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Scientists Explain Why Most Vegans Need A Vitamin B12 Supplement

November 21, 2018 by Power of Positivity

What’s the big deal with vitamin B12? You took the plunge, and you love your vegan diet! Or maybe you’ve read stories of miraculous results and want to try it for yourself. You know it is a very healthy diet and is especially useful for losing excess weight. But now you’re hearing conflicting information about the need for a vitamin B12 supplement. What’s truth, and what’s not?

Some overzealous supporters have tried to find some easy solution to the problem of B12 deficiency in a vegan diet. This has led to a lot of confusion and some downright false claims. It’s important for the health of vegans to understand the truth about this important vitamin’s functions and how to ensure healthy levels at all times.

Regardless of any misinformation that may be floating around the internet, the absolute necessity of the B12 vitamin for a healthy mind and body is undisputed by scientific research and health professionals. But how much does the body really need? What are good B12 food sources, and how does a vegan diet affect healthy levels over time?

Why is Vitamin B12 important to your body?

First of all, vitamin B12 is necessary for many manufacturing processes in the body, including forming red blood cells, new nerve cells, and DNA. It also supports energy levels and cognitive functions. The B12 vitamin is an essential nutrient, which means it is not manufactured internally, or at least not in sufficient amounts. So a large portion of necessary levels must come from outside sources or supplements.

A lack of this important vitamin may begin manifesting itself within a few months of a major diet change, such as becoming a vegetarian or vegan. The symptoms may build over time, becoming severe if not properly addressed. Just some of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are:

fatigue
joint pain
tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
anemia
difficulty thinking or memory loss
a swollen, painful tongue
balance issues such as stumbling or trouble walking
rapid heartbeat
difficulty breathing

A B12 deficiency may also boost levels of homocysteine in the blood. This amino acid has been cited as creating a higher risk for heart disease or stroke. Homocysteine may also add to the risk of blockages gradually building in the arteries, which may also contribute to heart attacks and strokes[1].

Listed among some of the more severe indicators of a B12 deficiency are cognitive disorders, depression, paranoia or even a loss of the senses of taste and smell. Growth and healing can be affected, so children who choose a vegan diet should be closely monitored. As you can see, it is important not to ignore the body’s need for this essential nutrient[2].

Truth and myths: food sources of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is synthesized by microorganisms found in all animal foods except honey. Whatever claims you may have heard to the contrary, these are the only pure food sources. So, while vegetarians may be able to intake sufficient quantities through eggs, cheese, and yogurt, vegans must find other B12 supplements to stay healthy.

Factual claims have been made that plant sources such as seaweed and certain mushrooms contain B12. However, these sources are unreliable because they cannot be properly absorbed by the human body. B12 is a unique and complicated vitamin and not all forms are useful to people, including the abovementioned plant-based forms. So eating them can still lead to a vitamin deficiency[3].

Other myths regarding sources of this vitamin are out there for the gullible. They include claims that you can acquire sufficient amounts through the dirt left on unwashed vegetables or the growth of natural bacteria in your mouth[4]. If these ideas seem silly, it’s because they are.

Vegan sources of Vitamin B12

So how can vegans ensure they are receiving consistent amounts of this important nutrient? Some dietary sources are:

meat substitutes
fortified cereals or non-dairy milk
fortified nutritional yeast
some vegan spreads[5]

Make sure you read the label to find out about the potential sources of B12 supplements. Some companies may use animal-based gelatin as a source for B12. A little research can help you choose the best vegan food sources[6]. And if you are still experiencing symptoms of possible B12 deficiency, it may be a good idea to see your doctor to be tested.

It’s interesting to note here that some studies have indicated that B12 sources from fortified food may actually be more effective than red meat sources. Some have postulated that cooking may affect the quality of the vitamin content of meat. So maybe vegans aren’t missing out as much from red meat sources as originally thought.

If you are deficient, your doctor may recommend a daily oral vitamin B12 supplement or injections to reach acceptable, healthy B12 levels. Injections may be given daily or weekly until levels are normal, then monthly thereafter. If you are taking an oral supplement, make sure it is from a source trusted for a high-quality product.

Monthly injections have become popular and work because your body is able to store some B12 for later use. This has led to another myth that after a certain point, your body has stored enough B12 to last a lifetime. These claims have been proven false. Symptoms of a deficiency begin to manifest quickly without an ongoing source of the vitamin.

How much Vitamin B12 does the human body need?

B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, so taking too much is highly unlikely and there are virtually no known side effects. Like other water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, any excess of vitamin B12 supplement can be effectively washed from the system. So you generally only have to worry about taking too little.

Depending on who you talk to, experts recommend 2.4-6 micrograms (mcg) of B12 per day. For vegans, however, the recommended daily allowance jumps to 250 mcg per day. One reason for this may be that a smaller percentage of alternate sources may be absorbed.

About 50% of the B12 vitamin from the best sources in a normal omnivorous diet may be absorbed; much less from vegan food sources or a vitamin B12 supplement. Some dietitian recommendations include taking smaller doses several times a day to help make the supplement more effective.

Also, some studies seem to indicate that taking antacids may interfere with the absorption of B12 supplements. So if you are vegan or just getting older and regularly take antacids, you can safely increase your daily dose to 500-1000 mcg to ensure your body absorbs sufficient amounts.

So why be vegan at all?

If you’ve been debating about whether to try a vegan lifestyle, you may be wondering if it would be worth it. In spite of some needed vitamin supplements, many people have reaped huge benefits from a vegan diet. However, this is a lifetime commitment, so don’t take the decision lightly.

Researchers have found that vegans often enjoy higher energy levels and experience less stress and anxiety. There is also evidence that a vegan diet can help lower the risk of many of today’s common health issues, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain neurological disorders.

Vegans have been found to have healthier bones, as fruits and vegetables have a stabilizing effect on the body’s pH levels. Also, foods rich in fiber help to lower blood cholesterol levels and keep it properly balanced.

Of course, one major motivation for some is the way a vegan lifestyle and weight loss seem to go hand in hand. The internet can supply you with many amazing stories of incredible transformations from obese to lean and mean physiques. Keep in mind, though, that most of the success stories also include a commitment to a comprehensive exercise routine.

