10 Signs Your Partner Fears Commitment

March 6, 2023 by Sarah Barkley

Finding a partner who is afraid of commitment can happen to anyone. You think your relationship is going great and moving well, and everything seems to stop. The romance might lose its spark or seem like it’s not going anywhere anymore. You deserve a supportive partner who will be there for you through thick and thin.

Sometimes you might experience this situation after you meet each other’s closest friends and family. You might have even discussed marriage, kids, and your future together. Then, your partner might abruptly stop these aspects of your relationship.

It’ll leave you wondering what happened, and you might even think about what you did wrong. You’ll likely ask yourself why the relationship isn’t moving along anymore. These questions can cause you to suffer from confusion and anxiety as you wonder what went wrong.

If you ever feel this way about your relationship, it could signify that your partner is afraid of a commitment. Watching for the signs can help you see if this is the case in your relationship.

What It Means to Be Afraid of Commitment

Feeling afraid of commitment means someone struggles with dedicating themselves to a relationship, job, goal, or location. When your partner is scared, they likely will reach a point in the relationship where they’re afraid to move forward.

They might seem unwilling or fearful of committing to a long-term relationship. It can make it challenging to plan for your future together or progress in your relationship.

Ten Signs Your Partner Is Afraid of Commitment

Sometimes you might not know if your partner is afraid of commitment or if they’re not the right person for you. Understanding the signs can help you differentiate and decide how to move forward.

1 – Not Wanting to Talk About a Future with You

Your partner might be afraid of commitment if they don’t want to discuss the future with you. They might be okay with it at first, then suddenly stop engaging in that type of talk. Sometimes you’ll notice that they change the subject when you bring up the future or give vague responses.

You might also notice that their plans don’t involve you when discussing their future. It could be that your partner is afraid to feel trapped in a specific outcome if they think of their future with you. Or they might not want to give up their sense of individuality or freedom.

Your partner might plan vacations with friends or alone without asking if you want to come. They can also plan on getting a new place to live without thinking of where the relationship will head soon. These situations can hurt you, and talking about it with your partner might resolve some issues. You deserve someone supportive of your goals.

2 – Seeming Uninvested in You and the Relationship

It could signify a fear of commitment if you feel your partner is uninvested in you or the relationship. A lack of investment sometimes manifests as not introducing you to their friends or loved ones, although they know yours. It can also show up as not wanting to talk about their emotions or daily life.

Uninvested partners sometimes mask their disinterest by pretending to be excited about something you discuss. They’ll say they want to do things with you in the future but have a scheduling conflict anytime you try to plan something.

3 – A Partner Who Fears Commitment Might Not Be Vulnerable

Vulnerability is essential to making a relationship work. Both partners should let their guard down and show one another who they are. People afraid of commitment struggle with this because they don’t want to get hurt. They protect themselves by being unwilling to practice vulnerability.

4 – Having Attachment Anxiety

If your partner has experienced hurt, rejection, or betrayal in the past, they might have anxiety. It makes them worry that committing themselves to you increases the risk of experiencing the pain again. Some of the signs of attachment anxiety include:

avoiding emotional obligations or intimacy
nervousness
insecurity
avoiding your lifestyle or social circle
being afraid to let go of their freedom
wanting to do everything alone without help
rejecting anyone who gets too close to them

5 – Your Partner Is Not Supportive, Ignoring Your Calls or Messages

If you consistently don’t get replies from your partner, it could indicate they are afraid of commitment. It’s okay for your partner not to respond or ignore your call when they’re going through their bedtime routine, are at work, or are busy in another way. However, going days without a response is a red flag.

If they frequently ignore you and don’t respond for days, it’s worth discussing with your partner. They might not realize they’re doing it or believe that’s how you want it to be. Communicating about how it makes you feel can make a difference.

6 – Having a History of Unavailable Partners

One sign that your partner is afraid of commitment is if they have a history of unavailable partners. They might have dated people that wouldn’t or couldn’t commit because they knew it meant they didn’t have to do it either. This could reveal someone who is not supportive of the idea of a long-term, stable romance.

7 – A Partner Who Fears Commitment Displays a Lack of Communication

Partners who fear commitment might struggle with communication. They don’t want to address emotions or other intimate relationship aspects.

Even months into the relationship, your conversations might never go beyond casual and lighthearted topics. You might think your partner isn’t supportive of you and your life, but it could be that they’re afraid.

8 – Being Anxious About Milestones

When someone fears commitment, they might get nervous or anxious about upcoming milestones. They might worry about special anniversaries or avoid other events, such as moving in together or getting engaged. These people can have long-term relationships but experience anxiety whenever milestones get mentioned.

9 – Past Relationships Seem to End at the Same Point

Consider when your partner’s past relationships ended if you know anything about these situations. You might notice that the past relationships all seemed to end at the same point. They might not have made it past a specific month or year mark, showing that they don’t like to commit for too long.

