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

How To Feel Good Even When Things Seem Bad

In today’s world, there are a wide variety of life circumstances, family situations, and individual issues that can lead a person to conclude that life is horrible and they can’t do anything to improve their condition. In some cases, people experience a financial hardship. As a result, they face social isolation, low self-esteem, or the inability to engage in activities that formerly brought one deep joy or an ongoing sense of purpose.

In other cases, individuals find themselves estranged from loved ones as a result of lifestyle choices, differences in opinion, or long-standing grudges that preclude people from interacting in a loving, authentic manner. Another life issue that can cause an individual to acquire a sense of hopelessness and helplessness is an ongoing health problem. Because health problems can produce problems with mobility, longevity, and mood stability, they oftentimes lead people to conclude that there’s no point in attempting to cultivate a meaningful life.

Despite the fact that life is full of challenges that can seem to hamper one’s sense of happiness and holistic well-being, there are always strategies that individuals can implement to feel good when things seem bad.

Here are four ways to be happy even when things seem bad:

bad

1. Implement Self-Care Strategies. 

One of the best ways to ensure that you can maintain high levels of productivity and a positive mood despite challenging life circumstances is by implementing self-care strategies. These strategies help you maintain holistic well-being while also boosting your self-esteem. Note that any strategy which contributes positively to your self-concepts and/or health can be considered a self-care strategy.

One strategy that can prove particularly effective is getting enough sleep. When in a sleep-deprived state, people tend to think less clearly, experience mood instability, and compromise their ability to maintain healthy relationships. On the other hand, the Council of Nonprofits reports that getting 7-9 hours of sleep empowers people to make better decisions. Some other self-care strategies that can elevate your mood include massage, meditation, and yoga.

2. Get Outside. 

One of the best ways to start feeling good even when things seem bad is by getting outside. This step is immensely important because it will provide you with a wide range of wonderful health benefits that can improve your mental and physical well-being. As noted in Harvard Health Publishing, going outside causes your vitamin D levels to rise as sunlight hits your skin. In addition to metabolizing the process of creating and activating vitamin D, getting outside on a regular basis can promote mood stability, longevity, and lower blood pressure.

3. Talk To Someone You Can Trust. 

In many cases, being able to discuss a serious or minor problem with someone you trust is the key to remaining emotionally and psychologically stable when times get tough. Being able to clearly communicate your thoughts and feelings is important because doing so entails clarity, mutual understanding, and an increasing awareness that there is someone who will support you when things seem bad. Your trusted confidante can be anyone from a romantic partner to a counselor to a mentor.

4. Solve The Problem. 

Oftentimes, people experience ongoing depression in a bad situation because they perceive that there’s nothing they can do about it. In some cases (such as a death in the family), this perception is somewhat accurate. Yet even when you’re dealing with this type of loss, there’s always something that you can do to sustain your mental health and physical vitality. Also note that there are many life situations that people unconsciously or consciously remain in despite the fact that they’re experiencing ongoing pain and problems as a result of the relationship or circumstance.

In these cases, it’s almost always a good idea to solve the problem by devising some type of viable resolution which will preclude you from experiencing ongoing difficulties unnecessarily. In some cases, solving the problem will involve ending an unhealthy relationship. With respect to issues involving addictions to things like food and gambling, many people have found themselves capable of leaving this all behind them by attaining counseling services in a clinical setting.

positive quotes

Conclusion 

Individuals who are serious about leading profoundly rewarding lives should know that tough times will come no matter what. If you are not prepared to deal with the extensive stress, ideological shaking, and other shifts that transpire during difficult times, you make yourself susceptible to a wide range of unwanted outcomes. Some of them can include weight gain, social isolation, job loss, financial challenges, and low self-esteem.

In recognizing that being unprepared to deal with difficult times can cause numerous life-hampering outcomes. Thus, you should develop strategies that will help you maintain your physical and mental equilibrium irrespective of what’s going on in the outside world. You can use the advice and information outlined above to ensure that you can remain productive and positive no matter what unfolds in the world around you.

REFERENCES:
HTTPS://WWW.COUNCILOFNONPROFITS.ORG/THOUGHT-LEADERSHIP/IT-S-STRESSFUL-OUT-THERE-TAKE-CARE-OF-YOURSELF
HTTPS://WWW.HEALTH.HARVARD.EDU/PRESS_RELEASES/SPENDING-TIME-OUTDOORS-IS-GOOD-FOR-YOU
(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

7 Reasons Why High Expectations In A Relationship Leads To Disappointment

It can be mind-boggling to find yourself in a relationship where nothing turns out like you thought it would. You may begin to question whether you really know the person that you’re sleeping next to every night. Before you start to over analyze the situation though, you should ask yourself if your partner has really changed, or did you have unrealistic expectations of how you wanted things to go in the first place?
We are only human, and it is perfectly reasonable to expect the best from your significant other. However, to think that your relationship will be nothing, but smooth sailing is improbable. Disappointment is almost a promise when entering a relationship with unrealistic goals of how it should work.

