Page 588

12 Life Lessons To Take Away From a Failed Relationship

May 15, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Not all relationships last forever, but you can learn many life lessons from a failed relationship. Sometimes, we have to meet certain people to learn important lessons; oftentimes, the wrong relationships lead us to the right person eventually.

While not everyone sticks around throughout all the chapters of our lives, we meet every person for a reason. If you’ve just gotten out of a relationship recently and feel heartbroken about it, we hope the following advice can help you move through it.

“Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” – Marilyn Monroe

Here are 12 important life lessons to take away from a failed relationship:

Overthinking causes more pain in the end.

At the end of the relationship, you may feel tempted to ruminate about every situation and conversation in your head so you can try to figure out where it went wrong. Of course, this is natural to some extent – when something goes awry in life, we want to dissect it so we can learn from it. However, too much analysis and overthinking just leads to misery, as you can never go back and change what happened.

While you should try to learn from what happened, you shouldn’t dwell on the past. Feel your emotions, talk about them with friends and family, and then allow yourself to move on. You only hurt yourself more when you overthink what went wrong in a failed relationship.

Learn to become your own best friend.

Sometimes in relationships, we forget to love ourselves as much as we love our partner. Then, when they leave, all of our self-worth and happiness goes right out the window. If you don’t cultivate self-love, you will depend on someone outside yourself to give it to you. However, relying on someone else to accept you means that you will never feel totally fulfilled.

If you don’t feel complete within yourself, you’ll need constant validation from your partner or others. At the end of a relationship, ask yourself how much you depended on your partner for self-esteem and validation. If you feel empty without them, this makes the perfect opportunity to go deep within yourself and heal any wounds from the past. Once you become your own best friend, you’ll have even more love to give in your next relationship, and you’ll feel more whole as well.

A failed relationship can teach us forgiveness.

If you felt undervalued or unloved in your last relationship, you might feel like getting revenge on your ex or blaming them for everything that went wrong. However, harboring resentment will only result in adding more stress to your life. Bottling up feelings can actually cause physical health problems as well. A 2013 study by the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Rochester found that people who bottled up feelings had a 30% higher risk of all-cause mortality and a 70% higher chance of a cancer diagnosis.

So, instead of wishing harm on your ex or trying to blame them for the failed relationship, try to forgive them instead. You’ll find that you feel much lighter by accepting what happened and choosing to forgive their mistakes. Remember also to not beat yourself up for the relationship ending and extend that forgiveness to yourself as well.

Healing takes time.

You’ll go through many different emotions after a breakup. People usually experience the following emotions, in any given order:

anger
shock
sadness/depression
emptiness
loneliness
relief
acceptance
excitement

You might go through several cycles of these emotions before things start to feel normal again. Just remember to give yourself time and space to heal from the relationship. Some days you’ll feel like you’ve moved on, and others will feel like you’ve had your heart ripped from your chest. Just know that healing doesn’t happen overnight and that your feelings are totally justified.

As much as it might tempt you, don’t run back to your ex.

After breaking things off with your significant other, you will probably get rid of all the reminders of your relationship, such as old photos or keepsakes. However, the memories will linger and will tempt you into getting back with them on those lonely nights. If the relationship didn’t work out, getting back with them will only create more of the same problems you encountered before. In other words, leave the past behind you, and remember that you ended things for a reason. Wish your ex well, and feel grateful for the time you got to spend with them.

Cherish the good memories and what you learned from the relationship.

While you might dwell on the person’s negative attributes and why you feel so much better without them, this will only lead to feelings of resentment. Try to think of the good times you shared with your ex as well. Just because someone no longer holds a place in our lives doesn’t mean we have to paint them in a negative light.

If you focus on the bad qualities of someone, this only lowers your frequency. However, if you can speak about your ex in a mature, respectful way, this shows you’ve moved on and have an appreciation for what you learned from your time with them.

Don’t try to numb the pain.

At the end of a failed relationship, many people drown themselves in drugs, alcohol, or other unhealthy habits to cope with the pain. Or, they might just keep extremely busy, so they have no time to deal with their feelings. These harmful coping mechanisms won’t work long-term, because you’ll have to face your feelings eventually. You need to give yourself time to go through the emotions instead of creating constant distractions for your feelings.

You can move on from a relationship while also allowing yourself space to process the breakup.

Use this as an opportunity to learn more about yourself.

In a relationship, many people feel that they lose themselves since they spend so much of their time with their partner. Hobbies and even personalities can blend together until you don’t know where you end, and your partner begins.

Healthy relationships have clear boundaries, but some relationship partners experience enmeshment and codependence. In that case, the healing process will take longer as you’ll feel you need to find yourself again.

No matter if the relationship ended on good or bad terms, you could use your newfound freedom to your advantage. Figure out what you enjoy and what makes you happy, without having to depend on anyone else for it. Create your own joy in life and keep busy with hobbies that interest you.

Choosing a positive outlook will help you in your recovery.

In a study of emotional distress after a breakup, researchers studied participants’ positive or negative emotions about the failed relationship. They asked participants about how often they thought about the relationship, depression, loss of self-concept, rediscovery of self-concept, negative emotional adjustment, and positive emotional adjustments.

Researchers found that participants had greater recovery if they felt positive emotions about the breakup, for example, being happy, satisfied, or relieved. The optimistic thinkers didn’t dwell on the relationship as much, had less anxiety about being single, and had fewer regrets.

Take the positives from the relationship and apply it to your next one.

What went right in your last relationship? What qualities did you learn about yourself that could help your future partner feel more loved, whole, or accepted? Make sure you take time to think about what qualities you brought into your previous relationship that made it more harmonious. Just because it didn’t work out doesn’t mean you can’t learn from the positives.

A failed relationship can teach you where you still need to work on yourself.

Expanding on the last point, think about what you could improve about yourself in the next relationship. Did you nag too much, set your expectations too high, or hold grudges? Give the silent treatment too often instead of communicating? Think about how you can work on yourself to become better, not only for yourself but for your future partner as well.

Life doesn’t always turn out how we plan it.

Perhaps one of the most important lessons to take away from a failed relationship is that life just doesn’t always turn out how we expect it to. The solution? Don’t have any expectations at all. Just enjoy the ride and learn from every person you come in contact with; they all have something to teach you or learn from you.

Final thoughts about lessons to learn from a failed relationship

Not everyone can stay in our lives forever, but not everyone is meant to. Some people come and go, but they all have lessons to teach us. You can learn important things from a failed relationship, such as forgiveness, how to become your own best friend, and how to just ride the waves of life.

If you’ve recently gotten out of a relationship, we hope these life lessons can help shift your perspective and remind you that just because a relationship failed does not mean you did. You learned and grew from it, and that’s a beautiful thing!

How Lymph Drainage Can Fix Bloating (and how to do it)

May 15, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Have you ever had a cold or sinus issue that made your nose drip? There’s nothing worse than postnasal drainage. Do you ever stop and think of what is causing this malfunction and the annoyance that comes along with it?

Your immune system is fighting hard to eliminate foreign invaders, and your dripping nose is just a reaction to your lymphatic system, which is a part of your immunity. Recently, there has been a growing interest in lymph tissue massage. These massages can be done on the head, ears, trunk, and abdomen.