10 – They Think of The Relationship Last

A partner who fears commitment might care about the relationship but prioritize everything else first. They’ll likely put their career, friends, and hobbies before you and the relationship. It shows they’re afraid for things to get too intimate.

Why Your Partner is Afraid of Commitment

There are many reasons your partner might be afraid of commitment, with most possibilities relating to emotional issues. Some of the potential theories include the following:

past hurt or rejection
witnessing parents in an unhealthy relationship
experiencing their parents’ hostile divorce
feeling abandoned during childhood
losing someone to illness or death during childhood or adolescence
childhood abuse, trauma, or neglect
being afraid things won’t work out
developing avoidant attachment during childhood

What to do if You Recognize These Signs

If your partner is afraid of commitment, there are some ways to fix the situation. You can develop a healthy relationship with them while working on overcoming their fear.

Talk to Your Partner About Being Fearing Commitment

You might think your partner fears commitment, but you can’t know for sure unless you talk to them about it. There might be another reason for their behavior, and communication is the best way to figure it out. Be open and honest as you discuss your feelings and concerns.

It might be a difficult conversation, but you’ll be glad you did, as it can help both of you. Your partner might want to change but needs help to overcome their fear. You won’t know they want you to help unless you have the strength to bring up the topic.

Be Patient

Your partner can’t overcome their fear of commitment overnight. It takes time and practice, and you must be patient if you want it to work out. You might have to take things slower than you’d like but waiting for them to shift their mindset can take time.

If it takes longer than you can deal with, the relationship might not be for you. You must take the time to decide if you want to wait or if you’ll develop resentment and frustration instead. If you think negative feelings will take over, it might be best to walk away.

Consider Therapy to Become More Supportive of Each Other

If you and your partner want to work through the fear of commitment, therapy can help. Couples therapy can help you both determine if you can work through it and if you have similar goals. It can also help you address the issues with a professional who can suggest how to move forward.

You can also consider individual therapy. Your partner’s fear of commitment might affect your mental health or cause distress. A therapist can help you work through these feelings and find ways to cope.

Develop New Habits Together

If you and your partner want to overcome their fear of commitment, you can work on developing new habits together. These habits should help you practice healthy commitment strategies and can include these behaviors:

spend a weekend together in a new location
introduce one another to your loved ones and friends
hold hands in public
be vocally supportive of each others’ dreams and goals
discuss things you want to do together in the future
talk about taking the next step in your relationship

Be Supportive of Yourself–Focus on Positivity and Self-Care

When your partner fears commitment, sometimes the best thing for you to do is focus on yourself. Prioritize positivity and self-care, helping you make the best choices for your life. Putting yourself first helps you see your worth and prevents you from taking the situation personally.

Final Thoughts on Signs Your Partner Is Afraid of Commitment

It’s not uncommon for a partner to be afraid of commitment. If yours is fearful, it doesn’t mean you don’t have a future together. Instead, it means you both must decide if you want to move forward and what you can do to overcome the situation.

Your partner’s fear might stem from a childhood experience or more recent pain. Either way, you can work together to develop a healthy relationship if you are supportive of each other and develop the tools you’ll need to succeed.

Michael Jordan Celebrates 60 With $10 Million Donation to Make-A-Wish

March 6, 2023 by Deborah Tayloe

Michael Jordan celebrated his sixtieth birthday on February 17, 2022, with his typical generous style. He donated $10 million to Make-A-Wish America. This contribution marks the most significant individual gift to the foundation in its 43-year history.

But that was not the first time that Jordan donated to Make-A-Wish. According to a Make-A-Wish Foundation press release, Jordan made his first donation in 1989, granting a wish to a child.

In a press release, Make-A-Wish noted that Jordan had granted hundreds of wishes to children worldwide. Besides that, meeting him is a popular wish request, and he has granted that wish hundreds of times. The Make-A-Wish Foundation named him Chief Wish Ambassador in 2008.

Jordan explained why he gave this wonderfully generous donation:

“For the past 34 years, it’s been an honor to partner with Make-A-Wish and help bring a smile and happiness to so many kids. Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration. I can’t think of a better birthday gift than seeing others join me in supporting Make-A-Wish so that every child can experience the magic of having their wish come true.”

The $10 million will help Make-A-Wish Create an endowment to fund future wishes. This support arrived just after the foundation completed a 2022 Wish Impact Study, indicating that wish granting is integral to the healing process for children with critical illnesses. The Wish Impact Study summarizes that receiving wishes can “increase joy, confidence, self-esteem, and hope for the future, resulting in improved quality of life and better health outcomes,” says the press release.

What Is Make-A-Wish?

The Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in 1980 by a group of volunteers in Phoenix, Arizona. The local community formed to grant the final wish of a 7-year-old boy named Chris Greicius, who had terminal leukemia. Chris wanted to be a police officer, and a group of Arizona Department of Public Safety officers made his wish come true. Chris passed away shortly after his dream came true. But the impact of his wish inspired the creation of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Make-A-Wish co-founder, Tommy Austin, says about Christopher:

“He was only seven years, 269 days old when he died. But he taught me about being a man, even though he was only a boy. And because of meeting him, I’m an entirely different man.”

The mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children who have life-threatening medical conditions. The organization believes that granting a wish can provide a positive distraction from the difficulties of illness and help create hope, strength, and joy for children and their families.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation works closely with medical professionals, parents, and children to determine the most meaningful wish for each child. Wishes can range from trips to meet their favorite celebrity or athlete to experiences like swimming with dolphins or learning to fly a plane.

Since its founding, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted the wishes of over 500,000 children worldwide. The organization has chapters in over fifty countries and has a network of thousands of volunteers who work to make wishes come true.

The impact of a wish extends beyond the child who receives it. Wishes can provide hope and joy for families facing difficult times and create lasting memories for everyone involved. The Make-A-Wish Foundation believes every child deserves a wish, and they work tirelessly to make that a reality for as many children as possible.

With the help of Make-A-Wish, children all over receive the gift of hope and continue to battle these illnesses–with their granted wishes serving as a beacon of hope.

About Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan is a name that has become synonymous with excellence and success in basketball. Most basketball fans consider Jordan one of the greatest basketball players and often call him the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Jordan’s success on and off the court is a testament to his trademark–dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence.

Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he attended Laney High School. Jordan was the fourth of five children and grew up in a family that valued education, hard work, and determination. Jordan’s father, James Jordan, worked at a General Electric plant, while his mother, Deloris Jordan, worked as a bank teller.

Jordan showed a keen interest in sports from a young age and excelled in basketball, baseball, and football. However, basketball captured his heart. As a result, he spent countless hours practicing and sharpening his skills on the court.

After graduating from Laney High School, Jordan received a scholarship to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Jordan’s college career was nothing short of outstanding. He led the Tar Heels to a national championship in 1982, hitting the game-winning shot in the final seconds of the title game against Georgetown. He earned the prestigious NCAA College Player of the Year in 1984. Then he became a consensus All-American in 1983 and 1984.

Jordan left college early, drafted by the Chicago Bulls as the third overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft. But it didn’t take long to make his mark in the NBA, winning the Rookie of the Year award in his first season. Jordan quickly established himself as one of the league’s most exciting players. His high-flying dunks and acrobatic moves won over legions of fans.

Jordan’s career reached new heights in the late 1980s and early 1990s when he led the Bulls to six NBA championships in eight years. Jordan won five MVP awards during this time. He also earned a spot on the Bulls’ All-Star team every season. Jordan’s success on the court made him a global superstar. In fact, he became one of the most recognizable athletes in the world.

Besides Make-A-Wish, Jordan Engages in Additional Philanthropy and Charitable Giving

Despite his success on the court, Jordan has also significantly impacted off-court through his philanthropic work and charitable giving. Jordan’s philanthropy focuses on education, health, and social issues. He also established several foundations to support these causes.

One of Jordan’s most significant charitable contributions is the Jordan Institute for Families at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The institute provides training and support for social workers and other professionals working with needy families. Jordan’s contributions have helped to improve the lives of countless families and children in North Carolina and beyond.

Jordan has also strongly advocated education and has established several scholarship programs to support needy students. The Jordan Fundamentals program provides scholarships to students in the Chicago area. In addition, the Jordan Scholars program provides scholarships to students at his alma mater, UNC Chapel Hill.

In addition to his philanthropic work, Jordan has also actively supported social justice causes. He has used his platform to speak out against racial injustice and has supported organizations promoting social and economic equality. Jordan’s contributions to these causes have helped raise awareness and create positive change in communities nationwide.

Final Thoughts on Jordan’s Generous Donation to Make-A-Wish

The Make-A-Wish Foundation has a rich history of granting wishes and providing hope and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions. Their mission to create positive memories and experiences for children and families has impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. As the organization continues to grow and expand, it will undoubtedly continue to make a difference in the lives of children and families for years to come.

If You See Someone With a Lotus Flower Tattoo, This Is What It Means

March 6, 2023 by Kristen Lawrence

Many eastern cultures and religions revere the lotus flower, believing it represents strength and purity. The beautiful flower grows in dense, thick mud and wetlands but thrives despite adversity. Lotus plants root themselves deeply into the earth in the floodplains of stagnant rivers. Then, their long stems push through the muck to reach the surface. As the lotus blooms, its petals slowly unfold to reveal the flower in all its beauty.

The petals contain a special coating that repels mud and water, signifying the plant’s purity and resilience. Lotus flowers blossom during the day and close up at night, shedding their petals every few days. Most lotus blossoms are white or pink but can also come in blue, yellow, or purple hues. However, white is the most common color for this striking perennial plant. It’s native to India, east Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America.

