So, now that you know that ruminating about the past is the main predictor of mental illness, perhaps this can offer some perspective. We often look at past experiences as a way to define ourselves, but really, they’re just stories. The things that happened to us may have shaped our character, but they don’t have to negatively affect our life moving forward.

Remaining in the present moment helps clear the chatter from your mind and keeps you focused on all the wonderful stories you can create right now. Negativity is toxic because it destroys your inner peace and takes away your strength, so try to choose positive thinking instead.

Negativity is toxic because it can harm your physical health.

It is well-documented that a negative mindset can actually cause physical health problems. Most people think negativity only affects the mind. Additionally, chronically sour moods can increase cortisol levels, which leads to all sorts of diseases. A passing negative mood probably won’t cause much harm, but making it a permanent part of your disposition can lead to problems.

Emiliana Simon-Thomas, Ph.D., science director of the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, said in an article on Health.com: “Many negative emotions such as anger, fear, and frustration become problematic when those emotions turn into a more permanent disposition or a habitual outlook on the world.” Some studies have shown exactly what can happen to our bodies when we maintain this habit of worry, anxiety, and stress for years on end.

Learn how to replace resentment with a newfound commitment to positivity.

The study

A 2014 study published in the journal Neurology linked high levels of cynicism later in life, i.e. a general distrust and skepticism of people, to a greater risk of dementia compared to those with a more trusting attitude. This remained true even after accounting for lifestyle factors such as smoking, age, sex, and heart health markers. Speaking of the heart, a negative outlook may affect it as well.

A 2009 study from the journal Circulation looked at data from nearly 100,000 women and found that the risk of heart disease increased in the most cynical patients. The more pessimistic women also had a higher chance of dying over the study period in comparison to those with a more optimistic outlook.

“We know that neural pathways are changing every minute of your entire life and that your brain is generating new cells throughout your life. And this neurogenesis is not only associated with the formation of new memories, but with mood stability, as well,” said Simon-Thomas.

She went on to say, “We can be deliberate about shifting our habits of feeling and thinking in the world.”

So, not only does negative thinking cause mental health problems, but it can wreak havoc on your body as well. Plus, being around negative people just brings down the mood of everyone in the surrounding area.

Negativity is toxic because it can affect other people.

In general, people don’t want to hang out with others who constantly complain or engage in negative thinking. Bad moods can easily infect everyone in a workplace or school environment, causing discord and poor morale. Of course, no one can feel happy all the time, but in general, it helps everyone when the overall mood remains positive.

If you struggle with this, it helps to block out everything except the present moment, and focus on the task at hand. You may not always feel like being at work or school, but positive thinking and staying mindful can help smooth out any tension you feel.

Now that we’ve talked about how negativity can harm your mental, physical, and emotional well-being, let’s discuss how to combat this toxic frame of mind.

How to boost positivity:

Positive thinking doesn’t always come easily, but in time, you can make it a habit instead of having to force it. Below, we’ll list a few ways that you can bring more positivity into your life.

Keep a positive circle of friends. They say you are the five people you hang around the most. So make sure you enjoy the people you spend time with. Try to seek out friendships with people who have qualities you admire or wish to have yourself. Being around negative people will only bring you down. Therefore, try to distance yourself from those who engage in these types of attitudes.
Recite positive affirmations or mantras every day. You can either keep sticky notes on your mirror with positive sayings or write them in a journal. Be sure you read them aloud each day. A positive mindset starts with what you feed to your brain; just like you nourish your body with wholesome foods, you have to take care of your mind as well.
Challenge negative thinking. No one in this world can say they’ve never had a negative thought about themselves. It’s just a part of being human. However, you don’t have to agree with what your mind tells you. When a negative thought creeps into your mind, simply acknowledge it and then choose to focus on something else.

Final thoughts about how science proves that negativity is toxic

Negative thinking patterns such as rumination and overreacting can cause mental and physical health problems. It can also destroy other people’s moods and morale in a work environment. You may not think negative moods can really have that much of an impact. But science shows the harm in long-term pessimistic mindsets.

Studies prove that chronic pessimism can lead to heart problems, dementia, and mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. If you want to increase your chances of living a long, healthy life, make sure to engage in positive thinking. Recite positive affirmations, challenge your negative thoughts, and keep yourself motivated by surrounding yourself with positive people. Just remember, a positive attitude can make even the worst situation seem like a walk in the park!

15 Habits That Reveals Someone Has a Lack of Motivation

September 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Do you consider yourself a mover and a shaker? Does your natural sense of inner-drive and tenacity make you focused on what you want in life? Or perhaps a lack of motivation keeps your dreams slightly out of reach.

Remember that you are human, and nobody stays motivated 100 percent of the time. If you are working on a project or your life’s goals, you need some staying power.

These Fifteen Habits Might Point to a Lack of Motivation

Here are fifteen habits that could indicate a lack of motivation and how to fix them.

1. Procrastinating

Does chronic procrastinating stand in the way of accomplishing great things in life? It’s like any other bad habit that needs nipped in the bud and replaced with good habits. You can overcome procrastination with time and self-discipline.

One of the main reasons you may procrastinate is that you look at the big picture, which intimidates you. So, you decide you don’t want to do anything. Instead, break the goal into smaller tasks that are manageable. As you accomplish each mission, you’ll get the confidence to continue until you complete your plan.

2. Does Not Accept Challenges

Boredom is the enemy of success, and it’s an easy trap you can fall into without realizing it. Do you feel a satisfying challenge each day, or do you feel like nothing changes? Perhaps you are afraid to accept a challenge and step out of your comfort zone.

Before you can grow physically, mentally, and spiritually, you need to evaluate your current conditions and attitudes. If you don’t, your life will stagnate, and you’ll never reach success. A person who does not accept challenges can’t grow.

3. Fails to Self-Educate

Learning and education don’t end after you graduate from high school and college. It’s a life-long process that maintains your memory and cognitive functions. When you lack motivation, learning new concepts and different ways to do things may not be as important.

If you want something harmful enough, are you willing to work and study it all you can? What if you’ve always dreamed of owning your own business. How motivated are you to research starting a business from scratch and marketing your skills or products?

When you are determined to educate yourself on the necessary steps to achieve your goals, a lack of motivation won’t be a problem. If it’s learning a new skill or discovering better ways to complete tasks, self-education can give you the empowerment you need. Refuse to be the person who fails to self-educate.