The 411 on Lymph Fluid

If you want to see if your swelling problems are from a lymph issue, you must first understand this fluid. The lymph is clear, and it’s full of white blood cells. The body uses this liquid to help you detox. The fluid originates from the critical parts of your system, which lie under the primary layers of skin.

Where in the Body Does Lymphatic Fluid Originate?

Lymph is a byproduct of your blood vessels, lymph nodes, and valves. As the fluid travels through your body, it picks up impurities like bacteria and viruses, which the immune system filters. Without this vital fluid, you would be extremely sick or even perish.

There are times when the lymphatic fluid cannot be drained from the body because of a malfunction in the immune system. Things that can cause this problem include radiation therapy, an infection, or surgery. You will notice the area of concern because it will swell, which causes a condition known as edema or lymphedema.

One of the most common places for this fluid to build is the legs. If you ride in a car for a long time, you will experience swelling in your feet, ankles, and calves. The swelling and dullness are constrictions caused by the overabundance of fluid, which can be excruciating.

Did you know you can drain your lymphatic system without medical or surgical intervention? Thankfully, lymph drainage can be done through massage and other gentle manipulations.

The Overabundance of Lymph Fluid

The main goal of lymph drainage is to allow the cells to function correctly. Unlike the other systems within your body, this one is independent. It has a reduced functioning capacity because it’s not connected to your digestive system or blood.

Have you ever seen a person with a large belly who looked pregnant but wasn’t pregnant? A tumor, cyst, or lymphatic system issues can cause it. People with too much lymph in their bodies can appear overweight, but it might be all fluid. Some doctors dub this obesity “fake fat,” as it goes away when it finally drains.

4 Ways to Promote Lymph Drainage Naturally

Remember, this system is independent, so it doesn’t have help from the blood and other organs to move around your body. Sometimes, it gets stuck and needs your assistance to reach the proper location. If the lymph fluid doesn’t reach the nodes, it cannot trigger the immune system to respond.

Thus, it sits in a specific location and can cause serious problems. However, you can fix your lymph drainage issues quickly. Here are the steps to fix this dreadful issue:

1. Move Your Body

Moving your body is the best way to get your fluid collection to start progressing. When you start walking, the fluid has no choice but to move about. Though walking helps, activities that cause the body to move quickly and rapidly can have more of an effect.

As you exercise, your muscles start contracting to meet the demands and pressure you are putting on your system. Additionally, the vessels within your lymphatic structure start working overtime to meet the demands due to the strain of the workout.

Would you be shocked to hear that jumping jacks are the best way to get drainage to occur? Jump on the trampoline with your kids or jump rope. It will be a great workout and will make your swelling go away.

Why do you think so many doctors say that you need to stop and get out and walk when you’re on a long car trip? Moving around is going to get the fluid where it needs to be. Since edema is so common when you sit for long periods, getting up and doing some physical activity reverses the fluid buildup.

2. Give Yourself a Massage

If you have someone who can massage you in the area of trouble, that’s great. However, you can do it yourself if you can easily reach the problem zone. If you have dreaded swelling and “fake fat” that is often talked about, then you can help lymph drainage to occur by doing a massage daily.

When you start pressing and rotating the skin, it helps to remove old skin cells that clog your sweat glands. Did you ever wonder why some people sweat and others don’t? It can be because their sweat glands are clogged or blocked completely.

Your sweat helps to remove waste from the body, and a massage can help to remove those cells to get things flowing again. When massaging the area, you must rub in the direction of your heart. The significance of this maneuver is that it helps the lymph fluid to move quicker, which can help the detox process.

Do you have inflammation in your joints that is painful and causes a loss of motion? A lymph buildup often causes it, and you can take care of it without medical intervention.

Learn how to avoid water retention.

3. Use a Detoxification Tea

Manjusha powder is known as the blood’s cleanser because of its detoxification properties. Do you like to drink tea? Did you know that mixing half of a teaspoon of Manjusha powder into a cup of tea it can keep lymph moving freely?

You won’t even need to worry about lymph buildup when you take a detoxification tea that keeps these problems at bay.

4. Use Herbal Supplements

Many herbs are incredibly beneficial in detoxifying the body. One that is gaining in popularity is guggul. It’s still rare in the United States, but this Indian herb comes from the bdellium tree in the native land.

Locals have stated for centuries that this herb can do great for people who have fatty liver, cirrhosis, or other problems with this vital organ. The fact that it can break down fatty deposits, too, is beneficial.

When to Avoid Lymph Drainage Activities?

While lymph drainage is a good idea in most situations, there are a few times when it’s best to avoid such activities. Here are five instances when it’s best not to use massages, teas, or exercise to drain your excess lymph.

1. Active Internal Bleeding

If you are having any internal or external issues, that is causing you to bleed. You shouldn’t do any activities until the bleeding stops.

2. Cancer or Undiagnosed Tumors

If you have cancer anywhere in your body, you don’t want to spread any fluids. Additionally, if you have a tumor or cyst that a doctor hasn’t diagnosed, don’t do any of these activities until you have a formative diagnosis.

3. You Have A Fever with Inflammatory Disease

If you have an inflammatory disease, like Rheumatoid arthritis, and you have a fever, avoid any lymph drainage activities. Wait till the fever breaks, and then you can proceed with holistic treatments for lymph.

4. Circulation Problems

If you have circulation problems, your lymph fluid can cause your heart to work harder. You should avoid a massage or other drainage activities when there are issues like thrombosis or a compromised cardiac system.

5. Pregnancy

Lastly, if you are pregnant, then it could be dangerous to do any lymph drainage activities. You don’t want to do anything that will cause harm to your baby.

Final Thoughts on Performing Lymph Drainage at Home

Occasional bloating or swelling issues are considered normal, especially when you’ve been sitting for long periods. However, lymph drainage problems need to be addressed as they can be painful and cause difficulty in walking.

Some people are at a greater risk of developing swelling from lymph fluid. People who are obese seem to be more likely to develop lymphedema than those who are at a healthy weight level. Though obesity is one concern, there are all sorts of conditions that can block the fluids and cause it not properly to circulate through the body.

While the medical community may want to do surgery or drain an area, there are ways that you can holistically take care of the problem without going under the knife. Plus, you can be proactive if you have problems with swelling and edema. By drinking teas and making sure you get enough exercise, you can ward off any problems with swelling before they begin.

5 Things Men Need In A Relationship (That They’ll Never Admit)

May 14, 2020 by Power of Positivity

In today’s culture, many carry the thought and assumption that the man in a relationship has to be this strong and perfect individual. Some believe that men must bear the world on their shoulders without showing any weakness. This macho mindset actually can do more harm than good, though.

That’s because gentlemen need certain things in a relationship. But, out of fear of being seen as less of a man or showing weakness, they will never admit they need.

Luckily, all you need is a little perception. And it helps to know a little about how men think to figure out all you need to know. Here are the five things that most men will never admit they need in a relationship. But let’s face it, they do.

5 Things Men Need (but won’t admit!)

1 – Strength, Support, and Presence

It’s typical for many men not to want to talk about their problems. Instead, they just tough it out and figure things out on their own. Men enjoy solving problems and like to fix things. They are always looking for a way to improve the situation.