Since the breathtaking plant rises above the mud to reach the sun, it symbolizes transformation and ascension. In Indian religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism, it represents man’s transcendence of his ego and the physical realm since it grows in darkness and blossoms in the light. It emerges from the heavy mud unstained and brilliant, ready to face the day ahead. It’s easy to see why so many cultures find the lotus inspiring and enthralling.

Here’s How Lotus Flower Tattoo Represents Strength

Some people love the lotus flower so much they decide to get a tattoo of one. If you see someone with this plant tattooed on their skin, it can symbolize many things, such as strength. However, depending on personal perception, it can also have a few other meanings. We’ll go over the most common interpretations below so you can learn more about the intriguing lotus plant.

Strength

As mentioned above, the lotus plant most often symbolizes strength and adaptability. Many flowers require abundant water to survive, but not the hardy lotus. It grows best in slow-moving deltas and rivers where the water and dirt combine to form thick mud. Despite these challenging conditions, the lotus comes out unscathed and rises to the occasion. It provides the perfect example of blooming where you’ve been planted and learning to overcome adversity.

Seeing someone with a lotus flower tattoo may represent their victory over a difficult situation they faced. Perhaps they only learned their true strength after having no other option but to remain courageous. When people get backed into a corner, they will fight to survive despite the odds. A lotus flower tattoo can remind people of their fortitude and bravery throughout life’s many battles.

Spiritual Awakening

The lotus is associated with spiritual purity and enlightenment in Hinduism and Buddhism. The seventh chakra, known as the crown chakra or Sahasrara, symbolizes supreme consciousness and the ultimate truth. It’s often portrayed as a thousand-petaled lotus flower blooming above one’s head, representing the blossoming of consciousness.

Humans have myriad layers and intricacies, but it’s only after shedding the ego that they can reach the highest wisdom. Therefore, some people get a lotus tattoo to depict their spiritual journey in this temporary earthly realm. The divine path to reunite the little self with the Universal Self requires immense willpower and strength. So, a lotus flower tattoo can have several meanings depending on a person’s beliefs and intentions.

Also, the color of the tattoo can have various interpretations. For instance, in Hinduism, the white lotus represents Brahma, the god of creation, while the yellow lotus depicts Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. The white lotus symbolizes Buddhism’s Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, and purity. A blue lotus represents peace and self-inquiry, while the yellow flower depicts Buddha’s teachings.

Transformation

The lotus plant doesn’t necessarily have a spiritual meaning; it can also represent a transformation in the earthly realm. Since the flower grows in darkness and blossoms in the light, it symbolizes the universal struggle of earthly life. All creatures naturally want to expand and become the best versions of themselves.

For instance, humans desire health, happiness, financial security, love, acceptance, freedom, and knowledge, among other things. They strive for perfection in every facet of life because it’s the divine order to seek purity, strength, and truth. Someone going through a significant life change may relate deeply to the inspirational lotus flower. It’s one of nature’s best examples of finding the strength to transcend limitations and keep evolving.

Detachment

As the lotus flower grows in the mud, it eventually reaches upwards toward the sky and breaks through the surface. Some people view this as a metaphor for life, as we must surrender the things that hold us down to grow. Also, the lotus flower allows the rain and mud to slide off its petals, representing strength and detachment. It doesn’t let anything prevent it from blossoming and reaching its full potential.

If you see someone with this tattoo, perhaps they’ve recently released an aspect of life that no longer served them. Our souls become heavy if we carry too much baggage, so we must leave it behind and keep going. Just as the lotus tires of the muck and longs for sunshine, we also seek light in the darkness.

Beauty

Many people also feel drawn to the lotus plant because of its immeasurable, irresistible splendor. The flower reminds us to seek beauty in unexpected places because you never know what you might find. It also symbolizes the divine strength and magnificence within us, just waiting to blossom from our souls. Someone might get a lotus tattoo to remember their unique beauty and interconnectedness with the universe.

Final Thoughts on Why the Lotus Flower Tattoo Symbolizes Strength and Purity

As we’ve discussed, a lotus plant tattoo can have various interpretations and meanings, such as strength and perseverance. Other representations include spiritual awakening, enlightenment, purity, wisdom, and beauty. No matter what this alluring plant means to you, it’s a sight to behold. Do you know anyone with this tattoo or have one yourself?

15 Ways to Stop Wasting Water

March 5, 2023 by Sarah Barkley

Many people don’t think twice before leaving their water running or using it unnecessarily. However, considering the environmental impact and the cost of wasting water, you might want to make some changes.

Those who grew up in a dry climate may have a different view than those from water-rich areas. For those in wet areas, it’s easy to assume you can use as much as you want, and it’ll keep flowing. However, others know that isn’t the case.