4. Sets Non-specific Goals

Remember when you were in high school, and your parents and teachers asked you what your life goals were? Maybe you had a few specific ideas, but most of your plans were vague since young people have difficulty seeing that far ahead. As an adult, not having a solid plan can result in a lack of motivation and an unsure future.

Brainstorming is an ideal way to list all your goals and clarify them. In comparison, you may be optimistic about what you want in the next five years, the steps you need to take maybe hazy. Break each goal down into small, precise steps, and your path to success will be more apparent.

5. Defeated Posture

Have you ever seen marathon runners poised at the starting line? As they anticipate the whistle, their posture shows that they are confident and determined to win the race. For these athletes, the race is first won in their minds, and it matters how they carry themselves.

What does your posture say about your inner drive? When you have a lack of motivation, your posture has a depressive nature, and your whole body is slumped. Your head low, and you may appear to be moving in slow motion.

Be like the marathon runner and use the posture of a winner. Keep your back straight, shoulders back, and your head up. When you practice good posture, your body feels better, and you feel like doing more. People will also look at you and assume you are a self-confident person who knows what you want.

6. Low Expectations

It must have been a sad person who recommended always to expect the worst, so you can be surprised if the outcome is positive. How can you achieve your goals if you don’t even believe it can be done? If you have low expectations of what you can do, that’s probably what you’ll get.

When you are working on a project or goal, expect the best results. Don’t lower your standards because of fear that you’ll fail. Maintain a positive attitude and see what happens.

7. Feeling Overwhelmed

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you look at a project as a whole and not in small parts. When you feel frustrated, you often want to throw up your hands and quit. How do you keep focused?

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, stand back for a bit. See how you can break your project into smaller ones and build on each success. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

8. No Motivational Habits

What is your motivation style? Are you a thinker or a doer? If you don’t have any motivational habits, you can’t accomplish anything.

Cultivate good motivational habits, like setting goals and follow-through. If you are weak in one area, see how you can work to make it stronger. Consider what you did in the past to finish a project successfully, and you should utilize those skills to make future endeavors a success too.

9. Low Self-Esteem

When you allow negative attitudes to control your mind, it affects your self-esteem. If you don’t believe in yourself, then who will? It’s challenging to motivate yourself to try harder if you lack confidence in your abilities.

Identify self-defeating thoughts, and don’t allow them to crush your esteem. Be your cheerleader, and you must adopt a can-do attitude. You may be surprised at what you can accomplish.

10. Never Taking Responsibility

Are you the kind of person who will never admit blame, even when you know it’s deserved? To be successful, you must take responsibility when you drop the ball. Blaming others for your shortcomings will only hurt you in the long run.

When it comes to your personal goals, the buck stops at your doorstep. Learn to admit mistakes and learn from them. You will get more respect from others and for yourself.

11. Displays a Negative Attitude

Some people are like Eeyore, the sad-sack little donkey from the classic Pooh stories. No matter how good things are going, they will complain anyway. It’s almost like a dark storm cloud that follows them and fills the atmosphere with gloom and doom. Does that sound familiar?

Having a positive outlook is just as easy as being negative. Refuse to let a negative attitude sway you from your goals. Try to keep focused on the positive things you’ve accomplished and build on them.

12. Use Lack of Motivation as a Label

One of the worst excuses for a lack of motivation is to accept it as part of your personality. Are you going to give yourself a negative label and let your dreams fall through your fingers? It’s time to rip off that self-defeating label and bring on a new one.

Instead of accepting failure, hold yourself accountable to accomplish your plans or projects one step at a time. Do you have difficulties staying focused? Have your mate, a trusted friend, or family member be your go-to support.

13. Fear of Failure

Think of all the great American inventors throughout history, like Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Edison, or Alexander Graham Bell. Do you think they got everything right on the first try? What would our world be like if these brilliant minds would have given up because they were afraid of failure?

Do you lack motivation because you are afraid of being labeled a failure? The only true failure would come from not trying at all. Take a lesson from successful people around the world who had their share of failures before realizing their dreams.

14. Unhealthy Lifestyle

When you don’t feel well most of the time, it stands to reason that you would lack motivation. A poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle can wreak havoc on your physical and mental well-being. It can lead to debilitating diseases or contribute to premature death.

If you want the energy and stability to realize your dreams, you need a healthy body. Talk to your primary healthcare provider about a diet and exercise regimen that is best for you. A healthy lifestyle may prolong your life so you can do more of what you’ve always wanted.

15. Lack of Patience

Today’s world is founded on instant gratification. When you go through a fast-food drive-thru, dial your phone, or log onto the Internet, you expect results. Making goals for your future doesn’t work like that.

Have you ever noticed that when you fumble through something to get it done, you never get the results you wanted? Impatience can put a damper on your goals and make you give up in frustration.

Patience is a virtue worth having, especially when it comes to being motivated. Using a timeline for your goals can help you stay focused. Keep in mind that things can always change, and you must be flexible and patient for long-term success.

Final Thoughts on Identifying a Lack of Motivation–and Striving to Overcome the Challenge

When you are determined to succeed, lack of motivation won’t be an issue. People can inspire you to some degree, but you are responsible for your hopes and dreams. Once you identify that keeping on track is an issue, you can address it head-on and overcome it. So stay motivated, work hard, and you will see the results.

10 Organic Baby Food Recipes to Make at Home

September 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Baby foods are easy to make. All you need are organic and fresh ingredients, a blender, and some creativity. Be sure your baby is ready for solids before you give these pureed foods. Typically, babies can begin pureed foods at four months. These super simple recipes are basic, so you can change them up by adding different fruits and vegetables.

Why should I make my own baby foods?

Of course, you don’t need to make your own baby food, but there are several great benefits to doing it. When you create your own baby foods, you know your baby is getting the freshest foods. You also know what ingredients are in the homemade baby foods-no preservatives and no added chemicals-just whole organic foods. You can even give your baby foods you’ve grown in your garden. Talk about fresh!

Should I avoid certain foods?

In the past, pediatricians recommended that parents avoid giving their babies certain foods due to potential allergies. But today, they suggest that you introduce these foods earlier, between 4 months to 11 months, to help your baby develop natural immunities to these foods.

These foods include the following ingredients:

Peanuts
Tomatoes
Strawberries
Eggs
Wheat

Introduce these in small amounts over the course of months. If you notice that your baby develops a rash, take a break from giving them the food. Call your doctor if your baby develops unusual symptoms that concern you.

