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How to Encourage Each Other (Instead of Tear Each Other Down)

April 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Here’s an illustration of an ideal way we can encourage each other…

There’s a meme going around the social media world that says that a woman should be a person who fixes another lady’s crown without telling everyone that it was crooked. It’s one of the most powerful statements on the web.

The world today can be cruel. Some people will do anything they can to climb the corporate ladder of success, including stepping on a few individuals on the way up. However, you don’t have to be someone who tears others down just to promote yourself. You can be an atmosphere changer by learning to encourage others.

15 Ways to Encourage One Another

Negativity must stop. You need to recognize the value and beauty of every living thing. You need to understand the value and beauty of every living creature. If you’re wondering how you can change these negative patterns and help to lift others, then here are some easy ways to accomplish this goal.

1. Give Accolades

It’s always nice to be appreciated. Focus on positive things rather than negative ones, and it will change your entire life. You don’t have to be best friends with a person to tell them something beautiful about themselves.

Speaking positive things into the atmosphere thwarts negativity. If you want to make someone feel good about themselves, then admire an outfit, hairdo, cologne, or a personal style that seems to suit them.

2. Smile Often

You never know the burdens that another person carries. You may see them as angry, bitter, or even downright mean. However, it may be the load they have is so heavy that they cannot even muster a smile.

When you smile at them, you are letting them know that no matter how bad your day, I am still going to be a positive driving force. The beautiful thing about smiles is that they are contagious. You may be the one bright spot in their day by giving an encouraging smile.

3. Do A Random Act of Kindness

Random acts of kindness are a fabulous way to encourage someone. Have you ever been in a drive-through getting food and the car ahead of you paid for your order? How did that make you feel?

When you step out of your comfort zone and do one of these random acts, you show that good people are still out there. If a coworker is going through a rough spot, then a nice little deed can make all the difference in their day.

4. Let Someone Know You Care

Your words are powerful and can speak life to someone. There are going to be days when you want to scream and run from coworkers or relatives. Instead, let that person know that you understand that they are having a bad day and be a shoulder for them to cry on.

By speaking blessings to someone when they are at their lowest, it can be a game-changer. Remember, hugs are welcomed by many, and a pat on the shoulder is often all someone needs to make it through the day.

5. Give Cards or Flowers

Cards or flowers can brighten the day. Is there someone you know that could benefit from such a kind act? Cards are so inexpensive, but their impact is priceless.

While flowers may cost a bit more, they are the perfect gift for someone who is in a rough patch in life. Even though it’s a small deed, it certainly will not go unnoticed.

6. Post Some Sticky Notes of Gratitude

Frequently, it’s challenging to live or work with people daily. Little nuances that may get under your skin can quickly drive a wedge. Why not leave little notes of gratitude around the home or office?

Sticky notes on the bathroom mirror that reminds a person how beautiful they are can put a spring in their step. Why not put a note on a coworker’s computer that tells them how much you appreciate all they do at the office?

A little note of gratitude is sometimes just what a person needs to boost their self-esteem.

7. Help Someone in Need

Do you know someone in need? Why not help an older person by mowing their grass or raking their leaves? You can take food to someone who lost a job or is down on their luck.

There are so many needs right in your local community. Though you may not help the entire world, to the one you do help, you will be their world. Giving a basket of food to someone in need may be the only meal they get that day.

8. Listen

Have you ever had a day when you just needed to vent? Situations in life can stretch you to your breaking point. Be the listening ear that someone needs.

Some people are very private, and others welcome a conversation about what’s going wrong in their life. Let someone know that you are there if they need to talk. Don’t judge, just be there to listen to what is going on that is troubling them.

9. Be Patient

How many times in one day can you practice patience? It seems that the best place to practice this act is at the grocery store standing in a long line. It’s easy to point out all the things that the cashier could be doing to make the line move quicker.

The problem is that most people don’t recognize the stress that the cashier feels as they try to move people through the store quickly. Instead of huffing and sighing heavily at the slow-moving line, tell the cashier what a good job they’re doing.

So many people come through these lines angry and frustrated because they have places to go and things to do. However, you can keep that work from a breakdown by merely telling them you appreciate the excellent job they’re doing. Remember, a little gratitude goes a long way.

10. Send A Handwritten Letter

The only things that seem to come in the mail these days are bills and packages you order. People communicate through texts, emails, and phone calls. Why not go out of your way to send someone a handwritten letter.

The beauty of a handwritten letter is it shows a person that you took the time out of your busy day to do something special for them. Perhaps, it’s something that goes back to the “olden days,” but there is something beautiful about getting a letter made especially for you.

11. Tell Someone How Much You Love Them

Do you remember to tell your loved ones how much you care about them? Sure, they know you love them, but do you tell them how you feel? Your words of affirmation can be like water to dry land.

Hearing the words “I love you” tends to give hope in relationships and offer security that a person is there for you. Tell your children, spouse, parents, and relatives how much they mean to you by using those three simple words.

12. Don’t Talk Down to People – Talk Up

It’s impossible to think that with nearly 8 million people on this planet that everyone would get along. However, start looking at others as above you rather than beneath you.

It may be tempting to talk down to that coworker who seems to be slacking off in their work. However, speak up to them rather than down and watch your relationship change.

13. Volunteer Your Services

There are so many things that you can do to help others in need. Always be eager to help someone who needs it because you never know when the tides will turn, and you will be in their shoes.

Why not volunteer at a soup kitchen feeding the homeless or less fortunate? If you belong to a house of faith, you can always offer to clean or pitch in to do things that need to be done around the facility. Donate just a few hours each week and encourage others by your giving nature.

14. Give Homemade Gifts

Who do you know that could benefit from a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies? Why not bake or craft something for someone going through a difficult time? People love homemade goodies, especially when they know that you took time out of your day to make them smile.

15. Donate Items to Charity

Do you have things sitting around your home that someone else could use? While those bags of clothes you haven’t worn in years may be useless to you, it may be the ticket to a new job for someone in need.

Clean out your closets and find things that can help others. While it may be tempting to sell or even pitch them in the trash, someone can benefit from your used items.

Final Thoughts: Encourage Someone to Be A Shining Star in the Darkness

There are so many things that you can do daily to encourage others. Always smile, have a compliment ready to roll off the tongue, and never underestimate the power of a random act of kindness.

When you encourage others, you reap mounds of joy in your life. Plus, all the positivity you display in your life is right for your mental health too.

5 Respiratory Hygiene Habits That Help Prevent Viral Infections

April 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Everyone is concerned about germs. The social isolation that we face right now is geared at making sure that people stop spreading this viral infection. However, there are times when you must go to the bank, grocery store, or the doctor’s office. When you make these essential trips out, you must practice respiratory hygiene.

How can you be safe when you are around minuscule germs that invade your airways and can be deadly? Here is a list of dos and don’ts from the experts that you should follow.

The Dos of Respiratory Hygiene

The Center for Disease Control or CDC issued many guidelines on how a person can stay safe. While there is no foolproof method, there are ways that you can reduce the spread of germs and deadly bacteria. The following methods should be observed for proper respiratory hygiene.

1. Always Wear a Facial Mask

There is much confusion about who should wear a facial mask. A person who is sick or has seasonal allergies will sneeze and cough a lot. These people should always wear a mask when they are out and about or even at home for proper respiratory hygiene.

As far as the others who are not sick, it’s always advisable to wear something to cover your mouth and nose when around those who are sick. Remember, it can’t hurt. Though many people have been so thoughtful and made masks due to the shortage, these might not provide adequate protection.