Finding ways to use less can make a difference, whether you realize it or not. Understanding why conservation is necessary can motivate you to make beneficial changes. Educating children about the importance of water conservation is equally vital. Schools and community centers are now integrating fun, interactive programs that teach young minds about the value of water. To support these educational efforts with the right tools, consider visiting https://lowenergysupermarket.com/top-10-water-saving-products/.

Why Reducing Water Usage is Necessary

Data shows that global water consumption has increased by at least 495% over the past century. This increase relates to industrialization and population growth, but our habits at home haven’t helped, either. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States claims that the average household uses more than 300 gallons daily.

While those in water-rich areas might not understand that the demand outpaces supply in some locations, there are still many reasons to make changes. Public resources that many people use in their homes require chemicals and energy for transportation. Energy and chemicals are resources, too, so it involves more than you might initially realize.

Reducing your water usage can make a difference in your community. When others in your area stop wasting, too, it can decrease your area’s demand. With climate change and population growth threatening the supply, it’s essential to practice conservation and limit local demand.

Sometimes you can’t control waste when it happens before reaching you. Leaky or outdated pipes can mean some gets wasted before entering your home. Since you can’t change the infrastructure, you must focus on how you can waste less once it gets into your home.

How to Stop Wasting Water

You and your family can consider ways to cut back together, and it’ll likely be easier than you expected. As you read through these ideas, think about some of your bad habits that you can change for the better.

1 – Shorten Your Showers

Baths often use at least 35 gallons, so those aren’t ideal when you want to stop wasting. Showering can take between two and five gallons each minute, depending on the efficiency of your showerhead. You can easily take a five-minute shower that uses less, helping you stop wasting.

Consider setting a timer to know when to get out if you want to shorten your showers. You can also listen to a five-minute song or one close to it to know when your time is up.

2 – Collect Water

Collecting water to reuse later can drastically cut down on your use. You can use containers to catch rain and use it for indoor and outdoor plants. It is the perfect way to do your part in decreasing waste.

As you wait for your shower to heat up, put a bucket or two beneath the stream to catch the water. It would otherwise go down the drain, but you can use it for other things. You can use it for plants, cleaning, or anything else.

3 – Don’t Water Your Lawn as Often

Running a sprinkler for your lawn uses tons of resources. Many people waste more on their lawns than they do any other way.

While you might want a green lawn, you don’t have to use fresh resources to make it happen. Not only does it waste, but it also leaves a carbon footprint and disrupts wildlife.

One way to tell if your lawn needs watering is by stepping on it and seeing if it springs back right away. If it doesn’t, it’s safe to say it’s dry, and you can run your sprinkler. However, you can skip the sprinkler for a few days if it pops back up.

You can also consider replacing grassy areas with other options. If you don’t mind eliminating grass, this could be a good option that allows you to keep your lawn looking good in other ways.

4 – Fill a Sink with Water for Washing Dishes

It might seem easier to leave the tap running when doing dishes. However, it wastes water when you could fill the sink instead. Filling the sink allows you to scrub all the dishes without wasting as you go.

It’s easier to fill if you have two sinks because you can fill one and use the other for rinsing. If you only have one, place all your dishes in a rack next to your sink and then fill your sink.

Additionally, if you have a dishwasher, you can prevent waste by not pre-rinsing them. It’s an unnecessary step because most dishwashers are powerful enough to take care of the debris.

5 – Use a Broom Instead of the Hose for Outdoor Cleaning

Many people use their hose to clean driveways, sidewalks, and steps, but it uses hundreds of gallons. Consider using a broom instead, saving the hose for occasional use.

6 – Invest in a Low-Flush Toilet

A low-flush toilet uses much less water than other appliances and saves energy. Flushing uses a lot of resources, and the low-flush options use less than half of what old-style toilets use. In case of blockage, rely on expert toilet repair chicagoland for fast and reliable service.

7 – Run Your Dishwasher and Washing Machine Only When It’s Full

You might get tempted to run small loads in your dishwasher or washing machine when that’s all you have. However, it’s wasteful as each load uses 30 to 35 gallons each time.

Even if you run your washing machine on a delicate cycle, you can add other things that aren’t too dirty. It not only saves fresh resources, but it also prevents wasting detergent and makes chores go faster.

8 – Use a Plastic Weighted Water Bottle in Your Toilet Tank

Using a weighted bottle in your toilet tank saves resources because it doesn’t have to fill as much space. Add an inch or two of pebble or sand to the bottom of a bottle, and then fill it with water.

Place it in your toilet tank, away from the operating mechanism, and you can conserve nearly five gallons daily. It doesn’t harm your toilet tank and offers an opportunity to conserve for those who can’t invest in a new toilet.

9 – Fix Leaky Pipes, Faucets, or Toilets

The EPA estimates that the average household wastes 9,400 gallons yearly due to leaks. You might notice a tiny dripping from your faucet or showerhead, a pipe might leak under your sink, or sometimes your toilet leaks. Despite the origin of the leak, it’s wasting this essential resource.

