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Therapist Explains 16 Ways to Beat Family Claustrophobia

May 30, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Claustrophobia is an anxiety condition that makes you feel as if you are smothering from being in close quarters. Family claustrophobia can develop when you have too much togetherness. The recent shelter in place orders has affected people negatively.

Many families only have a few hours together in the evenings, and they long for more time with their loved ones. However, too much of a good thing is just too much. If you’re struggling with having too much togetherness, then here are a few tips to ensure that you don’t feel smothered by your loved ones.

16 Ways to Cope with Family Claustrophobia

Here are 16 behaviors you can adopt to beat the feeling of family claustrophobia.

1. Meditation

Meditation is a great way to release negative energy and allow positivity to flow. When you are feeling overwhelmed by your children or spouse, then meditation can transport your mind to another place where peace and tranquility reside.

2. Spend Time in Nature

If everyone is in the house on their video games and such, then getting out in the great outdoors may be just what you need. Walk barefooted and allow yourself to be grounded.

Also, let the warm, golden rays of the sun penetrate your soul. There’s nothing better than fresh air when you’re feeling closed in and in need of space.

3. Set Firm Boundaries

When everyone is crowded inside together, and family claustrophobia is taking over, you need to set some firm boundaries. Children love to hang on parents and be nearby. Set restrictions for everyone so that your personal space isn’t completely taken over by everyone else.

4. Identify A Quiet Spot

Some parents like to create a place where they can go to get away from it all. You can identify your bedroom, the garage, or the basement as your retreat. Let your family know that you don’t want to be disturbed when you are in your space. It’s essential that you don’t let too much togetherness get the best of you.

5. Listen to Instrumental Music

Sometimes, there is something so soothing about piano music. There are plenty of online videos that can help you to calm yourself. Whether it’s listening to the ocean’s waves or hearing the rain falling, find some instrumental that can help you stay calm when everything seems wrong.

6. Zoom Chat with Your Friends

While you may not be able to get out and about just yet, you can at least utilize the power of the internet to connect you. You can call your family and friends with apps like Zoom. If you need to vent or just deflect from the happenings at your house, then chat sites are the way to go.

7. Ask Relatives for Help

When you have children that are in constant need of your attention, you must realize your limits. You can only do so much in a day. When togetherness is getting to you, then you should call in friends or relatives to help.

Even if you only get an hour or two to go to the grocery store alone, it’s worth it to clear your mind and destress a bit.

8. Do Fun Group Activities

If togetherness is getting to you, then you need to have a change of pace. Many people have no choice but to be together, so you might as well enjoy the time you have. Why not play some board games, have a picnic in the back yard, or spray the kids off with the water hose?

The little things you do can really make a difference in breaking up the monotony of the day. Plus, when you have fun and laugh, you will have less time to stress about the claustrophobic feelings you’ve developed.

9. Take a Nice Bubble Bath

It’s easy to get testy, irritable, and lose all tolerance when your stress load is too much to bear. Thankfully, you can soak your troubles away in a bubble bath. If you don’t like a tub, then you should consider a nice, hot shower.

Water is very calming, and it can wash away your stress and anxiety from dealing with your family. Close the door, light some candles, and slip into a tub of relaxation. It’s the best thing you can do to deal with family claustrophobia.

10. Get a Message

Ask your partner to give you a massage. Stress can quickly cause your muscles to feel strain in your back and neck area. You can combat this stress by having a massage.

When you put firm pressure on these sore muscles, it can release the tension that makes you feel bad. Things can look so much different when you relax after a massage.

11. Laugh

If the family claustrophobia is starting to take its toll, then you need to laugh. Laughter is good for the soul because it allows you to release stress hormones like cortisol. When you’re releasing those hormones, you instantly feel calmer.

Research shows that you must have a significant belly laugh to feel these effects. Also, ask your family to join in with you on watching funny videos, comedians, and other hilarious things. It will make everyone feel much better and lift the mood of your home.

12. Chew Gum

It probably sounds like the craziest suggestion around, but a study proved that chewing gum could help with your stress levels. Being around family for long periods is incredibly hectic, so by chewing your favorite gum, you can alleviate some of the angst.

The Swinburne University in Melbourne conducted a study in 2008. They found that chewing gum can relieve anxiety, improve alertness, and reduce stress, plus it helps to clean your teeth. So when your family claustrophobia is becoming too much, chewing gum might help.

13. Give Hugs

Since you’re already in close quarters, you may find that a hug is all you need to make things better. Carnegie Mellon University has proven that a hug releases a feel-good chemical in your brain that instantly makes you calmer.

While you must make sure that you’re not hugging someone who is sick, you often can and should hug your family members. Who knows, maybe the family member you hug needed the embrace just as much as you.

14. Unplug from Social Outlets

Cell phone usage is a big part of life. People don’t just use these phones for calling or texting people, they have become hubs where bills are paid, you shop for groceries, and you can’t put them down for more than five minutes.

Did you know that people who are addicted to their phones have a much higher chance of developing depression? You feel like you can’t get anywhere without your phone with you, but there is such freedom in unplugging from the world.

