Looking for the Light is a Health and Lifestyle Blog covering topics such as Photography, Cooking, DIY Projects, Fitness, Men's and Women's Health, Lyme Disease, Mental Health, and having fun along the way.
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Melinda
Your health and wellness are important factors when it comes to how you feel each day and what you’re able to achieve in life. You must have a lot of natural energy and be in a positive frame of mind if you want to be well and excel.
While not every day will be great, it’s in your best interest to find more stability in your life and mental state. Doing so isn’t always easy but it is possible. Your mental health matters and the only way to make sure you can boost and improve it is to work on it and take actions that help you to achieve this goal.
Keep active if you want to boost and improve your mental health. Exercising and living a healthy lifestyle is good not only for your physical body but also for your mind. Happy chemicals are released when you workout and you’ll notice that you’re in a better mood after you break a sweat. Find activities you enjoy doing and that help you work and challenge different muscle groups. You’ll not only be a happier person for making this change but you’ll also be in better shape and feel more confident in your body.
Learn & Challenge Your Mind
Another way to boost and improve your mental health is to learn new information regularly. Challenge your mind by studying and reading articles and blogs from some of the top leaders out there like Dee Agarwal. Learning not only makes you smarter but it makes you feel good and gives you a sense of accomplishment. Open up your mind to taking in new information and remain curious so that you can expand your knowledge and education and stay mentally well.
Talk About Your Feelings
It’s also in your best interest to get in the habit of talking about your feelings if you want to boost and improve your mental health. Be vulnerable and open with those you trust and let them into your troubles and what’s on your mind. They can be there to listen or also offer advice and input if that’s what you want. It’ll feel good to get what’s bothering you off your mind and out into the open. You won’t have to carry around so many burdens and will likely notice that others feel the same way you do and can relate or have had similar experiences as well. You can’t be afraid to ask for help and should do so when you need it so that you feel less alone.
Follow Your Passions
Do more of what you love if you want to boost and improve your mental health. Start living for yourself instead of others and do what puts a smile on your face. Make more time for hobbies and activities that you enjoy and say no to others when they request your time and attention and you can’t give it. Find a job you love and that puts your skills to use and challenges you daily. You’ll feel much more fulfilled and be in a better place when you’re spending your days doing what pleases you.
Eat Well
Your diet and what you eat also play a role in how you feel and your mental health. Some foods can ignite or reduce anxiety, for example. Commit to eating a nutritious diet full of leafy greens, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It may help to get in the habit of cooking for yourself at home so you have more control over the ingredients and portion sizes. Also, pay attention to what you’re drinking and stick to having more water and tea and less caffeine, alcohol, and sugar if you want to maintain good mental health.
Meditate & Reflect
One of the best ways to slow racing thoughts and boost and improve your mental health is to take the time to meditate and reflect often. Find a quiet place in your home or head out into nature and listen to a guided meditation that will help you feel relaxed, centered, and at ease.
I’m celebrating my greatest dog loves of today and in the past. I’ve owned a dog most of my life and we always had a dog when growing up. I can tell stories or sing to my dog friends anytime and they never spill the beans or frown at my bad singing.
Remember a dog is a great friend but they are a full-time commitment. They can also cost money that can come up very unexpectedly if they get sick. If you can make that commitment I encourage you to find the unconditional love of a dog or two today.
In the year 2004, the day was founded by animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert, Collen Paige. He is also a conservationist, dog trainer, and author. The date 26 August was selected for International Dog Day because it was the first time when Paige’s family adopted Sheltie; he was 10-years-old.
Along with International Dog Day, Paige also founded and observed many such days including National Cat Day, National Puppy Day, National Wildlife Day, and National Mutt Day.
Few amazing facts about dogs • The most successful hunter in the world is the African Hunting Dog, which also holds the Guinness World Record for it. In 50 to 70 percent of their hunts, these dogs are successful. • Salukis hold the Guinness World Record for being the world’s oldest dog breed. This breed actually dates back to 329 BC. • Dogs have three eyelids; the third lid is a nictitating membrane, which is known as a haw. This keeps the eye lubricated and protected. • Not to forget, 30 percent of Dalmatians are deaf in one ear.
Change is constant and although many people feel resistant to it, change can actually be very beneficial. As the saying goes a change can be as good as a rest and there are many reasons for this. Change can bring a number of opportunities and give you a new perspective on life. A fresh start can also be a positive thing and learning to adapt to change is a useful skill for many situations. Whether it’s moving to a different place or embarking on a new career, there are several reasons a change can be positive.
If you’re looking for a fresh start, something as challenging as moving house could even lead to many positive things. Moving doesn’t need to be as stressful as it sounds and there are ways to sell my home fast. Many companies offer help to those who need to sell their home quickly and even offer cash in exchange for real estate. New beginnings mean you can start with a clean slate and get out of the rut that you might be in.
More opportunities
A change at work could lead to plenty of exciting business opportunities. If you’re ready for a career change this could bring many new possibilities for you to earn more money and learn new skills in the future. Employers also favor candidates who are able to show an ability to adapt to change and an eagerness to progress in different areas.
Personal development
Doing a bit of soul searchingis also a great way to learn about yourself and focus on personal development. It’s a good idea to make a list of priorities as these can change as you get older. This will help you with professional development as well and to figure out what kind of lifestyle you would like in the future. You will be able to decide what’s important to you workwise and where you would like to live a few years down the line.
A different perspective
There are many reasons why you should look at things from a different perspective from time to time. It helps you to reinforce your values and learn from others. Trying to see something from someone else’s point of view will help you think more objectively and become more open-minded. You’ll even be able to be more self-aware as a person and this could have a positive impact on your personal and professional relationships.
Gain strength
The strength you need in order to face change will benefit you in the future. You’ll be stronger in the face of adversity and be more capable of finding a new solution to different problems. Change allows many people to become stronger over time. The ability to adapt to change is a good skill to develop and it can help you in both your professional career and personal life. There are many ways in which leaving your comfort zone once in a while can be beneficial. A change of scenery is a great way to gain perspective.