If you suspect your toilet leaks, you can test it by adding food coloring to the tank. You’ll know if it leaks if you see any color in the bowl without flushing.

Another area to check for leaks is your outdoor faucets and pipes. These problems are easier to ignore since they don’t mess up your home but can waste many resources.

Watching your utility bill can also help you see if you see a leak. If your utility bill increases significantly without reason, you might leaks somewhere.

10 – Install a Low-Flow Shower Head

A low-flow showerhead is easy to install and doesn’t cost much. It also saves money on your bill and protects our depleting resources. You can find these shower heads at any hardware or plumbing supply store.

11 – Don’t Flush Your Toilet When You Don’t Have To

Every time you flush your toilet, it uses nearly five gallons. Don’t flush it when you don’t have to, and don’t be afraid to let it settle for a while before flushing.

12 – Fill a Bowl with Water When Rinsing Vegetables

It’s tempting to leave the tap running while you rinse vegetables, but it’s incredibly wasteful. A better option is to fill the sink and use that to scrub and rinse the veggies. Otherwise, you let quite a bit run down the drain.

13 – Turn the Faucet off When Brushing Your Teeth or Shaving

When you brush your teeth, turn the faucet on only to get your toothbrush wet and fill a glass. Then, you can brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with what’s in the cup. It prevents excess water from going down the drain.

You can fill the sink with a few inches of water and then plug the drain for shaving. You can rinse your razor in that rather than running the tap every time.

14 – Keep Drinking Water Chilled in The Refrigerator

When you want a drink from the tap, you likely let it run until it gets cold. Every time you do this, it wastes water. Instead, fill a bottle or pitcher to drink from throughout the day. This way, you don’t have to let the tap run as it all runs down the drain.

15 – Limit Food Waste

You might not think your food contributes to water usage, but it takes resources to produce fruit and other food. When you waste food, you waste other essential resources.

Final Thoughts on Ways to Stop Wasting Water

Reducing water waste is essential to preserving natural resources. While you may not realize the issue if you live in a water-rich area, it makes a difference no matter where you live.

These tips can help reduce waste, preserve resources, and save money. Small changes can make a difference even if you can’t do them all.

6 Ways a High-Quality Man Handles Relationships Differently

March 5, 2023 by Kristen Lawrence

A quality man won’t settle for just anyone — he holds himself to a high standard and attracts a woman with similar energy. He’s done the work to develop a healthy relationship with himself and is ready to extend this love to others. But, he knows what he deserves and will only tolerate someone who respects themselves as well. A high-quality man believes everyone should feel complete before pursuing a romantic relationship.

Because he feels so self-assured, he naturally views relationships differently than most people. He doesn’t get into a relationship to fill a void or feel more confident about himself. He already knows his worth and only gets involved with someone who can enhance his life. An admirable man looks for a woman who will encourage him to become the best version of himself.

He’s highly interested in personal development and wants a woman who shares his drive to improve. A quality man isn’t easy to find, but you can identify him with a few unique traits. You might notice these characteristics if you’ve met a man who stands out from the crowd.

NOTE: If you want to learn how an excellent woman will handle her love life, we cover her unique behaviors in a separate companion article.

6 Ways an Honorable Man Handles Relationships

1. A high-quality man is only interested in long-term relationships.

A high-quality man wants a serious, committed relationship and steers clear of flings or shallow encounters. While he may have previously enjoyed a few one-night stands, he’s matured and feels ready to settle down. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with casual relationships, but everyone gets tired of them at some point. A man who respects himself eventually wants more than physical attraction in a partnership. When he enters this phase in life, he only looks for a woman with similar values.

2. A quality man treats his partner as an equal.

A high-caliber man doesn’t consider a woman inferior or superior to him. Rather, he sees her as his equal, a partner in crime who will support and encourage him throughout life. A healthy partnership involves two people who see each other as teammates instead of rivals.

In arguments, a respectable man will first listen to his partner’s story without interrupting. He tries to compromise and focus on solutions rather than getting defensive or passive-aggressive.

When it comes to sharing chores and responsibilities, a quality man only expects from his partner that he’s willing to give himself. He doesn’t mind doing household chores like cooking dinner or cleaning if it lightens the burden on his partner.

3. He gives his partner space and establishes healthy boundaries.

No relationship can survive if two partners do everything together and never spend any time apart. This behavior only leads to codependency and can ruin the most stable partnerships. A quality man respects his partner and wants her to have a separate life. He understands that a relationship withers when partners don’t give each other room to breathe.

Therefore, he creates boundaries in the relationship so both people have time for themselves. He feels secure enough to maintain independence in his relationship and wants a partner with her identity. He never tries to change or control his partner and encourages her to pursue her interests.