1. Smoothly pureed carrots

Carrots are packed with vitamin A for your baby’s eye health. Choose organic carrots to guarantee fresh carrots that haven’t been grown with pesticides or other chemicals.

Ingredients:

3-4 carrots washed and chopped
Water to thin

Directions:

Put the chopped carrots into a saucepan with just a bit of water to cover them. Bring the carrots to a rolling boil.
Lower the heat on your range and simmer for 10 minutes until the carrots are tender.
Drain carrots, but keep the water. Put the carrots in the blender. Add some cooking water.
Blend for two minutes until the carrots are smoothly blended, add water if needed.

Alternative cooking method:

If you want you to cook the carrots in the microwave, it’s easy. Simply put your chopped carrots in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour a bit of water over them and cover with a clear plastic wrap or a saucer that covers the bowl—microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful when you remove the lid or plastic wrap from the carrots because steam will be released. Prick the carrots with a fork to see if they’re cooked. If not, put them back in the microwave for another minute.

2. Apples pureed

Choose green, yellow, or red apples for this puree. They all bring a unique flavor so you can mix and match to see which flavor your baby prefers.

Ingredients:

1 or 2 organic apples, cored and washed.
Chop apples into pieces
Dash of cinnamon
Water

Directions:

Put the chopped apples into your saucepan with a bit of water to cover them. Bring the apples to a boil. Lower heat and simmer them for 4 to 6 minutes until the apples are tender.
Put the apples, cinnamon, and some cooking water into your blender. Blend until smooth.

3. Pureed banana and apple

This recipe has yummy organic bananas and apples. You could also add plain yogurt to make it extra smooth.

Ingredients:

1 or 2 apples washed and cored
One banana, chopped
Yogurt to make even smoother

Directions:

Put the chopped apples in the saucepan with a bit of water to cover them. Bring the apples to a boil. Lower the temperature and simmer them for 10 minutes until the apples are tender.
Drain the apples, but keep the cooking water.
Put the cooked apples, chopped bananas into a blender with just a bit of the cooking water. Blend until smooth.
Add a little yogurt for an extra smooth apple banana treat.

4. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes have vitamin C and beta-carotene, both good for your baby’s eyesight.

Ingredients:

Organic sweet potato washed and peeled. Cubed into small pieces.
Cooking water for the sweet potato or yogurt.

Directions:

Put the chopped sweet potato in a saucepan with only a little water–enough to just cover them. Bring the sweet potato to a boil.
Lower the heat and then simmer the potatoes for about 10 minutes until the sweet potato is tender.
Remove the chopped sweet potato, but keep the cooking water.
Put the sweet potato pieces into a blender. Blend until smooth. Add some yogurt to make it even smoother.

5. Pears

Pears contain flavonoids which boost your baby’s immune system. Add other fruits to this if you prefer. Pears are so versatile they work well with fruit or veggie.

Ingredients:

1-2 organic pears, cored and washed. You will leave on the skin for both dietary fiber for gut health and extra nutrition. Chop the pears into pieces.

Directions:

Put the chopped pears in a pan with just enough water to cover them. Bring the pears to a full boil. Lower the heat and simmer for the pears for 10 minutes or until they are tender.
Drain the pears and keep the cooking water. Put the pears into your blender and blend until smooth. Add some yogurt or extra water to make it extra smooth.

6. Sweet potato and broccoli

Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin C. Broccoli has folate and folic acid, both good for brain development and to boost your baby’s immune system.

Ingredients:

Two organic sweet potatoes, peeled and washed. Cube the sweet potato into chunks
½ cup of organic broccoli florets washed
½ cup of baby milk or yogurt

Directions:

Cook your sweet potatoes and broccoli in the microwave or on the stovetop until tender.
Drain sweet potatoes and broccoli, saving the cooking water.
Blend the two veggies, adding water to make they’re totally smooth.

7. Oatmeal and apples

Oatmeal is a whole grain that contains B vitamins. This warm breakfast will nourish the baby. It is so scrumptious you will want to prepare a serving for yourself, as well!

Ingredients:

½ cup cooked oatmeal
Organic apple, cored and washed. Cook apples in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Directions:

Mix cooked apples and oatmeal in your blender. Blend. Add some of the cooking water to smooth it out a bit more.
If it’s not smooth enough, add a bit of yogurt.

Can you say delicious?

8. Raspberry apple and spinach smoothie

Raspberries are one of the superfoods. They’re packed with flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals. Choose organic raspberries to avoid pesticides and other chemicals.

Ingredients:

½ cup of water
1 cup of organic raspberries
One handful of organic spinach
1-2 teaspoons of apple sauce

Directions:

Steam the spinach in the microwave like this. Put the spinach and water in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a length of plastic wrap or a lid. Microwave the spinach for 1 to 2 minutes.
Remove the spinach from the microwave dish. Put it into your blender. Add the fresh raspberries and apple sauce.
Blend until smooth. Add a little of the spinach cooking water to make the puree even smoother.

9. Berry oatmeal smoothie

This berry smoothie is delicious. Because it uses berries, your baby will get an extra dose of vitamin C and immune fighting antioxidants. These recipes use blueberries, but you can use raspberries or strawberries.

Ingredients:

¼ cup of cooked oatmeal
Dash of cinnamon
½ cup fresh blueberries
2-3 tablespoons of apple or white grape juice (add more if needed)

Directions:

Blend the ingredients until they’re a smoother consistency. Add more juice if necessary.

10. Pears and rice puree

This delicious recipe is sure to be a hit with our baby. You can switch out the pears for apples, pineapples or bananas. You might adjust the amount of water, depending upon the fruit you choose.

Ingredients:

Organic baby rice, uncooked
3 to 4 organic pears, peeled, cored, and washed. Chop the pears into small pieces.

Directions:

Cook the pears with water in a saucepan on top of your stove. Bring to a boil, then reduce and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes until the pears are tender.
Drain the pears, keeping the cooking water. Put the pears into a blender and blend until pureed. Add the dried baby rice and a little cooking water or baby milk or yogurt to make smooth.

Final Thoughts: Safely Storing Homemade Baby Foods

When you make homemade baby food, it may not get eaten all at once. That is okay because you store the leftover baby food in the fridge or freeze. Put the homemade baby food into an airtight container and put it in the fridge for three days or less. Or put the homemade baby food in an ice cube tray stored inside a plastic bag or with a snap-on lid.

