 "They're just having a bad day, that's all." - We try to find excuses. Day after day, until it becomes wonderfully clear - it's nothing but a densely woven pattern of human toxicity. Each and every one of us has met, welcomed, and loved a toxic individual. Better make that a plural. "Smile though your heart is aching; smile even though it's breaking" - Nat King Cole. And so, we do; we smile, and we persevere. We embrace their low blows and histrionic episodes. We say: it's idiosyncrasy. - Until it becomes too much. The moment we cognize our own suffering and detriment, that's when it all changes. We get to hold the reins. Someone else's punching bag? Sleepless nights? We say: I've had enough, thank you. Here's how to cut off toxic people from your life.
Are they really toxic? We're never really sure, are we? That's why we second-guess everything, mostly ourselves. "Maybe it's me; it’s not them. It couldn't be them. Right?" Discerning a difficult personality from toxicity is not an easy task. The truth is dysfunctional personalities inherently tiptoe along the forever bubbling, fluorescent green abyss. Have they turned? When will they tip over? - It's all pretty subjective; we all have a different threshold for dysfunctional people, as well as mechanisms and values. However, there are some clear signs that our friendship or relationship has become toxic. They:
Yes, it's absolutely horrifying. Articulating ugly truths is not what we'd call a soothing affair. However, it needs to be done. It's not about them anymore; this one is for us. Bottling up our emotions can only affect our mental health and our overall sense of well-being in a negative way. (if suppressed, negative emotions can lead to autoimmune disease onset) It's all connected. We're not there to argue or fight; we're there to calmly assert ourselves and speak our truth: "You're hurting me. I don't enjoy it. This relationship doesn't feel good anymore." Letting go of toxic relationships (especially after rehab) is crucial. What are we scared of? Are we really that masochistic? It's time to let go of harmful relationships. If they fight back (and they probably will), refrain from sinking to their level. Head up high! Introducing distance Toxic times call for healthy measures. Hence, distance. If we want to put a definite end to the relationship, cutting off all contact (pulling the plug) is the way to do it. It may seem a bit "over the top" or "aggressive" even, but adopting a more subtle approach to ending things can be misread. (i.e. there's still room for negotiation.) However, we all have different stories; if it's a family member, cutting off all contact may prove to be nearly impossible. That said, we should then try to establish a healthier routine:
A hard "No." Stand your ground! For toxic people, saying goodbye is simply not an option. - it has to be on their terms. They hold the strings; they decide whether to call it quits or prolong the onesided agony. Addiction treatment experts from brightfuturestreatment.com share: "Toxic relationships are known to induce substance dependence in individuals with low self-esteem. We see it all the time." That's why setting - and, more importantly, maintaining our glass-legged boundaries is absolutely paramount. Toxic individuals prey on human weaknesses; once they find a crack, be it of microscopic proportions, they will find a way to claw right back in. Or at least, they'll try. - And we won't let them, will we? Choose "healthy" So, instead of spending our precious (and finite, may we add) time and energy on dysfunctional people (no matter how endearing and witty), we should surround ourselves with people who genuinely wish us well. We need contrast; we need someone who sees us and accepts us for who and what we are. "I'm here for you. All of you." - that's whom we want by our side. So, how do we know if they're really good for us? Here's a list:
Walking away from toxic relationships is almost never easy. - And it certainly doesn't happen overnight. Surely, we can block them on social media, block their number, and avoid their "go-to bars" route. Creating physical distance is the easy part; what happens on the inside is the tricky bit. We are allowed to grieve the loss. The person, the relationship. They, too, have their beautiful parts, parts worthy of our love. Processing conflicting emotions can take time. And we shouldn't rush it. Finally If you're determined to cut off toxic people from your life, please remember: Forgiving is not forgetting. Forgiveness allows us to close the toxic chapter and move on with our lives. As with every life lesson, there's something to be learned from dysfunctional relationships. Never settle for less. Find people who will appreciate you for your authentic, unyielding self. Tanya Douglas
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 It's no secret that having a good morning routine can set you up for success throughout the day. But what happens when your morning routine isn't working for you anymore? Maybe you're not getting enough sleep, or you're feeling more anxious than usual.