Every single day of our lives, we are making choices about our future. Whether we like it or not, there is no getting away from the choices we have to make and so the best thing that we can do is be smart about those decisions. You don’t have to be a decisive person to know what you want in life, but have you thought ahead? Not just for your career, but for your distant retirement? Have you considered where you’d like to travel and where you want to live? These are the biggest decisions that you’ll make in life, but you need to make those decisions with great thought. Every single time you choose something to do in life, it’s got to align with your life goals, but that’ll only work if you know what your life goals are.
There will be moments that you think that you are making the wrong choices, but the honest truth is that there is no such thing as a wrong choice. Everything you choose to do will eventually lead you in the right direction, whether it’s about your future senior care options or your job prospects. The key is in weaving away from impulsive decisions and thinking better about each decision. Let’s take a look at six tips that will help you to choose better things in your life.
It’s so hard to make choices for yourself when you are busy thinking about everyone else around you. You should always be aware of the decisions that you want to make for yourself based on what YOU want. The best way to make any decisions is to keep your goals at the forefront of your mind at all times. If you know you want a comfortable retirement one day, base your choices on how you can have that comfort. If you know you want a house of your own one day, start saving some of your income now.
Get Advice, Choose Your Own Path
You can ask everyone you know what you should do about XYZ, but that doesn’t mean that you have to ever take anyone else’s advice. You should always go with your gut. No one but you knows what you feel day to day and no one else is living your life. If you’re going to ask for advice, be prepared to hear different opinions but when it comes down to it, is the only opinion that counts? It’s yours.
Listen To Your Instinct
Every decision that you make needs to match your instincts. If you want to know that you have money set aside for in-home senior care one day, saving it up is a must. If you want to make sure that you don’t have to sell your home for your future, start being smart about your investments. Life is a big deal as it is, and you should always listen to what your instincts are telling you to do. Going with your gut isn’t a bad thing. In fact, it could lead you to some amazing experiences in life.
Mind Your Frame Of Mind
It’s so much easier to make destructive decisions when you are in a bad mood or a poor frame of mind. If you want to make good decisions, you need to know that you are in the right mood for it. Never make any decisions about changing your life if you are currently angry with your boss or dealing with rubbish from your landlord. There are so many ways that you can make a bad decision, so wait until you know you are thinking straight before you make a choice.
Believe In Yourself
You really have to make a choice and not question it. Trusting yourself can be the hardest part of making a decision and the person that you need to trust before anyone else is yourself. Trust that you know what you want and you can make the best decisions for yourself.
Practice Making Those Decisions
The only way to be better at making the right choices for you is to practice doing it. You should make this a part of your daily routine and be more confident in your actions as a result. Over time, you’ll feel way more in control of the choices that you make for your future. You deserve to know what you want and you deserve to grab it all with both hands. Don’t be afraid!
Recovering from the trauma of any sort – be that emotional or physical – is a long road. It can be difficult and lonely, but that doesn’t mean you can’t heal and survive. If you feel overwhelmed by the path ahead of you.
Traumas of any kind can cause huge emotional destabilization, and so to mitigate the risk of this impacting your life even more than the event itself, it’s time to start talking. You can share your feelings, experiences, and thoughts with a friend or a loved one, or just someone you trust. Equally, some people find it easier to speak to someone they don’t know – and thanks to online therapy, it’s easier than ever. Ensuring you aren’t isolated and you are receiving some support is an important part of your healing journey.
Get moving
An effective way of handling trauma is to move your body. Studies have shown that it can help reduce stress and promote emotional healing after a trauma. If you’re well and able, gentle movement is great for the body and soul. It doesn’t have to be exhausting – simply going for a daily walk or heading to the local pool for a swim. If you find the idea of getting out too much for you right now, you could relax with some calming yoga on YouTube.
Foster good habits
It can be easy to sink into bad habits when you’re recovering from trauma – that could be not leaving the house, sleeping all day, drinking too much, or not eating well. While these can be understandable reactions to something that has happened, they will not help your recovery. If you feel able, try and build more positive habits in your day. These habits will depend on you and your needs, but they could be to wake up at the same time every morning, shower once a day, and get outside for at least five minutes of fresh air. Whatever these habits are, keep them up and praise yourself when you stick to them.
Self-care
Self-care is an incredibly personal thing, so it’s important to consider what constitutes self-care for you. Do you enjoy a candlelit bath? Or have you discovered that mindfulness and meditation help you to feel good? Whatever things make you feel cared for, write them down on a list, so that when you do need to practice self-care, you don’t have to think about what will make you feel better, you just need to refer to the list!
Call in the professionals
In your recovery, there may be a moment when you realize you need more than just the help of a friend or a meditation, and that is a powerful realization. For some, the help of a professional could mean a psychiatrist or therapist, whereas for others that could mean seeking alcohol treatment in a center or with a group. Whatever your need is, it’s a strong moment when you learn to take care of yourself.
So glad you’re here, you make me smile and feel good inside. Keep the comments coming.
These were taken at Hetch Hetchy at Yosemite National Park. We hiked around the dam and came upon this accessible waterfall, it had a bridge over the part I’m taking a photo of. It’s very rugged terrain and is not a regular hiking spot. We didn’t see anyone the entire day.
It’s so serene, you can’t get closer to nature than at this spot.
This came from the Internet it’s not mine.
Hetch Hetchy is a valley, a reservoir, and a water system in California in the United States. The glacial Hetch Hetchy Valley lies in the northwestern part of Yosemite National Park and is drained by the Tuolumne River. For thousands of years before the arrival of settlers from the United States in the 1850s, the valley was inhabited by Native Americans who practiced subsistence hunting-gathering. During the late 19th century, the valley was renowned for its natural beauty – often compared to that of Yosemite Valley – but also targeted for the development of water supply for irrigation and municipal interests. The controversy over damming Hetch Hetchy became mired in the political issues of the day. The law authorizing the dam passed Congress on December 7, 1913.
Being able to provide your employees with the luxury of a business car provides a number of advantages, including the ability to rely on your team’s availability, advertising, and quick site visits as needed. However, having business cars isn’t as simple as it may appear, and there are a few things to consider before making the investment.
Of course, you have faith in your staff, but how much do you trust them? You’re still responsible for the car’s upkeep if you provide them a company car to use to execute their work to the highest standard. If you want your staff to use their car just for business purposes, you’ll need to be able to trust them completely, especially when it comes to reclaiming VAT (see below).