Freeze the covered ice cube tray for up to 3 months. When you need some baby food, you simply snap out one of the little frozen cubes of food. Melt the serving in a bowl in the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds. Let it cool before you give it to your baby.

Even the pickiest baby will love these delicious organic recipes. They’re very basic, but you can be creative and add the flavors you know your baby loves. Who knows, you may join your baby eating these delicious homemade baby foods.

15 Organic Fruits That Help You Reach Your Weight Loss Goals

September 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

These days, most people are out to lose or at least maintain their weight. The search for the best foods for weight loss is constant. But the good news is that there is plenty of fruit that can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

The advantages of fruit for weight loss is that they’re healthy, they taste great, and they can satisfy sugar cravings, so you don’t end up reaching for the “really” unhealthy snacks. Plus, if you eat fiber-rich fruit, they can help you feel full longer so that you won’t consume as many calories throughout the day.

Here are 15 fruits that can help you with your weight loss goals.

This list contains fifteen scrumptious fruits. Some are familiar to most of us. But we also included some surprising picks for those who feel a little more adventurous. For optimal wellness, select varieties that are organic, as they are chemical-free and greener an option.

1. Passion Fruits

Passion fruits are tropical treats that deliver to you potent nutrients. There are a lot of varieties, but purple and yellow are the most common. The fruit is small, so you may need several to make up one cup.

Passionfruit is remarkably high in fiber, so it’s great for people on a diet. On average, you’ll get about 25 grams of fiber per cup, which is almost 100% of the daily recommended amount. It’s also packed with vitamin C and contains piceatannol, which helps to improve insulin sensitivity in overweight people, especially if they have type 2 diabetes.

2. Pomegranates

Pomegranates are red, juicy, seed-like fruit that has excellent health benefits. They are full of antioxidants, polyphenols, and conjugated linolenic acid. These help you to burn fat, boost your metabolism, and suppress your appetite.

Pomegranate juice is immensely popular for people trying to lose weight. This beverage is a favorite because of the great natural taste and the fact that it’s a suitable replacement for sugary drinks.

3. Oranges

Most people know that oranges are one of the best sources of vitamin C you can get. Did you know that they’re also an excellent source of fiber? This info means that snacking on oranges can help prevent you from overeating.

Another remarkable property of oranges is that it contains nobiletin. This substance proves to be absorbed by metabolites easily. This kicks metabolites into overdrive, which aids in weight loss. Oranges also have high water content so that they will hydrate your cells.

4. Blueberries

Blueberries are a perfect fruit for people to eat who are on a diet. They taste good, they’re low in calories, and they are packed with nutrients. In fact, blueberries reportedly have so many health benefits that everyone should probably eat them.

Blueberries pack your body full with antioxidants. Research tells us that the combination in blueberries is excellent at blasting abdominal fat. This information is great news for people trying to drop pounds in their midsection.

Add blueberries to your overnight oats or cereal to sneak in several tablespoons every morning.

5. Pears

Pears make excellent weight-loss food. They are high in fiber, low in calories, and are some of the tastiest fruit on the market. Plus, they have a high water content – over 80% – so you get a large fruit that will keep you full without packing on the calories.

Pears have a consistency that makes them great to cook. For this reason, they are used in many recipes. Pears have almost unlimited potential to fit into any diet plan.

6. Star Fruit

Star fruit, also sometimes called Carambola fruit, is a star-shaped fruit that is so low in calories that it’s almost negligible. It’s full of vitamins, antioxidants, electrolytes, and fiber. In fact, it has one of the highest concentrations of fiber out of all fruit.

Star fruit juice is rare to find in stores, but the fruit is great in smoothies or shakes. You might need to take the time to find it at a store near you. But we promise, your taste buds will thank you for the efforts! That’s because it has a great taste, making it an excellent snack for people on a diet.

7. Guava Fruit

Guava fruit is a low-calorie tropical fruit from Central America. It is full of antioxidants, electrolytes, and fiber. This means that snacking on guava fruit will make you feel full without adding excessive calories to your diet.

Guava fruit is, on average, about 37 calories per fruit. Studies tell us that guava fruit helps lower blood sugar. For people with diabetes, this is extremely helpful in their quest to lose weight.

8. Strawberries

Strawberries are incredibly high in fiber and exceptionally low in calories. Indeed, you can get about 50% of the daily fiber you need from about 200 calories worth of strawberries. This data means that strawberries are excellent at keeping you full between meals.

Besides the high fiber content, strawberries also have adiponectin and leptin. Both substances boost your metabolism and enhance fat-burning in the body. This favorite berry is an excellent summer fruit to help you achieve your weight loss goals.

9. Apples

The health benefit of apples is no secret. They’re one of the most popular fruits that comes to mind when people think of healthy or clean eating. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile because there are so many varieties. And, you can get creative in adding them to salads for extra crunch (forgo the croutons!). Of course, you can bake with them, as well.

Apples are great for weight loss because they are both satisfying and filling and low in calories. While farmers harvest these treats in the autumn, you can cold store them year-round.

10. Avocados

Avocados are an exceedingly popular fruit and are well-known as a fruit that’s great for people trying to lose weight. They contain monounsaturated fats (MUFAs), which are good fats. These fats help you feel full longer, so you don’t overeat.

Besides the MUFAs, avocados are a great source of electrolytes which help to break down carbohydrates and build muscle. The best part is that avocados are a low-calorie food, so it’s easy to add them to your diet. Plus, they are the basis for yummy guacamole, which you can easily add to many dishes.

11. Papaya

Papaya is a great, nutrient-dense fruit that is excellent for people on a diet. It contains a plethora of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also has a satisfyingly sweet taste that makes it an excellent replacement for unhealthy, sugary snacks.

Papaya does have high natural sugar content. However, it’s one of the low glycemic index fruits, so it doesn’t spike your blood sugar. This tasty treat is great for people with diabetes who may be looking for something to satiate a sweet tooth.

12. Kiwi Fruit

Kiwi fruit is a small fruit that is rich in taste, vitamins, and fiber. However, it is not rich in calories, so it’s a great fruit to eat if you’re trying to lose weight. To get the most out of your kiwi fruit, proper maintenance is key, including techniques like kiwi fruit pruning new zealand. Pruning helps ensure your kiwi plants produce the best fruit and stay healthy.

