Friendships are important, but creating those friendships as an adult isn’t easy. Here are some mistakes to avoid when making friends as an adult.

Maintaining deep, meaningful friendships can be challenging. But with a bit of intentionality and effort, anyone can become a more thoughtful friend. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a working parent, friendship is essential for your health and happiness. If you’re looking for ways to show your friends just how much they mean to you, learn these simple ways to be a more thoughtful friend. Keep in Touch Staying in touch is essential for strengthening your friendships. Regular communication, even if it’s just a quick text to check in, can keep your bond strong. Everyone leads busy lives, but taking a moment to reach out can remind your friend they're on your mind. Whether you get in touch with a phone call, a text, or a comment on social media, these little gestures go a long way in reaffirming your friendship. Be a Good Listener Being a good listener can transform your friendships. Active listening involves more than just hearing words; it requires attention, patience, and a genuine interest in what your friend is saying. When your friend talks, show them you’re engaged by nodding, asking questions, and providing feedback. This approach not only validates their feelings but also strengthens the trust and understanding between you. It also makes them more engaged when it’s your turn to share. Active listening is an effective way to build stronger connections with others. Remember Special Occasions Acknowledging special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries, shows your friends that you care. Celebrating these moments doesn’t necessarily mean extravagant gifts or parties. A heartfelt message, a card, or a small token of appreciation can speak volumes. Additionally, to improve your gift-giving skills, note these dates in your calendar to give yourself ample time to gather the perfect gift. After all, most people feel appreciated when they receive cards or presents on special occasions. Offer Support Support your friends in both good times and bad. Whether they're celebrating a success or dealing with a setback, being present means you’re an integral part of their life. Offer help when needed, lend an ear, or simply spend time with them. Your presence during their tough times reinforces the idea that friendship isn't just about the good moments. Having supportive friends can significantly reduce stress and increase resilience during challenging moments. Put in the Effort Putting in the effort is crucial. In adulthood, schedules can get hectic, and without planning, friends can drift apart. Make it a point to schedule hangouts or catch-up sessions. Whether you go on a casual coffee date, a weekend trip, or schedule a phone call, setting a date ensures it happens. The rule of thumb? If you care, you’ll find the time. Plus, people who maintain social connections are often happier and healthier overall. With so many simple ways to be a more thoughtful friend, you can incorporate some of these actions into your life. While some of these methods might seem minor, they collectively contribute to [...]

First dates are a combination of excitement, anticipation, and nerves. It’s not just about making a good impression; it’s about feeling good yourself. After all, confidence is magnetic—it draws people in, makes conversations flow, and can turn an average date into a memorable one. For singles ready to step into the dating world, choosing the right first date outfit is like crafting an opening line. It needs to be just right—something that represents you yet is appropriate for the occasion. Check out these first date outfits that will boost your confidence. Casual Coffee Meetup A relaxed coffee date is perfect for keeping the focus on the conversation while still making a stylish impression. Choose a well-fitted pair of dark jeans paired with a smart casual blouse or a polo shirt. This ensemble communicates a relaxed confidence. Remember, colors can affect your mood, so consider choosing a shade that makes you feel bright and positive. Accessorize with minimalistic pieces like a watch or delicate earrings to add a touch of personality without overwhelming the casual vibe. Complete the look with clean, comfortable sneakers or loafers for a laid-back yet put-together appearance. Dinner Date If your first date involves dinner at a nice restaurant, it’s the perfect opportunity to wear a more sophisticated outfit. A classic little black dress is always a winner, but you can also opt for a sleek jumpsuit or a skirt and blouse combo. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your wardrobe to find fabrics that drape well and are comfortable to sit in for a few hours. A statement necklace or a bold cuff can be the ideal conversation starter, and a pair of elegant heels can add a dash of allure. Keep your makeup and hair simple and classic to maintain an understated elegance that directs attention to your outfit and, most importantly, your smile. Outdoor Activity An active first date, like a stroll in the park or a round of mini golf, calls for clothing that’s both practical and fashionable. Consider a pair of well-fitting chinos or leggings topped with a relaxed fit shirt or a graphic tee. Layer with a light jacket or a cozy sweater, if necessary, and protect your eyes with a stylish pair of sunglasses. Comfortable and supportive footwear, like fashionable sneakers or ankle boots, is the perfect finishing touch. This outfit allows you to enjoy the activities without worrying about your choice of clothing. Showcase Your Style Selecting the right first date outfit is as much about reflecting your personality as it is about making a statement. No matter what you choose to wear, always remember that comfort and personal expression should be your top priorities. Your clothes are there to enhance the great person you are—not overshadow you. So, go ahead and try one of these first date outfits that will boost your confidence, and the rest will naturally follow.