How to Deal With Disappointment

Having fairytale expectations for any long-term relationship will only lead to a headache. The best part of being in a relationship is knowing that there is someone there for you through the good times and the bad. If you go into a new relationship thinking you will forgo the ups and downs that come along with it, you will have to learn how to deal with disappointment.

Long-Term Effects

In the long run, your partner may begin to resent you for having unreasonable relationship expectations. It is essential to understand that you are both individuals, with your own thoughts, wants, and needs. Things can’t be perfect all the time, but we can be respectful all the time.

Expectations Vs. Reality

Many of us, through no fault of our own, will try to mimic the traditional relationships that we see on television or read about in books. We tend to try this out early in life because generally, these are the first times we see the way relationships play out besides our parents. Unfortunately, there’s a lot that happens after living happily ever after. Real life includes a certain amount of disappointment.

Not a Fairytale Ending

As mentioned, most real-life relationships don’t follow the happy ending theme. Throughout your lives together, there will be triumphs, and there will be a disappointment. The key to getting to the good times is to get through the bad ones.

Mind Reader

Your partner cannot see the future. They do not have a crystal ball either, so expecting them to know what you’re thinking at all times is a surefire way to set yourself up for disappointment.

Always keep in mind that your significant other has their own jumble of thoughts rolling around in their head. If you want them to know something you will have to tell them.

Things are Not Always Perfect

Your relationship will be tested, that is a fact. Nothing can last forever without hitting some bumps in the road. Whether your relationship can withstand the test of time is entirely up to two people involved. Every relationship has its snags. Learning how to deal with disappointment, and not always getting your way about things is imperative to getting through the harder times.

difficult times in relationships

Passion Filled

Typically, at the beginning of a relationship infatuation flows freely, and vigorously. It’s hard to comprehend a time where you can keep your hands off each other, but it will happen. Over time, as the honeymoon period fades away the want and need to be close to your significant other all the time will subside a bit as well. This does not mean that your partner no longer desires you, it just means you are entering a new phase in the relationship.
You must remember, when it comes to your other half, you should be aiming for quality time, not quantity. You will have to deal with disappointment when you set unrealistic passion intensity goals.

Recognize Your Differences

Minor differences in a relationship should be celebrated, not discouraged. We all have our ideas and perspectives. Your partner should always be there for you emotionally and physically when you need them. They are not, however, obligated to bend to your will and agree with everything that you say. They are still their own person. You are almost guaranteed disappointment if you think that your partner will concede with everything you say for the rest of your lives together.

The best way to go into a new relationship or first date is to have zero expectations. Of course, the person should treat you with respect and appreciate you for who you are. Those two things are a given. Nonetheless, we should always receive our partners with an open heart and an open mind. Not with some preconceived notion of how we think they should be.

It isn’t fair to project our ideas of what a perfect man or woman should or shouldn’t be onto our significant others. Doing so will only lead to having to deal with disappointment and frustration. You should love your partner for who they are, not who you want them to be.

5 Step Plan For Finding Your True Love After A Bad Breakup

Been in a bad breakup? Now more than ever is a good time to figure out how to find true love. Some know how hard it can be because they always thought of that ex- as “the one,” and after they  break up, finding someone new can be terrifying. But after a while, we must all get back on the horse. Facing that deeply felt fear of rejection while putting oneself out there repeatedly. It’s hard, but it’s worth it.

Like most things in life, it’s more straightforward to wrap your head around once you implement a plan. Do you have dreams of starting your own company, traveling to new locations, or rising out of debt? Plans always make those things more manageable, so now you’re trying to recover from a breakup?

We have a strategy for you, and it only takes five tips to find true love.

true love

1. It’s time to let go of your ex 

I always knew in the back of my mind that if I were constantly thinking about my breakup while meeting new people, there wouldn’t ever be space for new passions. Is there still some negative energy surrounding your ex? For your true love to come into your life, letting go of anger, resentment, or other feelings is the first step.

How? First, don’t suppress your negative emotions. Refrain from expressing them at the wrong time. The time to let it out is with someone who empathizes with everything you need to communicate without any judgment. Don’t believe you have someone to confide in? Give it some more thought and you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how many people are willing to lend a helping hand when you’re in a dark place.