If your morning routine isn't giving you the mental and physical health benefits it once did, it might be time to change it up. Here are a few tips to help you craft the perfect morning routine for better mental and physical health. Understand the Benefits of a Morning Routine Waking up early in the morning can be incredibly difficult, but it's crucial for ensuring you start your day off well. By waking up at a more reasonable hour, you can give yourself the time to make breakfast and prioritize important tasks before diving into your day. It also gives you the opportunity to step back and make sure that everything you plan on doing throughout the day aligns with your ultimate goals. Establishing a morning routine can offer many benefits. By taking the time to give yourself an early start, you can gain some structure and organization in your day. Not only does this help you to stay productive and on track, but it can also leave you feeling more energized and motivated throughout the day. Having a morning routine allows you to take some time each day for mindfulness and gratitude, which can help set the tone for a positive day ahead. Taking even just a few moments to be present at the moment is essential not only for our own mental health but also for increasing productivity and effectiveness throughout our daily activities. Set Realistic Goals for Your Morning Routine Creating and sticking to a morning routine can be a powerful tool for jumpstarting productivity in your day. However, this endeavor is much easier said than done. Developing an effective morning routine requires intentionality and discipline, both of which can take some practice. To avoid frustration or disappointment when attempting to establish a new morning routine, try setting realistic goals for each day. Start small with simple tasks that you know you can accomplish – like drinking two glasses of water before breakfast or waking up a few minutes earlier each day – and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable with the practice. This way, you will slowly accustom yourself to your new habits while avoiding feeling overwhelmed by lofty “all or nothing” goals that may be difficult to stick to. Practicing self-compassion will help set you up for success even when it takes longer than expected to meet your standards. Prioritize Self-Care in Your Morning Routine Sweet dreams of restful sleep turn to sunrise; make time for yourself in the morning and establish an energizing, thought-provoking routine. Taking care of yourself should top the list each morning. Self-care can look different for everyone - it could be reading a book, listening to an uplifting podcast, meditating, or stretching. Envision a healthier morning routine that adds mindfulness – perhaps yoga, tai chi, or nature appreciation-to your day that you’ll carry with you throughout the day. Allow yourself some extra “me” time-you are worth it! Together, these small daily changes will one day result in positive habits that last a lifetime. Make Time for Exercise in Your Morning Routine Working out in the morning can do wonders for both your physical and mental state. Not only will you start the day off on a good foot, but it also gives you an opportunity to set goals and face challenges. Exercising in the mornings can even help boost metabolism and has been linked to improved physical performance throughout the day. Great exercises to help you improve your morning routine include stretching, cardio activities like jogging or jumping rope, yoga, and weight training. The key is finding something that works for you - something that doesn’t take too much time but is enough to provide a boost of motivation. You don’t always need fancy equipment - all it really takes is some determination, consistency, and creativity to make exercising in the morning an enjoyable part of your daily routine. It’s understandable that exercising is often hard to fit into already busy mornings, but sacrificing a few extra minutes of sleep can be worth it when considering the multiple benefits connected to an active lifestyle. Plus, even small bursts of exercise are better than nothing at all! Incorporate Mindfulness Practices into Your Morning Routine Mindfulness practice can greatly improve our morning routine. Adding it to your routine can help set a calm and intentional tone for the day by allowing you to check in with yourself and observe your inner dialogue without judgment. Even just taking five minutes to sit quietly, focusing on your breath, is a great way to start your day and will make all of the following activities that much more meaningful. Another mindfulness practice could involve bringing awareness to how you move your body- by stretching or doing yoga- or simply noticing sensations like heat and cold during a shower before you start the day. We are often so engrossed in our thoughts that we forget to experience these moments truly, but incorporating mindfulness into your morning can help you stay present throughout the day, no matter what may come. Keep Track of What Works and What Doesn’t WorkHaving a successful morning routine is an essential part of your day-to-day life. We all have to do our best to stay organized and motivated in order to stay on top of our individual commitments. One way to make sure that you are organizing your time efficiently is by keeping track of what works for you and what doesn’t work in your morning routine. Take the time to reflect on the small things that helped or hindered your progress in getting stuff done each morning, and write down solutions to tackle any roadblocks you faced. Understanding where improvements can be made and taking notes on everything from getting up earlier, completing specific tasks on time, or having a more restful night’s sleep – whatever it may be – will help keep you focused on the bigger picture so that you can ensure that your day starts off right. ConclusionSetting up a morning routine is an important part of living a successful and productive life. There are many ways to make sure that your day starts off on the right foot – from getting enough sleep to exercising, incorporating mindfulness practices into your routine, or keeping track of what works for you and what doesn’t. With some experimentation and dedication, you can discover the best morning routine to maximize your potential and set yourself up for success each day. Additionally, Medicare products are available to help you protect your future and ensure that both your health and financial needs are met. Medicare products provide peace of mind by helping to cover expenses related to doctor's visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, preventive care, dental care, and vision care – giving you the confidence to handle whatever daily challenges may come your way. Get started today by doing some research on Medicare products and the advantages and disadvantages of switching to Medicare Advantage. Good luck in creating and maintaining your individualized morning routine! Michael Constanza  The beginning of a new year can bring about many changes. Some of those changes can be positive and planned, or sometimes they are unexpected challenges. Regardless of your situation, a new start requires focusing on the things that matter most to you. There are endless distractions in the world that can take you off course. The good news is, with the right mindset and strategy, you can make a positive start to the new year. Here are a few critical areas to focus on as you navigate this time.