Doctors use N95 quality masks to avoid germs entering and to provide proper respiration.

But if you do use a homemade variety, remove it by the loops and launder it before the next use. Wash your hands after you remove it.

Also, if you are using a disposable mask, don a new one for each use. These are not reusable, and your germs and bacteria get trapped in the fibers.

2. Throw Away Tissues After Each Use

You probably have boxes of tissues sitting around during this high allergy and cold season. When you use facial tissues, you must throw them away promptly. Don’t set them on an end table or other surface to spread germs.

Toss them in the closest trash can, and make sure they make it into the receptacle. You don’t want to infect anyone that may pick them up on your behalf. If you are into cost-cutting measures and want to use a handkerchief, resist the urge as your respiratory hygiene depends on it.

A handkerchief seems like an economical option, but you will spread the germs all-around your home until it’s appropriately laundered. Do you want to infect your family should your condition be bacterial based rather than viral?

3. Always Sneeze and Cough into Your Elbow

You’ve probably heard that you should cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. The theory behind this is that microscopic droplets from your nasal cavity and mouth spread into the air and surfaces nearby. These droplets are infected with bacteria that you harbor inside your body.

While putting your hand over your mouth seems like the logical choice, it’s better to cough into your elbow. The elbow is a larger surface and doesn’t have tiny gaps like the fingers. You have a better chance of containing your mist when you lodge your elbow firmly around your mouth.

Learn how to make blackberry syrup at home to calm a cough.

4. Handwashing Is Essential

First, you should know that you can never wash your hands too much, especially with the current flu and viruses going around. However, what many people don’t know is how to do this routine ritual properly. Your hands must be under the warmest water you can tolerate.

Handwashing under cold water is not advisable as you are not effectively killing the germs. You want the water to be hot enough to get rid of any bacteria on your hands. Then, give yourself a squirt of soap that is about the size of a fifty-cent piece.

Rub your hands vigorously for around 20 seconds. If it’s helpful, then you should sing a song that lasts about that duration of time to make sure you get everything clean. Always use soap as the lather separates the germs from your skin and washes them down the drain.

When rubbing your hands under the water, make sure to get in between the fingers as well as the palms. Many of your hand areas don’t get adequately cleansed if you are in a hurry. Teach your children the proper way to wash from a young age, and it will help their immunity throughout life.

Additionally, when you’re standing in front of the sink, thinking this is a waste of time, remember that a surgeon thoroughly washes before going into surgery. They wash up to the elbows and for several minutes to make sure there is no risk of contamination.

With viral infections on the rise globally, you can’t take a chance that any bacteria might be left behind. If you prefer the use of hand sanitizer, you must use a formula that is 90 percent alcohol. Though nothing is as good as soap and water, it can be helpful when you can’t get to a sink.

5. Take Extra Precautions and Hunker Down

Viral infections can cause complications in those that have compromised immune systems, are elderly, have diabetes, heart disease, or other risk factors. If you are elderly or have delicate health issues, then you shouldn’t go out at all.

Your respiratory hygiene can only protect you so much. You must have someone bring groceries to you or your medications. Only go out when necessary. The more you are exposed to people and germs, the higher the chances are of infection.

The Don’ts of Respiratory Hygiene

Now that you know all the things that you should do to protect yourself from bacterial and viral invaders, here is a list of things that you shouldn’t do.

1. Crowd Personal Space of Others

Social distancing guidelines suggest that you stay at least six feet from the person next to you. While this may not be possible in all situations, the key is to put distance between people. For example, you cannot pay for your groceries without handing your money to the cashier. If you are at least three feet away, it can offer some protection.

Remember, the droplets from a cough can travel up to 26 feet, so you don’t want to be anywhere near someone sick.

2. Stay Home, Especially If You’re Sick

If you are sick or have been out recently, you should not go out and risk infecting others. Before heading out, make sure you are fever-free for at least 72 hours, you aren’t coughing or have shortness of breath, and you have been symptom-free for at least seven days.

While it’s hard to isolate from your family, you should quarantine in a room until you are in the clear. You may still be contagious if you are coughing, so practice safety to keep from infecting anyone you love.

3. Don’t Take Antibiotics

People assume that the minute they get sick that they need to take antibiotics. The problem is that these medications don’t work on a viral infection. Another issue is that people build immunity to these drugs, making them less likely to work in the future.

Nature provides many excellent options that don’t come with side effects. Did you know that garlic is one of the most potent natural forms of antibiotics? It’s been used for thousands of years to cure many conditions, and it’s beneficial.

4. Do Not Forget About Your Pets

It sounds odd to say that you must also practice respiratory hygiene around your pets, but you must practice good habits with them, too. Even if you have a virus that cannot spread to your furry buddy, the droplets can cling to their fur for some time.

Since so little is known about this current viral threat. Therefore, according to the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine team, it’s best to keep your pets at a safe distance when you’re sick. They further state that there is no current evidence that dogs or cats can transmit this disease. If your pet is older or prone to respiratory health issues, then it’s especially important. It’s the same as when you are with people. Make sure you cover your cough and remove tissues after wiping your nose to keep them safe.

5. Don’t Travel

Many people aren’t taking their health seriously enough. If you have a vacation planned soon, consider canceling it. Even if you are going to an area that isn’t greatly affected by outbreaks of viral infections, the chances of encountering someone who is sick increases.

It only takes a split second to be infected with bacterial or viral germs.

Learn about the bus drivers who are delivering meals to school kids in Michigan.

Final Thoughts: Stay Calm and Practice Good Hygiene to Stop Viral Infections

It’s difficult to stay calm when the whole world is in a panic over being infected by a virus or bacterial infection. However, the chances decrease of you becoming infected if you follow orders from the CDC and other medical professionals.

Practicing good respiratory hygiene is not difficult. Remember to cover your cough so that you don’t spread germs to others. Better yet, don’t go out of the house unless you absolutely must. Try to use telehealth services instead of rushing to your doctor, and reserve in-person doctor visits for when it’s an emergency.

Remember when wiping your nose or coughing, makes sure you dispose of any hankies or masks that you’ve used. Additionally, don’t touch your face without washing your hands afterward. Many diseases can cause illness and create havoc, but our nation will get through this difficult time.

How Telehealth Helps You Visit The Doctor Without Picking up Germs

April 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Have you considered telehealth services but didn’t know much about it? Today, we will explain how the concept of telemedicine works for millions of people.

All people today worry about the spread of germs and conditions. From viral infections to the common cold to bacterial disease, it’s a genuine concern. Washing your hands and sanitizing anytime you touch something may not be enough to keep you protected.

Since microscopic toxins live in the saliva, you can become infected by merely walking into a grocery store. The biggest problem is going to your doctor for help. Recent technology now brings telehealth services directly to you at home. Sometimes, it’s better to see the doctor without ever stepping foot out of your home.

How Dangerous Is Your Doctor’s Appointment?

Most people find a physician they like, and they stick with them over the years. These facilities try their best to make sure that they clean and sanitize after each patient. However, some things are beyond their control.

Remember, most people that go to the doctor’s office are sick. While some will be there to get medication refills or a B12 shot, the majority are there because they are ill. Some illnesses won’t affect you, but there are some germs people carry that can kill you.

Take, for instance, call gram-negative rods. These are the bacteria that cause conditions like MRSA and pneumonia. The problem is that most of these germs are resistant to antibiotics.