The frustrations that can come along with that problem-solving nature can be intense, though. They grow increasingly worried when facing a problem that seems unfixable or a situation that they feel powerless against or entirely out of their control.

When men come up against difficult problems, your support and presence are vital. Just knowing they have someone in their corner or someone to talk to when they hit that wall and can’t break through means the world. Just don’t try to force your support on them.

Men can be very independent when it comes to problem-solving. Additionally, they can be almost stubborn. Men need your support and care, especially when under stress. When it comes to helping your partner with their problems, think of them like a cat. Let them come to you when they’re ready instead of smothering them in affection and support.

The important thing is to make yourself available and provide that rock for them to lean on when they need it. There are plenty of ways men can try to stay strong during even the toughest times. But sometimes what they need most can’t come from within but from others. Make sure you’re close by when they realize that and come to you for help with their troubles.

2 – Your Approval, and Ability to Let Go

While most men will probably never admit it, we think the world of you, and a big part of that is your opinion of us. Many men actually feel very insecure about their partner’s feelings about their actions and lifestyle, continually judging themselves and wondering if they’re measuring up. Many men need to see their partner happy, and it can be crushing, seeing their partner get upset, especially if it is over something they did.

When men do get it right, let them know it. Knowing we have your approval, even over the little things, can be a huge confidence boost. Let us know how proud you are. And tell your special someone that he made the right call. It can be effortless just to focus on the negatives. So definitely make an effort to point out both the good and the bad.

On the flip side, if we have screwed up, which we inevitably will, men want women who will treat us as equals. Nobody is perfect, and we all make mistakes sometimes. So don’t hold it against your partner when they do eventually slip up and make a mistake. It’s ok to get mad for a little while, but try not to hold a grudge.

Forgive them, move on, and give them another chance. Nothing hurts more than feeling like you’ll never live down that one mistake, or that you potentially ruined a relationship, so don’t put your partner in that kind of position by holding a grudge over the little things.

3 – Your Touch

Intimacy is an essential part of any relationship. But we’re not just talking about fun in the bedroom. While most of the time, guys get a bad reputation for just wanting physical contact and sex in a relationship, regular physical contact is a natural part of any relationship. Physical contact goes a long way to making men feel loved and appreciated in a relationship. They enjoy the little things like being held, holding hands, or just being a shoulder to lean on.

Men need some form of contact, and a relationship without any kind of physical affection can quickly feel cold and emotionless. A little bit of warmth goes a long way, so don’t be afraid to show a little bit of love here and there.

On the other hand, you don’t need to hang all over them wherever they go. Smothering your partner with love might be overdoing it, and just like anyone, men need their own space sometimes too. The sweet spot between too little and too much affection varies from person to person, so keep an open mind and be receptive to their body language and signals to make sure you’re not overdoing it.

If you do get the sense that your partner needs some space or just needs some alone time, let them do their own thing and let them recharge. It’s normal for guys to want to develop some interests that you don’t both share. This helps them recharge their batteries.

Read their signals, and if they seem to be avoiding you, then you might be overdoing things. Give them their space and give them the chance to miss you and come back when they’re ready. Otherwise, you’ll likely just end up driving them away.

4 – Your Loyalty and Trust

Men need your trust. It’s that simple. It’s important to note that not every guy is looking to sleep around behind your back or try to cheat on you. There are some guys out there who are just after a good time, but if you’ve been burned in the past, don’t project that assumption on to every guy you meet.

Males want you to trust them. It can be emotionally frustrating having to prove their loyalty continually. When push comes to shove, many guys might not find it worth the effort if you’re always putting them through the wringer over every person they’ve spoken to or why they’re friendly with the waitress at the restaurant you’re at.

Unless they give you a good reason not to trust them, cut your partner some slack and at least go into things with an open mind, rather than trying to be always on alert trying to catch them doing something.

On the other hand, trust is a two-way street. While men want your trust, they also want your loyalty. They want you to be the only one for them. They want that commitment. Show that commitment by supporting them when nobody else will, staying by them through thick and thin, and making sure they’re the only romantic love in your life.

5 – Your Friendship

Your friendship with your partner is the foundation for everything. You likely started as friends before dating, and if not, then a deep bond formed as you got to know each other better. Men want to know more about you and continue deepening that bod that started it all.

Don’t be afraid to talk about your day, share stories, discover new hobbies, and do activities together. At the end of the day, we just want to spend time with you and enjoy your company.

Take some time to plan outings or date nights, even long after you’ve settled down. It not only helps keep things fresh and exciting, but it also gives us the chance to keep learning more about you and keeps us comfortable and secure with who you are outside of the relationship. Yes, you may be someone’s partner, but you’re also still you, and there is plenty about that to fall in love with over and over again.

Final Thoughts on the Things Men Secretly Want in a Relationship

Between the tough-guy culture that’s conditioned men to keep everything bottled up and carry the world on their shoulders, and many misconceptions about men being misogynists, pigs, and cheaters that kill many chances at relationships before they even get off the ground, it’s understandable that many times women don’t know what men really want.

Media and our culture have skewed the rational expectations of what men should be so much. So you’ll have to put all of those assumptions aside if you ever want a relationship to really work.

Many of these needs are also very subjective, and everyone is different. While most men appreciate and do well with many of the items on this list, finding that perfect balance really comes down to proper communication between you and your partner.

Some guys are more of the loner type who prefer their space. Others are like puppies who absolutely love attention. Some guys are more open with their emotions, while others can hardly put their feelings into words. Remember, everyone is different, so try not to judge or base expectations on your current relationship off of your last one either. That’s not fair to your party, nor yourself.

10 Ways to Make Fingernails Healthier and Stronger at Home

May 14, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Properly caring for your fingernails is a simple thing you can do to improve your appearance. You don’t have to go to a nail shop to maintain healthy nails. Proper nail care at home can enhance the look of your nails and support cuticle health, too.

Nails are made of keratin, which is a fibrous protein. You can improve nail and hand health by eating healthier and keeping nails neat and clean.

This article will focus on practical things you can do at home to optimize cuticle health. You will also learn some tips for obtaining healthier hands.

Ten Ways for Healthier, Stronger Fingernails (from the comfort of home)

You can skip the time and money you spend at the salon by caring for your nails at home. Here are some tips.

1. Trim Nails Neatly for Healthy Hands

Neatly trimmed nails are attractive. They also show others that you care enough about your appearance to stay well-groomed.

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s essential to keep nails trimmed for health reasons, too. Your fingernails can house germs, dirt, and bacteria.

If you wear your nails too long, you run the risk of spreading diseases from your nails to your mouth whenever you eat or touch your face or mouth. Long nails can also spread germs from one person to another.

2. Avoid Synthetic Nails

Gel manicures make nails look shiny and pretty. If you are choosing between acrylics or gel, gel manicure is long-lasting and doesn’t require much maintenance.

However, according to the American Academy of Dermatologists, gel nails can cause long-term damage to your nails. Constant use of gel nails could raise your risk of skin cancer and cause your hands to age prematurely.

Other side effects of gel nails are as follows:

Nails become brittle
Nails may split or crack.
Peeling nails

Also, allow periods of rest for your nails in between gel manicures. You should also perform essential maintenance on your nails, especially when you’re getting gel manicures.