4. He’s patient and understanding.

A quality man gives his full attention during conversations with his partner. No matter what he’s doing, he sets aside distractions and listens intently without interjecting. He’s emotionally intelligent and mature, understanding that a healthy relationship requires open communication and vulnerability. Even if he’s had a tough day at work, he still makes space for his partner when she needs to vent or discuss something important.

A respectable man also knows how to control his emotions and remains patient with his SO. Even if she sometimes frustrates or pushes his buttons, he never loses his temper. He treats his partner respectfully and tries to understand where she’s coming from. Instead of worrying about being right, he cares about making a decision that will benefit the relationship.

5. A quality man doesn’t try to fix or change his partner.

Honorable men know it isn’t their responsibility to fix anything about their partner. They realize that personal development can only occur when a person feels ready to change. Plus, they’ve learned to accept and respect every aspect of their partner’s personality. A man who feels confident and happy with himself never tries to control or demean his significant other. Instead, a high-quality man will leave self-development to his partner and only worry about changing the person in the mirror.

6. He knows what he wants and deserves.

Perhaps the best aspect of a high-caliber man is that he’s clear about what he wants in a woman. Therefore, he doesn’t waste anyone’s time and only pursues women he sees as a future. Since he knows himself intimately, he understands his needs in a relationship. Men with strong personalities and a healthy amount of self-love want an equally confident woman to walk by their side and grow with them. They don’t settle for less than they deserve, even if it means waiting a while for Mrs. Right.

A quality man values himself enough to move on from any relationship that no longer serves him. He’s perfectly content being single until he finds someone worthy of his love, affection, and energy.

Final Thoughts on Traits of a High-Quality Man

High-quality men and women don’t make themselves available to anyone interested in them. They may seem picky, but they have high standards for themselves and won’t tolerate anyone who disrespects them. An honorable man wants a woman who can hold her own and feels self-assured.

He desires a relationship with someone who uplifts him and encourages him to become his most authentic self. The best relationships involve two whole people who bring out the best in one another. That’s exactly what a quality man wants in life, so he only gets involved with a woman on his level.

12 Reasons Having Fun is the Secret to a Satisfying Life

March 5, 2023 by Sarah Barkley

Hard work is essential, but taking days off to have fun is the key to a satisfying life. Finding a good balance can make all the difference and help you find joy and meaning in your day. Your life can become much more exciting and enjoyable when you learn why you should take a break.

People often get praised for not taking days off or putting in crazy amounts of overtime at work. However, sacrificing your personal life and not making time for fun isn’t something to brag about or take pride in. Instead, using your time wisely by putting in your best effort is a better option, so you can take time to enjoy life.

Focusing on the serious aspects of life like budgets, news, careers, and other daily issues can be stressful. It’s not always enjoyable, and taking breaks is essential to finding joy and satisfaction. Understanding why it’s the key to a satisfying life can encourage you to prioritize it.

What It Means to Have Fun

Living a satisfying life is as important as being productive and working hard. You might think having fun is for kids, but adults must also embrace the experience.

Many believe everything they do in their free time is something for relaxation. But not all of it is enjoyable and won’t lead to fulfillment and satisfaction. True fun is when you experience joy from lightheartedness when doing things just for the pleasure of it.

It requires playfulness, connection, and flow. While these three things all feel good alone, they offer even more benefits when you experience all three simultaneously. You’ll experience all the benefits of having fun that lead to a satisfying life.

Being playful can help you delve into a lighthearted nature, and it often only requires looking for ways to play. When you connect with others, it improves your mood and mental health. Flow is when you’re fully focused and engaged to the point you lose track of time.

Experts found that activities that induce flow encourage better overall well-being than doing other things. It could involve losing track of time while playing a physical game, doing crafts, or conversing with someone you enjoy talking to.

Why Having Fun is the Secret to a Satisfying Life

Enjoying your time is a benefit, but it also allows you to live an overall satisfying life. It improves your well-being and encourages you to embrace your daily activities.

1 – Joy Promotes Learning

Experts found that doing fun things to introduce yourself to new concepts and ideas can promote learning. One example is that reading for enjoyment can improve math and language skills. Other sources explain that it increases dopamine, oxygen, and endorphins, promoting learning.

Enjoyable activities positively affect motivation and determine how much information you retain. Learning requires repetition, and when the experience is enjoyable, you’re more likely to do it again. It also makes you more likely to try new things and push yourself.

2 – Fun Improves Relationships and Encourages Connection

When you regularly have fun, it can improve your personal and professional life. Doing it with other people can help build trust and encourage communication.

Laughing together makes people feel like they have things in common. It also can make you look vulnerable, approachable, and friendly. You can build a supportive circle of friends that brings you a sense of community.

Having fun with a romantic partner can make you happy together and deepen your bond. It can improve affection and conflict-resolution skills.

Your work relationships can also improve when you have joyful experiences together. As it strengthens bonds, it also increases performance and productivity.