When you’re having high stress and feelings of family claustrophobia abound, then try turning off all your devices. You may be surprised at how much better you feel by getting rid of this one load.

15. Dispose of Unwanted Items and Organize Your Home

Since you have some downtime, you might as well put this time to good use. If your family being so close is bothering you, then why not put them to work? Everyone has things around their home that needs to be done.

Make an inventory list and see what items you can accomplish with the whole brood helping. Do you have closets that need to be organized, or do you need to tackle that messy garage? Use the time you have to make the most of all the help.

16. Learn Breathing Techniques

Did you know that breathing techniques can help you to relax and ease the tension? If your family is hovering around and you feel like you can’t catch your breath, then doing some simple rhythmic breathing can be the key.

Slip away to a quiet spot, even if it’s the bathroom, and try power breaths. You want to Inhale to the count of seven, hold it for seven seconds, and then release it to the count of seven. As you begin to breathe, your heart rate will slow, and your mind will clear.

The beauty of this calming technique is that you can do it anytime or anywhere. You can even practice this on the side of the freeway if necessary. Within five breaths, you should see a dramatic improvement in your mental clarity and overall mood.

Final Thoughts on Dealing with Family Claustrophobia

Togetherness is a good thing. Benjamin Franklin said that fish and relatives are similar because, after three days, both start to stink. If you find being in close quarters with your loved ones to be overwhelming, then trying a few of these 16 tips listed above may help you.

There are many times when you may be home with the entire family. From times of global pandemic to the school’s summer vacation, it can be described as the best of times and the worst of times. However, try to make the most of the time you have together as it won’t last forever.

20 Quotes About Motivating Yourself When You Feel Anxiety

May 27, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Reading quotes about motivating yourself when you feel anxious can help you work through the anxious feelings. They can also help you ignore the anxious feelings and keep being productive. Everyone needs motivation once in a while, and these quotes about motivating are the perfect place to start.

You may be the type of person who gives perfect advice to everyone else, but then fail to do the same for yourself. Likely, you motivate others around you to do their best. Those closest to you have probably been comforted by you and urged to stay motivated during anxious moments.

Yet, even with all of the great advice and motivation you give to others, you may still need motivation yourself. That’s where quotes about motivating yourself when you feel anxiety help.

Like the other people in your life who need advice and tips for staying motivated, you do, too. These quotes can help you get an outsider’s perspective on anxious situations that threaten your motivation. If you don’t have anyone in your life to help you, quotes about motivating yourself are even more helpful.

20 Quotes About Motivating Yourself to Conquer Your Anxiety

1. “Do not wait; the time will never be ‘just right.’ Start where you stand, and work with whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.” – George Herbert

When you feel anxious, it’s tempting to put things off. You have to fight against that urge, however. The time will never be right and you’ll never be fully comfortable.

Get started now and work with what you have. As you go on, it will get easier and you’ll find more resources to help you on your journey.

2. “Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside of you that is greater than any obstacle.” – Christian D Larson

Have faith in what you can do and who you can become. You are greater than anything that stands in your way, including your anxiety.

3. “Every time you are tempted to react in the same old way, ask if you want to be a prisoner of the past or a pioneer of the future.” – Deepak Chopra

Anxiety normally occurs more than once in a person’s lifetime. Think about how you’ve reacted to that feeling in the past. This time, react in a different, more positive way.

If you react as you did in the past, you’ll get the same results as you did before. As Chopra explained, you’ll continue to be a prisoner of the past. On the other hand, if you react positively, you’ll get different results.

4. “Trust yourself. You’ve survived a lot, and you’ll survive whatever is coming.” – Robert Tew

You’ve made it through everything that’s happened so far in your life, and you’ll continue surviving. Ignore your anxiety and push forward. You can’t stay where you are because it’s uncomfortable.

5. “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.” – Sam Levenson

The more time you spend watching the clock, the more time you’re wasting. You should be spending that time working toward your goals and getting things done. The clock never stops and neither should you.

6. “Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens.” – Carl Jung

When you look inside yourself, you’ll see what you need to do. That’s when your goals can be reached. Looking outside only allows you to dream and focus on obstacles.

7. “Good humor is a tonic for mind and body. It is the best antidote for anxiety and depression. It is a business asset. It attracts and keeps friends. It lightens human burdens. It is the direct route to serenity and contentment.” – Grenville Kleiser

To ease your anxiety, try to find something to laugh about. It’ll make you feel better and will attract friendship, contentment, and will benefit you in a business sense.

8. “You wouldn’t worry so much about what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

If your anxiety comes from the worry about what others will think, you can put that to rest right away. Other people judge you less often than you believe. Most of them hardly think about the things that you do at all.

9. “There will be obstacles. There will be doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, there are no limits.” – Michael Phelps

Nothing ever works out perfectly. There will be challenges to get through and you might have to make a new plan at some point. Even so, keep moving and working hard so that you can be successful.