Reclaiming VAT
If you’re a business owner, you’ll be able to reclaim the VAT you paid on corporate cars if they’re solely used for business. You’ll have to show that it’s only used for business. It’s also worth mentioning that driving from work to home is considered a regular commute, which means you won’t be able to reclaim the VAT you paid.
Can you afford the insurance every month?
Even if you aren’t driving the car, you are still responsible for the insurance of the vehicle(s) you own. Protect your vehicle with auto insurance built specifically for business owners and commercial vehicles. You should Get a Business Auto Insurance Quote from Cowell James Forge to get an idea of the amount you’ll be paying. That way, if an accident occurs, you, your employee, and the vehicle will all be protected.
Do you lease, finance, or buy outright?
You might be asking how to access company cars. Do you want to lease, finance, or buy outright? We’re in the midst of a pandemic, and many businesses have had to make expense cuts to stay afloat. Consider all factors before making a decision so that, if the need arises, you can save as much money as possible. Consider the advantages of each alternative as well. For example, financing a car allows you to pay for it over time and eventually own it, whereas leasing requires you to return it at the conclusion of the lease.
Mileage allowances and overtime
If you’re supplying your employees with a corporate car to use on long-distance business travels, you’ll need to consider mileage allowances and any overtime they’ll be doing. You’ll have to reimburse them for their time and a portion of the fuel expenditures if they’re forced to meet with a possible client for the firm who is 200 miles away and outside of their working hours.
As a result, owning company vehicles is dependent on what you do as a business. Get a company car if you feel you need to provide a distribution service for your company. If you want your employees to be able to safely and conveniently go to customer sites or huge meetings but you don’t have a lot of money, sit down and write down the advantages and disadvantages.
Getting into a fitness routine, pushing yourself, and reaching your goals takes a lot of time and energy, as well as a big commitment to yourself and your health. So when your health suffers, either through an injury or an illness, it can really set you back and put you right back at square one.
Feeling like you’ve got to start over with your fitness is a common feeling, and it can really affect your confidence. Whether you feel like you can’t do it or that things are harder than they used to be, it’s important to get back on that horse. Exercise will help improve your physical health and boost your mental health, and it can be a welcome part of your routine once you’ve found your feet again.
Here is some advice to help you regain the confidence to work out when you’ve suffered a setback.
While it’s understandable that you’ll want to be back where your fitness used to be, it isn’t going to happen overnight. If you try to move too quickly, you could end up injured or losing further confidence from not getting the same results as you once did.
Start by setting yourself some manageable fitness goals, aims you can work towards slowly, helping you to regain technique and basic fitness first. From increasing the times of your workouts to making it to the gym a certain number of times a week, start with goals that are realistic before building up to bigger ones.
Choose workout clothes that help your performance
The workout clothes you wear can help you feel more confident about working out. You should choose items that are comfortable, supportive, and can help keep you cool too. Treating yourself to some new outfits will help you feel in a better mindset for working out. Brands are more attune to the different needs of people now, so you can find great selections for curvier shapes, as well as amputee leggings and other items that can help give you a boost. Always make sure you have the right type of shoes for your workout to make sure you’re better protected against injury.
Ease yourself in, and consider working with someone else
Fitness is something that needs to be built up over time. So if you’re getting back into things after a long period away, ease yourself in gently. Walking and swimming can be gentle, effective exercises to start until you’re feeling fitter and stronger. Take a look at fitness plans from others in your position to see how they’ve eased themselves back into exercise.
It can also help if you work out with someone else, such as a friend or personal trainer who can help make sure you’ve got the right form to prevent injury, as well as help you train as needed.
If, for any reason, you feel pain – stop! Consult your doctor or take a rest to stop yourself from overdoing things.
Exercise is something that can help you begin to feel a semblance of normality, helping you form a routine and get back into activities that you once enjoyed. Take it slow, put your health first, and soon you’ll see your confidence creeping back up as you start to reach your goals once more.
It’s no surprise that living a healthier life is associated with better self-esteem and less stress. But how do you get started on the journey to lead a more healthy lifestyle? The first step, like any other goal worth pursuing, is to set achievable goals for yourself. This blog post will introduce three changes in your daily habits that are guaranteed to help you live a healthier life!
It’s no surprise that drinking water instead of soda will lead to a healthier lifestyle! When you drink sugary drinks like pop, your body gets an energy high followed by an inevitable crash. Consuming too many sugar-filled pops can also cause tooth decay and weight gain, which are both sure ways not to live healthily! Drinking more water is a much better idea – it has none of the unhealthy sugars or calories found in sugary drinks like pop. And as always, if you’re thirsty, try reaching for some H20 before any other beverage even crosses your lips!
In addition, water helps your body digest food better, so the more water you drink regularly, the fewer digestive problems will be present. Lastly, drinking too many sodas can increase blood pressure and risk of kidney stones – which are two things no one wants!
Eat Nutrient Food
You eat well when you’re not hungry! So the first lifestyle change we want to discuss is the idea of eating nutritious food. Eating nutrient-rich foods will provide your body with all the vitamins and minerals it needs for good health, as well as energy – more here. But what does that mean? Foods are considered “nutrient-rich” if they contain essential nutrients such as calcium, potassium, or zinc- a lot of fruits and vegetables fit this category!
So what are some nutrient-rich foods? Foods that contain a lot of calcium include broccoli, spinach, or milk. Potassium-rich food includes apricots, avocados, and bananas. And zinc-rich foods include oysters, meat, or beans – So when you’re starting to feel hungry at night, instead of reaching for the chips, try eating a banana or an apricot.
Exercise Regularly
The last change in lifestyle we want to discuss is the idea of exercising. Your body needs movement, and your muscles need exercise! The benefits are clear- physical activity can help you lose weight, improve mood, decrease pain or feel better about yourself. It may seem daunting at first, but once you make it a habit, there’s no going back – here’s why:
Exercising regularly will keep you healthy now and as you age- which is worth working for! Regular workouts strengthen your muscles (helping with posture) and increase muscle mass, boost levels of anti-aging hormones such as testosterone, and lessen depression symptoms because regular activities release endorphins that promote feelings of well-being.
We hope this article has helped explain the benefits of leading a healthier lifestyle. The changes outlined here are small, achievable goals that can have such an enormous impact on your day-to-day happiness – so what better reason do you need to start living healthier today?