Final Thoughts

The need for a vitamin B12 supplement shouldn’t be the deciding factor against a vegan diet. Every diet has its strengths and weaknesses. A vegan diet is not easy but can be highly beneficial to the health of your body and mind. The positive impacts are often obvious and quick to manifest. There are many delicious recipes available on the internet or at your local bookstore to choose from. You can try many new foods and create a variety of favorite menus to keep mealtime interesting.

Another fact to note is that, along with vitamin B12, almost every diet requires augmentation of some kind. Ongoing research continues to reveal more dynamics of what the body needs for optimum health. Being aware of the need for B12 and other supplements will help you get the best results from your vegan diet.

Don’t forget about how dietitians rave over the many benefits of all those fresh, raw fruits and veggies. They are equally vehement about all the unhealthy foods included in the average American diet. Taken all together, a vegan diet may very well be one of the best win/win diets available.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG-G9_LOkLA

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30 Healthy Vegan Dinner Ideas

November 21, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Many people assume (wrongly!) that vegans eat dull foods. However, every vegan will quickly tell you that is absolutely untrue. You can join the party by eating delicious meals that are healthy with many nutrients. Such meals include fruits and vegetables which can help in managing your weight as well as boosting your immune system, among other benefits.

Here are thirty healthy vegan dinner ideas:

1. Spicy Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini are one of the most versatile vegetables for dinner ideas. You can fry, stir-frt, bake it into bread, steam, and spiralize into noodles. In this dish, you will coat zucchini with chickpea flour and rice, seasoned it well, and fry it. You can serve it with your best creamy dressing that is non-dairy together with a side salad.

2. Onion Pakoras Served with Avocado Dipping Sauce

Pakoras are Indian snacks that are made by dipping a vegetable in chickpea flour and deep-fried to make them crispy. Therefore, they are naturally free from gluten. These onion pakoras have cumin, curry powder, and garlic for savory flavor. Serve pakoras with a creamy, cool, and spicy avocado dip.

3. Pecan with Mushroom Wellington

This dish includes a pastry sheet full of an herbed and savory combination of pecans and mushrooms. A lattice layer of strips is added as toppings, and the dish is baked to golden brown. The pasty’s crispiness is delicious and goes well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This is one of the best healthy dinner ideas.

4. Cauliflower Pot Roast

One of the tastiest dinner ideas in the world is roasted cauliflower. The meal is served with nutritional yeast, cashews, and lentils. Also, add roasted potatoes and veggies to the pot, and your dinner is ready. The meal is not only full of flavor, but it can also be served at a dinner occasion.

5. Mac and Cheese Pies

Macaroni pie is a Scottish dish that has crumbly and crispy pastry crust that is full of cheese and macaroni. The meal comes out so well and every component from the cheese to the macaroni filling to the crust are perfectly recreated. You can make numerous small pies or just one large one.

6. Deep Dish Quiche Pizza

This meal involves making a sweet potato crust from chickpea flour and millet that is pressed into a cake pan, making it deep dish. It is then topped with homemade tomato sauce before using kale filling and fluffy tofu ricotta or roasted Mediterranean vegetables to fill it. It is one of the top dinner ideas.

7. Black Bean Hummus Panini

In this dish, simple ingredients are brought together to make an outstanding meal. The sandwich includes savory black beans, tender eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy humus. The deliciously juicy meal can be eaten on the go due to its two pieces of bread.

8. Indian Mashed Potatoes and Curried Gravy

The meal includes potatoes, peas as a garnish and Indian spices. Preparing the meal involves mashing red potatoes with cumin, coriander, turmeric, onion, and mustard seeds. A gravy that is curry-inspired is made from coconut milk, tomatoes and more spices and added as a topping. Eat the meal together with soft flatbread such as naan and steamed vegetables. It is one of the sweetest healthy dinner ideas.

9. Avocado Stuffed with Cashew Cream

Staff halved avocados with homemade cashew cream, topped with chopped chives and nuts, and serve with sliced cherry tomatoes. This meal is as delicious as it is healthy, making it one of the best dinner ideas.

10. Turmeric Falafel

Chickpeas are delicious. These healthy turmeric falafel are mashed into balls to be toppings to salads or to be used to fill sandwiches. The balls are fluffy and moist, and with a teaspoon of olive oil and another one of turmeric, they can be rich with flavor.

11. Fooled Pork Sandwich and Fries

The dish involves simmering young jackfruit until soft and then sticky barbecue sauce is used to broil it so it soaks in flavoring. Creamy and crunchy coleslaw is used as a topping to the sandwich. Bake some fries in the oven and serve with the meal. If you are looking for healthy dinner ideas, this is it.

12. Asian Cauliflower Bites

Dredge and coat the cauliflower in crunchy and flaky breadcrumbs. Then bake the breadcrumb-covered cauliflower till it gets soft and cover it in a homemade sauce, which is a bit spicy, a bit sweet, and a bit savory as well. Serve the bites with steamed vegetables and brown rice.

13. Halifax Mushroom Donair

It includes spiced mushrooms and creamy cashew sauce. Wrap these food components in a pita with many tangy red onions, tomatoes, and greens. Serve it in foil to prevent a mess. For healthy dinner ideas, this is one of them.

14. Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Cauliflower Cheese

Stuff sweet potatoes with cauliflower cheese and multiple vegetables. It is easy to prepare, and sweet potatoes are among the plenty of vegetables that are healthy for you, making it one of the perfect healthy dinner ideas.

15. Cheesy Corn with Smashed Avocado Quesadillas

The cheese in this recipe pairs with with garlic, corn, nutritional yeast, and salt. The addition of avocado and cherry tomatoes makes the dish well-rounded in terms of the ingredients. Therefore, this comfort food is remarkably healthy and delicious.

16. Turmeric Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes have a versatility that allows dressing up with all sorts of delicious ingredients. Cinnamon and turmeric seasonings, however, upgrade the natural flavor of sweet potatoes. Thyme, pepper and salt further elevate the sweet potato shine. It is also easy to prepare; with a quick toss and time in the oven, the dish is ready.