10. “I tell you the past is a bucket of ashes, so live not in your yesterdays, not just for tomorrow, but in the here and now. Keep moving and forget the post mortems; and remember, no one can get the jump on the future.” – Carl Sandburg

If you live in the present moment, your anxiety will fade away. Don’t stress about the things that have already happened, and don’t let the future cause anxious thoughts. By focusing on now, you’ll be able to keep moving and effectively get things done.

11. “Everything you have ever wanted is sitting on the other side of fear.” – George Addair

You have to push past the anxiety and fear if you want to reach your goals. Get started and keep moving. Before you know it, you’ll have the things you’ve worked hard for.

12. “My anxiety doesn’t come from thinking about the future but from wanting to control it.” – Unknown

Remind yourself that you can’t control the future. The only thing you can do is control the present. By doing this, you’ll ease your anxiety and begin setting yourself up for a bright future.

13. “No amount of anxiety can change the future. No amount of regret can change the past.” – Unknown

Like the last quote, this one explains that having anxiety will not allow you to control the future. Only the things that you do now can lead you on the path you want. The past and future cannot be changed, but the present moment can be.

14. “Sometimes the bad things that happen in our lives put us directly on the path to the most wonderful things that will ever happen to us.” – Nicole Reed

When things don’t go as planned, it doesn’t mean that you’ve failed. When the anxious feelings kick in, remind yourself that you can now follow a new path. This new path will lead to great things that you never expected.

15. “Nothing diminishes anxiety faster than action.” – Walter Anderson

If you get started on something, you won’t have time to think about your anxious feelings and thoughts. Before you know it, the feelings will be gone.

16. “Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength.” – Charles Spurgeon

No matter how anxious you feel, it won’t stop the sorrows that you’ll feel tomorrow. What anxiety does stop is your strength today. Let go of the anxiety so you can be strong today.

17. “If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.” – Amit Ray

To get through anxiety, focus on the present. If you live in the moment, you’ll be able to get through your anxiety.

18. “Anxiety’s like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you very far.” – Jodi Picoult

Anxiety might give your mind something to think about and your body something to stress about. As Picoult explained, it doesn’t do any good, however, and it doesn’t get you anywhere. Focus on something positive and you’ll get much farther.

19. “You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you.” – Dan Millman

It’s difficult to control your thoughts. Even though you should work to change your thought process, it doesn’t always work. What you should focus on learning is to not let those thoughts control you.

If you can learn to do that, you’ll be able to keep going when you feel anxious. You’ll learn to stay motivated and reach your goals, despite the negative feelings you’re having.

20. “Anxiety was born in the very same moment as mankind. And since we will never be able to master it, we will have to learn to live with it—just as we have learned to live with storms.” – Paulo Coelho

Having anxious feelings is part of being human. It happens to everyone, so it’s important to learn to work through it.

Keep moving and getting things done no matter how anxious you are. You can’t let those feelings control your life. It’s important to work through every storm of life, and eventually it will pass.

Final Thoughts on Quotes About Motivating Yourself to Overcome Your Anxiety

Feeling anxious is a natural part of life and most people experience it. It’s important to learn how to work through it and ignore the part of you that wants to give up.

Keep moving and working toward your goals. These quotes about motivating yourself when you feel anxiety should help you keep going.

15 Quotes About Best Friends to Remember Always

May 27, 2020 by Power of Positivity

There are many quotes about best friends that describe a true friend-for-life or explain real friendships. These quotes can make you smile thinking of your best friend. They can also offer advice on friendships.

These are also good quotes to share with your best friend. When you find one that relates to your relationship, don’t keep it to yourself. If you loved it, chances are they will, too.

Whether friendship is new or old, there are quotes about best friends to apply to all. Friendships are special and should be treated that way, as many of these quotes explain.

15 Quotes About Best Friends

1. “Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Your true friends will always enrich your life. But most of all, their constant presence in times of trouble make them part of your soul. Those who stay by your side through thick and think will be the ones who make the longest-lasting impression through this lifetime and the next.

2. “Throughout life, you will meet one person who is like no other. You could talk to this person for hours and never get bored, you could tell this person things and they will never judge you. This person is your soulmate, your best friend. Don’t ever let them go.” – Unknown

When you find your soulmate, it may not be your significant other. Your soulmate could be your best friend. Not everyone is lucky enough to find a best friend like that, so if you do, keep them around.

You’ll know your best friend is your soulmate when you never get tired of talking to them. Plus, you can tell them anything and not have to worry about judgment.

Here are ten ways to stay connected with your friends during social distancing.

3. “That’s when I realized what a true friend was. Someone who would always love you – the imperfect you, the confused you, the wrong you – because that is what people are supposed to do.” – R. J. L.

A friend doesn’t judge you and doesn’t give up on you when you aren’t perfect. They love you through all of the hard times. When you have someone like this in your life, you never have to worry about the friendship ending.

4. “One measure of friendship consists not in the number of things friends can discuss, but in the number of things they need no longer mention.” – Clifton Fadiman

When you are such good friends with someone, they’ll know all of the stories you normally tell. They know the interesting facts and quirks about you already. Plus, they know some of the intimate details most people don’t know.

When this is the case, you may not have as many things to talk about. Or, on the other hand, maybe it’ll give you more to talk about. Either way, if you’re at this point in a friendship, you can likely consider the person a true best friend.