This mask is multi-tasking magic! Cacao powder is high in antioxidants that protect and feed the skin, producing a healthy glow. Yogurt provides a form of lactic acid which acts as both a gentle exfoliator and a hydrating skin soother. Raw honey is a natural humectant that boosts hydration and balances bacteria. The proteins in the egg white help tighten and firm.
Getting rid of an old car can be quite a hassle. Most people will consider selling it, but that mostly means spending more money to make the old car ‘buyable’ at least. That includes things like changing minor repairs, deep cleaning, changing the oil, body spray, etc., and even these do not guarantee a ready buyer. So, what is the best way to get rid of a car you cannot sell? Here are a few options available to you.
Contacting a junk removal company is one of the best decisions you can make to get rid of your old car more efficiently. There is also the potential of an added benefit of cash for scrap car pick up. Companies that are ready to pay you for your junk typically end up selling the car parts or whole for scrap metal. You might be tempted to sell it as junk yourself, but this can be time-consuming, and you might not even make something close to what you’ll get if you call a junk removal company.
Try recycling it
You should also consider recycling the car, especially if it is no longer drivable. Instead of dumping it at the car scrap where it might remain for years (and adversely affect the environment), you can opt for a more eco-friendly solution and recycle it. You can take the time to find out if you have such recycling programs or options where you live. Oh, and you may be able to walk away with a few bucks with this option too.
Selling your junk yourself
This option is time-consuming, but it can be risky if you do not know the proper steps. First, you should decide on a fair price. Remember, the higher the price, the less chance of finding a buyer. To determine the right price, you need to evaluate the state of the vehicle. If you don’t know how to go about it, you can always seek the assistance of an experienced mechanic. Next, get the correct paperwork to sell your junk car, from the title and bill of sale to the record of maintenance. Finally, take pictures of the vehicle and create an online listing to attract potential buyers.
Another thing you might want to consider is trading in your car for another one instead of selling it -that is, if you want a new car. Depending on where you live, you should find some vehicle dealers ready to open negotiations with you.
Donate your car to charity
Maybe you want a new car or don’t need the extra bucks. Perhaps, you’re finding it difficult to find a recycling plant. Then perhaps you might want to consider donating your junk to charity. Before you start thinking there’s no value in your car to consider donating it, think about how it will contribute to society. You will receive a tax receipt from the charity organization, which you can use when preparing your income taxes the following year.
Applying for a mortgage is a dream many Americans hold. Being able to live your life or raise a family in your home offers security and stability in a way that renting can’t always offer you.
While there are many pros and cons to homeownership, especially with demand currently outstripping supply in the US right now, knowing when you are ready to purchase in more ways than just financially can help you make that next step.
How do you know you are ready to buy your own home?
Your Finances Are In Order
Your credit score is the key that can open the door to homeownership or keep it firmly locked for now. Ideally, your credit score should be over 800 for the best rates and terms, so make sure your finances are in order, you have paid down your debt, and make the most of the credit available to you.
Look at the Mortgage Lending Products available for you to make an informed choice of your options and what your repayment schedule will likely be once you have been accepted for your mortgage.
You Can Afford The Downpayment
Saving for a downpayment can greatly increase your chances of being accepted for a mortgage. The more you can put down, the more favorable you will look to the lenders.
You Can Afford The Fees
There are many different types of fees and payments associated with buying a house, and when you close on a sale, you will be required to pay predetermined fees such as survey fees, closing costs, arrangement fees, insurance, and so on.
You Can Afford Home Owner Fees
While your mortgage payments may be comparable to what you are currently paying in rent, the mortgage repayments aren’t the only payments you need to make when buying a house.
Fees include;
Property taxes
Insurance
HOA (homeowner’s association) fees
City assessments
Water, sewer, and/or garbage
Other utilities your landlord may currently cover in your rental payment
You Are Ready to Settle Down
Unlike renting, where you can move once your lease is up when you buy a home, you need to sell your home to move. Renting affords people the option not to be committed to property or giving in the same area for a long time. If you are ready to stop and settle down and put some thought into your future, then it can be a good indicator that you are ready for the responsibility of buying your own home.
You Can Afford The Upkeep
One of the massive benefits of renting your home is that major repairs are someone else’s problem. Hole in the roof? All the landlord’s problems. Damp and mold in your rooms? Landlords problem and so on. When you own a home, all of these issues you might not have considered before are now your problem.
Replacing kitchens, bathrooms, remodeling if required, or even ripping out flooring and rearranging the layout are all costs you will need to pay should you undertake this type of work.
If you have the income to put towards the upkeep of your home and keep it in good condition, then you are well placed on the responsibilities of owning your home.
I used to be a person who was terrified of ever dropping the ball.
In the US, the term “drop the ball” has very negative connotations. It means you’ve failed to take action or failed to do something you were supposed to do. And by dropping the ball, you often end up disappointing the other people in your life.
I used to feel it was very important to keep all of my balls constantly in the air, whether those balls were my job, my family or the responsibilities in the rest of my life. Plus, as a Black woman, I felt like my dropping the ball had bigger implications especially at work. I worried, “If I mess this up, they’re never going to hire another Black person again.”
What happened to me was I came to a life-changing moment where I wasn’t able to keep all of my balls in the air and I wasn’t able to do everything beautifully and perfectly. For me, it was the birth of my first child, but for other people, it could be almost anything else — a diagnosis; you finally get the promotion of your dreams and realize it’s harder to be the boss than you thought; or a pandemic that’s hit the entire globe.
No one called to tell me they didn’t love me anymore, I didn’t lose my job, and no one came to arrest me because I had unpaid parking tickets.
After I dropped my balls, I had an epiphany.
Which was this: Even though my balls were rolling all over the floor, the world didn’t end. No one called to tell me they didn’t love me anymore, I didn’t lose my job, and no one came to arrest me because I had unpaid parking tickets.
So I started to question why so many of us feel so much pressure to deliver constantly and at a very high level all of the time. Maybe what we really need to do is drop the unrealistic expectations about how we always need to have it all together.
I decided to reappropriate the term “dropping the ball” and now it means “doing less and achieving more”.
Dropping the ball in this way involves three steps: 1. Getting clear about what matters most to you; 2. Figuring out what you hope to achieve and how your highest and best use can help you get there; 3. Engaging other people in your journey.