You can also encounter gram-positive cocci. Just touching the door to enter the examination room can infect you with staph, strep, or E. coli infections. You can pick up these bacteria by merely using a pen to fill out your paperwork too.

A study showed that the pen at the doctor’s office has more bacteria than a public toilet seat. The problem is that when you are sick, your immune system is down. You’re not able to fight off these foreign invaders like you do when your body is in top shape.

So with all the germs that you come in contact with on a routine visit, you can see why so many experts are pushing for telehealth visits.

What Is Telemedicine?

Telehealth services have been around for many years, though they have been sluggish to get off the ground. Dr. Phillip McGraw and his son started a service known as Doctor’s on Demand back in 2012. Since that date, many other online health services have joined this revolution.

You can sit in the comfort of your home and see your doctor. You must have a smartphone or a computer that has a webcam, so you can see and communicate with the telemedicine physician. Some other services use an app that allows you to chat with your doctor.

During this recent pandemic, you can see a physician and not worry about being infected from something much worse. Most major clinics have rescheduled all non-essential appointments and are urging patients who need medication refills or other nonemergent help to use online medical services.

Who Can Benefit from Telehealth?

Telehealth services are fantastic for people that can’t get out of the home. Many elderly or those with disabilities might ignore their medical needs because it’s such a big hassle to get out of the house and go to a center. By using the power of technology, it allows people to get their medical needs prompt attention.

By its nature, receiving health care via telemedicine is minimal. You can’t be treated for things that require emergency room services. If you’re having chest pains, then you will need to see a physician that can treat you immediately.

However, there are many things that an on-demand doctor can do for you. If you have a sore throat, cough, headache, urinary tract infection, or other minor irritation, then they can prescribe a medication to get you on the road to recovery.

Telehealth providers can make diagnosis and also advise you on lifestyle changes to help you lead a healthier life.

What Is A Computer Doctor Visit Like?

It may be unnerving for some to think of going to the doctor on the internet. Keep in mind that online medicine is still somewhat new to many, so there is a learning curve. You will start by selecting the provider that you want to use.

There are numerous telemedicine providers that you can utilize. If you are a cash-paying customer with no insurance, then you will want the one that has the best reviews and the lowest price. Consequently, with the recent concern about the spread of viral infections, even Medicaid and Medicare are providing services for free through certain providers.

The Interview Process

You will start by going through a series of questions. You will identify if the company takes your insurance. If they take your coverage, they will tell you how much it’s going to cost. Once the cost is established, you will need to render payment. These services only take credit or debit cards, and you won’t be able to use an e-check.

After the payment, you will be taken through a series of questions so that they can determine if they can help you. They will urge you to go to the emergency room if they believe that your needs are beyond their scope. The fantastic thing about these services is that they checked your symptoms using real-time data to see what is probable.

A Computer-Based Determination

They check your symptoms with those of thousands of others complaining about the same type of symptoms. For instance, if you have a cough issue, then they will say that you could have a common cold, respiratory infection, or be suffering from asthma. However, gathering this big data becomes imperative in helping them to make an informed decision quickly.

The computer will prejudge your condition to give the physician a guide. This process can be compared to seeing the nurse before you see the doctor. After you go through this series, then you will talk to the doctor of medicine.

Your Doctor’s Appointment

When the doctor steps into their virtual office, they will review all the data collected during the questionnaire. If you are on a live webcam, the physician can see and chat with you. Though they are limited in their abilities, it’s easy to establish somethings by seeing you on camera.

If your telemedicine physician uses a chat service, then they will ask you to send pictures. These pictures help cover them legally for writing prescriptions. For instance, if you have a sore throat, they will want to see how bad the throat area is swelled.

They will look for yellow or white patches as well as intense swelling that may cut off breathing. If your throat is constricted to the point where your airway is compromised, then they need you to go to the emergency room rather than treating through telemedicine.

Also, you will need to take a real-time picture of yourself before they can prescribe any medications unless you’re on a webcam. They need to make sure the person that they are prescribing to is the person that they see in this session.

The prescriptions are sent to the pharmacy of your choice, which you also established during the questionnaire. Most services will check back with you in a week to make sure that you are doing okay or to see if you need additional help.

Doctor Visits During Peak Germ Seasons

If you cannot use telehealth services, then you will need to go the traditional route of seeing a clinic or emergency room doctor. The current stay-home restrictions have made these routine visits seem like something out of a science fiction movie.

When you pull up at your primary care doctor or the local walk-in clinic, they will come out in hazmat suits asking questions before allowing you to enter the building. They may only let the patient go inside due to the heightened risk that is involved for those who aren’t sick.

Don’t be alarmed if you feel that you are being treated like someone with the plague. All these protocols are in place to protect everyone. If they think that you might be infected with any illness, then they will whisk you to a room where you will be isolated from anyone else waiting to see a doctor.

They will test you for the flu or other infections. Finally, they will confirm your diagnosis and do any other required tests.

Final Thoughts: Telehealth Doctor Visits Are the Wave of the Future

Many experts believe that the emergence of this new viral infection was what society needed to usher in the telehealth movement. Since people have now been forced to see doctors from video chats, it’s breaking the ice. Many would have never chosen to do this method of physician visit as its impersonal and highly abnormal.

However, we see the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience. Telemedicine doctors can see more patients when they are web-based, and they are not exposed to the germs they would be if they were seeing 20 plus people and those that came with them.

If you or a loved one are suffering from some ailment, it’s best to check out a telehealth doctor instead of visiting a room packed with sick people who may expose you to worse conditions.

Brooklyn Landlord Waives Rent So Hundreds of Tenants Can Buy Food

April 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

A landlord in Brooklyn canceled rent for hundreds of his tenants this month. He wanted to ensure they had enough money for food and other essentials this month. On March 30, Mario Salerno posted a sign on the front doors of the apartment he owns to let tenants know he waived rent for April.

Salerno owns around 80 apartments with 200 tenants and said he decided to cancel rent for April after many renters said they would have trouble paying. Many of them lost their jobs or had other financial struggles come up due to the closure of businesses throughout the state.

As the financial strain on renters grows, many people may also find themselves in a tough spot when it comes to paying their mortgage. If you’re facing challenges with your home and need a quick solution, selling your property could be a viable option. Premier Property Buyers offers a hassle-free process to help homeowners navigate these tough times by providing fast cash offers for homes in any condition. Their experienced team ensures that selling your home is as straightforward as possible, allowing you to focus on getting back on track without worrying about repairs or long waiting periods.

The notice posted on the front doors of all 18 of his apartment buildings read as follows:

“Please note I am waiving rent for the month of April 2020. Stay safe, help your neighbors and wash your hands!!!”

Salerno also owns car mechanic shop Salerno’s Autobody. The businessman is highly respected throughout his community. One person even described him as the kindest person he ever met.

About Landlord Salerno

In an interview conducted by NBC New York, Salerno said he doesn’t care about losing the income from rent this month. He added that the safety and health of his tenants meant more to him.

He said he wants everyone to stay healthy and be able to put food on their table. If that means he has to lose out on rent for this month, he’s perfectly okay with that.

“I say don’t worry about paying me, worry about your neighbor and worry about your family,” Salerno said.

One of Mario’s tenants, Kaitlyn Guteski, worried about how she could come up with rent money after her hair salon had to shut down due to the stay at home orders. When Salerno announced rent had been waived for April, Kaitlyn said: ‘He’s Superman. He’s a wonderful man.’