2. Just because someone isn’t like your ex doesn’t mean they’re a good match 

As you’re experiencing a rough breakup, you may tell yourself you won’t ever associate with a person similar to your ex again, “That’s it!” you exclaim, “Never again!” Your ex avoided adventure and being spontaneous? Time to find an adrenaline-seeking, world-traveling rock-climber. Your ex had brunette hair? Only blondes now! I think you get the idea.

As you may be able to tell, the issue with an approach like this is that it’s not a proactive decision. It’s reacting to something besides what you want in your true love. Going out with someone only because they’re unlike your ex isn’t the solution to your woes.

The next step tells you what you need to do.

3. Clear up the values you’re looking for in your true love 

The things we value are the north star for our relationships. If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything. Once you start dating someone that shares your values, it won’t take nearly as much effort as previous relationships.

Review your most recent relationship. I’ll bet that you brushed aside some of the bad parts of them thinking they would get better over time, right? Over time, things stayed the same, didn’t they? Become crystal clear on what you want most in your true love and don’t settle. As you complete this step, you’ll notice massive improvements towards who you are attracting into your life.

4. Learn how to say “no” to incompatible people 

If you hesitate to say “nos,” you’re wasting both your time and the other party’s time. We settle for less than what we want and draw it out into a more significant problem with our stress, fear and indecision. I’d much rather have someone tell me “no” as soon as possible than hear about all the reasons why it won’t work.

true love

Of course, someone may get offended by your honesty. But you can’t control other people’s feelings towards you. It shines a light on people to help them grow. Integrity is going to benefit both of you to progress towards more healthy relationships.

5. Work it! 

If you want to discover your true love, you have to get out in the trenches and search for them! As we continue to put our true personalities on the line, leave our comfort zones and crush our fears, beautiful things will unfold.

Go to social outings with people you’ve never met before. Attend groups that interest you in the surrounding areas. Chat up a stranger on the metro or bus. Even try online dating for the hell of it! Yes, not everything is going to end up with you in a loving relationship, but getting uncomfortable will lead to more growth.

As things start to take a turn for the better undoubtedly, you’ll see that it was all worth it, and you may miss the times when you were figuring out how to find true love. If you aren’t in a relationship yet, keep trying. Just like a rainy day doesn’t last, it won’t be like this forever. With these tips to find true love, I know you’ll get what you’re looking for.

10 Proven Ways to Lose Weight Faster

It’s challenging to stay healthy with today’s lifestyle and conveniences. That’s why in the last four decades, obesity has risen to astounding numbers and has become a global health problem. According to statistics from the World Health Organization, nearly 1.9 billion adults are overweight and 650 million are obese. But while there are many strategies for dropping the pounds, there are also some proven ways to lose weight faster.

Here Are 10 Proven Ways to Lose Weight Faster

“To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art.” – Francois de La Rochefoucauld

1. Drink mostly water and occasionally have tea

Water has zero calories, so it’s the perfect drink to have when you are trying to slim down. Water also flushes the toxins and helps with your metabolism, so you can lose weight faster. If water is too bland, enjoy a cup of warm tea from time to time. Both green tea and black tea are loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols that aid in weight loss, according to a study in the European Journal of Nutrition.

2. Chew your food slowly

When you eat at a slower pace, you lose weight faster. Countless studies have shown that your body becomes more satiated when you take time to chew your food. Apparently, it takes 20 minutes for the brain to send signals to the rest of your body that you’re taking in nourishment. In addition, eating slowly lowers the chances of overeating. A study in the Journal of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics revealed that fast eaters tend to have heavier body mass and gain weight faster than slow eaters. Remember this the next time you are having a meal.

3. Eat spicy foods

Spicy foods accelerate the pace by which your body burns the calories. A study in the European PMC shows that these foods can also increase your metabolism by eight percent. People who love to eat spicy food also chew at a slower pace, which helps them lose weight faster.

4. Snack on healthy food more often

Snacking prevents your body from crashing so that you are not forced to overeat during meals. However, you have to be smart about what you are snacking on. Instead of chips, eat more nuts and fruits for a healthier option. Enjoy slices of apple with peanut butter or have plain yogurt with berries. These snacks are just as delicious as a tasty, crunchy, but unhealthy batch of fries.

5. Have a filling soup before your main meal

A study in the journal Appetite revealed that having a warm bowl of soup right before you eat your meal could fill your appetite faster. Hence, you won’t have a need to eat too much of that red meat, fried chicken, or pasta once it is served. Similar to chewing your food slowly, waiting for your soup to cool down gives your brain time to signal that your stomach is about to get satiated. When the signals coordinate, your body feels a lot fuller, so you tend to eat less of the high-calorie portion of meals.