Mother’s Day is a time-honored celebration marked by millions as a dedicated moment to pause, appreciate, and honor the women who have shaped us. But how does one encapsulate the depth of gratitude we feel for our mothers in one item? In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of showing you care by giving the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Understanding the Psychology of Gifts Social psychologists suggest that giving and receiving gifts can forge and strengthen interpersonal bonds. The person who gives the gift benefits as much as the one who receives it because of the pure emotions and intentions associated with the act. For mothers, especially, the sentiment behind a gift can mean more than the gift itself. It acknowledges the nurturing, guidance, and love they’ve tirelessly provided. Crafting a Personalized Present Personalization is the key to giving a gift that truly resonates. A personalized gift is instant proof of the thought and consideration that goes into recognizing who the recipient truly is. For example, if your mom is an avid reader, a signed copy of her favorite book can hold immeasurable value. The key is to listen and take notice of the little comments she makes about what she loves, jot them down, and translate them into gifts that tell her you’ve been paying attention. Nature’s Bounty Nature, with all its bounties, offers an array of beautiful gifts your mother will appreciate. A bouquet of her favorite flowers, a potted plant, or a locally sourced fruit basket brings nature’s allure and signals growth, beauty, and nurture. Furthermore, you can easily integrate these gifts into Mother’s Day activities or traditions. Planting a healthy garden together or enjoying a homemade meal with the gifted produce can create lasting memories. DIY Gifts Crafted gifts, be it a handwoven scarf, a piece of pottery, or artisan soap, tell a story. They’re the result of skill and love and often represent a local or cultural tradition. These items can be meaningful in their own right as they carry the essence of the person who crafted them. Gifting a crafted item adds a layer of meaning, instilling a sense of belonging and purpose in the exchange. The Power of the Written Word In an era of rapid communication, a handwritten letter is a chance to articulate emotions, share memories, and express gratitude in a way that digital texts can’t emulate. A carefully composed letter, perhaps tucked into a beautifully wrapped gift, is an intimate expression of thoughtfulness. They can revisit this heartfelt document anytime, affirming the love and appreciation it encapsulates. Communicate the Importance of Your Relationship When chosen with care and consideration, Mother’s Day gifts are more than just a transaction. They reflect the relationship and symbolize the emotions and memories that bind you and your mother. Showing you care by giving the perfect gift for Mother’s Day becomes a promise to sustain the ties that make your relationship special.

Marriage is a journey with many unexpected twists and turns, and each milestone along the path marks a significant chapter in the story of your love. For some, there comes a time when renewing your wedding vows feels like the perfect way to celebrate your journey and recommit to each other. A vow renewal is a sacred ceremony of reaffirming the promises you made, and it’s not just about saying “I do” again. It’s about why you’re choosing to do it. Consider these four important reasons to renew your wedding vows. Celebrate Milestones Amid the hustle and bustle of life, we often forget to pause and celebrate the journeys we’ve taken. A vow renewal, whether on your fifth, tenth, or twenty-fifth anniversary, is an opportunity to commemorate your growth and significant accomplishments as a couple. Perhaps you’ve navigated through challenging times, or you’ve achieved personal milestones together that deserve acknowledgment. By renewing your vows, you not only celebrate your love, but you also cherish the individual and collective achievements that have shaped your partnership. Reaffirm Commitment Saying “I do” for the second time isn’t just a statement; it’s a powerful practice of recommitment. Life often tests the bonds of marriage, but through a vow renewal, you affirm that your love has matured and your promises have withstood the tests of time. For many couples, renewing their vows is a way to recommit to their other half, openly acknowledging the depth of their love and the strength of their partnership. It’s a way to say, “I will always choose you,” and in doing so, it creates a profound sense of security within the relationship. Renew Focus on Each Other In the complexity of modern life, relationships can sometimes take a backseat to other commitments. Another important reason to renew your wedding vows is that it provides the opportunity to put each other first and rekindle the romance that brought you together. It’s a time to remember why you fell in love and to rediscover the shared values and dreams that make your partnership so powerful. This rededicated focus on your marriage can have a ripple effect on the rest of your life, bringing you closer and enhancing your daily interactions. Create New Memories Just as your wedding day was a significant moment in your life, renewing your vows allows you to craft new and beautiful memories that will sustain and support you through the coming years. A vow renewal can be a uniquely personal anniversary celebration, perhaps in a place that holds special meaning, surrounded by the love and warmth of friends and family. Each new vow made is a promise for the future, an essential act of creating a life worth celebrating together. Renewing your wedding vows can be a deeply moving, enriching experience that serves to not only celebrate what has been but also what can be. It’s a personal journey for every couple, one that carries special significance and beauty.