5. “Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” – Oprah Winfrey

The people who are true to you are the ones who are around when there isn’t luxury or excitement. When you’re in a tough position, a real friend will be there with you despite the circumstances.

Remember, as Oprah explains, many people will be there for the great times. You can’t call these people your best friends, as a best friend is there for the rest, too.

6. “I think if I’ve learned anything about friendship, it’s to hang in, stay connected, fight for them, and let them fight for you. Don’t walk away, don’t be distracted, don’t be too busy or tired, don’t take them for granted. Friends are part of the glue that holds life and faith together. Powerful stuff.” – Jon Katz

Like all relationships, friendships aren’t always easy. People get angry, annoyed, disconnected, and many other emotions. Even though this may make things tough, you should still make the relationship a priority.

When things get hard, work hard to make them work. Don’t give up on having an amazing friend because things got tough. Fight for the friendship and make sure to always be there for each other.

7. “The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing… not healing, not curing… that is a friend who cares.” – Henri Nouwen

You will encounter people in life who aren’t comfortable with hard moments. The way these people will want to help is by doing something. Sometimes, though, there is nothing that they can do, so they leave.

A best friend will still be there, however, even when there is nothing they can do. They’ll be there to support you, comfort you, and just sit silently with you. As Nouwen stated, the friend who cares is the one who sits with you even when they can’t do anything.

8. “There are three things that grow more precious with age; old wood to burn, old books to read, and old friends to enjoy.” – Henry Ford

The longer your friendship continues, the more precious it becomes. When people can grow together in that way, there is a deeper level of understanding and love.

All friendships are precious, but the ones that have survived all the unexpected changes in life are even more so. If you want a friendship to reach that point, take care of it so that it doesn’t get ruined.

9. “A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.” – Walter Winchell

When life gets tough, people tend to walk away to escape the hardships. You may notice that close friends become distant or completely absent. Pay attention to who disappears and who stays by your side when things aren’t perfect.

The friends who stick around through those times are the best ones to have. They are the people who will help you or just be there for you when you need someone.

10. “Best friends don’t necessarily have to talk every day. They don’t even need to talk for weeks. But when they do, it’s like they never stopped talking.” – Unknown

While it is important to nurture a friendship and be there for the other person, sometimes like gets busy. Real best friends know where they stand with one another. No matter how much time passes since they’ve seen each other or spoken, they are still best friends.

Even if they haven’t talked for a while, they’ll pick up where they left off. When you’re in this type of friendship, you’ll find comfort knowing someone who loves you is just a call away.

Read ten fun ways to make your Zoom calls to friends and family more engaging.

11. “Every friendship goes through ups and downs. Dysfunctional patterns set in; external situations cause internal friction; you grow apart and then bounce back together.” – Mariella Frostrup

No relationship is perfect, not even a friendship. Someone will inevitably offend or upset the other friend, and conflict will set in. When this happens, you have to let go of the negative feelings so that the friendship can rebound.

12. “When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand.” – Henri Nouwen

Good friends will sit with you in silence when the time is right. They don’t always feel the need to be doing something or talking. The best friendships are the ones where silence is comfortable and just being near each other is comforting.

13. “Growing apart doesn’t change the fact that for a long time we grew side by side; our roots will always be tangled. I’m glad for that.” – Ally Condie

When you were friends with someone for a long time, they impact your life is every possible way. Even if you part ways, that friend will always be a part of you. When two people grow together, they’re always together in that way, as Condie explains in her quote.

14. “Friendship — my definition — is built on two things. Respect and trust. Both elements have to be there. And it has to be mutual. You can have respect for someone, but if you don’t have trust, the friendship will crumble.” – Stieg Larsson

Oftentimes, respect, and trust have to be earned. For a real friendship, both of those things must be present. If you can’t trust someone or respect them, then there is no real friendship happening.

If you have anyone in your life that you think that way of, it is time to rethink the friendship. Only focus on the relationships that you have faith in.

15. “Friendship is a strong and habitual inclination in two persons to promote the good and happiness of one another.” – Eustace Budgell

In a friendship, both people should always want to help the other person become better. Whether this is through working hard, correcting character flaws, or even just being happy, friends want that for one another.

Final Thoughts on Quotes About Best Friends to Remember Always

These quotes about best friends are ones that you should remember forever. Whether you need friendship advice or a way to explain the friendship, these are good ones to refer to.

Friendships are special, but they aren’t always easy. Even the best ones go through rough patches, as some of the authors of quotes about best friends pointed out.

Remember these quotes and the way your friend positively impacts your life. If you do that, you’ll be able to continue your friendship forever.

15 Quotes About Days You’d Rather Stay in Bed

May 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

We can all relate to quotes about days you’d rather stay in bed. Everyone experiences these types of days once in a while. Even though these days are hard, it’s essential to get moving and try your best.

These quotes about days can help you get through the hardest times. They can give you the motivation you need to get out of bed. Plus, they’ll remind you that you can get through anything.

