There is a belief that suggests bartenders are some of the best free counselors in existence, and since becoming a bartender at my current job, I can say with complete certainty that I support this belief. I’ve been bartending for a couple of months now, and it is somewhat mind-blowing to consider the amount of … More Making the most of everyday life
I would argue that social constructions and influences have manipulated us into believing that being single is a bad thing. Why this is, I’m not sure, but I do know that it truly bothers me. We’re constantly inundated with notions of being in a relationship. We see posts on social media, advertisements for dating websites, … More Being single isn’t a disadvantage
My family and I have become great friends with some neighbors that moved into our area a few years ago. Over time, we have gotten to know their family (they have two adorable boys), and in a way, they’ve sort of become a part of our own family. This neighbor stopped in to see me … More The beauty of judgement-free conversation
Planning a wedding is no simple task. As exciting and wonderful as weddings are, they’re also simultaneously challenging to organize, and if you’ve been involved with wedding planning in any regard you’re arguably aware of the stress that can present itself in trying to keep things under control. Mine and my fiance’s wedding isn’t until … More Planning a wedding? Use Pinterest
I had a conversation with my manager at work not too long ago regarding affection and how people perceive it differently. He is not a tremendous fan of affection, and on this particular day it was his birthday, therefore he was the recipient of a handful of rather touching messages. Although he may sound like … More Affection: yes or no?
Death is a pretty gloomy topic. Understandably, we associate death with loss, absence, pain and anguish, and it certainly isn’t something we yearn for when it comes to ourselves or our loved ones. Unfortunately, though, death in this life is inevitable, and despite its certainty, many of us have tremendous difficulty when it comes to … More How to process and deal with a death
New Year’s Eve is an exciting time for everyone. It signifies new beginnings, a fresh start, and a celebratory approach to a new calendar year. For me, though, this past New Year’s Eve was extra exciting. My boyfriend informed me that we were going to have a relatively low key New Years Eve – he … More Ringing in the New Year (literally)
I would argue that just about every couple on planet earth has found themselves face-to-face with the age-old dilemma of their partner hogging the blankets. Maybe it happens seldom, or perhaps it’s a daily occurrence, but either way, waking up shivering only to discover all of the blankets are cocooned around your partner is a … More Tired of fighting for the blankets with your partner? This bed could be the answer
I’m really not a big fan of Dr. Phil, but if there’s nothing else remotely appealing on television, I’ll tune in to the show from time to time. I was watching an episode the other day, and the young girl it focused on really got me thinking about relationships in today’s day and age. The … More This is why mobile phones are ruining relationships
I should likely start this post by stating that while the title indicates that my advice pertaining to this topic is absolute, it certainly isn’t. I’m no therapist or counsellor, but perhaps my approach to the topic can help someone who is struggling. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s begin, shall … More Coping with bad news: a how-to guide
You’ve arguably heard the phrase “mind your business.” It’s a concept that’s instilled in us from a young age due to its logic, and for the most part, I like to think most of us abide by its teachings. In addition to minding our own business, it’s worth recognizing the effectiveness of minding our own … More Mind your problems
What comes to mind when you contemplate the concept of communication? Arguably, we all interpret the meaning of the term differently, depending on how we ourselves exercise communication on a daily basis. For some of us, communication comes easily, while for others, it’s something we struggle with. Having an understanding of how we personally navigate … More Communication and relationships: a pivotal pair
The thought of working alongside family members is, for some people, terrifying. I’ve spoken with numerous individuals who positively refute the concept of working with family, their reluctance to do so typically being a result of their fear of clashing with their loved ones. If I’m being realistic, working with your family can get a … More The reality of working with family
I strongly feel as though the depiction of long-term relationships in contemporary society is a wee bit inaccurate. Okay, not a wee bit. A lot. It’s a lot a bit inaccurate. And, in addition to being inaccurate, add misleading to the list. It’s important to note that not all current-day portrayals of long-term relationships are … More The reality of long-term relations
I made mention of Morgan Harper Nichols, a wonderfully talented woman, not too long ago in a post. Because she is a poetic genius, I thought I would compose another post with some more of her work. Depending on the reception I get from these posts, this could become a regular occurrence, so let me … More Words of wisdom from Morgan Harper Nichols
Confidence is something a lot of us struggle with. We’re aware that being, looking, and feeling confident are all advantageous characteristics to demonstrate, but for some of us, it doesn’t come easily. And that’s perfectly okay, within reason. Some of us tend to be more shy, whereas some of us like to be the centre … More How to look confident (even when you don’t feel it)
I like to think I’m a relatively optimistic person. I’m usually in a good mood, unless something occurs to alter my mood, and I try my best to generate positivity. A few days ago, I came home from work in a pretty miserable mood. Nothing happened at work to prompt the emotion, but I just … More It’s okay to have bad days
Happiness, for many of us, is a vague term. What constitutes happiness? Is it something that can be defined objectively, or does it exceed categorizations and operates as its own entity based on each person? Personally, I believe happiness to be entirely subjective, meaning it differs for everyone. What makes me happy may not necessarily … More Are you as happy as you could be?