Overall, enjoying time with others improves connection because it makes you more pleasant to be around. It also allows you to create memories that bring happiness anytime you reflect on them. You’ll never forget the people involved in those experiences.

3 – Joy Increases Productivity

Having fun can help you get more done in your daily tasks. Studies show that happy people are 12% more productive than others. It also increases accuracy and organization.

4 – It Reduces Stress and Prevents Burnout

Life requires many stressful responsibilities that you can’t ignore. Sometimes you’ll feel like handling everything else leaves little time for leisure, and you view it as an unnecessary luxury. However, doing enjoyable activities can help with stress management.

If you don’t take time for enjoyable activities, your stress worsens and can trigger burnout. When burnout occurs, you’ll be less productive and could experience hopelessness. Finding ways to reward yourself for your hard work can make all the difference, but only if those rewards involve genuine enjoyment.

Stress and burnout can also interfere with your sleep. The American Psychological Association states that less stress can help you sleep better. So, joyful leisure moments reduce stress, prevent burnout, and improve sleep quality.

5 – It Promotes Positive Coping

Flow, or the mental state of being fully engaged and focused on something enjoyable, is necessary for true fun. This mental state promotes better coping and positive emotions, meaning it’s a benefit of doing things you enjoy. You can experience even greater flow if you choose creative activities, including:

cooking
painting
sketching
playing music
learning or practicing an instrument

6 – Increases Resiliency

Things don’t always go how you hoped they would, and you’ll sometimes experience adversity. Enjoying your time, laughing, and staying positive can help you be more resilient no matter what happens.

7 – Makes You More Likable

Studies show that people who have fun are more likable to their peers. It can help you make more friends, develop strong social bonds, and make a positive impact sooner than others. Enjoying your time can also help you maintain a positive attitude, adding to the reasons people like you.

8 – It Balances Hormone Levels

Too much stress can negatively impact hormone levels and neurotransmitters. When this happens, it negatively affects your mood, endocrine system, and metabolic and immune functions. Balancing your hormones by doing enjoyable activities boosts your mood and supports health, helping you live a satisfying life.

9 – Encourages Laughter

Laughter buffers stress and promotes coping. Those who laugh can experience fewer negative emotions, even in stressful situations. Look for experiences that allow you to laugh, and don’t hold back when you think something’s funny.

10 – It Eases Pain and Improves Health

When you’re having fun, you’re less likely to feel pain. One study shows that patients with breast cancer could manage their pain better when enjoying their time with friends. It buffers feelings of pain and can improve your health.

Laughter can improve your health as it decreases stress and boosts immunity. Research shows that it also relaxes your muscles and improves circulation.

11 – Improves Memory and Concentration

Enjoying your time and de-stressing helps protect you from developing cognitive issues like poor memory. You’ll be able to concentrate better and remember things more easily.

12 – Slows the Signs of Aging

Stress can speed up the effects of aging, including causing a decline in your physical abilities or cognition. You’ll feel older faster if you don’t take time to enjoy life.

Making a positive change and enjoying life more often can boost vitality, slowing the signs of aging and making you feel more energetic. It helps trigger your inner child, encouraging play and joy.

How to Have More Fun

Now that you know how fun contributes to a satisfying life, it’s time to make more of it. If you haven’t prioritized enjoyment for a while, you might not know where to start. Here are some ways you can enjoy your life more:

Limit Fake Fun

Activities you do in your free time but don’t make you feel playful, encourage connection, or inspire flow are fake fun. Limiting these experiences gives you the time and energy to focus on things you enjoy. These activities may include:

scrolling social media
binge-watching favorite shows
running errands
doing anything you regret later

Reflect on Your Most Fun Experiences

Considering things from the past that were fun for you can help you identify what it looks like in your life. Think about three past experiences where you remember truly enjoying your time, laughing, and being present. Make notes of who you were with, what you were doing, and what made it so fulfilling.

Remember that activities and locations other people enjoy might not be what inspires you. Once you figure out what makes you truly enjoy a moment, you can make better decisions about how to spend your free time.

Make Time to Fill Your Life With Joy

Living a busy life doesn’t always leave much time for leisure. If this is the case for you, planning time with the people you have fun with can help. You can also set aside time to do things you enjoy alone or visit places that trigger good feelings.

While you can’t force joyful moments, you must set aside time and plan things that offer the opportunity. When you focus on prioritizing these experiences, it ensures more of them in your life.

Final Thoughts on Reasons Having Fun is the Secret to a Satisfying Life

Making time for enjoyment boosts your well-being and improves all areas of your life. Everyone’s idea of fun is different, so it’s essential to do what you like rather than what others tell you. Focus on what brings you joy and make the time to do it.

It’s essential to make time for fun no matter your age or how busy life gets. It allows you to live a fulfilling and satisfying life while feeling physically and mentally well.

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