17. Lentil Burger with Mustard Sauce

The recipe requires four ingredients. The ingredients include nutty walnuts, lentils that add an earthy flavor to the meal, zesty mustard sauce, and raisins, which add a touch of sweetness. The result is a tasty veggie burger that is easy to fall in love with.

18. Lemon Avocado Chickpea Mash

Its recipe is very simple. Mash the avocados and the chickpeas together and season with pepper, generous amounts of lemon, and salt. The combination creates a creamy and zesty toast topper, spread for sandwiches, or dip for veggies.

19. Spinach Dip Crescent Roll Ring

The meal is a delicious one that is easy to prepare. The spinach dip, creamy and garlicky, is wrapped inside crescent rolls. The rolls are then baked until they turn golden and crispy and the dip is warm. It is a must have at any dinner party. Also, it’s one of the favorite dinner ideas.

20. Moroccan Chickpea Bake

The dish is a new way of combining flavors of Moroccan cuisine. It has three layers. Three classics inspire the three layers: falafel, tagine and hummus. When put together, the outcome is a unique comfort dish that spices up the weeknight meal rotation.

21. Coconut Curry Linguini

It is a meal that uses Thai ingredients and flavors such as lime, coconut milk, rice noodles and red curry paste. The texture, however, is like that of a Fettuccine Alfredo – rich and creamy. The meal can be prepared at the last minute since it is easy but packs huge flavors.

22. Colombian Black Bean Stew

The meal is extremely healthy, easy to make, and delicious. It is full of fiber and plant-based protein. Foods used to prepare the meal are inexpensive. They include garlic, black beans and onions. Grains and avocado can be served on the side. Avocado has numerous nutrients, making the meal one of the most sought out dinner ideas.

23. Roasted Cauliflower Curry

For this recipe, mix turmeric and salt to season the cauliflower florets. The mixture is then roasted until it becomes tender and golden. The roasted cauliflower is then stirred into a mix cooked from dry masala mix dipped in aromatic tomato curry with spices added as a layer.

24. Szechuan Hot and Sour Soup

It is a regional dish in Szechuan and Mandarin cuisines. The soup is made with Chile pepper and vinegar to add to the taste. The soup is paired with other meals that are Chinese-inspired.

25. Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets

The versatile meal that is ideal for parties, dinner nights and other occasions is usually oven-fried. For best results, cook the cauliflower covered in flour slowly in coconut oil. Cooking it slowly makes the outside crisp and the inside well-cooked.

26. Ratatouille

It is easy to make this traditional French dish. Arrange the veggies in a manner that creates appeal while at the same time ensuring that each bite finds different flavors. The savory dish is wonderful by itself. But it also pairs beautifully with fresh bread.

27. Mushroom Butter Masala

The meal is a common dish in any Indian restaurant. It is made of delicious gravy curry. The sauce in this meal is creamy because of the added vegan butter and plant-based cream or milk. The result is a spicy, creamy, and delicious meal that accompanies dosas, steamed rice, and flatbread perfectly.

28. Tahini-Roasted Cauliflower Covered with Lemony Herb Oil

It is a dish that makes a beautiful centerpiece for the dining table. The taste is also just as amazing as the appearance. For the recipe, the cauliflower is spiced well, rubbed down using the nutty tahini coating, drizzled with lemon herbs and then garnished using roasted almonds.

29. Naan

Enjoy Naan breads while still fresh and warm. The pillowy, ready-to-eat snack is so good that it makes a person forget it is gluten-free. They also pair will with a biryani recipe or a curry recipe.

30. Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

The meal includes spinach in its recipe with the sweet potato being served as the base so that a cheesy orange sauce can be made. Because of the sweet nature of the potatoes, mustard and other spices will balance out the sweetness.

Conclusion

If you want a perfect dinner that is both healthy and mouth-watering, these thirty dinner ideas are ideal for you. Cook one today!

9 Signs You Can’t Trust Someone

November 21, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Trust is an important part of any kind of relationship. However, trusting someone is hard when the world is filled with deceptive people.

In the book, “The Science of Relationships,” the experts wrote that trust, which entails a person’s hopes and aspirations, is put side by side with his fears and worries. No wonder you might be having trouble giving their trust completely because you know there’s a risk your closeness with someone might turn into betrayal.

Fortunately, life will give you red flags and warnings. Here are some signs that may indicate you cannot trust someone:

Here Are 9 Signs You Can’t Trust Someone

“Trust is earned when actions meet words.” – Chris Butler

1. If the person gossips about other people

It might seem like an innocent pastime at work or among your friends but gossiping has hurt and ruined a lot of relationships.

Anyone who gossips to you about another person may easily gossip about you to other people, too.
Some people might start gossiping as a way to vent about a colleague at work or a friend. But it would be very inappropriate for a boss to talk about another staff member with his peers.
If your friends are judging someone else’s business, you don’t need to be in this circle.
If you’re uncomfortable about hearing gossip, subtly say that you’d rather talk about this when the person involved is around so you can also hear their side.

To be completely fair to the other side, a study in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology showed that there are positive effects to gossiping. It can strengthen bonds between friends or groups and it can also help you figure out who to trust.

2. If the person is not approachable or secretive

Do you work with someone who doesn’t seem to be approachable? Does he keep to himself and seem inaccessible when you have questions or concerns? Do you have a friend who’s a bit secretive and keeps information to herself, or avoids getting into a serious conversation?

There’s a lot of reasons a person might have a wall around him. For this reason, it’s important to define the kind of secrecy a person demands.
He might be secretive if he values his privacy and would like to impose boundaries that align with his belief.
Being secretive might also be a way for an individual to protect himself or his interests from judgment, reprisals, or consequences.

The impact of the secrecy will depend on the information or detail that was hidden. It also depends on the type of relationship, because certain secrets do not have a place in committed relationships. Sneaky actions from your partner can immediately send your radar running wild, even if you’re not a suspicious person.

If you think that the other person is being secretive, try to approach the situation by inviting a dialogue or a serious conversation. If you allow the person to open up, then you’re giving him the opportunity to explain himself and prove that he can be trusted.

3. If they flip-flop

Now, people have the right to change their mind even on critical matters that may impact a lot of people. At work, for example, if your colleagues have the right facts, information, or data, they are entitled to veer in a different direction. In this case, flip-flopping arises from a necessity.