Another tenant of Salerno’s, Paul Gentile, lost his job as a lawyer in March as many businesses in New York City closed. He worked for a personal injury firm and spent most of his days working in courthouses, which had all closed on March 18.

With no work available, Gentile worried about how he could pay rent as well. However, when Salerno announced that he wouldn’t collect rent for April, Gentile wasn’t too surprised. Paul has lived in his apartment for about four years and said that Salerno had always been an outstanding landlord.

He told The New York Times that you don’t see that in New York City too often. Salerno truly cares about his tenants and tries to maintain a positive relationship with them. Gentile said Salerno is amazing and has eliminated much of his stress about being unemployed during this time.

Final Thoughts: Do You Also Have a Kind Landlord?

During the virus outbreak, Salerno became an everyday hero because he put his tenants before his own income. Hopefully, other landlords will follow his example and help out their renters during this difficult time. If you know of anyone doing this in your city, please let us know!

5 Behaviors to Never Expect From A Narcissist

April 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

If you’ve ever had interactions with a narcissist, then you know just how difficult they can be. Unfortunately, more often than not, their personalities have been shaped due to unhealed trauma (usually as a child) and they haven’t recognized and healed it. This can make them incredibly self-centered and they refuse to behave reasonably. For the other person, this can be both exhausting and intolerable. There is hope that some of their behaviors can be healed with recognition and willingness to seek help. However, you should know upfront that there are specific behaviors that may always stick around.

Additionally, some things you are doing could be encouraging them to continue their behaviors. They often say that in relationships empaths are drawn to narcissists as a personality”trauma bond”. This statement isn’t to say that it’s your fault. Instead, this suggests that there are steps you can take to avoid entering into a bad situation with a narcissist and protect yourself.

Being around a narcissist can be an extraordinarily toxic and troubling experience. Luckily, you can make sure it doesn’t happen to you again.

Here Are 5 Things To Never Expect From A Narcissist

1. Their Help or Assistance

Narcissists are infamously self-absorbed. If you’re having trouble with something and there’s a narcissist in the room, you might as well be on your own. They will be of no help whatsoever to you. This trait, of course, affects other areas, too. You cannot expect a narcissist to do any of the following things:

Be understanding or sympathetic
Care about issues and problems you are facing
Offer any thought-out advice
Listen to rants or complaints

Narcissists are typically selfish by nature. This attitude stems from an inability to experience any form of empathy. And that shortfall leads to the impossibility of understanding acts of selflessness. A narcissist is merely incapable of placing anyone else’s needs above their own or even putting aside their individual requirements for a short moment.

It is also true that many narcissists lack empathy. Experts believe that the reason for this is that narcissists have a very binary world view. Basically, to them, everything is either black or white, with no room for a gray area in between. As such, their opinions on people are categorized into “bad” or “good,” with no nuance or complexity.

The problem with this is that narcissists begin to class excellent and evil people by one single determining factor: whether a person agrees with their opinions or not. So if you’re on their side, you’re right, and if you’re not, you’re automatically bad.

Thus, it can you can assume that the issue here isn’t necessarily a lack of empathy, compassion, or any form of real sympathy. Instead, the problem is rooted in that individual’s personality. As such, it is impossible to expect any helpfulness or displays of selflessness out of them.

Here are seven ways that a narcissist will manipulate others.

2. Don’t Expect Them to Let You See Their Genuine Self

You can live, work, or even exist in close quarters with a narcissist for all your life, and you will still never honestly know them. Why? They are extremely good at hiding their true selves, for several reasons:

a) They Hide Feelings

A narcissist doesn’t have a lot of self-awareness. Without this positive trait, it’s difficult for them to recognize their feelings. When they do notice them, they bottle them up and hide them – both from everyone around them and from their selves.

This is because narcissists have difficulty processing and comprehending complex emotions. They cannot perform self-critical thought to determine where these emotions come from. As such, they become frightened of their feelings, as they make them vulnerable.

To protect themselves, a narcissist will resort to acting on a will to survive, projecting their issues onto others. Because of this, you can never know what they are truly feeling.

b) They Crave Attention

A narcissist always wants to be in the spotlight. They demand that they receive all credit, even if it’s undue. They want all the fame for none of the effort. And of course, the only way they can achieve this is through deception.

These people will pretend to be intelligent, brilliant, and all-knowing. They do so to get others to look up to them. Being on a pedestal puts them in a position of power. They thrive off of any positive attention they receive.

Even narcissists who don’t do this outwardly will find a way to gain the attention of others. Instead of loudly proclaiming their superiority, they may lie about their personal lives to make themselves look like long-suffering martyrs who deserve praise and support.

c) They Seek Favor

Sure, narcissists aren’t interested in expressing care for others. But that doesn’t mean they won’t pretend that they are. After all, a narcissist’s goal is to lift themselves and present themselves as amazing people.

It’s easy to fall prey to a narcissist who acts kind and polite. You may even grow to consider them a friend, or an acquaintance, or at least someone relatively decent to talk to. This connection is what they want. For example, they might:

Pretend to agree with you
Support your opinions
Act like they enjoy your company
Display falsely compassionate or honest behavior
Act like your values are compatible

They do all this to trick you, lulling you into a false sense of security. Once you begin sharing details about your life with them, they’ve already started gathering information to use against you.

Psychology reveals how to cope with a narcissist.

d) They Manipulate

A narcissist’s game is all about manipulation. Their aim is often to use and take advantage of the people around them. Think about it – would you trust someone who you knew was only aiming to use you?

A narcissist is only ever seeking to forward their own goals. They put themselves above all others, and they believe they deserve to be above all others. You can think that everything they do is to twist your arm. Be cautious!

3. To Exhibit a Positive Attitude

Many people confuse narcissism with bad attitudes or other kinds of toxicity that isn’t disorder-driven. Unfortunately, this is the wrong mindset to have, as it causes you to oversimplify the behaviors of a narcissist instead of recognizing them for what they are. You may believe:

They’re just unpleasant people.
They’re just seeking attention.
They only need a friend.

These are noble beliefs, but inaccurate ones. A narcissist isn’t just a neurotypical person who isn’t fun to be around – they have a disorder that makes them behave this way. While it does not excuse negative behavior or give them a free pass for it, it can help you to understand where these behaviors stem from.

According to Heinz Kohut, a psychoanalyst, many individuals with narcissism are dealing with severe internal issues. This list includes:

Emptiness or numbness
Lack of meaning and motivation
Feelings of alienation and isolation
Lack of stability
Powerlessness
Negative self-image
No stable identity
Profound shame and inferiority
Lack of value

There are two forms of personality a narcissist can portray:

Their deep-rooted issues lead to a “splitting,” of sorts, of a narcissist’s self. This divides them into two “selves”: an extraordinarily arrogant and grandiose superior person, and a self-critical, inferior self.

An “introverted” type of narcissist whose inferior self is more dominant, leading them to idealize people around them.
An “extroverted” type of narcissist whose superior self is more dominant, leading them to project their feelings of shame and self-hatred onto others.

Essentially, narcissism is a disorder. It stems from a desire to make oneself look better due to low self-worth and lousy self-esteem. This means that reassuring a narcissist can help keep the worst of their actions at bay. Just be sure that you don’t go overboard with the positive reaction!

So, does this mean you should forgive their actions? Absolutely not! Instead, being able to understand a narcissist’s thought process can provide you with insight that changes the way you react to them. It also means you see right through their facade – something no narcissist wants you to be able to do.