No matter what is causing you to want to stay in bed, you’ll be able to relate to these quotes. Let them help you and inspire you, now that you know you aren’t alone in this feeling.

15 Quotes About Days You’d Rather Stay in Bed

1. “Starting today, I need to forget what’s gone. Appreciate what still remains and look forward to what’s coming next.” – Unknown

You can change what has already happened, so there is no need to dwell on it. Try to forget it and put it behind you. Fill your thoughts with the right things to come instead of what has already left your life.

It may not always be easy to redirect your thoughts in this way, but it’ll get easier each time. By getting moving and consciously changing your thought process, you’ll feel better in no time.

2. “Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So, for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.” – Unknown

You may not realize it now, but everything that happens is setting you up to live the life you’re meant for. When things change or don’t go as planned, it only means that something better is coming.

Instead of wallowing, try to accept the situation. Look for the good, and try to laugh and smile through it all.

3. “Sometimes you climb out of bed in the morning, and you think, I’m not going to make it, but you laugh inside — remembering all the times you’ve felt that way.” – Charles Bukowski

Everyone has days where they don’t want to get out of bed. When things didn’t go as planned the day or week before, it can be difficult to face what is coming next. You can’t hide forever, though, and the sooner you start moving forward, the sooner you’ll feel like yourself again.

Each time you got out of bed when you didn’t want to, you’re taking a positive step toward your future. Every day will get more comfortable, too, as you’ll begin to realize that you will make it.

4. “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” – Michael Jordan

Even the most successful people have bad days or make mistakes. They lose sometimes, and things don’t always go as planned. They keep trying, though and correct any errors to be successful.

5. “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tiptoe if you must, but take the step.” – Unknown

Getting out of bed is the first step needed to get your life going in the right direction. If you want to succeed or move forward, you have to get started. This small step is sometimes the hardest to do, but it’s well worth it to see what is coming next.

6. “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” – Thomas Edison

If you choose to give up, you will never know how close you were. To be successful, you can’t give up. You never know when it’s your time, and you shouldn’t allow yourself to fail by giving up.

7. “You may not be able to control every situation and its outcome, but you can control your attitude and how you deal with it.” – Unknown

Life is uncontrollable and unpredictable. While you may know what you want to happen, it still might not happen the way you wanted. You have to learn to accept that and work to see the positive in these situations.

When you feel yourself wanting to give up and stay in bed, change your thought process and attitude. Your attitude can be the determining factor for giving yourself a pick-me-up.

8. “You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go and see what happens.” – Mandy Hale

Try to enjoy your life by just letting it happen. Stop trying to control and plan everything because it can only lead to disappointment.

Instead, trust that you will be fine, and your life will work out. When you relax and enjoy life, you’ll be amazed by how great it can be.

9. “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” – Mary Anne Radmacher

You don’t have to do huge things to be a courageous person. All that it takes is to choose to try again after feeling discouraged or like a failure. By not giving up, you are proving to yourself that you are truly courageous.

10. “It is through falling down that we learn how to stand up again. It is through adversity that we gather our strengths to live the life we want… and pursue our dreams.” – Unknown

The only way to recognize your strengths and to go after your goals is to keep trying again. You have to push on when times are hard and keep working hard. Don’t give up, or you’ll never get there, but if you keep going, you’ll only get closer.

11. “Decide what you want. Believe you can have it. Believe that you deserve it, and believe it’s possible for you.” – Jack Canfield

Once you have committed yourself to what you want, keep trying and, as Canfield said, believe in yourself. Things may not go the way you planned the first time, but that doesn’t mean that it won’t happen for you at all. Figure out what went wrong and try it a different way the next time.

If you keep trying again despite setbacks or failures, you’ll be successful. Don’t give up, or you’ll never know what could happen next.

12. “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” -Martin Luther King, Jr.

Life is easy when everything is comfortable and convenient. When things get hard, however, you have to rise above and work hard to get through it. This will determine the kind of person you are, and you’ll be happier with life if you keep going.

13. “Sometimes the reason good things are not happening to you is because you are the good thing that needs to happen to other people.” – Unknown

When life unexpectedly changes course, you may not understand the reason for it. Your plans may have been disrupted, or you may have been disappointed. When this happens, think about it as an opportunity for something else.

This change will take your life in a new direction, and you’ll engage with people you wouldn’t have otherwise. So, try to think of your misfortunes as opportunities for you to be the good in someone else’s life.

14. “There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – A.A. Milne

We tend to be harder on ourselves than we should be. So, when you are hard on yourself, remember that your negative thoughts aren’t accurate.

As Milne explained, remind yourself that you are brave, healthy, and smart. You can get through anything, and you shouldn’t doubt yourself.

15. “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” – Lou Holtz

Many people can do things, but not many get things done. This is because you need motivation and a positive attitude to be successful.

Try to remember that the next time you’d rather get out of bed than face the day. The only way to get things done and be successful is by trying again.

Final Thoughts on Quotes About Days You’d Rather Stay in Bed

These quotes about days you’d rather stay in bed are for everyone because everyone experiences that feeling at some point. When you are dreading the day ahead, just remember that you’ll get through anything. Try to remain positive and focus on the good that will be coming your way.