Kiwi is famous because of its naturally sweet taste. The sugar in kiwi is natural, so you don’t have to worry about it affecting calorie intake too much. It’s a great replacement for high-sugar snacks.

13. Watermelon

Besides being one of the best-tasting fruits out there, watermelon has plenty of health benefits. The water content of watermelon is through the roof (hence the name). It’s made of 90% water, so it’s shallow in calories and will also keep you hydrated through the hot summer months.

Watermelon is also fiber-rich, so it can keep you full between meals. It’s a great fruit to eat if you’re trying to lose weight, and you need to stay hydrated throughout the day. Keep in mind that watermelon has a high natural sugar content so it may not be the best choice for people with uncontrolled diabetes.

14. Raspberries

Raspberries are one of the most popular and tastiest berries out there. In fact, they contain raspberry ketones, a chemical that is being mass-produced and marketed as a miracle fat-burner in a bottle. However, you don’t need a raspberry ketone fat burner if you eat raspberries.

Besides the ketones, raspberries are also full of fiber, vitamin K, and electrolytes. Plus, they’re very low in calories, making them ideal for a diet. Plus, they have a great flavor that is delicious to most people who eat them.

15. Blackberries

Blackberries are the compliment to raspberries. This summertime berry is low in calories and high in fiber content. This berry makes it the perfect snack for people who want to lose weight.

Blackberries have a great flavor that can satisfy any sugar craving. They even boost your brain health. They’re also full of fiber, so snacking on a cup of blackberries can save you from overeating.

Final Thoughts on Fruits That Help You Lose Weight

It’s nothing new stating that fruits are great when you’re trying to lose weight. In general, they’re low in calories and high in all the other stuff you need to be healthy. Therefore, some fruits are better than others when it comes to blasting away those pounds.

You want to eat fruit that is fiber-rich because fiber helps to control your appetite. The fruits in the list above are all full of fiber and other nutrients. Adding them to your diet will surely help you with your weight-loss goals.

10 Reasons Why You Should Include Probiotic In Your Diet

September 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Probiotics are often discussed in the world of health and diet, but what are they exactly? Of course, a probiotic is a live microorganisms, mainly yeasts and bacteria, that provide benefits to the human body.

Typically, when you hear the word “bacteria,” you think of something negative. But not all bacteria are harmful. Probiotics are some of the best kinds of bacteria your body will get! They keep your digestive system healthy and strong, preventing unwanted toxicity and bacteria imbalance.

This reason is why many experts recommend consuming probiotics regularly. They’re great for your gut and have many more benefits besides.

Here are ten remarkable reasons why you should include probiotics in your diet.

1. Cholesterol Reduction

Cholesterol is often defined as fatty substances like lipids start clogging up your arteries and veins. This scenario can lead to all sorts of health problems, such as increased risks of cardiovascular disease. Thankfully, studies have shown that probiotics have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. To elaborate, they:

Help reduce bad cholesterol and total cholesterol levels
Reduce the risk of heart disease
Provide a more general health boost

That said, probiotics do not provide the same kind of dramatic results you can get from specific drugs. However, probiotics might be a gentler, more general solution should you wish to avoid more harmful side effects like muscle wasting found in cholesterol-lowering medications like statins. They will also promote brain health and stroke prevention via this same mechanism.

2. Mood Improvement

Several studies show a strong correlation between good gut health and positive mental health for both animals and humans. Here’s a few examples of these studies:

“Clinical and metabolic response to probiotic administration in patients with major depressive disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial” in Nutrition (2015). This study showed that after eight weeks of consuming probiotic supplements, patients with depression had less difficulty with positive thinking and showed lower levels of hormones like insulin and inflammation.
“Effect of Probiotics on Central Nervous System Functions in Animals and Humans: A Systematic Review” in the Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (2016). Researchers have proven that supplementing diets with probiotics for just 1-2 months can create a significant improvement in one’s struggles with memory, positive thinking, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
“The effects of probiotics on mental health and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in petrochemical workers” in Nutritional Neuroscience (2016). A study done on 70 chemical workers showed a remarkable improvement in the participants’ mental and general health after consuming probiotics daily for six weeks.

3. Travel Diarrhea Relief

Many of us suffer from diarrhea while trying out new cuisines on our trips to foreign destinations. If you are hoping to find a way to stop that, this might be a solution for you.

According to experts, it is possible that probiotics may assist in protecting us against traveler’s diarrhea. This is because probiotics might help us:

Maintain a healthy gut flora
Boost or assist our immune responses
Create ideal results in our digestive system
Return our gut’s microflora ecosystem to a healthy state after it has been disturbed
Prevent digestion difficulties with foreign food
Create a stronger digestive microflora
Reduces the risk of diarrhea

However, it should be noted that the effects are minor. Additionally, it is uncertain as to which variety of strains – or their ideal dosage – is the one that will provide the desired outcomes. While the results look promising, more research is still necessary.

Of course, it’s best to discuss with your doctor in regards to using this as a potential treatment for traveler’s diarrhea.

4. Antibiotic Diarrhea Relief

Those who take antibiotics will find that a common side effect of such medication is diarrhea. This is because antibiotics are indiscriminate – in the process of killing off harmful bacteria, such remedies will also often kill off healthy bacteria.

There is, however, a way to counteract this. Research confirms that the right kind of probiotics may:

Reduce the risks of diarrhea caused by antibiotics.
Help prevent digestive tract infections.
Assist in maintaining a healthy gut flora.

For this particular task, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii were found to be the most efficient probiotic strain. So if you wish to take probiotics for this purpose, consider looking for these particular strains.

5. Reduction Of Duration Of A Cold

Colds and their symptoms can traditionally last up to well over a week before you can fully recover. Research shows, however, that probiotics may be incredibly helpful in this regard. Indeed, the paper in question shows that probiotics:

Has a modest, positive effect on preventing cold symptoms from manifesting
Reduces the duration of respiratory infections
Encourages faster recovery
Decreases the number of sick days required for a recovery
Can boost one’s immune system
Can help you feel better faster

This news means that if you find yourself struggling to recover from the symptoms of a cold, or just want to feel better sooner, probiotics may just be the pick-me-up you need.