Learn the differences between these two mental illnesses.

4. An Apology When They Hurt You (As Narcissists Often Do!)

To apologize is to admit blame and responsibility. To apologize is to paint yourself as the person in the wrong. You can probably guess why a narcissist would never want to do that! No matter what mistake a narcissist makes, they are sure to cover it up.

Narcissists don’t want to take any responsibility for their wrongdoings. Often, they don’t even believe that they can do any wrong at all. This false belief is due to their inflated ego and sense of superiority.

So when you ask a narcissist for something, they may say something like:

“He made me do it!”
“Perhaps you should have said something.”
“It’s not my fault.” (EVER!)
“I was doing only what I thought was best.”
“You acted like you were just fine with it!”
“I was only following what I thought you had wanted.”
“I’m sorry that you couldn’t handle the outcome.”

These non-apologies blatantly point fingers at others, and it’s only going to cause you more headaches. They will project everything onto others no matter the way. Your energy is better spent telling them off lightly and proceeding.

5. To Give You Some Emotional Space When Needed

Positive thinking is crucial in dealing with a narcissist. They can be exhausting to deal with, especially when they’re looking for a reaction. Even once you’ve learned to see through all their facades, it’s still reasonably easy to become annoyed with them.

Some narcissists, unlike the “introverted” and “extroverted” ones we’ve previously discussed, are a completely different breed altogether. To them, all attention is good attention – even ones involving anger, sadness, or hurt.

These types of narcissists enjoy hurting others in order the get a reaction. They get pleasure from watching people around them suffer. A narcissist of this variety may repeatedly attempt to harm you. You do have a few options in this case:

Look indifferent and uncaring
Laugh it off
Call them out with a smile or a chuckle, or as part of a joke
Focus on making sure you aren’t thrown off track
Flat-out ignore them

Whatever you choose to do, make sure the result is you looking unbothered or uninterested. That’s sure to cause any narcissist to lose interest – and some may even learn not to mess with you!

Final Thoughts On Some Things To Never Expect From A Narcissist

A narcissistic personality disorder is a severe mental condition that’s part of the cluster B personality disorders. It affects approximately 1% of the population in diagnosed cases alone. And the chances are great that you’ve met many more undiagnosed narcissists in your lifetime.

While it’s important to note that those with narcissistic personality disorder are not inherently bad or cruel, you still need to be aware of the risks. Many who are unaware that they have the condition or are on its spectrum do not seek out therapy and, as such, do not realize the extent of their behaviors. Thus, they cannot correct them.

This is why it is so vital to remain vigilant when dealing with narcissists who cannot manage their disorder. No mental illness excuses negative behavior, and you are not responsible for their actions just because they have a problem.

It’s hard to come out from under the clutches of a narcissist. However, always practice positive thinking! By being aware of these five things to never expect from a narcissist, you’re arming yourself against their potential toxicity while also saving yourself lots of heartaches.

15 Quotes About Motivation for Days You Feel Depressed

April 6, 2020 by Sarah Barkley

Many of us have been through periods where we’re having trouble getting on with getting on. Here are quotes about motivation to inspire you as you battle your depression.

You hold the power to rewire your brain. Think positive thoughts to create new and more positive neural pathways. By working to create an intentional and superior soundtrack for your inner dialogue, it’s possible to change thoughts, which are the foundation of beliefs and behaviors.

One of the worst things about being in depression is the feeling that you’re alone. Anyone who’s wrestled with depression should know that others have been where you are now. In the grip of depression? Set one small goal; ride that success wave to the next accomplishment after meeting that aim. Whether you’re facing an off day, a sad patch, or fighting through ongoing depression, here are quotes about motivation to help you move forward.

15 Quotes About Motivation to Cheer You When You Feel Blue

1. “I also hope that you never cower from your dark chapters, but highlight them as proof of perseverance, determination, and strength. People need a fairytale. They need inspiration. Sometimes they need to recognize that they are their hero, and your story can be the catalyst. This is the tax of success.” Kierra C.T. Banks

As we draw inspiration from other people’s battles and triumphs, our experiences inspire others. Paradoxically, there is strength in sharing our vulnerabilities.

2. “Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do.” Pope John XXIII

While it’s natural to think about our problems, the future requires our focus. From our gifts, we gain momentum to reach our goals.

3. “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” Helen Keller

The first step to reaching a goal is the belief that it’s attainable. As a result, you will find the necessary motivation to take action.

4. “I learned that we can do anything, but we can’t do everything… at least not at the same time. So think of your priorities, not in terms of what activities you do, but when you do them. Timing is everything.” Dan Millman

As Dan Millman points out, create a plan to avoid being overwhelmed by tasks. So gain success by prioritizing the steps and responsibilities to meet your goals.

5. “Do not wait; the time will never be ‘just right.’ Start where you stand and work with whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.” George Herbert

To get where we wish to go, we need to dive in where we are, working with the gifts, abilities, and resources at our disposal right now. There are power and enthusiasm in working towards the goal.

6. “Concern should drive us into action and not into a depression. No man is free who cannot control himself.” Pythagoras

Self-agency, drive, and your deeds are under your control. When problems arise, action rather than overthinking overcomes it.

7. “Some days, 24 hours is too much to stay put in, so I take the day hour by hour, moment by moment. I break the task, the challenge, the fear into small, bite-size pieces, I can handle a piece of fear, depression, anger, pain, sadness, loneliness, illness. I actually put my hands up to my face, one next to each eye, like blinders on a horse.” Regina Brett

From these words, we gain the wisdom to cultivate courage, honesty, and patience with ourselves. The challenges we face become more manageable when, like any heavy load, we parcel them into chores that it’s within our capacity to carry through.

8. “If I let myself sink into depression, I won’t be able to get out. And then I’ll be awfully unhappy. I just have to turn my face to the light and walk on. And trust that things will be all right.” Marianne Faithfull

This quotation shares empathy about how depression can snowball. Take pleasure in what brings you joy. And as Marianne Faithfull says, draw energy and motivation from the belief that things will work out.

9. “I’m by no means an expert at giving advice on depression, but I would say that a lot of my show is about making the decision to be happy. We all think that happiness is something that just falls into our lap. But it’s something you have to really work on.” Lilly Singh

Taking control of a mood by exerting our mind is a useful tool in cognitive therapy. We can at once explore our self-talk, beliefs, and habits. And actively seek out the people, places, and things that bring joy.

10. “You are the sum total of everything you’ve ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot – it’s all there. Everything influences each of us, and because of that I try to make sure that my experiences are positive.” Maya Angelou

We are influenced by and reflect our connections and environment. To maximize one’s potential and gain motivation, the better the environment, the better the outcome for health, happiness, and self-actualization.

11. “This might be controversial, but sometimes I think that being happy is a decision. I don’t mean that in a way to diminish clinical depression. But on a more day-to-day level.” Will Arnett

We can cultivate the things that bring us health and energy, and satisfaction. Consciously work towards happiness by focusing time and effort on actions that pay dividends for increased good mood, enhanced energy, and meeting goals such as exercise, rest, and nutritious food. So commit to what inspires, motivates, cultivates joy, and helps to beat the blues.