Bad things don’t last forever, and you’ll get many more chances in life. Remind yourself of how great you are and remember that each day is a new chance to be happy. Let these quotes about days you’d rather stay in bed help you get through.

15 Signs That Might Reveal You Have A Fatty Liver

May 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Scientists estimate that between 80-100 million Americans suffer from fatty liver disease. This condition occurs when your body has too much fat and cannot metabolize it properly. The fat cells are stored in the liver, which causes it to swell and build up high levels of triglycerides.

Fatty liver is often not severe enough to cause full liver failure, but this organ has the power to regenerate itself. If you eat right and take preventative measures, then you can reverse the damage. However, how do you know if your liver is in trouble?

Signs of Liver Damage

Your body will give you signs that there is an issue. Even though you cannot see it, your liver is speaking to you. Here are 15 signs that your liver is in trouble.

1. Your Sleep Patterns are Chaotic

Did you know that one of the main culprits of sleep deprivation is cirrhosis? When your liver isn’t functioning correctly, then it can be hard to get a good night of rest. A study conducted by the Egyptian Journal of Chest Diseases and Tuberculosis proved this theory.

In 2012, Menoufiya University Hospital studied 30 patients with cirrhosis. Their findings were conclusive that liver problems and sleep deprivation run hand-in-hand.

2. Your Skin Itches

One of the first signs that your liver is not functioning correctly is that your skin will itch. The clinical name for this condition is primary biliary cholangitis. The impairment caused in this vital organ has damaged the bile ducts, which creates a build-up of bile.

3. Yellowing Eyes

It can be scary to look in the mirror and see the whites of your eyes have a yellow cast to them. However, this is called jaundice, and it’s all caused by the build-up of bilirubin in the body. When the body has too much bilirubin, the liver will begin excreting it. Yellowing eyes can stem from cirrhosis, fatty liver, or hepatitis B.

4. You Have Memory Problems

Have you noticed that you forget things that you usually would remember? When your liver is failing, the build-up of toxins in the blood can affect your brain. The clinical term for this is hepatic encephalopathy, and it’s a severe problem that needs immediate medical attention.

5. You’re Constantly Fatigued

Chronic fatigue can be a symptom of many diseases. However, an unhealthy liver may be the culprit. In 2006, a study was conducted by the Christian Medical College in India. They found that oxidative stress occurs when the fatty liver or another disease causes impaired liver function. If you have fatigue with no identifiable reason, then it could be your liver causing the problem.

6. Your Weight is Going Up or Down

If your weight takes a drastic turn up or down without effort, then it can be a sign of a fatty liver. Cirrhosis of the liver is caused by damage. Over time, the healthy liver tissues are replaced by scarring.

The scars don’t allow the organ to work correctly, which can cause a difference in your metabolism. A weight change of more than 10-15 pounds in either direction needs to be evaluated.

7. Men Develop Breasts

If you have fatty liver disease, then men can develop enhanced breast tissue. It’s mostly observed with the nonalcoholic varieties. It seems weird that the liver can cause breasts, but there is a medical reason behind this phenomenon.

Gynecomastia, which is an imbalance of hormones in the body, is caused by liver damage. It’s disrupting the making of estrogen and testosterone. When a diseased liver is present, then it can cause all sorts of problems in the body.

8. You Have Edema in Ankles and Legs

Obesity and alcohol are two culprits that contribute to a diseased liver. Consequently, you wouldn’t think that problems with your liver would result in excess fluid in your feet and ankles.

You must realize that many issues within your body can cause edema, including heart problems. However, it’s just one of the signs that your liver is not working as it should.

9. Your Body Bruises Easily

It’s not uncommon to bruise easily as you age. Your skin becomes thinner, and this can cause marks to appear on your body for seemingly no reason. When you have problems with your liver, unexplained bruising can be a sign that this organ is not functioning correctly. The worse off the condition of this vital organ, the worse the bruising can become.

Know the early warning signs of a fatty liver.

10. The Palms of Your Hands are Bright Red

Everyone has a different pigmentation to their skin and specifically the palms of their hands. However, have you noticed that your palms have been redder than usual, and there is no apparent reason? Fatty liver may be the culprit.

Even if you don’t drink regularly or have never touched a drop, your liver can develop cirrhosis type damage from scar tissue build up. The excessive bile and toxins in your body can cause your palms to have an enhanced hue.

11. Your Urine Is Dark

There are only a few things that cause dark urine, and one of them is a fatty liver. The same high levels of bilirubin that is causing your skin and eyes to turn yellow are also causing problems for your urine. The kidneys are also affected by your damaged liver, and it can’t filter all this bilirubin from your pee.

12. You’re Plagued with Dry Eyes or a Dry Mouth

Having dry eyes or a dry mouth is quite a common problem. Many medications on the market have this as a side effect. While it seems like a benign issue, it can be an indication that something more sinister is lurking inside.

When you have a damaged liver, the signs are easy to catch promptly. Dry eyes and mouth can be caused by primary biliary cholangitis, which means the liver is not functioning as it should. The good news is that this appears early on the liver disease spectrum, and it can be one of the main symptoms that your doctor uses to help point them in the right direction for your care.