6. Catch up on those sleep hours

Experts from the University of Colorado said that a lack of sleep causes people to eat and gain weight more. When you are feeling lethargic during the day because you didn’t have quality sleep, your body will demand that you eat rich, high-calorie foods to give you energy. Having poor sleeping habits also slows down metabolism, hence your body stores – instead of burns – more fat.

7. Sleep in a cold bedroom

Your body temperature drops when you sleep and your body burns stored fats to keep you warm.  But those who sleep in cooler rooms (below 66 degrees) burn seven percent more calories than those who sleep in rooms with above 75 degrees temperature, according to a study from the American Diabetes Association. Experts also said that the amount of good fat your body burns doubles in a cooler room, hence it improves your metabolism.  A cooler room also helps you gain quality sleep so you don’t only lose weight, but also wake up refreshed, energized, and more primed to start your day.

8. Embrace a positive outlook full of laughter

Researchers at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center said that your body loses 10 to 40 calories when you laugh for 15 minutes. You lose the same number of calories when you do a 30-minute weight exercise. But while experts don’t recommend that you sit and watch comedy films and TV shows for hours, embracing positive thinking, positive thoughts, and finding things that make you laugh each day can definitely do wonders for your body’s wellbeing. Apart from burning off the calories, a positive lifestyle also bolsters your immunities so you are healthier against diseases.

9. Mind your stress levels

Physical and emotional stress might initially cause you to lose weight. Over time, however, as your body’s cortisol levels increase due to stress, you will tend to eat more as a way to cope. To manage your stress levels, try engaging in more relaxing activities like yoga, walking or running, gardening, and arts and crafts, and skip the food indulgence.

lose weight

10. Do away with multitasking

Juggling so many tasks at once triggers stress and leads to more distractions for your brain. You could completely lose sight of a proper diet when you are multitasking because all you can think about is feeling overwhelmed by the number of things you have to accomplish. Multitasking also leads to mindless eating, where you end up consuming more calories than your body needs, according to Harvard Medical School.

Final Thoughts

Losing weight isn’t just about eating. Your activities, habit, and lifestyle also impact how your body works. Along with following this guide, set reasonable weight loss goals as well so that you will be motivated to keep with the program.

If You See Frogs Often, This Is What It Means

When the frog shows up frequently in your life, Spirit wants you to learn to grow from change, and not let yourself become intimidated by it. Frogs have a strong association with transition and the temporary, constantly evolving nature of our lives. They can show us to become open to what these changes will bring, and to connect with our emotions and feminine energy in order to stay in tune with our higher selves.

Animal guides such as  frogs act as messengers delivering important messages from beyond, and frogs help us to cleanse old emotions and fear-based mentalities, and allow us to embrace our true selves. The frog represents a renewal and rebirth of the self, and a complete metamorphosis. Frogs move quickly, and as such, show us to do the same and not get held back in the past or on emotions that no longer serve us.

Do you see frogs appearing frequently in your life? If so, you might want to keep reading in order to find out what this means for you on your personal journey.

ravens

If you see ravens often, this might be why…

IF YOU SEE FROGS OFTEN, THIS IS WHAT IT MEANS

  • Associated with cleansing in a variety of ways, the frog represents the ability to look into your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health in order to see where you can remove toxic energies. Since the frog lives near water, and water runs deep like our emotions, it might mean that you need to look into your feelings and see what you can remove from your life in order to feel your best. Or, you might need to examine your physical health and see what you can improve upon in order to feel more vibrant. Finally, you might also need to examine your mental state – do you feel clouded and off balance a lot of the time? Maybe you need a fresh perspective in order to gain more mental clarity and remove harmful beliefs.
  • The frog also represents the process of transformation, as it too undergoes a powerful process from growing into an adult frog from just a small tadpole. We all go through similar transformations, and the frog wants to remind you to remain aware during all the stages of your personal journey. Frogs have been associated with a rebirth of the self, and ancient civilizations have viewed the frog as a symbol of resurrection and fertility. Are Frogs Always Happy? Click the link to find out.
  • An amphibian, the frog moves easily from Earth to water throughout its life. You can use this spirit animal during times of transition, and if you need support during big changes in your life. Frogs remind us also to remain flexible, and to adapt to a new environment with ease. Don’t fight your current reality – simply embrace it, look around to see how you can best survive, and use what you have in order to live your best life.
  • Since the frog comes out at night, it has been linked with the dark arts such as witchcraft. You might feel inclined to play with magic and just explore life in all its mystery. Frogs live in two different environments, and as such, encourage you to explore a variety of perspectives and planes in life. Get to know all the different sides of yourself, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

frogs

  • In Native American tradition, they view the frog as the rainmaker. They call on him or her when they need rain, and view it as a sacred animal. Frogs come out at night, so they’ve also been linked to moon energy. When you feel a calling to your intuitive self and creative energies, remember to rely on your frog friend for support and expansion of your abilities.