6. Eczema and Allergy Relief

Despite the popular imagery of smooth, soft baby skin, common for babies and toddlers to struggle with eczema. It is easy to assume this is simply part and parcel of being an infant. There is proof, however, that this doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. For example:

A study has shown that infants bottle-fed on probiotic-supplemented milk saw an improvement in their eczema symptoms.
For babies who are being breast-fed, a different study noted a reduced risk of eczema in infants whose mothers consumed probiotic supplements during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Probiotics from a mother’s breast milk can help promote a healthy gut flora, which in turn can positively influence the health of an infant’s skin.

In adults, probiotics may:

Reduce inflammatory responses in those with milk and dairy allergies
Reduce eczema symptoms by reducing gut inflammation
Boost immune system functioning
Helps better digest milk and dairy products
Reduces the symptoms of lactose intolerance

So if you are breastfeeding and want your baby to have healthy skin, or if you find yourself needing an extra little boost in the skincare department, consider taking probiotic supplements for that purpose.

Take time to learn the link between waist size and gut bacteria.

7. Bone Strength

It is natural for bones to simply get weaker over time, as bone density decreases. This is primarily due to the deterioration that happens with age as hormones change, and the body becomes more vulnerable. As a result, bones will often become more susceptible to fractures and osteoporosis once you are older.

A study has shown, however, that it’s possible for probiotics to:

Help prevent age-associated bone loss.
Regulate calcium and phosphorus metabolism
Contribute to the strengthening of bones
Reverse or combat mineral density loss

This is primarily due to the relationship the body has between the gut microbiome and bone metabolism. Probiotics encourage a healthier gut. Plus, they increase the rate of metabolism for bone minerals and subsequent bone density in the process.

However, there is not sufficient research to properly support this idea. Should you be interested in considering this line of treatment, do try discussing it with your doctor.

8. Protection Of Premature Infants

Premature infants, unfortunately, can be vulnerable to many sorts of infections. One of these infections is a severe bacterial infestation based in the intestines. This condition is partially from the lack of beneficial gut bacteria that premature babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) lack.

Thankfully, there is a solution to this. Indeed, breast milk is a good source of probiotics that the mother already has. Then these probiotics pass on to an infant via nursing. This is important. Research proves that probiotics can counter such life-threatening gut infections by:

Introducing good gut bacteria to the intestines
Help promote healthy gut flora.
Support a healthy digestive system
Crowd out any bacteria that aren’t beneficial to the body
Reduce the risk of bacterial infections

As such, breastfeeding a premature baby – and by extension, introducing probiotics to their intestines – helps protect them from such deadly gut bacterial infections. At the same time, probiotics can also help them better absorb and digest milk.

9. Probiotic Treatment Aids in Vaginal Infection Treatment

It may seem strange, given that probiotics are primarily associated with one’s digestive system. Additionally, research confirms that probiotics may help treat vaginal infections when taken with antibiotics. This is because probiotics:

May help repair the damaged microflora system of the vagina
Helps replace the bacteria killed by the antibiotics with beneficial microbes
Assists in keeping a healthy vaginal microflora in check
Improves the effectiveness of an STD treatment
May help improve cure rates of vaginal infections

It should be mentioned that trying to treat vaginal infections alone with probiotics is not a viable solution. Instead, probiotics should be taken as a supplement with the appropriate antibiotics to guarantee the best possible outcome.

10. Weight Loss Aid

Our ability to maintain a healthful weight is entirely dependent on our diet. With that in mind, it’s essential to also note that the ability to digest our diet effectively is also a pivotal point in maintaining a healthy weight – something that probiotics can help with.

For example, probiotics may:

Assist with preventing the absorption of dietary fat
Forcing fat to be excreted instead of storing it in the body
Increasing the levels of certain hormones that promote longer satiation time
Promotes more calorie burn
Discourages the storage of fat
Help directly with weight loss, as proven by a study.
Reduce belly fat, as shown by a study
Help with healthy weight gain, as shown by a different study.
Improve the digestive capabilities of the intestines

More studies are necessary to solidify the relationship between probiotics and body weight. However, the said connection is an obvious fact that we cannot ignore. So if you find yourself struggling to reach and maintain a healthy weight, perhaps the solution to your troubles might be probiotics.

Final Thoughts On These Excellent Reasons Why You Should Include Probiotic In Your Diet

Probiotics are fantastic for the body in so many different ways, and their positive effects simply cannot be overlooked. From skin to bones and immunity to digestive, you will find no shortage of ways that these microorganisms can help you.

Finally, you will find probiotics in your local grocer. So consider purchasing everyday foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, kombucha, miso, pickles, sauerkraut, tempeh, and other fermented consumables. Probiotic supplements are also available. However, you should speak with your doctor before taking any form of supplement!

20 Text Messages to Send to Strengthen Your Relationship

September 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Surprisingly, sending text messages to your partner can help strengthen your relationship. When they know you are thinking of them, it’ll deepen your connection and let them know you are supportive. Even if you think your partner knows how you feel about them, they still need to hear it. They’ll appreciate the thought, and it’ll make their feelings for you more substantial, too.

While sending text messages can strengthen your relationship, it can harm the relationship if not done correctly. Sending sweet text messages to let your partner know you are thinking of them is perfect. On the other hand, you shouldn’t use text messages to:

apologize
discuss important issues
make decisions
send too many text messages without getting anything in return

Text Messages to Send to Strengthen Your Relationship

Every relationship needs consistent work to strengthen your relationship. New relationships require work to build and maintain the bond that is developing. Send these text messages to strengthen your relationship and show them how supportive you are and how much you care.

1. “Good morning! I woke up thinking of you, and I still can’t stop.”

When your partner knows you’re thinking of them first thing in the morning, it’ll make them feel good. They’ll see that they are essential to you and that you want them to know it. Plus, it will make them think of you, too, and they’ll be looking forward to spending time with you.

2. “I can’t focus on anything else today because I can’t stop thinking about you.”

When you can’t stop thinking of someone, let them know. Better yet, if they are making you distracted, let them know that, too. They will be flattered that you are thinking of them so much, and it will make your relationship stronger.

3. “Good night, my love. I’ll be thinking of you while I drift asleep tonight.”

Telling your partner that you’re thinking of them before falling asleep is sure to strengthen your bond. It’s a sign that you want to be more serious and that you aren’t thinking of anyone else. When they receive that text message at night, they’ll likely spend their night thinking of you, too.

4. “I am so proud to have you in my life. You’re an inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for our future together. You amaze me.”

When your partner knows you are supportive and proud of them, they’ll love you even more. You should always praise your partner’s achievements and efforts. Plus, you should always let them know that you are impressed by them.