Here are a few tips if you still choose to wear gel nails from the salon:

Request that your manicurist sterilizes all equipment.
Do not allow your manicurist to cut or push your cuticles back aggressively. Light pushing of the tissue is okay, but if you feel pain or discomfort, ask your nail tech to stop. Damaged or cut cuticles makes you susceptible to infection.
Apply sunscreen to your hands before your manicure. SPF 30 or higher helps prevent premature aging, and it reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Do not peel off your gel polish. Instead, ask your nail technician to have the polish professionally removed.
While removing gel nail polish, soak just your fingertips in the acetone. Placing your whole hand or entire fingers in acetone can irritate the skin.
You could use cotton balls dipped in acetone to remove the polish. Press the cotton to the nail only, and then wrap each fingertip in aluminum foil. This wrap ensures that only the nailbed soaks in acetone. Wait about fifteen minutes, then peel off the foil.

What doe your fingernails reveal about your personality?

3. Take a Break from Nail Polish

The right nail color can brighten up any outfit or fit perfectly with a particular season of the year. However, wearing nail polish all of the time can weaken your nails and jeopardize your healthy hands.

When changing your nail color, you should choose an acetone-free polish remover. You should also go through periods of several weeks in which you don’t use nail polish. This break gives your nails time to heal and strengthen.

4. Don’t Abuse Your Nails

Some people make a habit of doing difficult tasks with their nails. They may use their fingernails to pry open bottles. Some people also use their fingernails to scrape food off of plates when washing dishes.

Doing these tasks with your nails can cause them to become weak and brittle. When nails are weak, they split and sometimes crack. Rather than using your nails to pry into something, either use your hands or use a tool designed for the task.

5. Don’t Neglect Your Cuticle Health

The tissue of your cuticles can become dry and flaky, just like the skin on other areas of your body. Dry skin is especially common in cold climates. Still, regardless of where you live, you should be mindful of your cuticles. Do the following:

Rub a regular skin moisturizer on your cuticles daily
Do not cut your cuticles off. Doing so can damage your nails or allow harmful bacteria to infect nails.
Use an acetone-free nail polish remover on your fingernails.

You should also wear gloves when doing household chores. For instance, exposing your nails and cuticles to water while washing dishes can dry out your hands. This habit makes your nails and cuticles more susceptible to breaking and flaking.

6. Eat a Diet Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

A diet rich in healthy fat, calcium, and protein can help support healthy nails. Lean proteins you to try include the following:

Turkey
Chicken
Salmon
Fish
Shrimp
Beans
Soy products
Plant-based proteins

To increase your calcium intake healthily, eat the following:

Greek yogurt
Milk
Cottage cheese

To get healthier fingernails, you could also try increasing your intake of healthy fats. Healthy sources of fat include almonds, canola oil, and olive oil.

7. Don’t Bite Your Nails

According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, there are several side effects of nail-biting. For instance, constant nail biting can damage nail tissue and cause nail soreness. Nail-biting also makes nails look unsightly and ragged.

When you put your fingers in your mouth, you can also transfer viruses and bacteria from your fingers into your mouth. This habit makes you more susceptible to illness.

8. Inspect Your Nails for Signs of Infection

Nail fungus is a common problem. It’s more common on toenails because fungus lives better in warm, dark places. However, some people get nail fungus on fingernails, too. To properly care for your nails, be aware of the signs of nail fungus:

Yellow or white spots underneath the nails.
Your nail(s) turn green, black, white, or yellow.
Nails become thicker, making them harder to cut or trim.
Nails curl upward or downward.
Nails crumble when you touch them.
Nails become brittle and break easily.

If you have nail fungus, over time, you may notice soreness in your nails. In severe cases, a person may wince when walking due to nail fungus pain. Some people are disgusted by the sight of fungus.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from germs when you go out.

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of getting nail fungus. Consider the following guidelines:

Only have your nails done at state-certified nail shops. Always ask what the nail salon does to sterilize the equipment.
Change your socks daily, especially if you sweat a lot.
Do not cut or tear away cuticles. Doing so can let germs into your skin.
Do not share towels or nail equipment with anyone who has nail fungus. This practice may spread the infection.

If you do develop nail fungus, you can often treat it at home. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a fungal cream or lotion.

9. Keep Your Nails Clean

Whenever you wash your hands, you should also be sure to clean your nails. Scrub underneath the fingernails to remove dirt and grime. Dry your hands and nails carefully. Be aware that soaking your hands in water causes nails to become brittle.

10. Don’t Bite Your Nails

Nail-biting is considered a nasty habit for some people. It spreads germs to your mouth. Nail-biting also allows you to spread bacteria from your mouth to others when you touch them.

Aside from being an unpleasant habit, nail-biting comes across as a nervous habit. Some people will judge you as being anxious or dishonest based on fidgeting or biting the nails. Constant nail-biting may send the wrong message when you’re being watched closely, such as during a job interview.

Aside from making you appear nervous, nail-biting also makes your nails look ragged and ugly. You can damage your nail bed, too. Your fingertips might even become sore if you bite your nails too close to the skin.

While experts at the Mayo Clinic do not think nail biting can cause long-term nail damage, it can have short-term effects. For instance, it can damage the skin around the nail, which increases your risk of getting an infection. If your nails are hard and you bite heavily on them, you can also run the risk of damaging tooth enamel.

Final Thoughts on Maintaining Healthy Fingernails at Home

Healthy nails are considered attractive. If you want to make yours as beautiful as possible, keep them clean and neatly trimmed. Do not bite your nails. To prevent nails from chipping, do not use them to pry into items or scrape them across surfaces. Doing these basic maintenance tasks can help you maintain neat and healthy nails.

Inspiration: My five simple wishes for you . . .

May 14, 2020 by Kristen Butler

My five simple wishes for you . . .

1. I wish you happiness.

You’ve been through a lot this year. Even though life may not have gone as planned, I hope you are being gentle with yourself. May positive thoughts come in waves stronger than negative ones. Remember, happiness is already within you.

May you find moments where you give yourself permission to be happy, no matter what is happening. Right now, you deserve to show up for you. Choose to see the silver lining.

May happiness be with you.

2. I wish you peace of mind.

For many right now, the world feels crazy and uncertain. When we look around we see and hear of sadness, chaos, and misfortune.

It’s more challenging than ever to train our mind to relax and stop worrying. It’s more important than ever to find peace. Breath in peace, and exhale worry and stress.

May peace be with you.

3. I wish you unwavering faith.

With all the negative news out there, we can easily become cynical and worry. These are the times we need to cling to faith and trust in the process. Things will get better if we stay positive in thought and feel the blessings of our belief.

Allow the light to shine into the darkness and illuminate it so brightly we cannot miss the solution when it arrives. You can only choose one, faith or fear. Faith will take you anywhere.

May faith be with you.

4. I wish you abundance.

It’s okay to be more and want more. It’s your divine right. Allow yourself to be open and receptive to new opportunities. Become a magnet for prosperity.

Feel grateful for the good you already have in your life, and worthy of more. You deserve to live comfortable and receive all the good things that you desire. Abundance can flow into your life in new and exciting ways.

May abundance be with you.