Focus on Health While the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle include staying physically fit, one of the greatest parts about staying healthy is clarity of mind. When you consistently exercise and eat healthily, it significantly helps alleviate any anxiety you might have. On top of that, one of the quickest fixes for mental clarity is making sure you’re getting enough sleep. This is especially important if you’re also exercising regularly. The body needs enough sleep to properly repair after workouts. Working out without proper sleep will leave you feeling increasingly tired and unable to focus. One of the biggest obstacles to transforming your lifestyle into a more healthy one is habit building. Not many people truly enjoy working out, but they do it because they’ve built the habit intentionally. Habits can be extremely beneficial or detrimental. For example, if you’re always going to bed late, you’ve built up a habit that is detrimental to your health even though you know it’s not good for you. One of the most effective ways you can build healthy habits is to get an accountability partner. If your plan is to start working out, don’t be like the 99% of other people who make new years resolutions and quit on them a few weeks into the new year. Ask a friend or loved one to hold you accountable, either by working out with you or by providing frequent check-ins to ensure you are staying on track. Mental health is just as important as physical health and sometimes there are issues that are bothersome or need to be worked through. Maybe these are issues that you don’t know how to deal with on your own and are afraid or uncertain to reach out to someone in your life to help. Hopefully there is someone in your life you feel comfortable reaching out to, but if not, consider trying therapy. Having the ability to sit down and work through problems with someone confidentially can be a great way to make positive changes in your life. Keep Orderly Finances Many Americans are not in a great financial position, as we can see from these staggering numbers, credit card debt is a large factor. Finances can be a huge personal stressor and become an issue that distracts you from reaching your goals. Fixing your finances isn’t as easy as waving a wand, but you can make intentional and consistent changes to how you use your money. Doing so will put you in the best position to move forward. Debt is one area of finances that can hold you back. Paying off your credit card is one of the most common issues in America, right along with student loan debt. The most effective way to pay these off is to create a budget forcing yourself to commit to paying off a certain amount of debt each month. This number is up to you, and it depends on other expenditures in your life, but if you are able to start chipping away at that debt it will give you much more freedom in the future. The most expensive part of a loan is the amount of interest you have to pay in the beginning. The amount of money you pay each month goes partially towards the principal amount and partially towards interest. If you can afford to make larger payments early on, you can lower the principal amount faster, which in turn reduces your interest expenses and saves you money. Focus on Family and Friends A new start requires support and advice from those around you. If you’ve set new goals for the year but aren’t certain where to start, consider reaching out to your family and friends. If you’re of the age where you have many older relatives, reach out to them and learn more about their lives and experiences. You would be surprised at some of the stories they have that you can learn from. In general, when you have a new start, it’s important to focus on what matters to you. At the end of the day, friends and family are among the most important to have. Developing those relationships and pushing any distractions aside will help you live a more purposeful and fulfilling life.  Death, the ultimate loss? - A universal truth for the majority of us. But loss is, indeed, an ever-present leitmotif in human existence. Throughout our finite sublunar hours, we experience myriad thieving, at times subtle, forms of misfortune - and grief becomes inevitable. Death, like any other loss, is a mere encounter between a human being and the orchestral performance of transience and finality. "This too shall pass." - a blessing and a curse. A loved one will die, a child will lose its innocence, a soldier - their limb, a lover - their finite yet unconditional love - imposed, abrupt, detrimental, and irreversible: loss, and its many forms. -Where do we go now but nowhere? This is how to harness the inner strength to move on after loss.
Moving on: the betrayal Can something as seemingly irrelevant as "semantics" hinder our innate ability to process loss and grief? - Yes. "When will you move on? It's been two years." MOVE ON. -Move on? How can we? The two words suggest that life, love, memories, and death are nothing but fragments that now organically belong - in the past; moving on simply suggests we can finally leave the wound or the person we still love but is no longer physically tangible behind us. Not only that, we ought to. Imperative. And, so, the mustered glass-legged strength particles disperse at the very thought of betrayal. "I'm not leaving you here. I'm not going anywhere." Anxiety for the rest of my days? I'll have a double; thank you. Where do we go now but nowhere? After we've experienced loss, there is nothing in the entire universe, absolutely nothing, that could relieve the excruciating echo. The vast empty space. Sheer nothingness. For eternity. - Or so it appears at first. Depression, panic attacks, anxiety, sleep deprivation, starvation, substance abuse: and the body breaks. Feeble shadows we become, barely, almost unwillingly, hanging on to our weary existence. The very edge of the world. The precipice. - So, how does one harness inner strength? We start by saying: "I don't have to move on. I can learn to move forward with it. I carry my wound. It's mine to keep. And I shall carry it, willingly, gladly, selfishly, even." Onward. The traditional five stages of grief:
Breakdown beauty In today's society, the act of grieving is inconceivably frowned upon. Emotions are a private matter; when socially engaged, we are expected to flaunt our pseudo-optimism and bring our "My grief is exponentially getting better, don't you see?" charts to the party. There are two enemies or dangers to our emotional apparatus and its ability to process the tragedy of loss: 1. the external (social) pressure and the more cunning, imperceptible one: our own fear of deep-diving and cognizing the sheer volume of our pain. Health experts from DubaiPT advise: "When coping with loss, it is important to remember the "holy tripod" of human existence; mental, emotional, and physical health. Remove one, and the tripod will collapse. Taking care of our health during difficult times is paramount." Let it all out How do we move on after a loss? - No way around it, but through it. Estranged and unprotected as we may feel, we must give the inner dam permission to burst. Implosion vs. explosion; which one is less harmful? We know the answer. Unresolved grief can bring myriad negative consequences, and yes, we might not care if we're dead or alive - but what if we do survive the loss? What happens then? Suppressing feelings such as anger, pain, sadness, and guilt and preventing them from ever surfacing can only stall the process and make it even more insufferable. Grief is a metaphysical fire inside our bodies, minds, and souls, with every single molecule crying for someone or something to put it out. Without articulating the source of this majestic, colossal, lightyears-tall sadness, it threatens to devour our entire being. We harness the strength only by facing the echo of their absence. The road to strengthThe body is there to carry the metaphysical bits; if the body is weak, the spiritual, mental, and emotional planes will follow into the abyss. If a mountain collapses, how do the trees survive? After experiencing loss, we cannot help but feel unworthy of living. The guilt of "being the alive one," "the surviving party," can be too vast to encompass. Days become the heaviest hours of the year, and we lose track of time. Sleep and food become distant entities, entirely removed from the physiological premise. However, when dealing with loss, self-nurture is paramount. Exercise can be of tremendous help regarding suppressed/unprocessed emotions. Expressing anger, grief, and sorrow through exercise can improve your mental health and enhance your inner strength capacities. Make something of it Love is the ultimate driving force, so how do we define loss? - It's the love's counterpart, really. They are one; creation-destruction, a fundamental symbiosis. To move on, we move forward by using loss as our driving force. To feel more, to live more, laugh more, and cry more. A loss of a loved one shouldn't be perceived as an invitation to existential hibernation. To wither away? The grand scheme of life responds: "That's just insulting." Instead, we use the unlocked capacities to experience life in a more meaningful way:
Finally We don't have to move on after loss. Time can heal our wounds, but it doesn't necessarily cure the emotional void. - And that's okay. We're never going to be granted the "old me" role again, but there's a "new me" now: a bit sadder, a bit older, but alive. And stronger. The worst is over. Tanya Douglas  What's more important than sleep? - Very few things. Yet, we readily embrace the tempo of modern living and gladly pursue "running low on battery" as our default modus. Why? Although detrimental to our health, there isn't enough time. 24 hours? In modern times like these, 86,400 seconds go by so thievishly and subtly that the linear nature of time collapses onto itself. The pressure is on. And so, we voluntarily remain robbed of our essential needs, thinking "Bargain. Fatigue here and there I can handle." Work, work, and some more work. We push back our sleep to accommodate the hectic lifestyle without ever considering the potential consequences. For our bodies to function correctly, we must confront self-imposed oblivion and listen to our primary needs. Here are the top mental health benefits of a good night's sleep.
Weight game - Shame game Surprisingly enough, studies have found a direct link between depression, quality sleep, and our ability to maintain a healthy weight. Short sleep (defined as getting less than the recommended minimum of 7 hours per night) increases the risk of weight gain and a higher body mass index (also known as BMI). Although more research is needed to define the close relationship, it is now known who the weight-inducing culprits are: ghrelin and leptin, the underdog hormones. Ghrelin is a type of hormone that induces the sensation of hunger, and leptin dictates the "I'm full." sensation. The ones who indulge in sleep deprivation tend to have bigger appetites; hence, they end up eating more calories (overeating). Depression and overconsumption of food are also linked, as individuals find food an excellent coping mechanism, leading to a vicious Bermuda triangle scenario. Productivity A+ This one's a given. We've all been there; it's 3:15 A.M., and you're staring into the vast darkness of your bedroom. Sleep doesn't come because sleep doesn't will it. It's only 3-and some change hours before the "rise and shine, meeting awaits," and we get up feeling irreparably broken. Yes, that's what sleep deprivation does to us. Our cognitive and bodily functions diminish, and our concentration and performance can do nothing to fight the imposed subzero capability levels. Tried and tested; without a good night's rest, we are bound to experience failure after failure. It affects our strategic thinking, risk assessment, reaction times, concentration, and attention span. Our productivity and creativity call in sick, and mistakes and accidents cue up. Not only does a healthy sleeping regime improve our mental health, but it also enhances our memory and problem-solving skills. Mens sana in corpore sano/A healthy mind in a healthy body When we sleep, our blood pressure and heart rate naturally drop so as to allow our hearts to recuperate and rest. If we're not getting that recommended amount of sleep (7+ hours per night) instead of resting, our sympathetic nervous system stays active at night, meaning it goes into overdrive. By disrespecting its natural rhythm, we invite the "flight-or-fight" response to overstay its welcome. The sympathetic nervous system protects us from any potential, perceivable danger as long as we're awake. Sleep deprivation causes significant disruption and imbalance, as it keeps our blood pressure and heart rate from naturally going down, further inviting stress hormones to indulge in mutiny. If our blood pressure stays too high during the night, we're likely to experience high blood pressure throughout the day. Good oxygen supply and the absence of atherosclerosis improve our mental functions and keep heaps of stress at bay. Reduces stress levels One of the most notable mental health benefits of a good night's sleep is reduced stress levels. On the surface, we all appear more than capable of dealing with life's unpremeditated hiccups. "I'm fine. Everything is under control, really." - that's what we usually say to ourselves and to others. Convincing enough? Stress triggers are everywhere, another perk of contemporary living. Without healthy amounts of sleep, we risk weakening