In other cases, however, it might be an indication of opportunism. It is hard to trust a flip-flopper who changes his stand due to pressure or convenience. It’s even harder when the person places the blame on you when something goes wrong.

Unfortunately, some flip-floppers look for scapegoats and behave without consideration. For instance, no matter how friendly you are with a colleague at work, your friendship will only come second when he’s under a lot of stress and pressure from the higher-ups. So, he’ll easily change his mind to please his superiors and leave you on the lurch.

In friendships, flip-floppers don’t have any qualms taking advantage of people. They may emotionally and financially drain you if you don’t set some boundaries. You might extend your help to a friend like this but eventually, being in a relationship with someone who can’t make a solid stand for what he values or who’s contradicting himself can be toxic. Don’t ignore the red flags.

4. If they are insecure

Some people with low self-esteem mask their insecurities by having an animated persona. They can be exuberant and over-eager to make their presence felt. As a result, anyone who’s getting more attention or recognition might be seen as a threat. So, they may behave in a petty manner and raise accusations against you even when you’re not doing anything wrong.

You cannot trust a person with insecurities because they can manipulate situations to favor themselves while avoiding issues or instances that might highlight their shortcomings or expose their vulnerabilities. As with flip-floppers, spending time with someone who’s insecure can become emotionally draining. You have to set boundaries as well, lest you become this person’s caretaker.

If this person is someone you have to face every day, it might help to sit down and have a heartfelt conversation about their pettiness and insecurities. In your discussion, don’t forget to stress the positive aspect of your relationship, whether it’s personal or professional. Also, try to do the following:

Reassure the person that there’s no reason to be upset.
Demonstrate that you are committed to your relationship or partnership.
Emphasize that for this partnership to work, you have to trust each other.
Explore past issues that might trigger why this person can behave irrationally.
Show encouragement.

5. If they always agree with you

The very nature of people-pleasers is that they are untrustworthy. They are similar to flip-floppers who don’t have a stand or opinion on matters. The “Yes” person will always agree with what you say or do.

These people are motivated to say yes because they think it aligns with what you want from them. Don’t mistake this for being supportive though. Deep in the hearts of people-pleasers, they have different ideals and goals than yours.

If they cannot be authentic about their feelings, then how do you know if their support is sincere? Worse, people who always agree with you may end up resenting you because they were never able to express their true self around you.

A study from UC Berkeley stated that people-pleasers do not have any integrity and aren’t exactly fooling anyone. Those who think it’s beneficial to please others actually end up more stressed or anxious because inauthenticity can take its toll.

6. If they are cruel to their friends or colleagues

Good-natured ribbing between friends is common, especially if you’re familiar with each other. But in some cases, familiarity may also breed contempt. Teasing can quickly escalate into an abuse if the person who does the teasing has a strong or abrasive personality.

People with abrasive personalities have a way of making others feel uncomfortable.
They might lack empathy and are missing a sensitivity chip so they say the wrong words at the worst times.
They may sound cruel and undermine the people in their inner circle or group.
If they can behave like this with their friends, they will likely behave the same way towards you even if you’re just getting to know them.

The problem with abrasive people is that they often don’t know they are being cruel to someone. According to the Harvard Business Review, they need to be told over and over about the impact and reality of their actions. They might be too defensive to see how their behavior is costing friendships or the harmony in their relationships.

7. If they apologize with a “but…”

People who say, “I’m sorry, but….” are not in any way apologizing for whatever they’ve done. The “but” is an excuse and a justification, thus they will not likely change their ways or correct their mistake. They will not also own up to this mistake so they are bound to repeat it.

Politicians are notorious for non-apologies like this. It’s no wonder they have a hard time earning the people’s trust. Insincere apologies are the mark of people who don’t respect or value others, so why should you give this person your trust?

On the subject of apologies, sometimes it’s better not to apologize by saying the words. Sometimes an action to fix the problem is in order. People see a person’s authentic sincerity more through actions than words.

8. If they cannot give explanations

Any time someone blurts out the words, “Why should I have to explain everything to you?” it’s a red flag that this person might not be worthy of your trust. If he’s not willing to answer your questions or provide clarity on an issue that’s bugging you, then he is not being honest and may be hiding something.

If this is happening at work, it’s your right to ask questions. Requesting an explanation enables you to be properly guided in order to contribute better to the project. You won’t be able to do your work right if your boss doesn’t define what’s needed or give you needed resources and tools. If he withholds information altogether, you will end up not effectively completing the project at hand.

In a personal relationship, uttering the above phrase may sound defensive, especially if you were just asking a simple question. Don’t ignore the alarm bells that start ringing.

9. If they take credit for other people’s accomplishments

A credit-grabber falls in the same category as the one who flip-flops and the “Yes” man. This type of person will not think twice about throwing anyone under the bus to save their own skin. Such an attitude can breed distrust among a group or team.

If this happens to you though, here are a few steps you can take:

There’s no better response towards someone who takes credit for your accomplishment except to take the high road.
Don’t let this attitude affect you since her lies will likely be discovered sooner than later.
Instead, find other opportunities to shine in your work and get recognized by the people who are higher than your boss.
Volunteer or tag along in special projects that you know you can contribute to or give superiors regular updates and progress reports so that they know you are part of the contributing team.

Final Thoughts On Signs You Can’t Trust Someone

Trusting someone is often a judgment call. If you’ve taken note of these nine red flags carefully, you will be able to learn how to filter untrustworthy people out of your life. This way, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of deception or unfair treatment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeJ8dXDZUcA

15 Signs of a Gifted Child

November 21, 2018 by Deborah Tayloe

Let us begin this article by making one crucial point: Intelligence, true intelligence, is a notoriously difficult thing to measure. During his childhood, Thomas Edison passed on to his mother a note from his teacher, saying that his child was “addled” – an old-time word for “dumb.” Edison was many things, but dumb he was not. In fact, he was a truly gifted child.

One of Einstein’s teachers also said he was “mentally slow, unsociable and adrift forever in foolish dreams.” Perhaps he was dreaming about physics. Maybe he was developing the greatest mind that history has ever known. You certainly get the picture. (And what on earth was wrong with teachers in those days?)