In our busy world, it seems more difficult than ever to maintain strong connections with family and friends. Yet, these connections are the lifeline of our social existence. They are a source of laughter, support, and cherished memories. With that, here are five practical tips for staying connected with your family and friends that will help you protect the bonds you share and ensure they remain unbroken. Pick Up the Phone Nothing conveys warmth more than the sound of a familiar voice. In an age of texts and emails, making a conscious effort to pick up the phone can have a profound impact—it’s simple, direct, and deeply personal. A phone call provides the nuance and emotion often lost in written communication. It’s also a great way to share news, offer support, or have a good old catch-up chat. So, reach for the phone and dial up a loved one; it’s the next best thing to being there in person. Schedule a Virtual Family Get-Together Geography can’t stop family gatherings when you have the internet on your side. Set a date, send out invites, and meet up in the virtual world. You can share stories, play games, and have dinner together online. A virtual meeting is a great way to connect with familiar faces and keep your relationships strong. Plus, it’s a perfect opportunity to introduce older family members to the wonders of modern technology. Start a Family Book or Movie Club Bond over the love of a good story by starting a book or movie club. Whether it’s a classic film or the latest bestseller, shared cultural experiences can spark fascinating conversations and debates. Just remember to rotate who picks the book or movie to keep everyone’s interests represented. This shared hobby will keep you connected, broaden your horizons, and create common ground for family and friends of all ages. Plan a Quarterly Family Reunion While digital communication is great, in-person contact has irreplaceable value. If possible, aim to plan a family reunion at least four times a year. These don’t have to be grand events; a simple barbecue, picnic, or weekend brunch will suffice. Although, if you want to make an occasion extra special, you can rent a party tent and turn your gathering into a festive celebration. Since there are many things to know about renting a party tent, make sure you do plenty of research before completing the rental process. Play Interactive Online Games Games have always brought people together, and online gaming is no exception. From classic board games that have found new life online to multiplayer video games, there’s definitely something for everyone. Playing interactive games online is an excellent way for families to engage in friendly competition and for friends to share a few laughs. A shared experience with interactive games can foster camaraderie, even if your family members or friends are thousands of miles away. Keeping in touch with your loved ones requires effort, but it’s worth every [...]

A divorce can be relieving for many people, but it is still a time of significant change and stress. The legal system can be difficult to navigate, and you’ll likely need to alter many of the daily routines you’ve established over the years. Another difficulty is telling your friends and family about your decision. Thankfully, there are ways you can tell people you’re getting a divorce without fear that they’ll judge you or treat you any differently. Decide What You Want To Tell The first step in telling people you’re getting a divorce is deciding what you want to tell and what you want to keep to yourself. Relationships are personal, but that’s never stopped people from asking questions. Yes, many people are doing it to support you, but you must know where you want to draw the line. Some important topics you may need to tell people are: If there are any significant changes in job or location Parenting arrangements If you have a plan for your future Any topics outside this are up to you and what you want to disclose. While informing friends and family is an important part of planning for marital separation, there are some things you may just want to keep to yourself. Find the Right Setting Another part of telling people about your divorce is finding the right setting. Depending on where you live, you may not want to go to a restaurant or café to talk with someone. For example, if you’re in a small town, eavesdroppers could turn your private disclosure into a nasty game of telephone, making your private business the new hot gossip. Thankfully, public spaces like these don’t have to be your only option. You could invite people over to your home, or you could meet at a park or playground. You’ll have much more privacy in these locations and can talk for as long as you want without running into a restaurant’s closing time. Find the People You Can Rely On Before telling people you’re getting divorced, it’s wise to start with some people you can rely on for support. While you may have a lot of friends and family, some are likely better equipped to lend you their shoulder to cry on. Find these people and talk to them first because they’ll likely have advice for letting others know about your divorce. Talking to these people first can help affirm your choices and make you feel more mentally clear. It can be stressful, so finding that clarity early will greatly improve your well-being. It won’t be easy telling people that you’re getting a divorce, but it is a necessary step in moving forward with your life and helping your mental health. After finalizing a divorce, changing all your financials, and telling the people in your life, it’s time to move forward and live your life.