Let me break them down for you.
At your funeral, what would you want a friend, a family member or a coworker to say about you?
The first and most effective step requires you to get clear about what matters most to you and your life. One of the most powerful exercises I like to do was made popular by Stephen Covey in his book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. For the exercise, you imagine the end of your life and your eulogy. I know this seems sad or depressing, but given that a lot of people around the globe are losing their lives to this virus, it’s actually a prescient thing to do.
So at your funeral, what would you want a friend, a family member or a coworker to say about you? You probably wouldn’t want them to stand up and say: “She got a lot of things done on her to-do list every day.” Instead, you probably want them to say something about the impact you had on the world.
Ask 10 people to tell you about a time when they’ve experienced you at your best, what are the things you do well with little effort, and what are the things that only you can do.
The second step involves focusing on what you hope to achieve in the important areas of your life — and how your highest and best use can help you get there. While my career is important to me, what really matters in that sphere is that I’m working to advance women and girls in the world. My marriage is important, but what really matters is that I’m nurturing a healthy partnership. My kids are obviously important, but what really matters is that I’m raising conscious global citizens.
After that, you can move on to what you should be doing and how you put your particular abilities and skills — what I call your highest and best use — to work to accomplish those goals. If you’re thinking “I don’t know what my highest and best use is”, one great exercise to identify it is to talk to the people in your life.
Ask 10 people who’ve known you in different parts of your time on this planet to tell you about a time when they’ve experienced you at your best, what are the things you do well with little effort, and what are the things that only you can do. Then listen to what they say. If you can transcribe their responses — amazing! After you have them down on paper, circle words, phrases and themes that keep coming up or that really resonate for you.
You can’t just drop the ball and not let anyone know — I’ve tried this and it doesn’t work.
The third step involves enlisting other people in your journey. You need to get the people in your life on board with you dropping the ball. You can’t just drop the ball and not let anyone know — I’ve tried this and it doesn’t work.
Let’s start with your boss, because that’s usually the person for which people push back and tell me, “There’s no way I can drop the ball with her.” But you can.
When you talk to her, use a strategy that I call “leading with the forest and then getting into the trees”. This means appealing to what really matters to someone else. For bosses, what matters most are usually the outcomes and results that they want their team members to achieve in a given period of time.
When you consciously drop the ball at home, I think you’ll discover that the expectations you hold for yourself are so much higher than those held by the people who love you.
Let’s say you’ve decided your highest use in your career is establishing meaningful collaborations and you want to spend more time doing this. You could frame your request to your boss by saying something like “I feel like if I spent more time with the clients and a little bit less time on the administrative side, I could get our company to its strategic goal. Are you open to a conversation about how I might be able to reprioritize things and potentially give some opportunities to someone else on the team so we can hit the mark?”
Then if a colleague is going to feel the impact of you deciding to drop the ball, you need to be proactive and go to them and say, “Hey, I just want to let you know I’m playing with an idea. I know it sounds scary, but I actually think it’s going to increase my productivity and the productivity of the team. I want to tell you in advance about what I’m going to be doing, so we can have a conversation about how it might impact you and make sure you’re not feeling any negative effects.” Proactive communication like this is critical.
In terms of dropping the ball at home, what’s really important is to come to any family conversations with grace and humility. Admit what they’ve already experienced — they’ve probably had to deal with you being overwhelmed and you being stressed and the repercussions of this pressure.
A conversation with your kids might go like this: “I know this seems like a strange conversation I’m having with you, but I really want to be a good mom. I’ve been feeling extremely overwhelmed and stressed, and I feel like there’s all these things I have on my list I need to do to be a good mom. Because I can’t do them, it’s making me have a short temper. Sometimes I know I yell at you guys when I don’t mean to. I feel like it would be better if I could focus on what you feel is most important for me to be a good mom. Could we talk about what those top three things are? I was also hoping I might be able to engage you guys to do a couple of things around the house — this would really help me be my best self.”
Every time you stop doing the things that don’t align with your highest purpose, you’re modeling this behavior — and humility and vulnerability — for others.
Those of us who are perfectionists will want to continue doing everything to the best of our abilities — even when it makes us crazy or exhausted. But when you consciously drop the ball at home, I think you’ll discover that the expectations you hold for yourself are so much higher than those held by the people who love you and are around you. You can minimize your to-do list simply by asking your loved ones what’s most important to them.
Keep this in mind: When you drop the ball openly and thoughtfully in the different areas of your life, you won’t only be benefiting yourself. You’ll be helping everyone around you too. Every time you show your limitations, focus on using your unique gifts and stop doing the things that don’t align with your highest purpose, you’re modeling this behavior — and humility and vulnerability — for others. And that’s something we need more of in this world.
This post was adapted from a recent LinkedIn Live conversation with Tiffany Dufu, founder and CEO of The Cru, a peer coaching platform aimed at diverse, mid-career women. Apply to join now and receive one month free from an annual membership when you mention LinkedIn as a referral. To learn more, email contact@thecru.com
Mash an avocado thoroughly with 1/2 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice. The avocado moisturizes the skin, while the honey and lemon work in tandem, making the skin brighter. At the end of a 20-minute session,, the skin appears more nourished with a radiant glow.
Benefits
Great for treating sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin.
Loaded with nourishing fatty acids, vitamin A, C, and E. Helps regenerate cells for clearer and firmer skin. Softens and absorbs without clogging pores.
Helps to calm, soothe, and hydrate dry, cracked skin. Can help to unclog pores naturally and relax nerves, promoting deeper sleep. Great for all skin types.
Kaolin Clay
Naturally stimulates circulation, allowing toxins to be cleaned from pores. Gently sloughs away dead skin, absorbs impurities from pores, and leaves skin feeling clearer and softer without overdrying.
Turmeric
Naturally restores and calms sensitive skin. High in antioxidants, it is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic, helping greatly with skins conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
Colloidal Oatmeal
Relieves itchiness and irritation of extremely dry skin. It helps heal delicate skin and forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture. Ideal for eczema, psoriasis, and inflamed acne.
Seaweed
Naturally tones and detoxifies skin. High in antioxidants. Renews skin cells, increases elasticity, and restores smoothness. Reduces redness and irritation in hypersensitive skin.