The National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) defines giftedness as “ability … significantly above the normal for [a child’s] age.” A child may be gifted in one or more areas, including:

Artistic
Creative
Intellectual (I.Q.)
Leadership
An academic field such as language arts, mathematics, or science. (1)

“Gifted children already know nearly 60 percent of all kindergarten material on the very first day of class.” – The National Association for Gifted Children

Eight Areas of Intelligence

There are likely many more areas of intelligence than those listed above. The theory of multiple intelligence put forth by Harvard Professor Dr. Howard Gartner proposes eight abilities that can be considered elements of human intellect:

Bodily-kinesthetic: physical abilities; bodily agility; hand-eye coordination; handling of objects.
Intrapersonal: abilities applied “within the self”; self-awareness or introspection of beliefs, emotions, goals, and motivations.
Interpersonal: interacting with and understanding others – verbal and non-verbal communication; sensitivity to others’ moods and temperaments.
Logical-mathematical: understanding abstract and complex ideas; deductive reasoning; detecting patterns; working with numbers.
Musical-rhythmic: discerning pitch, rhythm, and tone; movement to music; development of rhythms; the creation, recognition, reflection, and reproduction of music.
Naturalistic: relation to physical surroundings; growth of natural foods (e.g. fruits and vegetables); nature survival; knowledge of animals, plants, etc.
Verbal-linguistic: understanding and use of language; verbal and written skills; use of rhythm, sound, and tone in words; memory of images, faces, and fine details.
Visual-spatial: cognition involving images and pictures; spatial judgment and reasoning; visualization of objects. (2)

The Differences Between “Gifted” and “Bright”

We must understand that gifted children are not just “bright” – a highly subjective label. This is certainly the first step in understanding how to give them the help they need to succeed. Christopher Taibbi, M.A.T., an expert in the field of gifted education, explains four critical differences between the gifted child and the bright child:

Smart kids work hard to achieve. In contrast, gifted children quickly can become bored.

Intelligent kids are a teacher’s dream come true. They show up on time, behave themselves, and work hard. As a result, they succeed in the classroom. Smart-yet-not-gifted kids are more likely to succeed in the traditional academic setting, as they are motivated primarily by grades and recognition. Therein lies a big problem for gifted kids: neither grades nor recognition typically drives them.

Gifted kids often already know the answers without much effort. This can cause problems in the traditional classroom. Gifted kids will often withdraw into their rich inner worlds without internal incentives and external stimulation.

Smart kids know all the answers; gifted children ask all the questions.

Bright kids are excellent at processing and retaining information. This fact and their work ethic lead to outstanding academic achievement. Gifted learners often do not need nearly as much repetition to become familiar with the material. As a result, gifted kids are forced to sit through hours of class time when they could “pass a test” and move on.

Since the gifted kid’s insatiable curiosity is not being quenched, they’ll dig more deeply into the subject and want to know everything about it. They’ll ask themselves questions, use Google or a book to find the answers, and effortlessly retain their newly acquired knowledge. So, when the next class comes around, the gifted kid is already well beyond anything the teacher teaches.

Bright kids like the classroom; gifted children don’t (usually).

As mentioned, the typical classroom setting is perfect for a bright child to succeed. In contrast, this is often not the case for gifted kids. Gifted children’s incompatibility with the traditional classroom setting is generally attributable to a lack of stimulation.

Due to opposing extremes – extreme curiosity and extreme boredom – gifted kids usually become self-directed learners, taking responsibility for their own education. Unlike the classroom setting, self-learning allows the gifted child to indulge their highly inquisitive nature – an absolute must for them to learn effectively.

Bright kids are clever, while gifted children are original.

Think of the great innovators – da Vinci, Tesla, Graham Bell, Edison, Gates, Jobs. All original minds, these men were (likely) what we now recognize as “gifted.” Most noteworthy, some didn’t have the best scholastic records.

Many gifted children live for putting their ideas into action. When something (like an academic subject) catches their attention, gifted kids want to both learn and apply what they learn. This penchant for original thinking and innovation is another reason why an alternative educational environment is often optimal for gifted kids.

15 Signs of a Gifted Child

You may be wondering how to identify a gifted kid. Well, here are fifteen signs to look for:

1. They sound like a professor:

Gifted children often reach knowledge milestones much faster than average. Language skills, in particular, seem to come more naturally for the gifted children. An extensive vocabulary and speaking in complex sentences are two ways that a child may exhibit these skills.

2. They identify patterns:

Pattern identification (e.g. a jigsaw puzzle or what time of day Mommy comes home) isn’t ubiquitous in little ones. Unless that is, your little one possesses gifted-level intellect.

3. Gifted children are voracious readers:

Gifted kids, as mentioned earlier, have an insatiable curiosity. To satisfy this curiosity, they’ll read every book they can get their little mitts on. This sign is especially evident when something piques their interest.

4. They’re incredibly talented at something:

Gifted is just another word for “exceptionally talented.” Some kids are naturals at certain things, like sports, science, or the arts. Extreme talent is almost assuredly a sign of gifted intelligence.

5. They like the company of adults or older kids:

Because of their advanced intelligence, gifted kids have difficulty relating to their peers. They may be misunderstood – or just plain bored. As such, they may seek out older kids, teachers, and other adults for stimulation.

6. A gifted child has excellent focus:

Okay, so there is a caveat to this one. Most gifted kids have an exceptional ability to focus on the things that interest them. However, a gifted kid stuck in a boring classroom will quickly lose this ability. As such, they might even be considered as having poor focus in a typical classroom setting.

7. They are mature:

A gifted child can also have deep emotional intelligence. If you have a gifted child, they may shake their heads at the antics of their peers. Gifted children won’t pull too many pranks or get into (too much) mischief.

8. They are original:

Being gifted and problem-solving often go together. Not only do these kids approach everyday problems differently, but they may also offer suggestions on improving something.

9. They are leaders:

Because of their maturity and uncanny ability to solve problems and think outside the box, some gifted kids show a remarkable aptitude for leadership. Of course, these skills are more evident when the child is in a desirable setting.

10. They don’t need directions:

While some kids patiently wait for the parent or teacher to say how they want something done, gifted kids jump right into it and ask questions later. Or not ask questions at all, having figured things out independently.