Many people have a few goals when they’re growing up: go to college, start a terrific career, and find a loving relationship where they can potentially even start a family. Unfortunately, these goals don’t just stumble into your lap but require a lot of time and work. Read on to learn some tips for fixing a struggling relationship. Recognize Your Role When you’re struggling in a relationship, it’s incredibly easy to pin everything on your partner and not recognize your role. Two people make a relationship, and ignoring your role in that equation means you aren’t contributing anything in the first place. Take a step back and look at the relationship from your partner’s perspective. Questions To Ask Yourself Are you fulfilling your partner’s needs? Are you both aware of the issues in the relationship? Do you want your partner to forgive you for everything, and are you doing the same for them? When you ask yourself these questions, you can gain great insight into the relationship and see things from a different perspective that you may be neglecting. Don’t Give Up One of the biggest mistakes that someone makes in a struggling relationship is that when the other partner wants to take a break, they go out of control. When your partner wants a little break, that doesn’t mean the relationship is over, and you are free to do anything else. It’s a big mistake in burgeoning relationships but also a mistake you must avoid during a marital separation. Marriages struggle too, and you shouldn’t turn your partner into the enemy or do something that can harm the future of whatever relationship still exists. If it looks like your relationship may be ending, you should: Respect the boundaries of your partner. Be communicative about wants and needs. Try to reconcile your role and their role in the relationship. It can be incredibly difficult because you want the relationship to work how you envision it, but it doesn’t always work out this way. It can feel like you’re giving up on the relationship when you do this, but it’s a healthy way of leaving things open for potential reconciliation. Learn To Listen One of the best things you can do to take care of your relationship is to learn to listen. Listen to your partner’s words, and try to understand the intention behind what they say. Are they trying to make you feel bad and like a villain in the relationship, or do they want you to grow? Listening and understanding are the first steps to creating a relationship that will get through any trials and tribulations. With these tips, you can better work on and fix your struggling relationship and emerge from the other side with a better appreciation for your relationship. A lot of media has made having a healthy relationship look easy, but it’s something where you need to work and put in effort daily. Give your relationship the attention and care [...]

“Hold up your cup here is some positive tea that I want to pour out for you.”    There isn’t a family on earth that hasn’t had to battle with conflict at some point or another. Having a positive family doesn’t mean you don’t have to manage conflict. There are many reasons family conflict occurs. We are all different and have distinctive experiences in how we communicate, what we value and how we live our lives. So, yes, it is normal for a family to have conflict, but the secret is in how you deal with them.   Here are the three family conflict resolution secrets:   Take your heart out of the conflict when communicating Taking your heart out of the conflict simply means keeping your emotions at bay. Sometimes your emotions may lead you to say something that you'll regret. Keep a calm voice; shouting, yelling and stomping will raise that person's stress level and automatically puts them on the defense. I know it's difficult to shut out your emotions. However, do your best to manage them and be more logical about the conflict.   "Watch your thoughts, they become words; watch your words, they become actions; watch your actions, they become habits; watch your habits, they become character; watch your character, for it becomes your destiny." --Frank Outlaw   Listen without being on the defense When listening to another individual, are you really listening with your ears? Or are you twiddling your thumbs waiting for your chance to respond? You must use active listening, which means you listen to understand and not to defend yourself. As a consequence, you can help rebuild relationships, solve problems, and instead of making assumptions, you can improve the accuracy of knowing the root of the problem, resolve conflicts, and ensure understanding. Let that family member or friend complete their thoughts and listen to them without disruption.   “Listen with the will to learn.” ― Unarine Ramaru   Brainstorm solutions together After, you've done both steps above, you should be in a good space to collectively solve the conflict together. Make sure that you are not only giving the suggestion; if so, you will think the conflict is solved but actually it isn’t until the other person suggests and you both agree to the best solution going forward.   Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success. -Edward Everett Hale   #AlrightNow #2022 LiveYourBestLife