5. I wish you Love.

No matter where your heart may be now, remember, you are worthy of all the love that you are seeking. Love is the greatest healer. You are love expressed in physical form.

Honor who you are by loving yourself unconditionally. Let love guide all of your relationships. Love is our greatest power. I hope it wells up within you, overflowing into the lives of others.

May love always be with you.

May these wishes give you all that you need… please pass this on.

20 Things That Reveal You Might Be Clairvoyant

May 14, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Have you always felt like a square peg in a world of round ones? How many times have you had a gut feeling about something, and it turned out to be true? The phone rings, and you often know who it is before you look at the caller ID. Do you chalk it up as a series of coincidences, or is there more to it? Maybe you have a special gift from the psychic realm. Have you ever considered that you could be clairvoyant?

Understanding Psychic Gifts

Clairvoyance is a French word that means to see clearly. People who claim to be clairvoyant have misty glimpses into the future, also called premonitions. They claim to see people, places, and events in the past and the ability to foretell the future.

Occult experts label psychic gifts in a bundle called Extra Sensory Perception, or ESP. According to them, some people have a heightened awareness that can affect one or more of their five senses. For this reason, ESP is often called the sixth sense.

In addition to clairvoyance, you may have clairaudience, which means you hear clearly into another realm. If you are psychically empathetic, you may tune into smells and tastes from the past, called clairscent and clairgustance. A heightened sense of touch is known as clairtangency.

A person can have one or all these clairsenses, but the most common is clairvoyance. Perhaps you have the gift of mediumship and can channel your energy into the spirit realm for answers about the future. If you do have a special gift, you are among millions of people who have claimed to have one in the past and present.

For the spiritually intuitive, feelings about others and situations go beyond what they seem. As you explain things, you may often use the words feel and see rather than think. It’s not that you aren’t intellectual. Instead, it means that your brain and spirit are in sync.

Am I Clairvoyant? (20 Questions That Reveal Your Gift)

If you want to probe further into your psychic abilities, there are simple ways to confirm them. Instead of hiding your special gift, perhaps it’s time to embrace it. Here are twenty things that reveal you could be clairvoyant.

1. Have You Always Felt Different?

Clairvoyant people usually say that they never fit into their family or community as a youth. Maybe it’s because they could see and hear things other people couldn’t. If you’ve always felt like an outsider and someone born out of your time, you might have the gift of clairvoyance.

2. Do You Have an Affinity for Animals and Nature?

Are you most comfortable when you are surrounded by your loving pets or in the great outdoors? Can you look into an animal’s eyes and feel a psychic bond? In many ancient and modern cultures, animals are deemed to have a unique connection to the spirit world.

3. Do You Have Vivid Dreams That Often Come True?

Perhaps family and friends have always called you a dreamer. If you have clairvoyance, you often have vivid dreams and can recall them with ease. Some of your dreams may be so lucid, and you may feel like you are awake.

While some dreams can be the result of creative imagination or overeating at night, others may be too realistic to disregard. Furthermore, many of your dreams often become a reality. It’s a hallmark of clairvoyance.

4. Do You Often Experience Déjà vu?

You visit a town that you’ve never been in, and the whole layout seems strangely familiar. Have you ever been introduced to a new person and felt you have always known her? The French call it déjà vu, a feeling that you’ve been somewhere or known someone in the past.

5. Have You Seen Spirits of The Departed?

If you are clairvoyant, you may have had your share of supernatural visitors. Some of these spirits may be dearly departed loved ones or people that you’ve never met. Often, these spirits convey messages to you from beyond the grave.

6. Do You Often Hear Disembodied Voices?

Clairvoyance is usually accompanied by clairaudience, and you may hear voices that other people can’t. If these voices are menacing and encouraging you to harm yourself or others, you may be battling mental illness and need medical attention. However, clairvoyants can see and hear people who have passed and usually have positive interactions.

7. Do You Have a Paranormal Pedigree?

Psychic gifts are usually passed from one generation to the next. As you talked to your parents, grandparents, and other loved ones over the years, did they ever share stories about their psychic abilities? You can claim your rightful heritage of clairvoyance.

8. Are There Energy Surges When You Walk into a Room?

Clairvoyance and other psychic gifts are energy forces, just like electricity. If you are psychically charged, it may affect appliances and lightbulbs when you enter a room. It’s a sure sign that you’re in tune with your clairvoyance and other psychic abilities.

9. Have You Always been a Daydreamer?

You’ve admitted that you are a lucid dreamer at night, but do you also have vivid daydreams? Some people call them visions or premonitions. Do you often see events playing like a movie even before they happen? You may be experiencing a second sight.

10. Have You Always Had an Affinity for the Paranormal?

You’ve heard of the law of attraction, that like calls to like. Maybe the reason you’ve always been drawn to the paranormal phenomenon and psychic abilities is that you are gifted. Your clairvoyant nature resonates with the supernatural world around you.

11. Did You Have Imaginary Friends as a Child?

Children often create imaginary friends as their creativity blossoms. Sometimes, their make-believe playmates are products of loneliness. However, the kids whom only you could see as a child may not have been imagination, but the spirits of departed children.

12. Do You Have a Unique Eye for Beauty?

If you have clairvoyance, your natural eyes are usually as keen as your spiritual ones. Supernaturally gifted people often excel in the arts and have an exceptional appreciation for all things beautiful. You may feel most comfortable when you are surrounded by the splendor that mirrors those in your mind.

13. Are You Drawn to Certain People?

As a spiritual empath, you have probably been attracted to certain people through the years without understanding why. In your psychic eyes, maybe you identify with a person because of her psychic abilities, or you have a warning about her. Either way, your clairvoyance is a life-long magnet for these things.

14. Do You Often See Strange Flashes of Light?

Before you claim this as a spiritual sign, be sure that a medical condition isn’t the reason. However, those with clairvoyance often see brief flashes of light or strange orbs floating around the corner of their eyes. If you experience this, you may have a heightened sense of a presence in the room.

15. Do You Often Feel Like Someone is Watching You?

As unnerving as it sounds, clairvoyants often sense that others from another dimension are watching them. You may sense this too, as well as chills going up and down your spine and getting goosebumps. Perhaps the spirit world is trying to communicate with you.

16. Are You a Psychic Sensory Gage?

Those who are spiritually sensitive are often blasted by sensory impulses as soon as they enter a spiritually charged room. You may feel temperature changes or feel an unexplained heaviness in your soul. Light flashes or orbs usually accompany these impulses.

17. Do You Have a Keen Sense of Direction?

Maybe one of the reasons that women often have a better sense of direction than men is because they are more apt to be clairvoyantly gifted. Your sixth sense often guides you with confidence in places you’ve never been to. You may instinctively know directions without technical guidance.

18. Are You Often A Good Judge of Character?

While we all can be fooled sometimes by a clever chameleon, you may often size people up accurately. Have you ever met someone who seems genuine and pleasant, but your inner voice sends up red flags? Your clairvoyance could be warning you to stay away.

19. Do You Think You Have a Spiritual Gift?

If you are clairvoyantly gifted, some of the things you have shared with people over the years rang true to them. Do you ever have an overwhelming urge to share a warning about a friend with him, and not know why? Perhaps you’ve been told more than once that your foresight was right on target.