11. They’re high energy:

Gifted kids, probably because their brain is always going, seem be in perpetual movement. Notice, too, that really smart and gifted kids tend to speak way too fast. The reason for this verbal assault is that they’re trying (unsuccessfully!) to get their words to catch up with their thoughts.

12. They need some “me time”:

Like most children, gifted kids love spending time with people. But solitude allows them to be alone with their thoughts and exercise their creativity. Gifted kids enjoy solitary activities such as reading, writing, and drawing.

13. Giften children love nature:

Some gifted kids, especially those with high artistic intelligence, love the sights and sounds of nature. Their curiosity and talents of observation may be on full display when out in nature.

14. They underachieve:

Yes, you read that correctly. While highly intelligent, gifted kids tend to devote most of their mental energy toward things of interest. It is not uncommon for an advanced kid to excel at one subject and struggle with another. Underachievement for gifted kids usually results from short attention spans, carelessness, frustration, and flat-out boredom.

15. They think learning is fun:

Gifted children love learning so much that it becomes a hobby. Because of their advanced intelligence and love of learning, the child may share few interests with his or her peers.

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Identifying Gifted Children

“An accurate label, and a clear explanation, and ongoing guidance about what it means to be gifted will help gifted children adapt.” – Gail Post, Ph.D.

Identifying intelligence is vital to a child’s development despite all the problems associated with identifying intelligence. For example, finding out if a child is developmentally challenged can mean the difference between success and failure. This also applies to a gifted child.

Gifted children who remain unidentified often become targets for labeling and bullying. Indeed, we cannot afford to let this happen. A gifted child has the potential to become a leader in this complex global society. Above all, children with unique gifts must be placed in the right situations and allowed to obtain success – on their terms.

11 Signs Someone Is Hiding Their Feelings

November 21, 2018 by Power of Positivity

As children, we’ve been taught that certain negative emotions like anger or sadness have to be suppressed. But shoving these feelings under the rug can have a high cost to our general emotional well-being and health.

According to the Scientific American, these negative feelings have to be acknowledged and addressed in the same way that positive emotions have to be cultivated. If these feelings aren’t threshed out, then people won’t be able to find contentment in their life. At worst, they may even descend to fits of depression.

Here Are 11 Signs That Someone Is Hiding Their Feelings

“Life is too short to hide your feelings. Don’t be afraid to say what you feel.” – Unknown

1. They put a positive spin on the negative things in their life.

People who hide their feelings try, as much as possible, to show people around them that they are fine. So, they remain the optimist that cannot be dampened even if life has thrown them many challenges.

According to Tali Shalot, the author of the book “The Optimism Bias,” humans are wired to be positive as a coping mechanism. People who remain hopeful despite the odds stacked against them are apparently more relaxed and less stressed out than those who fill their hearts with anxiety and negativity.

A study in the journal Cancer Nursing showed that pessimistic patients are likely to die within eight months of their diagnosis. Being an optimist has also been proven to influence job and relationship success.

But some experts have criticized that staying positive isn’t always a realistic approach to dealing with a person’s real feelings. Unless this person has a balanced mindset when it comes to facing a major roadblock in their life, their positive thinking might sometimes be misplaced. In short, it won’t help them with their struggles in the long run.

2. They are constantly busy.

Someone who could be hiding their feelings needs distractions so they don’t have to deal with their emotions. So, they stay at the office late at night. They keep their social calendar booked. Additionally, they enlist in many recreations and activities that take up their time and focus.

It’s easier for these people to occupy themselves with things to do even if their jam-packed day makes them physically tired. The exhaustion is nothing compared to facing their emotional struggles, which they are obviously not prepared to do. They stall with these distractions.

Something positive might come out of being a workaholic because they can fatten up their bank account and enrich their experience as a social butterfly. Unfortunately, the feelings they try to suppress will still keep popping up. It will remain unless they deal with it.

3. They withdraw from the people who matter most.

While people who repress their feelings might try to make themselves busy, some withdraw from the important people in their lives as their coping mechanism. They do this to avoid confronting their emotions, which are likely triggered by the ones they are running away from.

“Out of sight, out of mind” might work for a while. Disconnecting may bring temporary peace of mind. Once they have buried negative feelings deep inside their psyche, they resurface as if nothing happened. But this coping mechanism has its risks.

If those feelings come back, will they disappear again? The truth is running away can work … until it doesn’t. Sometimes, the ultimate realization that a person isn’t really okay could be more painful and destructive than dealing with those feelings when they first come around.

4. They’d rather deal with other people’s problems than theirs.

Do you know someone who’s going through something but is still willing to help another friend in a crisis? It’s possible she’s masking her own feelings by absorbing herself in someone else. She avoids dealing with her own problems by spending so much time working out other people’s issues.

Think of it this way:

Sometimes it’s easier to solve other people’s problems than your own.
Giving your friends advice puts you in a better position to disengage from the problem.
It might seem you are thinking with more clarity.
But if you refuse to deal with the consequences of your own problems, that means you’re probably not following your own advice.

To understand why it’s easier to solve other people’s problems, researchers looked into something they termed as “psychologically distant,” as per the Scientific American. The experts learned that people have more creative ideas and can better solve problems when they are not psychologically attached to the situation.

Those who like to “fix” the problems of others are also not responsible for the consequences. For instance, if you’re trying to help a friend patch up her marriage, you’re not going to be in the room dealing with a painful conversation with your friend’s significant other.

Ultimately, taking care of someone’s problems is another delaying tactic used by people who hide their feelings. It’s one thing to have compassion for other people. It’s another thing if it’s used as an excuse when you should really be compassionate to yourself and address what’s troubling you.

5. They become consumed with irrational anxiety or paranoia.

Repressed feelings can surface in other ways that might lead to the development of irrational fears and paranoia. For example, you’ve sent a friend a message asking if she wants to watch a movie. When she does not respond, you immediately think she doesn’t want to spend time with you.

That irrational anxiety can escalate to other thoughts that might bring you to conclude that none of your friends like you and they probably never did.

When you have irrational fears, you start to notice little details.
Your perception grows distorted and clouded.
Hiding somewhere in your psyche is the actual problem or feeling you’ve never acknowledged.
It’s messing with your thoughts, giving your a generally negative state of mind.