Popping the question is nerve-wracking and super exciting at the same time. It’s all about love and commitment, but many think that sealing the deal means mega-watt sparkle. The “bling” is always the focus of Instagram pics, and friends and family can’t wait to see the “rock” radiating from that ring finger. But what if you don’t have tons of dough to get a ring that’s remarkable? The good news is you can buy a beautiful engagement ring without breaking the bank. After all, you’re about to get married, so you can’t start off “forever after” drowning in debt. If you’re watching your wallet and need to be conservative when it comes to choosing a ring, here are some tips to consider before shopping for your special someone. The ring will be gorgeous, you’ll still have money to spare, and your intended recipient will be wowed by your good taste in both jewelry and a mate!   Size Doesn’t Matter             We see celebs flashing their ginormous engagement rings on social media, and while some of them are amazing, others are rather ridiculous. Not only is a giant diamond uncomfortable and unrealistic for most, but it’s difficult to do basic things when the ring gets in the way of everyday tasks. Plus, just because a ring is huge doesn’t mean it’s special necessarily. The gem could be cloudy, and it may go out of style. A better idea is to find something more suitable for your special someone. Splurge on the clarity and cut of the diamond rather than the size. A bright and dazzling diamond – even a small one – is more impressive than a gaudy gem that’s pretentious. With a smaller ring, there’s room to grow. You can add bands for special anniversaries, as stacking is always in style. When you have more money, you can reset the diamond or go up a few carats. Not to mention, smaller rings show class and character. It’s not about the size, but the sentiment. When your proposal is on point, a blinding diamond isn’t even an afterthought.   Think Outside The (Ring) Box             You can do your own thing when it comes to choosing an engagement ring. The typical look is timeless, but your special someone is unique, and their ring should be too. Think about their taste in jewelry and overall appeal. You may not want to take the traditional route, and that means opening doors to finding a ring that’s less expensive, but even more meaningful. While “a diamond is forever,” other glam gems are wonderful alternatives, often far less expensive, but just as breathtaking. Consider an engagement ring featuring your partner’s birthstone or choose one that’s their favorite hue. Emeralds, sapphires, and rubies are rich and vibrant, and their ring will become a focal point on their finger. You may not even want a gem at all. A stylish band [...]

Being in a positive and successful relationship requires compassion, care, and lots of communication. It’s a mix of emotional and physical intimacy that forms and flourishes over time, becoming deeper and more meaningful as the couple grows together. But what happens when the emotional side of things becomes unbalanced, or disappears entirely? If you feel that your partner isn’t holding up their side of the bargain in terms of their emotional availability/stability, it’s time to reassess the relationship and get to the root of the problem. Because without emotional intimacy, the connection is lost.   A Calm Conversation             You’re noticing a change, and it is causing you to panic. What happened to your partner’s emotional side? The shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen to your dreams and doubts have vanished, and you feel like you’re left with a shell of the special someone you once relied on. It’s time to talk. Don’t spring it on them; rather give a heads up that you have been noticing a difference in their mood, behavior, and attitude. Put aside your sadness or frustration and approach the matter with curiosity. Perhaps they are going through something that’s making it hard to be there for you. Find out what’s going on and go from there. Clear your mind of the worst-case scenarios and see what develops. It could be as simple as they’re getting too comfortable with the relationship and they’re forgetting to focus on your needs. A conversation may not be a cure, but it’s a step towards solving the problem. Keep the lines open for further discussion as required. No blame, no bickering.   Ask for What You Need             Your partner isn’t a mind reader. Even if things were once perfect, or close to it, over time, changes come. It’s only natural for a relationship to ebb and flow. If you want your partner to listen more intently, share their perspective more proactively, or just be by your side when you’re in a slump, you need to express your desires clearly. If you expect them to know what to do all the time, you’re only setting yourself up for a letdown. You may need to be specific in terms of instances when you need their emotional side to step up to the plate. If you’re too general, they may not know how to help.   Fizzling Out             Sometimes, when a partner becomes emotionally unavailable, they’re no longer interested in continuing the relationship. This form of distancing is the start of a split. Conversations may become surface-level, they don’t notice your emotions, and they don’t share theirs with you. Rather than cutting ties swiftly, this lack of emotional intimacy can linger until one of you decides that the relationship is no longer healthy. If you’re willing to give it another shot, counseling could help. Seek out a therapist, [...]