our defense lines, further inviting cortisol, adrenaline, and the notorious bunch to feast upon our already bruised health. Moving experts from bravo-moving.com advise: "We encounter stressed-out clients all the time; sleep is the sole foundation for bulletproofing the nervous system." A good night's sleep (and we don't mean "once a week") has an "anti-cortisol" effect and can relax the systems responsible for the prolonged "fight-or-flight" response. Emotional apparatus balance: restored Being at the bottom of Maslow's renowned pyramid (with physiological needs being at the very bottom of the hierarchy), we often take sleep for granted. It's just - primal stuff; who needs that? Not only is rest relevant for our physical health, but it kindly extends its nurturing nature to the psychological plain, keeping our mental health intact or, worst-case scenario - afloat. Things we do not anticipate happen: we lose our jobs, find ourselves on the brink of divorce, we put down our dog - avalanche triggers. Mental health conditions, such as chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, can all benefit from a good night's sleep. Easier said than done, true. Mental health issues hinder one's ability to fall or stay asleep, but without getting that 7+ hours, the risk of further mental health impairment increases. Interpersonal relationships A frequently overlooked aspect is how sleep exactly affects our relationships. Well, the quality of our sleep directly dictates the way we reason, the way we articulate our thoughts and feelings, and most importantly, our headspace. If we're sleep-deprived, the chances are we're more likely to fly off the handle for minor inconveniences. We become grumpy, we judge ruthlessly, and leave no room for empathy, sympathy, and other benevolent virtues. A bad night's sleep can put even the most resilient friendships and romantic relationships to the test. If our bodies don't get the recommended amount of rest, conflict, indeed, becomes inevitable. Getting enough sleep regulates our emotions and helps us interact with others in a healthy manner. Lastly The mental health benefits of a good night's sleep may be innumerable, but this one takes the cake: consistent, sufficient quality sleep is key to unlocking increased life expectancy. Those who practice optimal sleep across their lifespan are more likely to reach very old age. Meta description: Our most overlooked physiological need is sleep. Learn more about the top mental health benefits of a good night's sleep. Tanya Douglas  With the current economic uncertainty, you might be worried about how to protect your family if a recession occurs. While there is little you can do about the economy, you can pay attention to your spending, manage your debt wisely, and increase your income to help ensure your family's financial stability.
1. Stick to Your Budget Creating and following a household budget allows you to manage what you spend while encouraging saving. Calculate your fixed and variable reoccurring expenses to determine what you have left each month for additional purchases. Shop smart by comparing costs, reading reviews, and checking ratings when buying a new product. This can help you find quality options within your budget to get the best value for your buck. Making a habit of comparing prices can save you a lot of money in the long run. Another idea is to save a portion of your income each month. Treat your savings account like a monthly bill, and never miss a payment. By prioritizing savings, you can ensure your family has additional funds for an emergency. If you’re having trouble managing your budget, turn to the expert coaches at Turning Point Stewardship! 2. Reduce Your Debt While you may not be in a position to pay off your debt entirely, you can be strategic when choosing how to allocate your financial resources. If possible, eliminate small balances while prioritizing your highest-interest debts. Maintain organized financial records to minimize confusion and keep track of your debt repayment progress. Financial records can be confusing, but digitizing your documents allows you to conveniently access and review them. Storing copies of account statements and payment receipts in a single file helps you stay organized while managing your debt. 3. Invest in a Home Warranty A home warranty is a type of insurance that helps to cover the cost of repairs for items in your home, such as your furnace, air conditioner, plumbing, and electrical systems. Many people choose to purchase a home warranty when they buy a new home, as it can provide peace of mind in knowing that these expensive items are covered in case of breakage. To determine whether a warranty is worth it when buying a new home, consult the home’s inspection report. A home warranty can also be beneficial if you own an older home, as it can help to offset the cost of repairs or replacement for items that are starting to show their age. In either case, a home warranty can help you save money by covering the cost of repairs that you would otherwise have to pay for out of pocket. 4. Consider Gig Work With the rise of the gig economy, there is more opportunity than ever to earn additional income. Ride-sharing, grocery or food delivery, and dog walking gigs allow you to connect with people willing to pay for these services. If you are tech-savvy, there are countless opportunities to make extra cash with just your computer and an internet connection, including:
5. Start a Recession-Proof Business Another way to diversify your income is to start a business. While launching a new company is often costly and time-consuming, investing in a recession-proof industry can provide a steady stream of revenue regardless of the state of the economy. Popular recession-proof business ideas include:
Investing in one of these in-demand businesses can be profitable and fulfilling. According to experts, online-based businesses are easy to launch and require lower initial costs than those requiring a brick-and-mortar storefront. Whether you get a side hustle or start a recession-proof business, having diverse sources of income is a benefit. Exercise wisdom and planning when managing your finances and consider investing in a home warranty. Economic uncertainty can be frightening, but preparing for a recession eases financial stress and provides valuable peace of mind. Lucille Rosetti  Life is stressful, and all of our many responsibilities can add up to be truly overwhelming at times. One of many people’s biggest stressors is personal finances. All too quickly, your finances can spiral out of control, and you may feel that you’ll be trapped in debt or living paycheck to paycheck for the rest of your life. Thinking this way can be deeply upsetting and may even completely change your outlook on life.