13. Your Concentration is Suffering

Concentration issues aren’t always the hallmark of liver problems as everyone experiences issues with their attention span at one time or another. However, if your concentration problems have become commonplace, then it warrants an evaluation.

You need to make sure that you don’t have another underlying condition, such as ADHD or heart disease. The problems with your attention can be caused by liver failure, and it’s effects on the brain. The build-up of bilirubin can wreak havoc on the body, but you can stop the liver disease in its tracks.

14. You Have No Appetite

Are you not hungry these days? Has your appetite changed dramatically? If you could chow down like a pro but now find that you’re having a challenging time cleaning your plate, then it could be a sign your liver is in trouble.

When your appetite takes a sudden shift, there are a few things that could cause the problem, such as depression. However, your doctor will be able to identify liver problems by doing a CBC and hepatic panel blood test.

15. Your Belly is Swelled Like a Pregnant Stomach

Your stomach will bloat if you overeat or have foods laden in salt. Consequently, fluid build-up in the abdomen is also a sign of liver failure. Ascites is where the toxins in the body cause fluid retention.

When the body is being affected by the liver, not working and filtering the toxins, then it will cause all sorts of signs. Ascites is difficult because the swelling can go up and down quickly. A man may have his belly swell to the point where he looks nine months pregnant. A woman, consequently, may think she’s pregnant too.

Final Thoughts on Reversing Fatty Liver

If your doctor has told you that you have a fatty liver from obesity or another underlying health problem, the good news is that you have the power to change things. The liver can rejuvenate itself. Did you know that if you cut half of the liver away, it will regrow?

It’s the only organ in the body that can repair and restore the damage. However, many things are required to reverse the harm. First, you need to flush the body with plenty of lemon water. Second, you need to eat a diet that is low in sodium and carbohydrates, which will quickly shed any excess pounds.

Lastly, taking an herbal supplement like milk thistle has been shown to do amazing things for your liver. You can monitor your progress by having your doctor conduct regular blood tests. Any liver damage will show up in the blood as well as through scans such as a CT or MRI.

Getting a diagnosis that you have liver problems is devastating, but through the power of nature and your determination to change things, you can reverse the damage through detox.

Financial Planners Share 21 Money Saving Tips Never to Ignore

May 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Financial planners have different opinions about what you should do with your money, but there are essential money saving tips they all agree on. So, what do financial planners say are the best money saving tips you should never ignore?

21 Money Saving Tips Never to Ignore

1.Have some savings

One tip all financial planners agree on is that you should have a savings plan. They advise that you save a certain amount every month, at least five or ten percent of your salary. It’s best to have the money automatically deposited into your savings account from your paycheck. Experts recommend you save at least one month’s funds to cover an emergency.

2. Don’t spend everything you make

This advice seems simple enough, but if you are living paycheck to paycheck, it is challenging to do. If you have a small salary with debt, you must consider this as you make financial decisions. This time may not be right to purchase a car or eat out every evening. Making wise choices on big or small purchases helps you live within your means.

3. Ask for a raise

If you need an increase to make ends meet at home, ask for it. You need to know what your job is worth in the marketplace. Think about your education, training, job experience, and what you’ve done for your company-all these things contribute to your overall job worth.

Get paid what you’re worth, being underpaid is money you need for bills, savings, and investments. You’ll never be able to get ahead if you are underpaid. If your current job can’t pay you what you’re worth, it may be time to find another job.

4. Pay down credit cards

If you have several credit cards, pay down the credit cards with the highest amount of interest first. Pay off the smallest amount required on your other credits cards to avoid a penalty. After paying off the high-interest credit card, close that one out using only the low-interest cards.

5. Have a budget

Another money savings tip recommended by all financial planners, especially my friends at Bitcoin Pro, is to have a budget. It gives you a good understanding of where you’re spending your money. Figure out what your total income is after taxes. Choose what kind of budget plan you want to use to keep track of your expenses. You can use banking apps that automatically break down your spending or a spreadsheet to keep track of costs. Pick the plan that works best for you. Then decide what your costs are. The National Institutes of Health offers a list of money-saving tips for food budgeting.

Besides food, your budget includes

Other groceries
Rent
Household expenses
Insurance
Car
Child care
Entertainment
Prescriptions
Pet care
Parking
Clothing
Work wardrobe
Gifts
Banking fees
Loan payments/credit card payments
Travel
Gym memberships
Subscriptions

6. Prepare for retirement

Saving for retirement doesn’t seem important when you are just getting started, but it’s one money savings tips all financial planners suggest. They say you should learn how to buy dogecoin UK, as well as contribute something to your retirement savings, even if it’s a slight amount. Joslin Rhodes has the best financial advisors that are experts in retirement planning so check them out. Your employer may offer you a 401(K) retirement plan, and it’s a good idea to add to it. Some plans match what you add with interest. Saving for retirement is essential, and if you begin early, you’ll be nicely situated when you’re older.