Propolis
Packed with antioxidants and bacteria-fighting agents, can help with acne and aging. Smooths and soothes red, irritated skin as it speeds up cell growth, promoting plumper, firmer skin.
Evening Primrose Oil
Highly moisturizing and repairing, helps smooth aging skin and promote elasticity. Protects skin from environmental stressors.
Thank you so much for your support and well wishes. I also want to thank the other 96 countries for visiting and look forward to your return. I would love to reach all 195 countries in the world, just have few more to go.
Welcome to the weekend edition of Today in History. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the post. Have an awesome weekend.
1950
On August 22, 1950, officials of the United States Lawn Tennis Association (USLTA) accept Althea Gibson into their annual championship at Forest Hills, New York, making her the first African American player to compete in a U.S. national tennis competition.
On August 22, 1851, the U.S.-built schooner America bests a fleet of Britain’s finest ships in a race around England’s Isle of Wight. The ornate silver trophy won by the America was later donated to the New York Yacht Club on condition that it be forever placed in international …read more
The Geneva Convention of 1864 for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick of Armies in the Field is adopted by 12 nations meeting in Geneva. The agreement, advocated by Swiss humanitarian Jean-Henri Dunant, called for nonpartisan care to the sick and wounded in …read more
At San Francisco’s Candlestick Park on August 22, 1965, Giants pitcher Juan Marichal steps up to the plate to lead off the home half of the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers. After the second pitch, a ball low and away, catcher John Roseboro returns the ball to pitcher …read more
Irish revolutionary and Sinn Fein politician Michael Collins is killed in an ambush in west County Cork, Ireland. In the early part of the century, Collins joined Sinn Fein, an Irish political party dedicated to achieving independence for all Ireland. From its inception, the …read more
As we age, everything that was once taken for granted will become more difficult. Often, friends and family will need to step in and care for you.
If a loved one of yours needs to be looked after, then it may seem like the right thing to do to take care of them. But before you do decide to take care of someone in this way, it is important that you consider everything that is involved in caring for elderly relatives. Elder-care is more than a full-time job, and it will be both emotionally and physically challenging.
Here is everything you should think about when taking care of an elderly relative.
One of the most important aspects of caring for an elderly relative is that you’ll need to make sure that they are taking any medication that they are on when they need to. They may be on several different medications for a variety of different conditions. Make sure you know about their medical conditions and understand what the medication is for. In addition, you should get to know more about the medication, including:
When the medication needs to be taken
What dosage do they require
When you can order repeat prescriptions
You may be required to administer their medication or to check each day to ensure it has been taken.
Carrying Out Housework
If the elderly relative that you are caring for has limited mobility, then you may need to help them with their housework. While this may mean carrying out major tasks such as cleaning the whole house, it may also involve smaller tasks such as washing the dishes.
Assisting With Mobility
Since mobility is a problem for many older people, there are risk factors that you should be aware of. You may need to supervise or provide mobility aids to help them get about their day without having any slips, trips, or falls.
Make sure that the home environment is safe for them. This could involve making sure that the house is free from clutter, that the walkways are clear, that there are handrails throughout the home, that there is a stairlift in place, that walkers or wheelchairs are available as needed.
This wheelchair guide will talk you through finding the right wheelchair for the relative that you are caring for.
You should go through the house and identify any potential risks and make the necessary changes.
You’ll Need a Bathing Routine
Personal hygiene and health go hand-in-hand. Wherever possible, you should ensure that the relative that you’re caring for has some sense of independence when it comes to bathing and washing. To achieve this, you could provide handrails in the bathroom, along with baths and showers that are easily accessible.
When someone is unable to clean themselves, you will need to help them. Creating a bathing and washing routine is essential. This will ensure your loved one will stay clean all of the time. This will be even more important if your relative is either bed-bound or incontinent, as sores may form if you don’t keep proper hygiene.
You’ll Need to Cook for Your Relative
Unless your elderly relative is able to cook themselves, you will very likely to do this on their behalf every day. Make sure that you provide a healthy balanced diet that is not only varied, but that is also interesting. Make sure that mealtimes are something to look forward to.
If you want to save yourself some time, you may want to batch cook some meals so that these can be quickly reheated another day.
You May Need To Lift Your Relative
If the person that you are caring for has mobility issues, then it will be essential that you help them to get around. To do this, you may need to lift them up. If this is something that you need to do, ensure you do it safely and consider your own body. Make sure that you are not putting yourself at risk at all.
There may be lifting equipment that you can buy that will help you to lift your loved one safely. There may also be courses that you can take that teach you safe lifting and handling.
You’ll Need To Help Your Relative To Exercise
It is essential that you help keep your elderly relative as active as possible. Even if your elderly relative has mobility problems, there will be some exercises that they can do. This may just mean doing simple movements with their arms and feet. Find some basic routines that they can complete. Join in with the exercises with them to make them feel more at ease while they’re doing them.
You Will Need To Run Errands
There will often be errands that need to be run. If your elderly relative is unable to do them, you will need to do them on their behalf. This may mean going to the shop, paying bills for them, returning their library books, and much more. Try to maintain a routine so that you can easily keep up with the required errands.
There May Be Hospital Procedures
If your relative needs to go into the hospital for a procedure, you’ll need to be there to help them out with their aftercare. Make sure that you’re there to speak with the doctor and find out what you’ll need to do in terms of caring for them after the procedure. You will also need to ensure they are able to attend any follow-up appointments.
Providing End of Life Care
One of the hardest things that you’ll need to deal with is the end of life care. It will be important that you know exactly when you should call a hospice.
With all the best intentions, there will be times when caring for someone that you are close to will get to be too much for you. Make sure that you take a break whenever possible, and build a support network around yourself.
Your home should be a haven for you and your family. But we think you’ll agree this isn’t always the case. Indeed, it’s possible and in some cases even common to encounter numerous issues with your home. You need to be prepared for these possibilities with the right solutions and that’s where this article is going to help you a great deal.
An Infestation
One of the nightmares that you could experience is an infestation of some sort. These are actually extremely common, and you want to try and avoid letting it get any worse, as soon as you notice a problem you’ve got to call a professional like Mosquito Authority, of course depending on what the pest is. If you notice one bug, this isn’t really a cause for concern, but if you notice the same bug over and over again, you know there’s probably an issue. You can try to find the source yourself, but this could take you a long time and you still might never find it. At least if you hire a professional, you know that the problem will be dealt with quickly and efficiently.