5. “You make me a better person. I love who I am when I’m with you.”

Spending time with the right person can make you strive to be better. Without even realizing it, you will be the person you want to be when you are with them. Let your significant other know this, and you may find out they feel the same way about you.

6. “I woke up thinking it was going to be a bad day, but then I remembered that I get to see you later. I can’t wait for that moment.”

Reaching out to someone you love is the best way to make a bad day better. Thinking about spending time with them later will make it even better. If you let them know this, they’ll feel giddy and excited about seeing you, too.

7. “I still get butterflies when I think about you. You’re on my mind all day, and I am so grateful that you are mine.”

If you let your partner know you still get butterflies when you think about them, they’ll be happier, too. Since these feelings tend to wear off, they’ll appreciate knowing you still feel excited about being with them.

8. “I feel at home when I’m with you, and right now, I’m missing home. I can’t wait to cuddle and spend some time together.”

When you feel at home with someone, you know you’ve found something special. They’ll know it, too, as long as you communicate those feelings with them. It’s a sweet and romantic text to send, and they’ll be looking forward to the time together, too.

9. “I never knew I could love someone as much as I love you. Thank you for coming into my life and choosing to stay here. You mean so much to me.”

Those who haven’t found the right person may not realize how strong that love will be. Once you know it, however, make sure to keep that person around. Let them know you are appreciative of your time together and let them know how special they are.

10. “I can’t stop thinking about your smile, and that look you get in your eyes. I’m fascinated by you, and I spend all my time looking forward to seeing you again.”

Pointing out the things you love about your partner is sure to strengthen your relationship. They will learn to love those things about themselves, too, if they know that you do. Never underestimate the power of flattery with someone you love.

11. “I want to know everything there is to know about you. All of your secrets, thoughts, and memories. Mostly, I want to listen to your voice as your eyes light up while you tell me.”

Wanting to know the deepest secrets of someone means you want a stronger relationship. You have likely already realized it, and your partner will recognize it after receiving this text. It will give them a good feeling all day, and they’ll look forward to sharing.

They’ll want you to share your secrets, memories, and thoughts, too. This will give you a stronger bond and bring more meaning to the relationship.

12. “I’ve been thinking about you all day. Can I see you tonight?”

Letting your partner know you have been thinking of them will make them excited and happy. Then, letting them know you hope to see them that day will make it even better. They’ll be excited to make plans and spend the rest of their day looking forward to it.

13. “Because of you, my life is amazing. I’m so proud of all you have accomplished, and I’m thankful for what you do. I’ll support anything you do in the future because I want to be there for it all. I love you.”

Always let your loved ones know when you are proud of them. They’ll see that you are supportive and caring. Plus, if you let them know you are thankful, too, they’ll feel even better about the relationship.

By telling them that you look forward to being by their side in the future, they’ll know you’re genuinely invested. This will help them open up to you, ensuring the strengthening of your relationship.

14. “I can’t stay away from you. My life seems perfect when you’re around.”

When you can’t stay away from someone, and you’re happy to be there, let them know. Letting your loved one know how special they are to you will deepen the relationship you have. Never keep these feelings to yourself if you want to see the relationship grow.

15. “I don’t know a lot about life, but I do know I never want to let you go.”

There are so many unknowns in life, and pretending to know everything doesn’t help. When you admit you have faults and don’t know everything, your partner is more likely to believe you. So, when you follow it up with not wanting to let them go, they’ll believe it.

16. “You deserve everything you want in life, and I want to make sure you get it. I’ll spend my time making sure you’re happy.”

When someone knows you want to do anything in your power to bring them happiness, they’ll be more trusting. This will allow them to open up more quickly and come to you for comfort.

17. “Thank you for being so good to me. I’m glad you are in my life.”

Always thank someone for being good to you and making you happy. Show your appreciation for them, and they’ll be sure to love you more.

18. “I keep thinking about the fun we have together. You always make me appreciate life more. I had the best time, and I can’t wait to do it again.”

Bringing up positive memories from the past can help strengthen your relationship. It’ll bring back those happy feelings and make them want to experience it again.

19. “I’m so lucky to have you. I don’t say it enough, but I appreciate you more than you know.”

As stated before, letting your loved one know that you appreciate them is beneficial to your relationship. When they see that you feel lucky, they will feel blessed, too, knowing they have someone so thoughtful.

20. “I can’t help but smile all day, thinking about how happy you make me. Spending time with you is the best part of my day.”

When your partner knows how happy you are to be with them, they’ll feel the love. Let them know you enjoy spending time with them and that they are important to you.

Final Thoughts on Text Messages to Send to Strengthen Your Relationship

Remember to let your partner know when you are thinking of them. Tell them your deepest feelings, and make sure they know how special they are to you. Studies show that communicating in intimate ways is essential to building a healthy relationship. These types of text messages can allow you to communicate more effectively. When you can read and edit before you hit send, you’ll be sure to send the right message.

7 Simple Ways To Change How You Think And Live

September 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Change is inevitable. It can be frightening, it can be sought after, and it can even be so subtle that it goes unnoticed, but one thing remains constant: change is always happening all around you.

If you’re looking to change aspects of your life for the better, you’ve probably found that it’s much easier said than done. Luckily, with the right habits, you can take steps towards improving yourself and enacting change in yourself in the best ways possible. Here are seven simple ways to change how you think and live.

1. Don’t Dwell On Regrets

Regrets are a part of life. It’s normal to experience some degree of remorse over past actions, missed opportunities, and bad decisions. But that outcome does not mean you should dwell upon your regrets and let them consume you. According to research, there are six familiar sources of regrets:

Career
Education
Leisure
Parenting
Romance
Self

Be aware–your mind may automatically fall to these regrets if you have any within these subjects. You must learn to work past these feelings if they exist. Speak to a therapist or similar mental health professional about working through feelings of regret. You’re more energetic when you learn from them without letting them weigh you down.

2. Learn To Reflect By Asking Why

Self-reflection is an indispensable tool for those seeking to impart positive change in their lives and thoughts. When something happens that you feel could have gone better or that you know went badly, pause and dig deep into yourself. Why did this happen? Some questions you can ask yourself are:

Why does this situation bother me?
Why did their actions hurt me so much?
Do I have difficulty with this task or circumstance?
Where are these emotions stemming from?
Why did I have such a strong reaction to that situation?
How can I prevent a lousy reaction next time?
Could I have avoided this?
How could I have aided the situation?