12. “If you have a little sensibility or a heart, you have all the reason to be depressed once in a while. But the depression is like a motor for creation. I need a little bit of depression, a bit of acid in my stomach, to be able to create. When I’m happy, I just want to dance.” Marjane Satrapi

Every mood and experience can serve emotional, interpersonal, and creative growth. That’s because emotions are part of the human experience. Through analysis, introspection, and contemplation, it is possible to use the gifts of darker emotions to sharpen gifts such as empathy, compassion, clarity, and focus. These

13. “People deal too much with the negative, with what is wrong. Why not try and see positive things, to just touch those things and make them bloom?” Thich Nhat Hanh

This sage advice urges us to set our sights, time, and energy into nurturing the good things in our lives. So focus on what brings fulfillment.

14. “There’s a way that you can throw negativity out there that seems rebellious. But I’ve always taken pleasure in a different kind of rebellion, which is putting a positive spin on everything, trying to enjoy myself at all times.” Zac Efron

Embrace the happy and motivational energy of joyous acceptance in a world that often seems to accentuate the negative. A joyful rebel chooses his or her cause wisely!

15. “A lot of people think they should be happy all the time. But the writer understands you need both. You need the whole piano: the richness of the whole human experience. Depression, suffering, and anger are all part of being human.” Janet Fitch

Experiencing and integrating all of the emotions into the tapestry of our lives makes us fully alive, honest, and engaged in our work and interactions and all of our experiences.

Final Thoughts on Motivation for Days You Feel Depressed

You can overcome depression, despair, and apathy. Reading, enjoying, and exploring quotes about motivation can prompt you to feel better about yourself and life. These lines, ideas, and observations embrace hope and acceptance. They comfort by validating all emotions. Here, you’ll find the tools to help you overcome the tough times.

Reading these quotes about motivation, you see that others are in a dark depression. In fact, the great thinkers, large souls, and generous pundits who’ve penned these thoughts have found ways out of emotional and intellectual despair. Of course, you can, too

Perhaps these ideas about motivation will inspire you to attain your balance. And for those who are depressed and not living the life that they desire, use these quotes to move forward, or to explore diverse healing modalities.

These quotes about motivation illustrate that others understand, experience, and have worked through dark times, too. Some individuals even credit the rough patches for imparting vital knowledge, encouraging empathy, bestowing compassion, and illustrating insights into the human condition.

These quotes about motivation can be a roadmap over difficult terrain. So like any roadmap, they show you that others have been here before and that you are not alone and isolated. Here, in these lines, are the routes to reach your destination of well-being and fulfillment.

15 Quotes About Today and Living in the Present

April 6, 2020 by Deborah Tayloe

These days, it seems like bad news is everywhere we look. While staying informed is essential, focusing on all that’s wrong in the world is overwhelming. Get your power back by committing to focus on all the positive things in your life. These fifteen quotes about today will help you appreciate this very moment.

These Quotes About Living Life Today May Help You Stay in the Now

One of the most effective ways to stay in the present moment is to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is an essential practice for all of us. As we work to inject positivity into our daily lives, being mindful allows us to stay in the present and remember to be thankful for life’s many blessings.

If you don’t know how to be mindful in your everyday life, don’t worry; it’s simple.

Being mindful is paying attention and letting yourself focus on what’s happening to you in the present moment. You can practice mindfulness by paying attention to your sensations when you’re showering, walking, and breathing. Other practices like yoga and meditation are helpful ways to be mindful and to center yourself.

15 of the Best Quotes About Today

Don’t let fear and stress win. Keep the following quotes about today to ensure you start and end each day with a focused mindset, renewed passion, and sustained energy.

1. “Depressed? You’re living as though you’re in the past. Anxious? You are focused on the future.When you are at peace, then you’ll be in the present.” –Lao Tzu

Quotes about today, like Lao Tzu’s famous line, remind us to shift our train of thought to focus on the only thing we can control: our actions in the present moment.

2. “If you wish to see others happy, be compassionate. If you hope to be happy, be compassionate.” –Dalai Llama

This quote by the Dalai Lama reminds us that true happiness for others and ourselves comes from acting compassionately. Before you let anxiety and stress overtake you, practice gratitude. You’ll see how quickly things will change.

During these difficult times, remember to care for others. Being there for your family, friends, and neighbors will help you to feel at peace and focus on the beauty still left in today’s world.

3. “Getting too caught up in our busy lives causes us to lose connections with each other and with ourselves.” — Jack Kornfield

A significant benefit of mindfulness is that it helps us reconnect. This is an essential superpower during our most difficult times.

While we can let our minds run rampant about the unknown, we also can control our thoughts and reel ourselves back in. Remember to focus on being still and meditating to bring yourself back into contact with the inner you.

4. “One must let go of the inner mind to be mindful. Just close your eyes and start listening!” — Jalaluddin Rumi

Rumi got it right in this quote about staying in the now. Quotes about today like this remind us that we’ve been gifted with the beautiful ability to think deeply. Make sure you don’t let overthinking take hold of you and cause undue stress.

Choose to free your mind and spirit from the constant loop of fearful thoughts. Listen to the truth and know that you are safe, happy, and healthy. Taking time just to be will help you focus on all the powerful truths in your life.

5. “If I’m hungry, I eat the foods I love, if I am bored, I do the things I love, if I’m alone, I connect with the people I love. If I feel sad, I remind myself that I am always loved.” –Michelle May

This quote reminds us to be practical when we feel the pangs of sadness and loneliness. Though it’s difficult to feel connected during our most trying times, you are never alone.

Take quotes about today like this one to heart and get into the habit of speaking truth to yourself. Know that you are always loved and never alone, even in the darkest of times.

6. “Life isn’t lost in death; we lose life minute by minute, day by day, in every uncaring way, we choose to act and live.” –Stephen Vincent Benet

Compassion and gratitude are often forgotten in today’s world. In many ways, most of us forget to care for our fellow humans as we get lost in the daily grind and all our responsibilities.

Practicing mindfulness gives us the chance to slow down and take a look at our lives. Choose to do the same now for yourself. How we choose to live and how we treat others is the key to truly living.

7. “Live In the now by remembering that everything will pass. When you feel joy, remember that it will pass– this helps you savor it more. When you feel sorrow and pain, remember that it will pass. This reminds us that greed, like happiness and joy, is also temporary.” –Joey Green

Nothing lasts forever.

Just as feelings of joy and intense happiness sometimes give way to pain and grief, remember that it will pass. Stay healthy during these difficult times as you cling to this truth and believe in a better future.

8. “Conventional wisdom would have us believe we are nothing. Coincidentally, love tells us we are everything. Our life flows between these two truths.” –Jack Kornfield

As you practice mindfulness more and more in your life, you’ll learn that while our lives may seem like a blip on the radar of history, choosing to press into the relationships and connections with our loved ones is what gives us meaning.

Don’t let the glaring truths of reality cause you to doubt yourself or your worth. Remember who you are and know that you’re loved fiercely.

9. “Every place you’re in is the right one–the place you’re in right now is a sacred space.” –Ravi Ravindra

Feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed, and unhappy in these uncertain times is easy. However, your responsibility is to create a sense of peace in your life.

Choose to make your home or your room a bastion for peace. Claim every space you hold as one where peace, positivity, and abundance thrive. This transformative thinking will shape how you feel, carry yourself, and live in your space.

10. “Practice mindfulness. Have gratitude. Speak the truth. Practice kindness.” — Roy T. Bennett

It’s the simple things in life that challenge and change us.

Mindfulness allows us to reflect on our thoughts, analyze our actions, and make changes going forward.