But can you take precautions to prevent it? Sadly, the answer is not really. In some cases, if you keep your home clean as much as possible you’re less likely to experience this problem, but that isn’t the case with all pests. Some will come no matter what the state or your home, so it’s not a foolproof plan.
It’s absolutely vital that you fix a problem with the roof as soon as you notice an issue. Usually, an issue with the roof will be a small yet significant hole. This could be small enough that it only lets in water or large enough that insects and pests can break through. Regardless, it could cause major headaches and health issues for you. Water leaking into your home can bring the issue of damp and potentially even flooding. As well as costing you thousands in repairs, it might also make it impossible to sell your property until the problem is resolved. Problems with the roof are why you should always check your roof after a storm or a period of bad weather. You can use a professional team to complete this task for you and ensure that there aren’t any problems that need to be addressed.
Of course, one of the easiest ways to check for issues is to head up into the attic and try to see if there is any natural light creeping through where it shouldn’t be.
Flooding
Since we already mentioned water dripping through the roof, it’s also worth exploring the problem of flooding. Usually, an issue with flooding will start in the basement and it could be because water is building up outside your home, pressing on the foundations. When this occurs, the water begins to seep into the property. If it is left alone it will lead to a problem with flooding. You can take preventive action here by speaking to a landscaper. They will be able
to alter the permeability of the ground around your home. Alternatively, they can change the level of the ground to ensure that water drains away from your home rather than towards it.
It’s perhaps worth noting that a sump pump is the best way to handle water once it is inside your home. You do need to make sure that you have a working sump pump on your property. Be aware that most insurance companies won’t even cover your home if there isn’t a sump pump that is functional.
Finally, mold is a problem that is often overlooked by homeowners who assume it’s not a massive issue. But it can be a nightmare because of the health issues that it could cause. This is particularly true if you have young children. Research has shown that mold can lead to breathing difficulties and similar problems. This is due to the spores that are released into the air. Luckily, it’s easier to deal with mold than other issues. You just need a dehumidifier to keep the moisture levels in your home at the right point.
We hope this helps you understand some of the nightmares that you can encounter around your home and the right way to deal with them. Remember, sometimes, the best option is going to be taking preventative action. With the right steps, you will be able to guarantee that these problems never plague your property.
Not all, but a lot of the older people in our lives are going to need some kind of help in getting the care they need. This has always been a concern of younger generations, but now there are more elderly than ever, so we need to take a closer look at the options available to us, their shortcomings, their benefits, and which are most likely for us. Here, we’re going to look at three primary options for the care of your elderly loved one, how to choose the option that best fits your needs, and how to make it work for you.
It’s an option that is becoming more common as fewer people can afford the kind of care they might need for a loved one. However, providing that care yourself is a big risk factor. Carer burnout is a real risk for those who don’t research how to provide adequate care for their loved ones. Respite care services can help you get a little break here and there so you have time to focus on your own needs, too. Don’t neglect to look at what kind of financial aid there is available for carers, either.
Care in the home
Perhaps the most widely sought-after option of all is to get a carer that can either spend time in the home with your loved one or even live with them on a full-time basis. This is the most financially demanding option, but it’s also one that should be chosen with care. It’s important to look for a home nurse that not only provides all of the physical assistance that your loved one needs, but also provides companionship and conversation as best as possible. Isolation is one of the greatest health risks to the elderly, putting them more at risk of anxiety, dementia, and even premature death. As such, it’s important to choose services that offer them the company that they need, not just the practical needs.
Finding the right community
One of the options that probably sparks the most concern or at least second thoughts, is the notion of having your loved one live in a nursing home. However, there are plenty of different types of assisted living communities out there, including ones that offer access to holistic health care, such as art therapy, field trips, and the like. It is important to do research into the kind of community that your older loved one is joining and to be aware of the risks of neglect, doing your research into the care standards, and any past trouble of the operations that you might be taking a look at.
Most important of all is that, if you’re entrusting the care of your loved one to professionals, you still need to be present in their lives. First of all, they need someone who can provide contact and companionship on a more personal level. Second of all, they’re more vulnerable, so they need someone watching out for their interests.
Today, the idea of aging in place (also known as aging at home) is gaining a lot of significance, especially among the older population. According to the National Council on Aging, nine out of ten senior citizens prefer to continue living in their own homes over the next five to ten years. Many such seniors based their reason on their need to be among people they already know. This makes a case for aging in place relatively easy. However, there are a lot of challenges and necessary changes that should be taken care of.
If you are concerned about what difficulties you or your loved ones might face, or the mistakes that might be made when aging in place, this article will help you deal with them in advance.
Not having an early discussion with loved ones about your preferences
Many adults wait until it is a little too late to have a conversation with their loved ones about their future needs and preferences- creating a lack of planning. Planning helps keep track of your preferences and needs while ensuring they are met. It is better to discuss your living arrangement preferences ahead of time so that your loved ones can help you live the comfortable life you want in your old age.
The unfortunate truth is that, as you grow older, your body is no longer able to do certain things it used to – making the option to live independently in your old age inadvisable. Some people try to cope by turning down any form of help offered to them, whether in tools or services. For many adults, the mere thought of any kind of senior care makes them feel embarrassed and helpless – which should not be the case. Rather than being fixed on your preference of aging in place, accept your lifestyle challenges, and seek other options that would be beneficial to you.
Not making preparations for various possibilities
Almost nothing is certain in life, and disasters may strike at any time. Unfortunately, many adults fail to plan and make preparations for different possible scenarios. This lack of planning can bring more stress due to knee-jerk reactions to unexpected situations.
Take time to write down all the possible ‘what ifs.’ Doing this should cover possibilities such as who will take care of you if you lose your ability to decide for yourself or lose mobility. Next, create a plan of action for all those possibilities with the help of your loved ones.
Not having financial plans
Studies show that many American adults do not have any financial plan in place for old age. This makes the issue of money more complicated when they need their finances the most. Many also fail to create a will or have a power of attorney in place. It is best to seek a financial planner’s advice concerning how to handle money to be financially stable during old age. Fortunately, making such plans is now easier than ever, thanks to the digital age. Alternatively, you can also sit down with your loved ones to go through what your options are.