If your current financial situation has you feeling overwhelmed, take things one step at a time to help get yourself back on your feet. Below are a few steps you can take to help set yourself on a path for financial success. Educate Yourself The best thing you can do to help alleviate feelings of stress surrounding money is to learn as much as you possibly can about money management. From opening a bank account, to applying for a credit card, to setting up a savings plan and more, there is so much to learn about the very basics of money management. A strong option to get you started on your financial literacy journey is learning about how your credit score affects your finances. Your credit score will be the foundation of your financial journey over the years as it impacts your ability to be approved for loans and lines of credit. The higher your credit score, the higher loan amounts you can be approved for, and the higher credit limit you can be granted. Building up a high credit score increases your potential to be approved for personal loans specifically. Personal loans are useful if you need a certain amount of money to pay for something important or want to consolidate your debt. Debt consolidation helps you simplify your monthly payments and can even reduce your interest rate depending on your credit score and other financial considerations. Consolidating your debt with a personal loan is a great first step to taking back control over your money and building better money habits. Set a Budget Once you’ve implemented a few new strategies to help you better manage your personal finances, it’s time to create a budget. Creating and sticking to a budget is a fool-proof way to feel less stressed about money. A budget determines how much of your money can go toward your various expenses and savings, making it easier and more predictable to manage your income every pay period. Start by recording all of the income you can expect to receive on a monthly basis. This will be the foundation of your budget. From there, list all monthly expenses you have, including credit card bills, groceries, gas, other necessities, and free spending money. Once you’ve determined how much you spend on a monthly basis, you can then allocate any leftover money to savings and sinking funds to help you save money over time. If you find that you have little or no money left over after paying your monthly expenses, reevaluate your monthly costs to see if you can cut down on spending, and increase the amount of money you have left over for saving. Without a budget, it can be easy to spend too much money on items you need or want, leaving you with not enough money to pay your bills or put away for saving. This can easily lead to a stressful situation that only snowballs each pay period if you don’t correct this behavior. Seek Support From Those You Trust If you find that your financial stress is not something you can alleviate on your own, look to those around you for help and guidance. From your friends and family, to financial professionals, there are a variety of ways you can get help from others to learn how to better your financial situation. Perhaps you choose to confide in a family member by disclosing your financial circumstances and ask for their advice on how you should proceed. If circumstances allow, you may even ask your loved one for some financial assistance to help you get through an extremely difficult time. Your mental health and livelihood are much more important than money, and if you find that your financial situation is deteriorating your quality of life, rely on the help and advice of your family and friends to help you through a tough time. If asking for help from loved ones isn’t something you're comfortable with, a financial professional is a great option for taking charge of your financial situation. If you are struggling with low income and high debt, a credit counselor is a professional who can help you better understand your financial standing and assist you in creating a budget. While these services do cost money, if you are in a particularly difficult situation, the cost would be worth your investment. Learning how to better manage your money from a professional will help you be in a better position in the years to come. Managing money is a stressful task for just about everyone. Without the proper education and management tools in place, digging yourself out of debt can be nearly impossible. To help take back your finances and make your money work for you, try out these tips.  Knowing that the divorce rate in the United States is roughly 50% doesn't make being on the receiving end of that statistic any easier to bear. The good news is that a divorce is not inevitable in the face of marital discontent. It's possible to repair your connection if at least one of you wants to. In reality, experienced divorce prevention counselors have helped thousands of people on the verge of divorce or who had already filed papers find their way back to each other and happiness. That's why we've asked them for help, and they've told us all about which actions to take on the brink of divorce. Hopefully, they'll be enough to help you and your partner make the best decision.
Here are some actions to take on the brink of divorce The movies are a great way to have a good time. Perhaps it's even something you enjoyed doing with your spouse. However, they can also lead to great trouble by ingraining the phrase, "and they lived happily ever after" into our brains. But we never get to see what happens after the honeymoon, and once real life begins, do we? The effort and upkeep, both mental and emotional, that a marriage demand is something you'll rarely see in any movie. Considering and, let alone, going through a divorce is never a joyful experience. Heartbreaking, distressing, and at times emotionally numbing, this is the reality for many people. When a marriage seems hopeless, what can you do to rescue it? How do you refrain from falling over the edge? Is your marriage salvageable at this point? Take a deep breath, as there are still some options worth exploring. You must broach the subject carefully and introspectively look at your relationship with your partner. Think of it as confronting a loved one about their drinking or gambling, for instance. In both cases, talking is just the start, but plenty of actions are required from you until you fix the issue. Here are the three most important steps to take on the brink of divorce. #1 Be honest with yourself Even though it can be quite a challenge, you have to do some soul-searching and give yourself an honest evaluation. It is a great action to take on the brink of divorce. So ask yourself: is there a lot of pressure on you right now? If so, it might affect your ability to make decisions concerning your partner. When stressed, it's easy to take it out on the people who love us the most. They'd get defensive in response, setting off a downward spiral. It's also possible that your partner is under significant emotional strain, too. The cycle then turns around. Your partner is stressed and is being unfairly critical of you, putting you on the defensive. The marriage of two anxious people is doomed to fail. Recognizing this can be a turning point and a fantastic opportunity to save your marriage through stress-relieving hobbies. Or, you can always seek help from experienced counselors and mental health professionals. #2 Truly evaluate your marriage In the same way, you should evaluate yourself. You should also thoroughly assess your marriage. Go back in your mind to the happy times you had. What would you say if you could describe the situation and how it has evolved? You can recreate some of the conditions of the past. Do you still laugh and enjoy each other's company, or do you just argue or ignore one other all the time? Something may be wrong if you feel like there are no more pleasant times, and you cannot picture yourself enjoying any in the future. Spending quality time together is one of the keys to a successful marriage. Therefore, it's crucial if you want to save a marriage that is on the verge of failure. It's great for fostering a sense of belonging and safety. When people come together to have a good time, their serotonin levels rise, forming closer bonds. #3 Think about reaching out to a counselor It's always a good idea to talk to an impartial expert who can provide insight