Practicing gratitude reminds us that we are blessed in every situation.

Speaking truth allows us to walk in our power as we give the same gift to others.

Being kind is selfless as we do unto others as we hope they’d do the same for us.

11. “Try to use all distractions as the inspiration for meditation. In this way, they stop acting as distractions.” –Mingyur Rinpoche

Anything in life that distracts you from your peace and your passion is a distraction. While some negativity can’t be avoided, remember to center yourself and return to your peace of mind as soon as possible.

Practicing mindfulness lets you take time for yourself, escape from all the madness, and remember that there’s more to life than uncertainty and panic. Take some time to meditate, be alone, and let the calm wash over you, reminding you that you’ve got this.

12. “The brain is a muscle. Exercise it, it gets strong. This way, you’ll be able to expand it more.” –Idowu Koyenikan

If you don’t like the narrative that’s happening right now in your mind, it’s up to you to shift your focus.

Quotes like this help us stay in the now and train our brains to run from all toxic forms of thinking. The more you practice mindfulness and learn to stay in the moment, your thinking and mindset expands.

13. “If life is like a dance, being mindful is us witnessing that dance.” –Amir Ray

We can’t always control what happens to us, but we have a say in how we react and respond.

Take note of this quote to remind yourself to focus on the present moment. Rather than get bogged down by a fear of the future or lose yourself in regrets from the past, pay attention to every movement and motion happening this very second in the dance that is your life.

14. “‘Fear is the natural human response to getting closer to truth.”– Pema Chödrön

Living in the now isn’t about eliminating fear completely. It’s about working with it and acknowledging that this is a natural response to living in uncertain times.

However, as this quote proves, the fear you feel is merely an indicator that you’ve stumbled upon powerful truths that may change your life forever.

15. “That’s what life is: choosing to start over, taking it one breath, and one day at a time.” – Sharon Salzberg

Our lives radically change with every passing day. Though we all want to return to how our “normal” lives once were, we can create something entirely new.

Choose to start over; choose to reinvent yourself. Life is short, but we have the gift of today. Do with it what you will.

Final Thoughts on Quotes About Today

Though times may be tough, every cloud still has a silver lining. Dare to push through the negativity and overcome fear to find a sense of peace and hope. Finding ways to practice mindfulness in your daily life is important today and every day after.

Keep these fifteen quotes in mind to ensure your head is in the right place and your heart is full. While every day won’t be filled with happiness, these quotes can inspire you to fight for peace in your mind and the rest of the world.

15 Quotes About Genuine Prosperity (not money)

April 5, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Genuine prosperity is not something that money can buy. Instead, it is achieved by having a clear view of what is important to you.

Those things that matter most are what is going to make you prosperous in life. Whether it is your friends, family, pets, learning, or self-care, that is important, you have to put those things first.

No amount of cash can make for genuine prosperity. Whatever makes you truly happy and benefits your life in ways money can’t are what you should watch for.

Inspirational Quotes About Genuine Prosperity (not money)

1. “The things that matter most in this world are those that carry no price tag, for they can neither be bought nor sold at any price.” – Suze Orman

Material things are not what matters most. At least, they shouldn’t be what matters most.

The things that should be most important to you should be free. These items could be friends, family, pets, learning, or anything else that you cannot purchase at a store.

2. “You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world, but a world lives in you.” – Frederick Buechner

It doesn’t matter how far away from your loved ones you are; they are still there inside of you. They are with you each moment of each day.

If possible, give them a call to tell them that you are thinking of them. Write them a letter or send a picture.

Remember, just because they can’t always be with you doesn’t mean you are alone. The things that matter most are always with you in your heart and soul.

3. “There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it, and keep it around.” – Dick Dale

Pets are one of the most important things in life. They can help you feel like you aren’t alone, ease your sorrows, or just offer constant and faithful companionship.

As Dale said, dogs will love you forever. Dogs are especially loyal, so if you have one, you are prosperous in ways that finances cannot guarantee.

4. “You’re not rich until you have things money can’t buy.” – Unknown

You could have all the money in the world, but if you don’t have other types of riches, you’re not truly rich. Experiencing true prosperity is when you have things in your life that matter that didn’t cost currency. This could be close friends, supportive family, or anything else that makes you feel happy and content with life.

5. “Time is one of our most valuable possessions. Use it wisely. Remind yourselves often that things that matter most should not be left to the mercy of things that matter the least.” – O. Leslie Stone

One of the things that make for true prosperity is time. This seems to be something that most people are lacking, so making the most of the time you have is essential.

Time can be used to strengthen relationships, learn something new, get to a task you have been putting off, or simply taking some time for yourself. All of this is important, and having time will give you the chance to get it done.

6. “Stick to the basics, hold on to your family and friends – they will never go out of fashion.” – Niki Taylor

Buying material items can be a bad idea for multiple reasons. First, these items don’t truly matter in your life. Second, material items eventually go out of fashion and have to be replaced.

On the other hand, friends and family never go out of fashion. They never need to be replaced due to being outdated or not matching the newest décor style.

Instead of spending on the material items, show your true prosperity by focusing on those who matter most.

7. “Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.” – George Eliot

You will never feel judged by your pets based on what you have, what you’re doing, or even what you’re wearing. Focus on your pets, then, because the things you can be judged on in that sense aren’t truly important. Since what Eliot said is true, you’ll never regret the time spent with your pets.

8. “In today’s world, it is deceptively easy to lose sight of our direction and the things that matter and give us joy. How quickly the days can slip by, the years all gone, and we, at the end of our lives, mourning the life we dreamed of but never lived. Poetry urges us to stand once and for all, and now, in the heart of our own life.” – Roger Housden

When working each day to earn a paycheck, it may seem that what matters most is a larger paycheck. When this happens, you may find yourself forgetting or ignoring what makes you happy. Before you know it, so much time has gone by with nothing of value to show for it.

The money isn’t what matters most, however. It is important to continue spending time with those you love, doing what makes you happy. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and that can only be done reassessing what you value.

9. “The best portion of a good man’s life – His little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love.” – William Wordsworth

Being kind and showing love are two of the most important things to be done. When you forget what matters most, just put those two things first, and you’ll quickly be reminded.

10. “I’ve learned that all a person has in life is family and friends. If you lose those, you have nothing, so friends are to be treasured more than anything else in the world.” – Trey Parker and Matt Stone

Even with all the cash in the world, you’ll be alone and unhappy without family and friends nearby. Focus on those people rather than on materialist goods and wealth, and you’ll find that you are truly prosperous.

11. “I live to enjoy life by the littlest things, feeling the grass between my toes, breathing fresh air, watching the wind sway the trees, enjoying the company of loved ones, a deep conversation, getting lost in a good book, going for a walk in nature, watching my kids grow up. Just the feeling itself of being alive, the absolute amazing fact that we are here right now, breathing, thinking, doing.” – Marigold Wellington

The little things in life are the ones that matter most. Having the freedom to feel grass against bare feet or to have a conversation with loved ones is true prosperity. Likewise, being able to breathe in fresh air while watching the wind move the leaves in the trees is incomparable.

These simple things are often taken for granted when they are the things that matter the most. Basking in the joy of these small blessings can leave you feeling rich.

Enjoy being alive, watch children grow, and just keep living without thinking about finances as the way to prosperity.