On September 1, my wonderful mother celebrated her 60th birthday. If you’re reading this, mom, I apologize for letting the cat out of the bag. In the days leading up to her birthday, my mom had a bit of a hard time trying to grapple the fact that she would be turning 60. She looks … More It’s time to celebrate ageing
A few nights ago, my boyfriend and I decided to watch The Stanford Prison Experiment via Netflix. I had heard about this film and was vaguely familiar with its context, but I wasn’t entirely sure what exactly it’s about. The Stanford Prison Experiment, released in 2015, is an “American docudrama thriller film directed by Kyle Patrick Alvarez, written by Tim … More This is why you need to watch The Stanford Prison Experiment
I believe the act of comparing ourselves to others is an integral component of being human. It’s in our nature to asses our own needs in a way that compares them to the needs of others, and sometimes, we believe our own needs to take precedence over someone else’s. I saw a Facebook post from … More This is why we need to stop comparing our needs to others
Living at home as a young adult is an interesting situation. I’m 24, I have two post-secondary certifications, and yet I’m still living with my parents. Why, you may ask? I can’t speak for everyone, but considering the current state of real estate here in Canada, I think it’s safe to say I won’t be … More The reality of living with your parents as a young adult
I think it’s fair to assume that most of us have heard the phrase, “it’s the little things in life,” at least once or twice. We’re told to appreciate small joys and things that bring us happiness that aren’t particularly extravagant, and I think acknowledging these small joys is so important in terms of seeking … More Identifying your ‘little things’
We’re all familiar with second chances. When someone in our lives hurts us, we may hear from others to give them a second chance as opposed to writing them off for something they have done. And, for the most part, I agree. Second chances can be a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate to someone a change … More Second chances: when to draw the line
Life is a crazy thing, as we’re arguably all aware. Things may not necessarily pan out how we intended for them to, relationships come and go, and stress is ever prevalent. And, while these things may be inevitable, they’re certainly not things that should take precedence over others, such as family and friendships. Something I … More Appreciating the present
Dealing with conflict in the workplace can be a fickle thing. Depending on the situation, you may or may not be comfortable addressing conflict where you work because of where you stands in terms of employment, and further, where you stand with your employer. Addressing conflict in a professional manner doesn’t have to be daunting, … More How to handle conflict professionally
For many of us young adults, our parents are becoming older. Perhaps they’re nearing their fifties or sixties, or maybe they’re older still. Regardless of their exact age, for many of my friends close to my own age, our parents are ageing, and this natural occurrence can cause us a bit of distress once we … More Here’s how to spend more time with your parents
I think for many of us, the concept of self-care is intimidating. The intimidation isn’t so much a reflection of self-care itself, but rather, a mimicry of our own insecurities involved with taking the time to address our own mental and physical needs. Self-care is not a practice that requires us to be selfish, however. … More Self-care isn’t selfish
I’ve been reflecting on some of my friendships as of late, and doing so has really encouraged me to seriously contemplate the value of these relationships I’ve formed with others. I believe that sometimes we’re unable to see the harsh reality of a deteriorating friendship because we’re trying so desperately to save it. But, sometimes, … More Three signs a friendship isn’t worth your effort anymore
Dating, as fun as it can be, can be somewhat problematic in terms of activity ideas. It’s far easier to simply stay in for the night with some snacks and Netflix as opposed to planning out a fun-filled day, so often times we get somewhat lazy and settle for the simpler option. As great as … More Summer date ideas