into the situation that those involved in the conflict cannot. A counselor's ability to identify communication gaps and provide solutions is always crucial. Many men resist this concept out of fear of being attacked. However, this is rarely the case. The addiction recovery experts at littlecreekrecovery.org suggest that the same happens regarding substance or alcohol abuse issues. However, they advise that good counselors will also be impartial and ensure that none of their patients ever feels attacked. The same can translate to marital counseling. Counselors help both sides hear how they come across to the other when barriers are up. They have the power to let you see the world outside your thoughts. Marital counseling can potentially be a powerful tool for rescuing troubled unions. Wrapping up Now that you know what actions to take on the brink of divorce, try them. If you and your spouse are willing to fully invest yourselves in the process, we're sure you can quickly get to the bottom of your issues and figure out the best solution. However, there's nothing to be ashamed of if you feel it's not something you can handle on your own. If that's the case, don't be afraid to seek help, as an experienced couple's counselor can help you find the best ways to prevent divorce and reignite your love for each other. Tanya Douglas  A tale as old as time; adolescent "door slam" phase. Painful? Very much so. Irreparable? Not quite. The core issue of our children's adulting stage (as well as our own) is - forgetting. We forget. They forget - just how strong and unbreakable the bond between us is. Instead, we become insecure, closed-off, anxious, and untrusting. The adolescent phase becomes a game of squash, but instead of the ball, we use doubt and self-doubt as our defense and offense weapons. The game is ruthless, and there are no winners. As parents, we are responsible for creating the necessary conditions for much-needed communication. We may look at them and think: "I don't know them anymore. They're nothing like the child I raised." - and vice versa. But, the truth is: no. They are. It's just fear talking. That is how to approach a teen that isn't communicating.
Talking is difficult Oh, the long-gone days, the simple days when there was nothing but easy laughter, tiny hands, and their insatiable and vast curiousness. Why? Why? Tell me. Why do the stars flicker? Why do we have five fingers? Where do watermelons come from? - good times. But, they don't last - and it's okay. Welcoming our children to adulthood is beautiful, but we should take it as a cue to step up our parenting game. They don't stay the same. Why should we be given the privilege? Following their growth is only fair. But talking is hard. Covering complex and vulnerable topics is an exceptionally unpleasant assignment - to say the least. We never get used to "I hate you" and "Leave me alone"; the words pierce our hearts like a cargo ship anchor. So, are we ready to approach a teen that isn’t communicating? It's the only way out. Silence for two Parents aren't the only ones hurting; their teenagers suffer in silence, too. Most children start "pulling away" from their parents around puberty, just as other social circles start to bloom. Puberty is a sensitive period in one's life, where all insecurities and questions about "the self" surface simultaneously. The blitzkrieg sensation for the one experiencing it should not be underestimated or questioned - turmoil is inevitable. Still, it's not all on them. If things aren't going well at home, they might perceive us as unavailable or even negligent in addressing their struggles, thus gravitating toward other sources of support and comfort. (peers, coaches, and professors) Shake up the status quo. Starting a conversation during a car ride can be a good icebreaker, as driving demands our "eyes on the road" instead of tête-à-tête uneasiness. I'm all ears Active listening is key to repairing communication with our children. And, yes, we get carried away easily. Auto-traps set us up for failure. Out of a sheer desire to help, teach, and guide them, we unintentionally, unconsciously turn into monologue beasts, chasing the overwhelmed cub away. The plan backfires. Rather than focusing on what to say, we should learn to focus on listening. Bite your tongue, if need be, but deliver solely the promised noninvasive space for their articulation. If we want to approach a teen that isn't communicating, we should ask open-ended questions with childlike curiosity. Many experience familial turbulence before moving house, as novelties invite new insecurities. But, there are ways: pros can make it stress-free. By hiring professional movers, we can focus on the thing that matter the most - our children. Don't skimp on affirmation Positive feedback is of paramount importance. By engaging in open communication channels, we gain insight into our child's thoughts and emotions and a deeper understanding of their inner processes. Step 1. Active listening. Step 2. Empathy. Step 3. Provide affirmation. By offering immediate praise and support, we help our children build self-esteem and healthy confidence levels and inspire and encourage the continuum of "open flow" communication. For example, if our child opens up about feeling anxious or sad (no matter how insignificant the cause), we should say, "You are so brave for telling me this. Sharing something so personal is hard. Thank you for trusting me." Don't "Back in my day" Mastering this one is tricky, as it requires deep reflection. Time capsule hour; let's go back to our childhood days. Simpler times, no? Indeed. We had it easy. No TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Netflix, FaceTime - nothing. Just the good old landline. Cyberbullying? Science fiction. It's fair to admit: we don't quite grasp the magnitude of their struggles. - And it's okay. Things are very different today, but the universal truth reminds us: the adult world is as new to them as it was to us - back in the day. Relocation specialists from Zapt Movers share: "A large percentage of our long-distance clients are families with teenagers." - Let's add that to the equation of today's uncertainty. They don't have it easy. The world is not as benevolent as we remember it to be. Our children yearn for stability and certainty - and providing that safe space should be our priority. Leave judgment at the door Playing it cool goes against parental instincts, especially when we disapprove of it. What do we do if we get our children to open up, and it's more than we bargained for? "My friends smoke weed." "I skipped school on Thursday." "I had unprotected sex." The automatic response would be MUTINY. OFF WITH THEIR HEADS! But we know better than that. That's not good parenting. By remaining empathetic, genuine, and open-minded, we achieve more. We're not letting anything slide. Instead, we're choosing to approach the topic with open-mindedness and assertiveness. (not hot-headedness!) Setting a clear set of rules, boundaries, and expectations is what parents do, but always remember: the way we deliver it is what makes it or breaks it at the end of the day—kindness and acceptance, above all things. Finally If you don't know how to approach a teen that isn't communicating, remember who they are to you. Love them. Unconditionally. Tell them you miss them. Show it. Be vulnerable. And they will reciprocate. Tanya Douglas https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-father-conversing-with-teenager-near-fence-on-farmland-5727783/  Addiction therapy is a crucial first step toward establishing a drug- and alcohol-free lifestyle. You will learn coping skills, relapse prevention techniques, and other vital tools to help you avoid relapsing into addictive habits. Treatment centers provide the best setting for you to stay clean and sober, with peer and professional support. However, treatment does not cease after the rehabilitation program ends. Aftercare is critical for avoiding a relapse and enjoying a healthy life in the long run. Committing to a life free of substances needs motivation and constant support. Therefore, people in treatment must have a strategy for what happens when they finish the program. Excellent assistance and many solutions are available for those who want to keep living a healthy and addiction-free life after therapy. So here are some options to consider for aftercare in recovery.