Related article: If You See Dragonflies Often, This Is What It Means

As with any other animal totem, frogs will show up the moment you need a sign from beyond, and will guide you to continue down the right path in life. The frog represents feminine energy, ease in transition, emotional and spiritual cleansing, and exploring life in all its wonder. No matter what stage of life you feel you’re in, you can count on the frog spirit animal to guide you in many different areas of life.

Anxiety Attack : Causes, Symptoms And Cure

Imagine being trapped in a cage in the jungle, with strange and menacing noises all around you. The air feels so thick, it squeezes all the air out of your lungs. Your heart pounds. Somewhere a branch snaps. You duck, knowing that death is certain to come for you now.

What you’ve just read is a simulation of what it feels like for people who have panic attacks. Unfortunately, for those who do, the jungle in question remains steadfastly in their heads, making it difficult for those around them to understand why an anxiety attack can feel so debilitating. But the anxiety attack symptoms described above, the feelings of being trapped, of not being able to breathe, the heart palpitations, the feeling like you’re dying, those are all part of the disorder.

If you or someone you know suffers from an anxiety disorder, here’s what you need to know.

What Is It/ What Causes It?

An anxiety or panic attack is like a sudden burst of fear and dread that comes on unexpectedly, often catching the person who has it off guard. The fear a person experiences can seem almost irrational, not only to the sufferer, but also to the people around him/ her.

This is partly due to the fact that there is no obvious threat that the person is responding to. However, the body gives all the signs of threat response because of a reaction in the person’s amygdala. The body also produces an adrenaline response.

Sudden bouts of anxiety can have numerous causes. eMedicine health suggests that the cause of different anxiety disorders could be rooted in a person’s hereditary makeup. Additionally, an article on the Mayo Clinic website reminds people that a medical condition can cause anxiety problems. Finally, an overwhelming amount of stress in a person’s daily life can push the panic response into overdrive.

Women suffer from panic attacks more frequently than men. It’s most common in people in the 18 to 25 age range. Although a bout with anxiety can feel like it lasts a lifetime, most of the time it only lasts around 15 or 20 seconds, according to the American Psychology Association (APA). However, the after effects of the attack can last much longer – sometimes hours in some cases.

Several types of anxiety-related disorders exist, ranging from agoraphobia to generalized anxiety disorder. Panic disorder, which is part of this, is when a person experiences multiple panic attacks on different occasions. (It could be said to be chronic in this respect.) Other types of disorders include mutism, phobias, social anxiety disorder, and substance-induced anxiety disorder.

Symptoms of Panic Disorder

Anxiety attack symptoms can be deceiving in that they often mimic other health issues, like heart disease or even menopause. If you’re trying to determine if you have a panic disorder, it’s best to take all the symptoms together.

When you’re having an anxiety attack, you could experience one or more of these symptoms:

  • Dizziness
  • Shaking, trembling
  • Heart issues, like a faster heart rate, heart palpitations, or a pounding heart, as well as chest pains
  • Difficulty breathing – It can feel like you’ll smother – hyperventilating
  • Sweating
  • Upset stomach, nausea, discomfort in the abdominal area
  • Afraid of dying, feelings of being detached from the self, fear of going crazy or losing control
  • Hot flashes, or on the opposite end, chills
  • Numbness, tingling

Many people who are in the midst of an anxiety attack feel unable to adequately express to others what they are feeling.

Anxiety Attack Treatment

Typically, doctors suggest a multi-pronged approach to treating an anxiety attack. Although genetics play a role in a person’s susceptibility to anxiety disorders, some environmental and health conditions play a role.

First, a person who experiences on-going anxiety attacks should visit a doctor to rule out an underlying medical cause like heart disease, diabetes, or thyroid problems. This is especially important if you don’t have a relative who also has a panic disorder.

anxiety attack

Second, once health-related issues are ruled out, anxiety sufferers should also avoid consuming a lot of caffeine and avoid smoking cigarettes, both of which can increase their risk of having an attack. And some, who might be coming down from drugs will experience panic as their bodies detox from the drugs.