20. Do You Believe You’ve Lived Before?

Many people with psychic abilities attribute them to past lives. If you have lived before, maybe your mind remembers details and stores them in your collective memory banks. Your visions could be in part from the scenes and experiences from another incarnation.

Final Thoughts on Embracing Your Clairvoyant Gifts

Just by wondering if you have clairvoyance suggests you already know the answer. Of course, you do, because it’s your destined gift. If you can answer yes to some or all these questions, you may consider ways to enhance your gifts to help others on their paths.

5 Red Flags That Reveal a Malignant Narcissist

May 14, 2020 by Power of Positivity

A malignant narcissist is a term applied to the most severe form of narcissistic personality disorder. This person feels an absolute need for full power. Couple that compulsive need to control others with a demand to be the center of attention. The combination makes this person intolerable to those around him or her.

The Meaning Behind the Term “Narcissism”

For those who are curious about where the term narcissism comes from, it is derived from Greek mythology. Furthermore, it is an interpolation of the name Narkissos, a young Greek man who was quite enamored with himself.

According to the mythical tale, Narkissos was the object of affection for Echo, a nymph who repeatedly professed her love. He rejected her adorations. Narkissos was so taken with himself that he would often spend hours and even days admiring his handsome reflection in various lakes. He believed that nobody, including Echo, was worthy of him.

While this is a fascinating story in Greek mythology, narcissism is, in fact, a real personality disorder. More than that, it is one that can quickly spiral out of control if an individual doesn’t seek treatment from a licensed mental health professional.

What Is a Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Now that we have a little more background relative to where the term narcissism came from let’s take a moment to learn more about what it means to have a narcissistic personality disorder. First and foremost, narcissism is classified as a cluster B personality disorder.

Individuals with this disorder often seek admiration from others but will seldom offer it in return. Further, they tend to prioritize self-importance above the needs and wants of others, including their friends and family.

Another hallmark of those with this particular disorder is a lack of empathy. Something else to note when it comes to narcissistic personality disorders is that they are surprisingly common in America, according to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The same study published by the National Institutes of Health also revealed that narcissistic personality disorders account for 20.2 percent of all mental health disorders in America.

The Primary Signs of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

That said, it is abundantly clear that there is a significant difference between having high self-esteem and equally high self-confidence and having a narcissistic personality disorder. Along with a preoccupation with one’s self and a constant need for admiration and validation, individuals with a narcissistic personality disorder will also exhibit behaviors that are in line with the diagnostic criteria 301.81 per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These behaviors often include the following:

Jealousy
Arrogance
A tendency to exaggerate one’s talents, achievements, or both
Remaining in a perpetual state of fantasy in terms of achieving or maintaining success and power
A tendency to be interpersonally exploitative

Indeed, narcissism, as a mental health disorder, can quickly push away friends and family while turning an individual’s life on its head. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent these things from happening if one can recognize the signs of the disorder and also seek treatment from a licensed therapist.

The Different Types of Narcissistic Personality Disorders

Studies show that there are three subtypes when it comes to narcissistic personality disorders. And they include overt, covert, and exhibitionist. To better understand how each of these subtypes can impact an individual’s life, it helps to take a look at each of them individually:

The Overt or Malignant Narcissist

Also known as a “malignant narcissist,” this type of narcissistic personality disorder is one that often coexists with other psychological comorbidities, such as avoidant, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

It is important to note that overt narcissistic personality disorders are also quite common among those who engage in substance abuse. While there are many others, constant feelings of anger and hostility are two of the more notable signs that an individual might be struggling with an overt narcissistic personality disorder.

You may also hear this described as “grandiose” narcissism.

Covert Narcissism

Individuals with an overt narcissistic personality disorder are also struggling with comorbidities that make matters worse, some of which include anxiety and depression. Further, many also have low self-esteem. And to combat these feelings of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, they are often very critical of others. In essence, they build themselves up while subtly berating and tearing others down.

Exhibitionist

An exhibitionist narcissistic personality disorder is generally not accompanied by psychological comorbidities.

However, there is one exception. In times of crisis, such as a failed relationship or losing a job, for example, individuals with an exhibitionist narcissistic personality disorder may display signs of entitlement issues. It is also not uncommon for them to become self-centered and less empathetic toward others as they go through these crises.

What Is the Worst Type of Narcissism?

Any variation of a narcissistic personality disorder can have a profound impact on one’s life. The NPD diagnosis also impacts to mention the lives of those around them. Some are worse than others. And this is especially the case when it comes to malignant narcissists in that they are very anti-social and extremely paranoid.

What’s more, they derive a perverse pleasure in acting out aggressively and engaging in acts of sadism, especially when it comes to sexual gratification, according to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, one of the oldest monthly peer-reviewed medical journals. That said, most psychologists and psychiatrists will agree that malignant narcissists are not only a danger to themselves but also to other people in their life.

How to Tell If You’re Dealing With a Malignant Narcissist

Having established that malignant narcissism is the worst out of the three narcissistic personality disorders, let’s take a moment to recap the five signs that could reveal someone you know might have such a disorder:

1. Extreme Anti-Social Behavior

Although anti-social behavior is often associated with shyness, malignant narcissists are known to take things a step further. Their behavior is a peculiar mix of anti-social and narcissistic traits.

They will often isolate themselves because they believe that others are not worthy of their time, friendship, or attention. And in those rare instances when they do allow others into their life, they will try to manipulate or exploit them for their own gratification, according to Dr. Daniel Fox, a licensed psychologist, international speaker, and author located in Texas.

2. Sadism

Arguably one of the most identifiable signs of a malignant narcissist is sadism. Most people will feel and display some degree of empathy when someone they know is depressed or going through a difficult time in their life. On the other hand, a malignant narcissist is the opposite in that they feel more powerful when others struggle. And this is especially true if they played a role in the person’s misery.

Undoubtedly, most people will perceive this type of behavior as mean-spirited. It is akin to kicking someone while they are down. However, it is part and parcel when it comes to malignant narcissism, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, a quarterly academic journal providing information on topics related to psychiatry in America.

3. Malicious Plotting Against Friends and Family

Malicious plotting against an enemy is not unusual. Let’s be honest. A large percentage of people will look for ways to get back at someone who has wronged them.

However, those who engage in malignant narcissism will adopt the same mindset when it comes to friends and family. This behavior occurs even if the loved one didn’t do anything to justify such actions. Some of the more common forms of malicious plotting include lying and manipulation, which are both carried out with a high degree of sophistication.

4. Aggressive Behavior

Although aggressive behavior, for some people, commonly associates with anger. However, it is also another telling sign that you might be dealing with a malignant narcissist. Along with verbal altercations, individuals with this disorder will also engage in acts of physical violence without provocation. This behavior further explains why most psychiatrists consider this variation of narcissistic personality disorder the worst.

According to Craig Malkin, a clinical psychologist and lecturer at the famed Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, the aggressive behavior of individuals with a malignant-based narcissistic personality disorder is often a blend of the following:

Sadism
Psychopathy
Machiavellianism

5. Psychopathy

In some cases, a malignant narcissist might behave in such a way that blends seemingly innocuous narcissism with dangerous psychopathy. And this unique combination removes the guilt that they would otherwise feel when they harm or manipulate others.