Do you know that repressed feelings may impact your physical health, aside from your mental health? Studies have shown that unresolved emotions can affect sleep quality, as per Psychology Today. Some people experience sleep disruptions or difficulty going to sleep because of their bottled feelings.

People can also become literally sick when they have episodes of anxiety, as per the Harvard Health. They develop muscle pain, digestive problems, a weakened immune system, constant headaches or colds, and other illnesses. Apparently, this is the body’s way of confronting what ails the emotions.

6. Their self-esteem drops.

People who hide their feelings might choose to drown out and numb their emotions by letting go of the issues that bother them. On the surface, it might seem like they are taking the high road but it’s actually a way for them to protect what’s left of their self-esteem.

A person with low self-esteem will generally not assert herself. She will avoid showing her true feelings and abilities to other people. Afraid of perceived failures, confrontations or rejections, she might think that she’s not entitled to bring up feelings of hurt and being broken. She likely fears her other friends would only disregard these emotions.

7. They turn to self-destructive behaviors.

When a person is overwhelmed with emotions, he might turn to self-destructive behaviors to cope. Some examples of self-destruction include:

Addiction to drugs
Addiction to intimacy even with random strangers
Sabotaging their own happiness or success
Alcohol abuse
Self-injury
Eating disorders
Suicide attempts
Dating people who are bad influences

Aside from being unable to manage emotions, self-destructive behaviors may also stem from low self-esteem and a lack of self-confidence. Dr. Peggilee Wupperman via Psychology Today stated that when a person habitually suppresses the negative emotions, he likely decreases any positive feelings too. Uncertain of any value, meaning or hope in his life, he becomes self-destructive.

8. They don’t like being spontaneous.

People who can’t deal with their true feelings might be uncomfortable with spontaneity and surprises. They want to plan everything ahead of time because they want to maintain control of what’s going to happen. They want the ability to predict what they can expect from every situation.

Though spontaneity might spring positive surprises, they don’t like any opportunity for hitches to crop up when they have not planned ahead. This will easily send them straight to panic mode because they might have to confront emotions they have been trying to hide.

As with maintaining a busy schedule, getting downtime or a free day won’t be welcome for someone who hides their feelings. Downtimes mean there is room to sit down and process. This is not something such a person will be ready for.

9. They vent but not to the one they have issues with.

This passive-aggressive behavior is evident in social media today. Ever notice a friend posting quotes or messages that seem to hint at their struggles, frustrations, or anger at someone? But while they vent about what’s bothering them in a public platform, usually the person that should read or see the message has no clue. Your friend who is hiding their emotions probably never discussed her problems with the person involved.

But when questioned about what has been shared on their social media status, people who hide their feelings usually downplay the situation. They might deny that something’s wrong or post a smiley emoticon to show that they are happy and at peace.

Communicating in a passive-aggressive manner is quite unproductive and may harm the relationship even more. Though it is calmer than an actual confrontation, being upfront and honest about your feelings still brings the message across better.

10. They blow up over insignificant things.

Hidden feelings bring up misdirected anger. So, it’s not surprising to see a person who has been suppressing her emotions to blow up over things that aren’t worth the energy.

For instance, you might have forgotten to buy milk so you cannot have it for breakfast. But this sends your partner in a fit that ends in a big fight between the two of you first thing in the morning.

You might think that your partner is blowing up over nothing but her anger is rooted in a deeper problem. Because she has not been sharing this problem and hiding her feelings, it might look to you that she’s being petty.

11. They act like they’re fine.

They might seem fine, tough, and placid on the outside. They might look like nothing bothers them even if their world is already crumbling down. But this is a mask. The harder they pretend they are not affected, the more help they really need.

Final Thoughts On Signs Someone Is Hiding Their Feelings

Keeping emotions locked up is like having a ticking time bomb. The one who will suffer the most when this eventually blows up is the person who’s hiding their feelings.

If you realize that you have been hiding negative feelings, don’t feel like you’re the only one. Many people have a difficult time dealing with overwhelming emotions. At the same time, try to realize that you cannot really run away from your feelings. Both positive and negative emotions are integral parts of human nature and survival. Learning to deal with the negative emotions in a positive way will lead you toward a road of healing and happiness.

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

11 Habits of Truly Polite People

November 21, 2018 by Power of Positivity

The simple act of being polite can improve your life. Polite people often have better relationships, gain respect, and increase self-confidence and esteem. On the other hand, being rude can make life much more difficult.

It is fair to say that one’s propensity for polite behavior comes down to exposure. That is, if you grew up in a household where being polite was emphasized (or expected) you probably have proper behaviors and habits. On the other hand, if you were not taught the importance of being polite, you may lack some needed social cues.

In this article, we’ll talk about eleven habits of genuinely polite people, what studies say, and how you can be more courteous! Let’s get to it!

Here are eleven habits of polite people:

1. They’re excellent listeners

Polite people always seem to have excellent active listening skills. Active listening is the act of fully concentrating, understanding, responding to, and remembering what the other person says. Active listeners resist the urge to speak over someone. You allow people to finish their thoughts before introducing your own.

To improve your active listening skills:

Give your full attention to the speaker. If your attention drifts, bring it back.
Show that you’re listening by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and using positive body language.
Give proper feedback by reflecting on and paraphrasing the speaker’s words
Most importantly, do not interrupt unless necessary.

2. Polite people smile often

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

What do you think of when you see someone smiling? Well, like most people, you want to smile back. Have you ever considered why you often want to smile back when someone smiles? Well, besides being the polite thing to do, it turns out that smiling is (literally) contagious.

In one Swedish study, participants were shown a picture of a smiling face and asked to frown. Instead of frowning, the participants mimicked the facial expression in the picture – a smile!

3. They pay no mind to drama

Genuinely polite people don’t waste their time or energy listening to drama. They’re mature enough to know that not only is the drama pointless (no matter the form), but that it is also probably harmful to someone. While some less conscientious people see drama and think, “I can be a part of something,” the polite person sees drama and thinks “I want no part of it.”

Dismissing drama needn’t be abrasive or uncomfortable. When the local drama queen comes your way with a juicy tidbit, acknowledge with an “I see” and change the subject. No harm, no foul.