Third, it may be also important for the anxiety attack sufferer to deal with other mental health issues, like past trauma or depression. These conditions also give rise to panic attacks and anxiety disorders.

Finally, getting out and getting physical can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety. Regular exercise like walking or yoga work well for treating this condition. As well, the anxiety sufferer should make a point of not isolating him/ herself. Social interaction can help a great deal.

Final Words on Anxiety Disorders

Successful anxiety attack treatment begins with knowing the causes of the condition. Many times, a person experiences bouts of anxiety due to their genetic makeup. In other words, one of their blood relatives also had anxiety or panic attacks. Additionally, a person can have a disease, like diabetes or heart disease, which brings on attacks.

Finally, it’s important to address environmental and dietary factors that can cause an attack. Too much caffeine or nicotine will produce anxiety in the body, as will substance detox. Participating in activities, like yoga or running or other sports can go a long way to relieving anxiety at its root.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFdcCXmGpy4

References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8872.php
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961
https://www.emedicinehealth.com/panic_attacks/article_em.htm#what_are_the_symptoms_of_panic_attacks
https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/guide/anxiety-disorders#1
(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

5 Ways to Become A Natural Leader

They say that great leaders aren’t made, but born. In other words, natural leaders supposedly possess innate impressive qualities that make them a success. Experts say, however, that everyone can bring out their natural leadership with the right nurturing and training. The skill can be acquired, learned, and honed. So, take a look at a few ways to develop your natural skills as an effective leader.

Here Are 5 Ways to Become A Natural Leader

“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” – John C. Maxwell

1. Re-assess what being a leader means for you.

When people think about a natural leader, they instantly picture this person who’s charismatic and a good orator, like Winston Churchill or Martin Luther King, Jr. But there are also effective leaders who don’t necessarily have a loud voice in the figurative and literal sense.

Some natural leaders might hardly talk. They may work quietly behind the background or approach key people personally to discuss issues and problems. But when push comes to shove, they’re on the front lines directing everything and guiding everyone on their team.

So, if you’re the type who’s not too keen on speaking up in front of a large crowd, that doesn’t mean you can’t be a natural leader. You can have a more personal, intimate, and inclusive approach to leadership and that’s perfectly fine, too. Besides, being a great communicator also means you’re a great listener and observer.

natural leader

2. Learn to manage your emotions.

Energy drives feelings and emotions. If you supercharge these emotions in a way that could cause damage, people working under you might bear the brunt. A good leader shouldn’t let his emotions overcome him, but you don’t have to be an unemotional and unsympathetic superior. Natural leaders know how to properly channel their feelings to connect with others so their working relationship remains in harmony.

For instance, if a project at work has been delayed which could cause a big loss for your company, would you let your agitation trigger a breakdown? Natural leaders figure out what really happened, and they work to find a solution. Instead of berating a staff member, they assure the worker that in spite of mistakes, it’s not the end of the world. They can fix the problem together.

Natural leaders thrive on positive reinforcement, positive thinking, and giving positive feedback to help boost staff morale, especially in problematic situations. Isn’t it always better to see the half-glass full? In that case, everyone will be motivated to work harder and better.

3. Recognize that you’re still part of a team.

In fact, the success and accomplishments of your team members will reflect well on you, if you are an effective, natural leader. If you work to bring out the best in your staff, it shows you are a capable leader. You give others support and positive guidance in their work and credit them for their accomplishments. You give them the spotlight to shine as well.

Natural leaders who are givers earn the respect and loyalty of their subordinates. They also have more productive staff members. For instance, Google’s chief executive officer, Sundar Pichai, believes it’s his job as a leader to help the people who work for him become successful. He believes in helping his team members overcome the roadblocks. By doing so, he has made Google one of the most successful tech giants in the world.

4. Share what you know.

Natural leaders who are effective share knowledge and information with their subordinates. They become mentors by guiding their staff members to find the path that brings out their best potential. According to a leadership coach, not all leaders possess this quality. Some leaders don’t trust their team members enough to provide them with the knowledge and training that will help them grow and develop.

Some leaders push their team through fear and conflict, and there’s no openness with each other. A team with flexible leadership encourages the exchange of ideas, skills, and capabilities, thus making the organization more successful.

5. Resist micromanaging.

Rather than being productive, acting as a micromanager is counterproductive and damaging to any organization. Leaders who think that they are the only one who can fix the problem indicate two things: either they don’t trust their staff, or they don’t give their team members the opportunity to learn, grow, and perform better. A natural leader steps back to let their staff or aide figure the process out, even if they make mistakes. They won’t step in to fix the problem, because dealing with issues can still be part of learning.