This same combination of psychopathy and narcissism can also give way to verbal and physical altercations. And when things get to this point, most individuals with this disorder tend to be very cold and calculating when it comes to their verbal or physical attacks.

Final Thoughts on Malignant Narcissists

In summary, there is a world of difference between having a healthy, positive self-image and having a narcissistic personality disorder. Of course, any variation of the mental disorder is troubling. However, it is reasonably safe to say that the malignant narcissist is the most dangerous type. After all, it is as close as someone can get to being a psychopath without officially being diagnosed as one.

15 Quotes to Help You Love Your Body

May 14, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Learning how to love your body can be one of the hardest things in life to achieve. If you tend to your harshest critic, you probably struggle with self-love.

It seems that the harder you are on yourself, the further you get from being able to love your body. It’s essential to learn to love the way you look, however. The negative self-criticism doesn’t do any good, and you have to love yourself before you can expect anyone else to.

One way to learn to love your image is by reading quotes to help you love your body. These quotes come from those who have had the same struggles as you and learned to overcome it. These quotes can help you embrace your differences and what makes you unique.

15 Quotes to Help You Love Your Body

1. “True beauty comes from the soul. To change yourself and to conform to anyone else’s standards of beauty is to change your essence. Own who you are, and you become a truly powerful woman.” – Ali Tate

If you aren’t true to yourself, you’ll never be happy with yourself. You have to be who you are and be proud of it. Only then will you recognize and appreciate yourself and your body.

2. “I’m proud of my body, and you should be proud of yours too. No matter who you are or what you do. I could give a million reasons why you don’t need to cater to anyone or anything to succeed. Be you, and be relentlessly you. That’s the stuff of champions.” – Lady Gaga

The opinion or desires of others should not affect you in any way. If your body doesn’t meet someone else’s standards, ignore it. The only person who needs to love the way you look is you, and you should be proud to embrace it.

3. “I keep telling myself that I’m a human being, an imperfect human who’s not made to look like a doll, and that who I am as a person is more important than whether at that moment, I have a nice figure.” – Emma Watson

Your body isn’t supposed to be flawless. It’s supposed to be unique and special, and that’s what it is. What’s most important is the kind of person you are, and loving yourself will only contribute to your positive qualities.

4. “You have been criticizing yourself for years, and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” – Louise Hay

Since self-criticism didn’t work, maybe it’s time to consider a different tactic. As Louise Hay suggested, accepting yourself might be what changes things.

5. “Girls of all kinds can be beautiful – from the thin, plus-sized, short, very tall, ebony to porcelain-skinned; the quirky, clumsy, shy, outgoing and all in between. It’s not easy, though, because many people still put beauty into a confining, narrow box. Think outside of the box. Pledge that you will look in the mirror and find the unique beauty in you.” – Tyra Banks

Each person looks different, and there are infinite categories when it comes to body features. You can’t expect to look like someone else. Instead, you have to embrace what you do have. When you learn to love yourself, you’ll have the confidence that makes others see your beauty.

6. “If we make self-love or body acceptance conditional, the truth is, we will never be happy with ourselves. The reality is that our bodies are constantly changing, and they will never remain the same. If we base our self-worth on something as ever-changing as our bodies, we will forever be on the emotional roller coaster of body obsession and shame.” – Chrissy King

You have to love yourself no matter what, even when your body isn’t exactly how you want it to be. Learn to embrace the body you’re in, and appreciate the way your body can change and adapt.

7. “Your body is awesome. Curvy, big boobs, small ones, thin, athletic, voluptuous, J-Lo booty, or no booty at all – what you got is workin’ for you. Don’t let anyone tell you differently.” – Lindsay Tigar

When you love yourself, other people will love you too. Since you’re the only person who looks like you, show everyone else how amazing it is.

8. “I definitely have body issues, but everybody does. When you come to the realization that everybody does that—even the people that I consider flawless—then you can start to live with the way you are.” – Taylor Swift

Everyone has something about their body that they would change. You may hate the things about yourself that other people love or don’t notice about you. Instead of nitpicking and comparing yourself to everyone else, learn to love what makes you different.

9. “For young women, I would say, don’t worry so much about your weight. Girls spend way too much time thinking about that, and there are better things. For young men, and women, too, what makes you different or weird, that’s your strength. Everyone tries to look a cookie-cutter kind of way, and actually, the people who look different are the ones who get picked up. I used to hate my nose. Now, I don’t.” – Meryl Streep

Instead of obsessing over what you don’t like about your body, think of it as a strength. It’s what makes you different and what will set you apart from everyone else.

If you try to hide those differences, you’re only hiding what makes you unique. Doing that won’t get you where you want to be, and it’ll end up being the biggest obstacle of all.

10. “There’s only one of you, so why would you want to look like everyone else?” – Adele

No one can be you, and you shouldn’t want to be anyone else. Enjoy the fact that you’re different, and you’ll feel better about yourself.

11. “You can’t hate yourself happy. You can’t criticize yourself thin, you can’t shame yourself worthy. Real change begins with self-love and self-care.” – Jessica Ortner

No matter what negative thoughts you’re having about yourself, they won’t change the way you look or feel. Take care of yourself, and you’ll feel better.

12. “I refuse to let something as insignificant as a size or number on a scale determine how I feel about myself. I am grateful for my body, my health, and the life that I have, and no arbitrary number should have any impact on that.” – Iskra Lawrence

Stop beating yourself up about your weight. Embrace your body and love yourself. A number on the scale shouldn’t determine your self-love.

13. “There’s no need to glamorize one body type and slam another. We need to stop this absurd hatred towards bodies for being different sizes. It doesn’t help anyone, and it’s getting old. Just focus on being the best possible version of yourself and quit worrying about your thighs, there’s nothing wrong with them.” – Jennie Runk

There is no perfect body type, and it’s more glamorous that everyone is so different. Avoid shaming a particular body type, even if it’s your own.

Embrace the differences and love yourself as you are. The opinions of others don’t matter. The only thing that does matter is how you feel about yourself, and it’s crucial to find self-love.

14. “To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

No one except yourself can determine your beauty. Take the advice of Thich Nhat Hanh Accept yourself since you’re the one who matters.

15. “Fat is a trigger word. But if you use it often enough, it simply describes another one of your qualities. I think what helps me is taking the hurt out of the word. In the beginning, I called myself curvy, and all bodies have curves. So, I would always call myself curvy and get upset when people called me fat. Owning it gives me strength: yeah, I’m fat—but I’m also all the good things that I am.” – Tess Holliday

The word fat can be immediately painful if you allow it to have that effect on you. Stop thinking of it as a negative thing and just accept it. Remind yourself of your excellent qualities instead of fixating on something negative.

Final Thoughts on Quotes to Help You Love Your Body

Self-love can be difficult, and a large part of that issue stems from not being able to love your body. You can overcome this, however. Overcoming it is vital because you need to be able to enjoy who you are and the way you look.

Your opinion of yourself is the most important, and the way you feel about yourself reflects onto others. If you are confident in your body, other people will recognize what makes it so unique, too. These quotes to help you love the way you look should help you get on the right path.

12 Behaviors of People With High Emotional Intelligence

May 14, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Many people view IQ as the most important indicator of intelligence. But, is it?