4. They’re not complainers

Okay, there is a time and place for (constructive) complaining. But there are complaining and complainers. The former is used as a conversational tool to air grievances; the latter is a type of person who takes the former to the extreme – by complaining about every little inconvenience.

Instead of complaining about something, write a gratitude list of three things for which you’re thankful. Put that list in your pocket. When the urge to complain about something arises – and it will – read your list.

5. Polite people think before speaking

We’re all adults now. As adults, we have the capacity – in fact, the obligation – to think before we speak. Not following such simple advice has led to many arguments, broken hearts, and damaged relationships. Polite people think before they speak at all times.

Here are a few things ways you can become a more thoughtful conversationalist:

Don’t feel pressured to say anything, ever.
If you require more time to respond, that’s okay; say so.
When you are about to say something impulsively, acknowledge it, take a deep breath, and think before responding.

6. They remember names

If you’re bad at remembering someone’s name, you’ve probably had that embarrassing moment when you wanted to utter the person’s name but couldn’t remember it. So, you had to fill in the name with something else. (“Oh, hey … man/buddy/chum/m’lady … nice morning, eh?”)

If being seen as polite isn’t enough motivation to file away someone’s name, consider it an opportunity to avoid face-flushing embarrassment. Here are a couple ways to remember that “person next door”:

Make a conscious decision to begin remembering names.
Actively listen.
Repeat their name, writing it down if you so wish.
Associate the first letter of the person’s name with a physical or personality trait. (“Jen with the shiny Jewelry,” “Tom with the buck Teeth,” etc.)

7. They neither gossip nor listen to it

Guess we could’ve filed this one under number three, but here it is. Gossip is something that mature adults shouldn’t do, period. Anyone who despises gossip will tell you it’s pointless, energy-draining, annoying, and despicable.

Let’s put it simply. If you’re (a) initiating gossip or (b) partaking in any way, please stop. You’re not only hurting someone, but you’re also draining your own energy and positivity.

8. Polite people don’t proselytize

Having beliefs and opinions is okay. Trying to force your beliefs or opinions onto someone else is not okay. Needless to say, polite people don’t drone on about their precious beliefs and opinions, knowing that such behavior is immature and rude.

Polite people don’t proselytize about anything. Ever.

9. They respect personal boundaries

Few things are more sacred to most people than personal space. In fact, attempting to impede someone’s personal space is often punishable by a look of disgust and forceful “Excuse me?!” Violating a polite person’s personal space may result in a subtle step in the opposite direction.

Speaking of personal space, not everyone is okay with casual touching or patting, even when done with the best of intentions. Hey, don’t scold the messenger (a huge patter/hugger/backslapper, BTW!)

10. They treat others as equals

You’ve probably heard of Warren Buffett. For those who haven’t, Mr. Buffet is one of the world’s wealthiest men with a net worth of around $90 billion. Buffett, though a shrewd businessman, is also incredibly modest and unfailingly polite. Some people in the financial sector who follow Mr. Buffett have actually complained about Buffett’s flawless manners, writing an article titled “Mr. Buffett, you are too polite.”

Buffett has a reputation of treating everyone he meets with dignity and respect, regardless of so-called status. Polite people treat others with respect and as equals.

11. They don’t judge others

Truly polite people do not judge others. The reason is quite simple: they don’t know the other’s story, nor do we. Judging someone is the epitome of ignorance, not to mention rudeness.

The truth is that when we judge, there’s something about ourselves – not someone else – with which we’re miserable. It’s up to us to find out what that “something” is and cease with the malicious judging of others.

How to Be More Polite

Here are some things that you can do to be seen as a polite individual:

Say Hello!

Greet people properly, initiate and sustain eye contact while smiling, and be approachable. The simple act of giving someone a genuine “Hello” helps make an excellent first impression.

Make light conversation.

Light conversation is different than small talk. The former is constructive and polite, while the latter is annoying and pointless. Ask someone how their family is doing, how their new job is going, or if anything is new in their life. Be friendly and open while remembering to pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues.

Make an effort to remember details.

Remember the person’s name and any pertinent information they share with you. Don’t be embarrassed to write the info down so as not to forget. Greeting someone by their first name is warm, thoughtful, and kind.

Polite people say “please” and “thank you.”

When asking for something, say “please.” When receiving something, say “thank you.” Simple, but you’d be surprised how many of us don’t say it.

Hold doors open for others.

There are few things more rude than some able-bodied person not holding the door open for someone who is right behind them. Don’t be this person. Hold the door for a couple of seconds. You can handle it.

Polite people use proper language.

Respect other people and use appropriate, well-mannered language. The words that come out of your mouth should fit with the situation. When in public, lay off the cursing (and yelling). Actually, it would probably be wise to avoid this type of speech in private, too.

Respect other people’s time.

This one’s simple: be there when you say you will be there. If you aren’t, you should have a good excuse. Also, use your good judgment in determining how much time to take up; consider that the other person may be busy.

Be assertive when needed.

Being polite doesn’t mean letting people take your kindness for weakness. Put your foot down when someone tries to get one over on you.

Apologize when you screw up.

“I’m sorry” are two words that would save our world a whole bunch of trouble if people said them more. While your pride may be telling you to do something else, ignore it and apologize when you make a mistake.

Use balance – don’t overdo it.

There’s being polite, and there’s being just plain weird. If you start talking like Ned Flanders from “The Simpson’s,” you act the latter. Be polite, yes, but be authentic and honest as well!

Final Thoughts on Polite People

Politeness, a seemingly simple concept, comes from several virtues: respect, kindness, restraint, and empathy, to name a few. As detailed, polite individuals are not just passive observers of etiquette. They actively embody practices that elevate their interactions, making the world around them a little brighter and more harmonious. From active listening to refraining from judgment, these behaviors reflect internal character and a testament to the conscious choices one makes daily. As society becomes increasingly polarized and, at times, tumultuous, the role of polite people stands out starkly as beacons of decency and civility.

Their actions of polite people remind us that treating others respectfully and kindly isn’t old-fashioned. Indeed, it’s timeless. Embracing and practicing politeness is an investment in personal growth and nurturing a more compassionate and understanding world.

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