Not being proactive with in-home security
We have already mentioned how disaster can strike at any time without warning. Unfortunately, most adults have not put any proactive measures in place for accidents at home. For example, as we grow older, our bodies can no longer handle falls and other accidents at home very well. It is essential to take proactive steps when it comes to your safety at home. For example, you should take the time to identify any form of potential hazard and provide solutions. Ensure that you have the right tools at home, you’re always well clothed, and can move about in your home with ease.
This is why it is essential to try to be as self-sufficient as you can be, even when you have someone around to give you a helping hand. While this will take a lot of effort, it will also help you build the knowledge and skills required to live alone in your home. Where possible, also have some family members or friends around to help you.
Go For Wuhan Style – Dr. Li – Coronavirus Hero – Dr. Li Wenliang was a Chinese ophthalmologist at the Wuhan Central hospital. He was the first to share warnings of the COVID-19 Coronavirus on December 30th, 2019. He was detained by police for “making false comments on the Internet” but was later released and went back to caring for his patients, which led to himself contracting the virus. Dr. Li died of the disease on February 7th, 2020. He showed true care and love for his patients, suffering with them at the cost of his own life.
At DetoxRehabs.net, we provide expert information for individuals and families struggling to find recovery by vetting and researching rehab centers. Our site makes it easy to find the top five centers in your home state or out of state. We also provide information for different community needs, such as help for our veterans, LGBTQ+ friendly programs, free or Medicaid accepting treatment, and pet-friendly facilities.
We recognize the importance of educating yourself during your recovery journey, and so we pride ourselves in providing free educational guides that answer questions such as:
Can Marijuana Treat Postnatal Depression?
Telltale Symptoms of Children Using Drugs
How to Identify the Early Signs of Mental Health Issues
Child abuse and neglect is a heartbreaking reality that affects many people. Unfortunately, it can be tough to spot the signs of child abuse or neglect.
The list below contains some warning signs that you should watch out for if you suspect someone might be abusing their child. The blog post discusses all the different types of warning signs of child abuse and neglect to look out for.
Children can get abused due to various reasons. For instance, a child living with a foster family is more likely to be in this situation. Besides, inheritance disputes among families on what children should inherit can often lead to abuse. If this happens, ensure you consult with an estate lawyer for the way forward regarding property allocation.
Suppose a parent is very hostile or angry with the child and this behavior occurs relatively often. In that case, it may indicate that something more serious could also be happening, like physical abuse of their children. The frequency of explosive anger episodes can increase over time and become worse if not appropriately addressed by family members or professionals.
School Absenteeism
Another way to see this is when a student misses school frequently or starts skipping class. This could happen for various reasons. Such include bullying at school, homesickness while away from their parents, and being embarrassed to go in front of the whole classroom because they are struggling with an assignment.
The key here is to pay attention and be aware of changes in a student’s attendance which may indicate that something else is going on in their life.
Depression and Anxiety
Children getting abused or neglected often experience depression and anxiety, which can manifest in many ways, including problems with concentration, withdrawal from social situations, nightmares after the incident, and difficulty sleeping.
They might also seem unusually fearful when going to bed at night or seem overly compliant with adults. The child’s anxiety around specific activities or objects may be a sign they recall past abuse.
Eating More Than Usual at a Meal
This is a sign of self-neglect. When people are experiencing emotional or physical abuse, they may feel that their needs don’t matter and stop taking care of themselves. It can also happen when someone in the family has an eating disorder (such as bingeing).
It’s essential to be aware when one child eats more than the others or eats more than usual. This could be a sign of child abuse and neglect!
Fear in Their Eyes
The fear in a child’s eyes is something that every parent or caregiver should watch out for. If you notice the eyes looking at you with terror, it may be time to have someone else look into what is going on behind closed doors.
Parenting is a difficult job, but many resources can help take some of the weight off. For example, the use of an online resource like Childline may be able to provide valuable information about abuse and neglect in your community. You might also want to consider speaking with someone at your local school or preschool. Additionally, it would help if you considered asking the child directly about their well-being.
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Virtual Meetings with a trained Pain Management Physician
A Personal coach
Customized recommendations based on the information garnered thru the process
Streamline Processes, best in class remote solutions
A partnership with SteadyMD for Telehealth
There is hope
70% of Lin members improved their ability to reduce their pain when it arises. And within three months of joining Lin, 66% of users report that pain now interferes less in their lives.*
What’s on the platform?
Personal coaching for pain management
Care coordination
Personal care plan
Dedicated primary care MD
Specialty care consultation
Digital health tools
Proven pain relief devices
Medications
Physical therapy
Sleep, Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD tools
Terri Leitchy Lead Coach
I signed up with Lin Health to better understand the platform and the service commitment made by the company. The process was thorough and they asked detailed questions to truly understand not only your pain and chronic health conditions but you as an individual.
After signing up and completing a few steps I received a text from Terri the Health Coach welcoming me to the platform and she encouraged me to schedule my face-to-face meeting with her. After your face-to-face meeting, you check back in on a regular basis to discuss questions and the next steps.
Lin health is a one-stop platform for all of your Chronic Pain needs, including medical support via Telehealth, prescriptions, personalized coaching, and a wealth of online tools to help you reach your best self.
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I’m so glad you’ve joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
I love the words to this song. You have to live your life your way! Nobody has to tell you what to do.
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share; the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the ‘Weekend Music Share‘ banner in your post, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Before I was nine years old there were good memories and those are the ones I chose to hang onto.
We would go to the local store and buy RC Cola’s and drink in the parking lot singing to the radio, belting out Charlie Pride Kiss An Angel Good Morning, then taking our bottles back in for our 10 cent deposit.
You taught me how to ride my bike at four years old. I remember looking back with pride right before running into the telephone pole.
You would play Hank Williams Sr. and Elvis Presley on the record player and we would dance the night away.
You worked extra jobs when I was little and you would come home very late from the grocery store with sacks of dented can goods. I would help you put them away in the pantry.
I’m sure there are other memories that have been lost in time, or I hope there are.
The rest of the memories get very dark as you fall deeper and deeper into Mental Illness and took your life by suicide at age 52.
Looking for the Light 