Studies are finding that emotional intelligence is even more critical. Emotional intelligence means perceiving, controlling, and assessing your emotions and others’. This type of knowledge means knowing how to respond to someone without letting your emotions get the best of you. And it also means remembering you can’t control other people’s feelings.

“It is very important to understand that emotional intelligence is not the opposite of intelligence; it is not the triumph of heart over head—it is the unique intersection of both.” –David Caruso

People with high emotional intelligence contribute a lot of essential skills to society and may not even know it. Sensitive, emotional people are often considered weak or unproductive in society, but they possess different characteristics than their less sensitive counterparts. They have a way of seeing into the heart of people and smoothing out disagreements that may occur between more logical types. So, to sum it up, emotional intelligence gets downplayed a lot in society, but without empathy, our world would not function.

Psychologist and one of the pioneers of emotional intelligence, Daniel Goleman, wrote a book about how information doesn’t have much value if you lack empathy. In Dr. Goleman’s book, Emotional Intelligence – Why It Can Matter More Than IQ, he talks about five main components that make up emotional intelligence.

We will go over what he outlined in his book below and other behaviors of people with high emotional intelligence.

Here are 12 behaviors of people with high emotional intelligence:

1 – People with high emotional intelligence have high self-awareness.

According to Dr. Goleman, the first sign someone possesses high emotional intelligence is their level of self-awareness. Those with high emotional intelligence can keep close tabs on their emotions and control their reactions to other people. They never allow their feelings to get the best of them.

They don’t stuff their feelings away but don’t let their emotions steer the wheel. People with emotional intelligence pay attention to their feelings, so they don’t overreact or make bad decisions based on emotions. They also know themselves very well and set boundaries with people to maintain a sense of peace and autonomy at all times. People who are emotionally smart use this thoughtful gift to keep in touch with their inner selves and always gain insight into their feelings.

2 – They have a remarkable ability to control their emotions.

The emotionally intelligent ride the waves of their emotions and don’t attach themselves to them. They allow the feelings to come and go without labeling them good or bad. As humans, we all have fluctuating emotions, so if we feel sad today, then tomorrow, we might feel happy again. Knowing this, emotionally intelligent people keep a calm, even demeanor despite how they feel inside.

Emotional regulation is a crucial trait of the emotionally smart because you will always fall victim to the chaos around you without the ability to control emotions. However, if you can view your feelings as merely passing thought waves, you can ride the stormy seas and keep your ship afloat rather than letting the currents drag you under.

3 – They are motivated.

People with high EQ don’t allow themselves to play the victim. Indeed, they take full responsibility for their situation and life. They don’t let passing feelings get in the way of their goals, so they can focus on one task for long periods without fatigue. Many people feel tired just because their minds won’t shut off, but the emotionally intelligent know how to remain mindful, so they have higher productivity.

This doesn’t mean that possessing emotional intelligence keeps you from having bad days, but you’ll bounce back much quicker than those who don’t have a handle on their emotions.

4 – People with high emotional intelligence have a lot of empathy.

Emotionally intelligent people are some of the most empathetic people you’ll meet. Empathy means recognizing how someone feels and being able to relate to them. Those with a high EQ deeply care for how other people feel and always strive to make others feel better. They often get approached by others who feel comfortable sharing their problems and concerns because they give off such a caring, sensitive vibe.

Being empathetic means, you can usually tell how someone feels without them even having to say a word. However, if the person chooses to divulge details about their life, they will listen with open hearts and ears. They typically have excellent observational skills, and their intuition allows them to anticipate other people’s needs.

5 – They have excellent conversational skills

Despite the stereotype of emotional, empathic people being introverted and antisocial, emotionally intelligent people have excellent conversational skills. They can get to the heart of the matter quickly and easily because they don’t shy away from in-depth topics. They help lift and motivate others, making them appealing to hang around. Emotionally intelligent people have excellent leadership skills because they can observe problems and develop compassionate solutions.

6 – They adapt quickly to their environment.

Those with high emotional intelligence have a chameleon-like ability to blend in with anyone, anywhere. Whether they’ve just gotten a new job or have moved to a new city, people with emotional awareness can keep a positive mindset anywhere they go. Since they know that everything in life reflects their inner emotional state, they always try their best to maintain a positive one.

7 – They don’t try to be perfect.

People who are keenly aware of their emotions know that trying to attain perfection will lead to burnout and unhappiness. They realize that failing at something means more than never trying at all. That’s because they can learn many lessons in the process. However, shying away from new opportunities leaves no room for growth. Since they care more about improving themselves, they don’t let a fear of failure stand in their way.

8 – They understand how a healthy lifestyle benefits their emotions.

Emotionally intelligent people typically follow a healthy lifestyle. That’, because they know they can’t have a balanced mindset without caring for themselves. They go to bed early, meditate, manage stress, work out, eat healthily, and treat others kindly.

Their vibration radiates out to others because they care for their health on the inside and outside. These practices allow their emotions to remain in check, as well.

9 – They express gratitude.

High EQ’s have a glass-half-full kind of attitude about life. They don’t see the point in dwelling on what goes wrong because that only lowers their vibration. They know that to attract good things in life, you must focus on all the positives. These types feel thankful for what they’ve been given and try to give their share to others as well.

10 – They can remain focused on one task for long periods.

Even if they have a lot going on in their heads, they can cut through the chatter and focus on the task right in front of them. Since they can manage and control their emotions, they don’t allow boredom or fatigue to keep them from their goals. If they feel stressed, they get up and work out, stretch or do something else to release it. Then, they get back to work. They know when to take breaks but stay the course and always finish whatever they start.

11 – Those with high emotional intelligence are highly creative.

They may not have a typical creative job. But they always use their innate abilities in whatever field they work in. They typically think outside the box and can view a problem from a bigger perspective.

This creative juice allows them to come up with a solid solution to an issue because they use their natural curiosity for life and creativity to tackle problems. This also relates to being a good leader because these skills can be helpful in business.

12 – They don’t get offended easily.

Since they have a good idea of themselves and set boundaries with people, those with high emotional intelligence don’t get offended easily. They know that whatever others think and feel about them only reflects their inner emotional state. Thus, nothing outside themselves can hurt them. Therefore, they listen to others with an open mind. However, they never allow their inner state to become upset by turbulence or strife from others.

Learn how meditating can help you gain control over your emotional responses.

Final thoughts about people with high emotional intelligence

Overall, having high emotional intelligence means being aware of your emotions and others’. Tap into your inner emotions. You will access a whole new world of knowledge that will open up many doors. Of course, you can acquire these skills even if you don’t have them. Mindfulness and showing compassion for others can help increase emotional intelligence.

We would love to hear from you! What do you think is more important IQ or EQ?

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

Overthinking causes more pain in the end.

Learn to become your own best friend.

A failed relationship can teach us forgiveness.

Healing takes time.

As much as it might tempt you, don’t run back to your ex.

Cherish the good memories and what you learned from the relationship.

Don’t try to numb the pain.

Use this as an opportunity to learn more about yourself.

Choosing a positive outlook will help you in your recovery.

Take the positives from the relationship and apply it to your next one.

A failed relationship can teach you where you still need to work on yourself.

Life doesn’t always turn out how we plan it.

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!