Remember, too. Your overall expenses will go down once you hit retirement age. By the time you reach 65 or 70, your house mortgage will be paid off. Plus, your children will be out of the house, so you’ll be spending less on supporting their needs.

7. Pay down other debts

Most financial planners suggest you pay down your student loans and home loans slowly. Many mortgages have a penalty if you pay off the loan early. Also, this kind of debt isn’t as high in interest as other kinds of debt. And the interest on student loans and mortgages are tax-deductible. Use for money for other things, like investments or savings.

8. Keep your savings and check account separate

Your checking account has available money you need for your regular monthly expenses and bills. It’s the place where your paycheck will be automatically sent, minus monies you’re putting into your savings account. A checking account gives you access to your money right when you need it. A savings account should be left alone. Depending upon your bank, they will offer an interest rate on your savings.

9. Get rid of your subscriptions

Dump your subscriptions. They eat away at your income. It’s easy to forget if you have them. You often get one or two months free, and then the fees kick in. You may forget you have it.

10. Buy life insurance

If you’re young, you may not think you need life insurance. But if you have dependents or people who depend upon your financial contributions, then you need life insurance.

These people will become financially responsible after you die, so it’s a necessary part of your fiscal money-saving plan. This life insurance will be used to pay off debts after you die. Even if you’re young, buy life insurance since it’s cheaper when you’re young and healthy.

11. Review your budget every year

Every year, review your income, budget, savings, and debt. Life changes, you get a new job, or you have a baby, you realize these changes mean you need to adjust your budget or taxes since you now have a little tax exemption. Other things that affect your financial assessment include;

Rent changes
Health insurance premiums rise – As health insurance premiums rise, the Florida health insurance marketplace remains a vital resource for finding affordable coverage options and managing costs. By offering comprehensive support and a range of plans, it helps residents navigate the complexities of their insurance needs and find financial relief.
The cost of living goes up-food, clothing, etc.
Inheritance
Auto-insurance goes up
Property taxes rise
Water or electric costs rise

Doing an annual review is like a health checkup. You keep a pulse on how you’re doing financially and can adjust things if needed at this point rather than in a moment of panicked realization of some unexpected costs.

12. Write down all your expenses

This concept is simple enough, but many people don’t do it. Keeping a record of how you spend your money may be revealing. You may be shocked to find you’re spending lots of money on subscriptions or memberships you don’t even use.

13. Check your credit score

Your credit score is the number that shows lenders your borrowing practices. Knowing your credit score will help

Keep your loan interest rates lower when you borrow money
Helps you know your overall financial health
Make sure your score hasn’t been compromised
Determines if you can spend money on a house or car
You may not be able to rent an apartment if you have a bad credit score

Having a good credit score is like taking care of your body. Keep it healthy, and you’ll be able to do more things with fewer problems.

14. Use bank apps

Downloading your bank apps on our phone is excellent for keeping tabs on your spending habits. You’re more apt to check your phone since you carry it around. Plus, you’ll get notifications when your account gets hit, so it’s more secure, too.

15. Start saving for holiday costs in January

How many days till the holidays? The best time to save for the next holiday season is as soon as the season is over. Holiday gifts, parties, and travel all add up. When you save early, you won’t be hit with huge expenditures around the holidays.

My financial planner friends who work at Quantum AI suggest you put aside $50 every month starting in January for your holiday fund. By the time you get to the holidays, you’ll be ready to pay for everything without going into debt.

16. Invest if possible

Most financial planners suggest you invest, even if it’s just a little bit of money. You could invest in

the stock market
real estate
Your employer’s retirement plan
401(K)
mutual funds

Financial planners also suggest to make an estate plan after retiring. You can pop over to these guys to learn more how estate planning and trust services can help you and your family when the time comes.

17. Learn to say no

It’s easy to spend money because of others. If your extended family wants you to join in on a beach house rental for a week, it’s tough to tell them you can’t afford it. It’s hard to admit to your co-workers you can’t go out for drinks with them on Fridays. It takes strength to just say no, but it’s the best choice when you’re trying to get yourself financially stable.

18. Cut out things you don’t need

It’s easy to spend on unnecessary things. Whether it’s purchasing a large coffee every morning at a coffee shop or buying snacks at the snack machine every day, these things add up. Go over your daily, weekly, and monthly expenses. Stop spending money on these little habits. It’s a simple way to save money.

19. Save extra money

If you get a big tax refund, stow it away in your savings account as soon as possible. Things like a bonus at work, an inheritance are perfect for your savings. They weren’t part of your budget, so it’s money you didn’t expect to save.

20. Wait a day before buy

Financial planners would agree that giving yourself a good twenty-four hours before you make a purchase. This waiting period helps offset impulsive purchases. If you’re shopping online, see if you can put your items on a wish list, then go back a few days and see if you want to buy them.

21. Make a cash-only rule

Some financial planners suggest this money saving tip of spending only cash for a brief period. They recommend this so you can get control of your overspending. It’s an abrupt way to get your spending under control, but it might be worth a try.

Final Thoughts on Implementing These Money Saving Tips

These money saving tips will help you get your finances in order. With careful planning, you can lead a satisfying and secure financial life.

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