This is where your delegating skills and willingness to try out different approaches will also be tested as a natural leader. If you let your people handle the nitty-gritty, you can then shift your focus on to bigger things and issues that need to be addressed in your company.  This will set you apart from being just a manager or boss to an actual leader.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re the head of a large business, the boss of a small corporation, or the manager of a team of 10, apply these natural leadership strategies to inspire your group and meet your goals. Good luck!

https://youtu.be/FzVVeKw3MAg

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved
References:
https://www.td.org/insights/listening-is-the-secret-weapon-of-good-leaders
https://qz.com/879633/let-others-succeed-google-ceo-sundar-pichais-simple-but-effective-leadership-style/
https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20110414/business-news/Effective-leaders-share-knowledge-shun-power-organisational-coach.360285

8 Things Your Hands Can Tell You About Your Health

Did you know that your hands can reveal the state of your overall health – including possible health conditions and deficiencies? Well, it’s true. Your hands say a lot about you, from the fingernails to the wrists.

Here are eight things that your hands can tell you about your health:

Here are some things to know:

  1. Heart health

It turns out that your hand strength is potentially indicative of heart health. Grip strength, the force with which one can squeeze or hold onto objects with the hands, is said to be a reliable measure of heart attack and stroke risk.

Loss of strength in one or both of your hands is a scary and severe abnormality that requires immediate medical intervention. In the United States, heart disease and stroke are the first and fifth leading causes of death. Loss of movement or numbness or one or both hands is a telltale symptom of both.

Grip strength is also linked to biological age and overall muscle strength.

hands go numb

  1. Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis, also referred to as excessive sweating, is a relatively common–but treatable–condition. The onset of this condition occurs around the age of 13, sometimes earlier for those dealing with excessive underarm sweating. The underarms, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet are the most common problem areas.

Treatment options for the health condition of hyperhidrosis include over-the-counter and prescription antiperspirants, oral medications, and neutralization of the sweat glands.

  1. Hand eczema

Eczema is a health condition characterized by cracked, itchy, scaly, and rough patches of skin. Eczema is another common inflammatory disorder that affects, at least to some degree, more than three in every 10 people in the United States. As the name implies, hand eczema describes the disproportionate effects of eczema on the hands.

Treatment for eczema involves the healing of problem areas and the alleviation of symptoms. There are many home treatment options for eczema, including a regular application of moisturizer, use of mild soap, air drying instead of using a towel, and avoiding symptom triggers.

  1. Nutrient deficiency

The color of your fingernails can signal potential nutrient deficiencies and resultant health issues. Brown-gray nails are a possible sign of vitamin B12 shortage; white nails could mean an iron deficiency; while nails that appear overly pink or reddish may suggest malnutrition – dangerously-low levels of various nutrients and vitamins. These vitamins and nutrients include vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin, zinc, and others.

If fingernails begin to grow outwards and take on a concave (bowl-shaped) appearance, it could sign a long-term lack of protein.

  1. Thyroid problems

The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that are necessary for controlling and maintaining metabolic rate, digestive function, brain and heart health, digestive function, bone structure and health, and overall mood.

When the thyroid does not produce enough hormones – a condition called hypothyroidism – the appearance of your hands and fingers will change. Often, hypothyroidism may cause the hands to swell or get cold. When the gland produces too many hormones, hyperthyroidism may lead to tremors and reddish or dehydrated skin around the hands and fingers.

  1. Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the brain that inhibits motor control movement. Common symptoms of Parkinson’s include changes in speech, muscle tremors, and a limited range of motion.

Among the first signs of Parkinson’s disease is increasing involuntary movements and shaking of the hands. While stress may cause similar symptoms to appear in the hands, the resulting tremor is short-lived and quickly forgotten. Perhaps the most noticeable physical manifestation of Parkinson’s onset is the repetitive, uncontrollable thumb and index finger movement.

  1. Anemia

Anemia is a “condition (when) you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body’s tissues.” Tiredness and weakness are frequently reported, as is coldness of the hands (and feet). Pale hands and whitish nail beds may also be signs of oxygen shortage in the body.

health

The most common anemia is a health condition caused by a shortage of iron in the blood. Iron is essential for the body to produce hemoglobin, which helps support oxygen transport from the lungs to the body’s tissues and organs. Correcting your iron intake can go a long way in preventing the disorder.

  1. UV exposure

Too much or too little sunlight isn’t healthy for the body. When overexposed to sunlight, a person will often grow brown spots (“liver spots”) on the hands and arms. Too much sun can also cause various types of skin cancer, such as melanoma. This type of skin cancer may also produce black streaks underneath the fingernails.