12. “Dogs don’t make judgments about physical appearance or abilities, and they don’t care how big your house is or what you do for a living. They care about the quality of your character and your capacity to love.” – Elizabeth Eiler

The only things that pets care about are the character of a person how much the person can love them. You can go to them in your pajamas with your hair a mess, and they’ll be just as excited to see you. With this being the case, having a companion in your pet can be one of the only things that matter.

13. “If therefore you shall be remembered for what you did with what you had more than what you had, use what you have to do something distinctive now and leave a notable footprint before you go” – Ernest Agyemang Yeboah

What you can do with the things that you already have speaks volumes over what you could do with money. Use what you already have to contribute to society. It will pay off more than any monetary investment could.

14. “Talking with my friends and family every day helps keep me grounded and connected to home. They are the most important things to me.” – Colbie Caillat

Just like Caillat, your friends and family can keep you grounded. They are what is most important, and they play a bigger role in who you are than any amount of cash ever could.

15. “Things are never quite as scary when you’ve got a best friend.” – Bill Watterson

When you go through life with a friend, your fears and worries will not be as scary. Going through hard times alone, however, can cause even small mishaps to seem huge. As long as you have a friend to talk to, you are richer than you think.

Final Thoughts On Quotes About Genuine Prosperity (not money)

When life has you feeling down, remember how prosperous you are. Money does not make for prosperity. Instead, prosperity is based on all the things in your life that matter most.

Think about those you love and those who love you in return. Imagine your pet or spending time in the fresh outdoors. Think about all the things you are learning or the hobbies that you enjoy.

These are the things that will bring you the genuine prosperity that money can’t.

15 Inspirational Quotes About Staying Strong

April 5, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Staying strong isn’t always the easy route to take. Often, it is easier to give up than to keep pushing on during hard times.

While it may be easier to give up at the moment, the long-term consequences would be devastating. It is during the hard times that it is most important to stay strong.

By staying strong and pushing on through the hard times, you’ll be proving to yourself that you are able. You’ll also be proving to yourself and others that you can do anything you set your mind to.

When you realize this, there will be no stopping you. If you feel yourself wanting to give up, read these inspirational quotes about staying strong to help you get through. Remember, staying strong will help you come out even stronger in the end.

Inspirational Quotes About Staying Strong

1. “If someone is strong enough to bring you down, show them you are strong enough to get back up.” – Unknown

Just because someone was able to bring you down doesn’t mean you are weaker than them. Get back up and show your strength.

This idea is the same for other hardships in life. It doesn’t always have to be a person who brings you down. You’re stronger than anything that comes your way.

2. “The pain you’ve been feeling can’t compare to the joy that is coming.” – Romans 8:18, The Bible

Even if you aren’t a religious person, this quote can bring some motivation and relief to any problem in life. If you’re strong, the hardships will end, and the joy will return.

3. “The harder the struggle, the more glorious the triumph. Self-realization demands very great struggle.” – Swami Sivananda

Even when it’s tough, remaining strong is essential. Once you’re through the hardships, you’ll know just how strong you are. You’ll realize your worth the more you struggle and push on.

4. “Work hard for what you want because it won’t come to you without a fight. You have to be strong and courageous and know that you can do anything you put your mind to. If somebody puts you down or criticizes you, just keep on believing in yourself and turn it into something positive.” – Leah LaBelle

Life isn’t easy, so giving up and not being strong can’t be an option. There will always be a struggle to get what you want. So you have to work and set your mind on the goal.

You can’t let anyone make you doubt your worth. If people make you think you need to give up, you are weakening when you need to strengthen. Believe in yourself and be strong, and you’ll achieve those goals.

5. “You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.”
– Timber Hawkeye

Sometimes you can’t change or control the way things are going or what is happening around you. The only thing you can control is how you react.

Try to stay calm and remember to breathe, because it won’t be that way forever. By staying strong you can come out better in the end.

6. “People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can’t find them, make them.” – George Bernard Shaw

You can’t go through life, blaming things for the reason you haven’t reached your goals. Ignore the things that may be blinding you from where you need to be. Move forward despite anything that seems to be blocking you, and work your way through the obstacles.
This behavior is what successful people do. They create a life that will allow them to move forward, rather than giving up when there is an obstacle.

7. “Anyone can hide. Facing up to things, working through them, that’s what makes you strong.” – Sarah Dessen

It’s easy to give up and give in when things get hard. As Sarah Dessen says, being strong is what will set you apart from the rest.

8. “Be strong; things will get better. It might be stormy now, but rain doesn’t last forever.” – Unknown

Hard times can’t last forever. By staying strong and standing up through the storm, better days will come. The hard times will be worth the payout in the end.

9. “Remember: Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up.” – Rocky Balboa

Everyone starts at the bottom. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen without hard work.

Even when it seems that the hard work and struggle aren’t paying off, remember to stay strong. Staying strong and pushing on when it seems useless will be what gets you to the goal in the end.

10. “Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger

If everything were easy, no one would ever need to show great resolve. That’s why strength doesn’t come from winning.

Instead, strength comes from the struggle. It comes from the hard work and determination used to get to the goal. Whether this goal is to earn something or to get through a hard time, the struggle makes you stronger.

11. “You can’t control everything. Sometimes you just need to relax and have faith that things will work out. Let go a little and just let life happen.” – Kody Keplinger

Some things can’t be changed. They run their course no matter what you do to prevent or stop them, and you’ll feel out of control. Even still, you have to remain stable.

Remember that this will pass eventually, and your actions now determine what will happen when you’re through the hard parts. Like Keplinger says, stay relaxed and calm, and things will smooth over when the time is right.

12. “Sometimes, you don’t realize your own strength until you come face to face with your greatest weakness.” – Susan Gale

If you have to face something that usually breaks you, remember that being broken won’t pay off in the end. Remaining strong will get you through, and you’ll come out understanding just how strong you are.

You’ll be better because of it. Then, the next time you face your weakness, you will be less fearful or anxious. Work hard to better the situation, and refuse to give up.

13. “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

People show their true colors when things get hard. This revealing of their character is why you must stay strong through hard times. It will prove your strength in the end, and you’ll know that you can get through anything.

It’s easy to be strong when life is perfect. It is in the moments when things are hard that determines your real strength.

Push on, stay true to yourself, and the good things will come to you. This time is when it matters, and you owe it to yourself to press forward.

14. “Anyone can give up; it is the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone would expect you to fall apart, now that is true strength.” – Chris Bradford, in The Way of the Sword

As the quote says, giving up is so easy that anyone can do it. Fighting onwards is something only the strong can do. This saying underlines why leaders are the ones who meet their goals and seem to be happier.

Even when things get hard, and it would be understandable to give up, you have to remain stable. That is when your real strength shows.

15. “The more you love yourself, the less nonsense you’ll tolerate.” – Unknown

Loving yourself means staying strong despite anything else. When you stay strong and put yourself first, it’ll be easier to avoid those who treat you as less than you are.

Each time you stay firm when you could be weak, you are setting yourself up to be stronger next time. Eventually, those in your life will just understand that you will not tolerate games or mistreatment. By continually being strong, you are creating that name for yourself, and no one will be able to break you.

Final Thoughts On Inspirational Quotes About Staying Strong

When you feel like giving up or giving in, remember that it is more important than ever to stay strong. You owe it to yourself to come out even better in the end.

By staying strong you’ll be meeting goals and getting one step closer to where you ultimately want to be. You’ll be happier and more content, as well.

Don’t let a stressful moment or a moment of weakness to stand in your way. Continue being strong, and use these inspirational quotes about staying strong to keep you on the right track.

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