These questions encourage you to look inward and find answers that exist in your subconscious. They allow you to think, hard, about your actions and thoughts and where they come from, thus allowing you to begin making changes to prevent repeats of the same incident.

Don’t forget. You can also self-reflect when good things happen! To self-reflect on the positive, ask yourself these questions:

What led to my success?
What motivated me to reach this achievement?
How did I feel when I was in that favorable situation?
How can I replicate this again in the future?

3. Learn To Love Learning

School systems can make us learn to dislike the process of learning and gaining knowledge. But without all the confines of those rules from your school days, you can, instead, begin to learn on your terms. This new habit can be a lot of fun and is a great way to sharpen your mind and gain the knowledge you need to change how you live and think.

But where do you begin? How can you start learning and enjoying the process? Here are some ideas:

Read more books
Watch informational documentaries or videos.
Take a class in an exciting subject.
Start learning a new hobby.
Learn from friends or mentors

4. Use Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are powerful tools. They are often used as mantras to be repeated to oneself every morning in the mirror before work, school, or other responsibilities. These affirmations have a fantastic effect on positive thinking, allowing you to slowly fake it till you make it, growing to believe in yourself more and more in the process.

Think about the kind of change you want to see in your life. Then, pick a confident, specific, and forceful statement that moves you towards your goals by affirming that you are the person you wish to be. Finally, repeat this statement for at least ten minutes, once a day:

I am strong enough to overcome all odds.
My intelligence makes me a valuable worker.
I maintain healthy relationships with my friends.
My efforts bring fruit.
I am smart, beautiful, and valued.

When making your affirmations, try not to make these mistakes:

Using The Words “Will” or “Shall.” These words put your success permanently in your future and never in your present. Stick to terms in the present tense.

· Putting Anything Negative In Them

Don’t make your affirmations negative, even when the overall message is still right. For example, instead of saying, “I am not harmed by adversity,” say, “I overcome adversity.” It doesn’t seem like much, but that negative spin can affect your chances.

· Giving Up

At first, you will feel silly saying your positive affirmation. That’s normal, and it may take a while before you don’t feel weird repeating them. The goal here is a fake it till you make it type of deal. The more you say these words to yourself, the more you will believe them, and soon when you tell them, you’ll know you’re speaking the truth.

5. Focus On Your Goals

Goals are what motivate you. They’re what you strive towards, against all the odds. When you turn your attention to them, you give power to yourself to change to meet them.

Of course, additional problems can arise if you don’t set goals in a positive or helpful way. Luckily, there are a wealth of tried and true scientific methods to ensure that you set goals correctly. Here are some actionable tips that could be helpful:

· Set Goals You Can Hold Yourself Accountable For

Vagueness is a death sentence for goals. Only set goals that you can actively hold yourself accountable for. To do so, make goals that have definite deadlines, have specific requirements, and can be easily kept track of.

· Make A Motivational Board

Goals are often intangible. You can’t really touch them or even view them directly on a daily basis; they exist only in your mind. A motivational board, also known as a dream board, can give your goals some physical substance to hold onto. Stick pictures, articles, handwritten goal lists, and similar items onto your motivational board and look at it every day. You’re manifesting your goals into a physical form, and that can be very powerful.

· Be Flexible

A lot of people are a bit too steadfast with their goals. Yes, perseverance is a beautiful thing, but that doesn’t mean you have to set your goals in stone. If situations surrounding your life change, your goals can change with them. There’s no shame in needing to make changes to goals depending on your abilities or circumstances. In fact, that’s part of the best method to set goals in the first place! So be flexible.

· Make Sure You Feel Challenged

Goals aren’t worth much if you don’t feel like they’re actually challenging you. Too-easy goals will make you become complacent, and your progress will stagnate or, at best, you’ll achieve a goal that won’t actually be that significant. Make sure your goals are challenging and challenging – but not impossible or too tough – to attain!

6. Be Grateful

A little gratitude goes a long way. Research proves that being grateful can improve social interactions, boost positive thinking, and reduce the risk of developing symptoms of depression.

Still, sometimes, it’s hard to feel grateful, and you may get caught up in the downsides of life. If that applies to you, never fear! Here are a few tips for being grateful in your everyday life:

· Appreciate What You Have

Every day, stop and take stock of all things you have in life that you appreciate. This list can range from something as simple as a roof over your head and having a job to more complex situations, like your witty personality, sharp thinking skills, or the strength you have to overcome difficulties. If you like, you can even keep a gratitude journal, where you write three things you’re grateful for each day.

· Learn To Move Your Thought Patterns To Gratitude

It’s natural for many people to take notice of the bad in their lives before even beginning to notice the good. This is often because the positive parts of life can be quite constant and quickly are taken for granted, while negative things impede areas of life and draw your attention and annoyance. The next time something bad happens, stop. Then, engage in a deep breath and shift your thoughts to blessings and little things that bring you joy. You’ll find plenty of wonderful things you may have been overlooking!

· Savor Your Successes

A lot of us don’t take a good amount of time to celebrate our successes and achievements. Don’t make this mistake. There’s nothing wrong with giving yourself credit or celebrating a little when you achieve a goal or find success. Cement this victory in your mind and remember that feeling of joy, excitement, and fulfillment. This is a win that you should remember and look back on, so you appreciate your achievements and how far you’ve come.

7. Accept Who You Are

Here’s the truth of the matter: there is only one person who can change how you think and live, and that person is you. The irony of it all is that you can’t change yourself if you don’t like yourself first. Yes, really!

Why is this the case? Well, if you don’t love yourself, you won’t be able to work towards improvement in the way that you want to. Think about it – do you want to help people you don’t like? The same concept applies to yourself. You’re not going to want to help yourself to the true best extent of your abilities if you dislike who you are as a person.

It can be difficult to accept yourself, but here are some ideas for how to begin working on it:

Practice regular self-care
Admire yourself in the mirror
Give yourself treats now and then.
Repeat positive mantras
Appreciate the person that you are

Final Thoughts On Some Simple Ways To Change How You Think And Live

It’s certainly not easy to enact big changes in your life. The way you think can be so ingrained in you that you struggle to overcome it. But by following these seven simple ways to change how you think and live, you will, slowly but surely, find methods that work for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help from loved ones or mental health professionals if you need it!

Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!