If you plan to be out in the sun for any significant amount of time, it is wise to apply a quality sunscreen. Try using a strength of SPF 30 or higher, and make sure to apply the product regularly throughout the day.

Scientists Explain 8 Reasons People Bruise Easily

While bruises can be unsightly and painful, they’re mostly harmless and easily treatable. We all take a bruising from time to time, but some of us are more prone to black and blue than others. In this article, we’ll talk about why some people bruise easily, what to do about it, and – to cap things off – how to prevent bruises in the first place!

Without further delay, here are eight reasons that people bruise easily:

  1. You’re getting older

It is completely normal to bruise easier as you age. As we get older, our skin loses some of its density and thickness, including a fatty layer (“subcutaneous fat”) that serves as a cushion for our small blood vessels.

A simple acronym to remember is RICE, which stands for the RICE method. The RICE method is a simple yet effective means of treating sprains, strains, and bruises. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation can ease pain, reduce swelling, and assist healing, even if you do bruise easily.

  1. You have an active lifestyle

Kind of a no-brainer here. If you are the sporty type, you’re well aware that you are more prone to injury and accidents than the rest of us. Something else that often happens, especially when the adrenaline is pumping, is the person comes into contact with an object and only finds out later that a rather nasty bruise is forming.

Most bruises do not require medical attention. For mild bruising, use the RICE method.

  1. You take medicines or supplements.

Various medications and supplements can cause a person to bruise easily. Blood thinners, NSAIDs (e.g., Advil, Aleve), and even supplements such as ginkgo and fish oil may cause the occasional black and blue spot.

Generally, the longer you’ve taken the medication or supplement, the more likely you are to bruise. While the bruising is probably not harmful, it may be wise to speak with the doctor who prescribed the drugs.

  1. You’re a “sun worshipper.”

Not literally, of course. Long-term exposure to the sun may weaken blood vessel walls, causing a person to bruise easily. Two common conditions, actinic purpura and senile purpura, produce strange-looking patches of dark blue or purple on the hands and forearms.

Sun exposure is dangerous for other reasons, of course, including a higher risk of skin cancer and heat stroke.

  1. You’re taking steroids.

Corticosteroids, an anti-inflammatory drug commonly prescribed for asthma, arthritis, eczema, and COPD, may produce bruises as a side effect. Corticosteroids are present in many forms of prescription medicine, including topical rubs, pills, and inhalers.

Long-term use of steroids may cause thinning of the blood vessels, thereby increasing the degree of bruising a person experiences.

  1. You’re genetically predisposed.

There is undoubtedly a genetic factor at play here. If your mom, dad, or grandparents bruise easily, you may also. Genetic predisposition for thinner skin and more fragile blood vessels is very real, with the bruises typically appearing around the arms, butt, or thighs.

Once again, bruising is nothing to worry about, unless other symptoms accompany the bruising (see #7 and #8).

  1. Your platelet count is low.

People born with a platelet disorder seem to bruise for no reason. Blood platelets are flat fragments of cytoplasm that clot and obstruct bleeding before it intensifies.

To illustrate platelet function, think of a paper cut. The resultant bleeding from a paper cut is short-lived because the cut is small and because platelets can quickly obstruct blood from such a cut – sometimes within a couple of minutes.

Now, if you get a paper cut and you have a low platelet count, the cut will probably bleed more extensively.

bruise easily

  1. You have a potentially serious condition

Liver damage and blood cancer are two severe medical conditions that may cause blood clotting and more frequent bruising. Common causes of liver damage include alcohol abuse, obesity, viral infections, and genetic predisposition.

Blood cancers include leukemia and lymphoma; both conditions cause a person to bruise easily. If your bruising appears with other symptoms such as bone or joint pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, it is advisable to see your doctor.

Preventing and Treating Bruises

Prevention is always the best kind of medicine. To prevent bruising, here are a few important tips:

  • Clean up clutter, especially on the floors.
  • Arrange appliances and electrical cords in a way that doesn’t disrupt your walking.
  • Have your hearing and vision checked every couple of years (to avoid preventable accidents such as falls).
  • Discuss bruising side effects of medications with your doctor.
  • Keep your home well lit, especially at nighttime.

Regarding treatment, most bruises will simply go away on their own, and without medical intervention. However, frequent bruising may signal an underlying condition that requires treatment.

Of course, you may always treat your bruises at home using the RICE method. Despite being a simple technique, most doctors will prescribe the exact same thing in most cases. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation is the quickest way to treat mild cases of bruising.

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