What is aftercare in recovery, and how can it help? Substance detox is the first step for people seeking addiction therapy. Following that, people start a treatment program in which their daily lives get meticulously planned and focused on creating a solid foundation for rehabilitation. Aftercare is the phase of therapy that comes after a person has completed their program in a rehabilitation center. It is a group strategy to aid an individual through their early recovery and prevent relapse while focusing on their new life. Just imagine what would happen if, after treatment, facilities would just send people back into the world with no further support. As you probably expect, most of them would relapse and return to the program. Fortunately, after the treatment program, there is aftercare. Aftercare in recovery will offer continuous assistance for those who left the treatment facility. Therefore, abstinent addicts won’t have to be alone in their journey to a new and healthy life. So if you or a loved one finished the treatment program for addictions, follow the advice of addiction recovery experts at Archstone Behavioral Health and continue your path to an addiction-free life with aftercare. Aftercare in recovery - options to consider If you want long-term recovery support, some options can help you stay on track. Here are some examples: 1. Support groups As part of aftercare in recovery, many treatment programs encourage joining support groups. Support groups are people who understand the difficulty of addiction and share their experiences in a confidential atmosphere to help others stay abstinent and sober. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are two of the most known support organizations based on the 12-steps and have a spiritual component. These groups are led by people that are also in recovery. 2. Aftercare therapy Including a therapist in your aftercare plan may be beneficial, mainly if you worked with a therapist during the treatment program. Therapy will help you manage your emotions, resolve disputes, and avoid possible triggers for relapse. Here are some types of aftercare therapy that could help you in your journey:
Sober living is a method of informal substance abuse therapy. These programs are set up in homes occupied by persons in recovery from alcohol and other substance abuse. A sober living facility provides a secure and stable atmosphere where substance abuse is not tolerated. However, this type of living can be a beneficial transition that helps abstinent people adjust to a more independent life and eliminate toxic thoughts. At the same time, it has the potential to prevent people from homelessness, which can be a real danger and a cause for relapse. 4. Case management It might be challenging to adjust to life following rehab. Therefore, people will need the help of therapists or physicians to continue their recovery. Also, once a person is clean and sober, they will want to meet others who share their dedication to healing. At this point, case management becomes an essential part of aftercare and recovery. A case manager, which can be a therapist, social worker, or counselor, will take over the responsibility of reintegrating the abstinent person into society. They will guide them in finding employment, social services, or legal services that they can benefit from. 5. Aftercare programs in rehab facilities Your treatment program or rehab center may have its own aftercare program. Ongoing treatment, sober living programs, and case management are some of the services that might be provided. Facility-based aftercare programs help you continue your recovery journey with the same specialists you worked with before. Sometimes, that can make a massive difference in transitioning to your new life as a sober individual. You will have familiar faces around you that know all your struggles, flaws, and strengths and help you work with them to achieve your goals. 6. Medication management Medication is sometimes essential to continuing addiction and mental health therapy and recovery. Depending on the substance used, medicine can help with craving management. At the same time, medication can help relieve painful or deadly withdrawal symptoms during the detox phase of treatment. If you are already taking drugs as part of your treatment plan, follow up with your prescription provider to evaluate your symptoms. Sometimes medication schemes need modifications as they can stop working or have side effects. Final thoughts The primary purpose of an aftercare plan is to keep people from relapsing. However, that isn't the sole goal. Life following treatment should be based on all the improvements you made in your recovery. Therefore, aftercare in recovery is essential as it prevents potential relapse and teaches you how to live a healthy and happy life. Meta: Aftercare is an essential component of rehabilitation that many people don’t know about. Here are some options to consider for your aftercare in recovery. Tanya Douglas Featured image: https://unsplash.com/photos/_UIVmIBB3JU |
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