Self-help

Not That Woman
I was always enamored by Mary Kay ladies and the women at church potlucks. They were always pressed and perfumed, powdered and primped- like Lucy & Desi’s neighbors had walked out of the screen. Even then, they were a bit old-fashioned. But that Doris Day, Barbie aesthetic was powerful. It was reinforced by the Girl Scout Den Mother, who smelled like Aqua Net and Pine-Sol. The tidiest, prettiest ladies were the most listened to. They could walk for days in high heels and A-line skirts, then wash dishes in frilly aprons without breaking stride.
By Danielle Katsouros6 months ago in Chapters
The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet!
Imagine waking up in a village where every corner hums with life. Children laugh in the streets, neighbors greet one another in song, the kettle whistles cheerfully, and music spills out of windows like sunlight. This was La Paz—a place as colorful in sound as it was in spirit.
By Fazal Ur Rahman6 months ago in Chapters
Stop Trying to Please Everyone at Work
The Problem with Being ‘Too Nice’ Many people believe that being nice at work will automatically lead to better relationships, smoother teamwork, and more opportunities. While kindness is essential, being overly agreeable can backfire. Psychologists warn that constantly putting others’ needs above your own can make you appear insincere, undermine your authority, and even create burnout.
By Lucy watson6 months ago in Chapters
Mike Savage’s Favourite Spots in New Canaan
New Canaan, Connecticut, is more than just a picturesque town — it’s a vibrant community where history blends seamlessly with modern charm. For Michael Savage, a prominent figure known for his passion for collecting and cultivating culture, New Canaan is home. His favourite spots around town highlight the unique character of this place, from hidden gems to renowned landmarks.
By Mike Savage New Canaan6 months ago in Chapters
Karachi Chronicles Chapter 1
Years ago, returning from Europe, I was stopping over in Dubai airport. Exploring the cavernous terminal, I found myself needlessly gliding along a travelator, when something abruptly commanded my attention. Drifting across my field of vision, like a cloud blocking the sun in an otherwise vacant sky, was a group of guys draped in flowing white robes. Clad in black and sporting a large, messy afro, I was the shade behind the cloud. On the outside, we shared no resemblance.
By S. J. Leahy6 months ago in Chapters
Importance of confidence . Content Warning. AI-Generated.
Confidence is one of the most valuable qualities a person can have. It shapes the way we see ourselves, how others see us, and the opportunities we create in life. While some people seem naturally confident, the truth is that confidence is not something we are born with—it’s something we build, nurture, and protect. What is Confidence? Confidence is the belief in your abilities, skills, and worth. It’s not about thinking you’re perfect or better than others, but about trusting yourself enough to take action, face challenges, and handle setbacks. A confident person accepts both strengths and weaknesses and moves forward without being paralyzed by fear. Confidence also comes in two forms: inner confidence and outer confidence. Inner confidence is the calm assurance that you can handle life’s situations, even if you don’t know everything right now. Outer confidence is what you project—your body language, tone of voice, and actions that show self-assurance to others. Both forms feed into each other, creating a powerful cycle of growth. Why Confidence Matters Confidence can transform your personal and professional life. When you believe in yourself: You take more opportunities. Confident people say yes to challenges because they trust they can figure things out. You inspire others. People are naturally drawn to those who project certainty and positivity. You recover faster from failure. Instead of letting mistakes define them, confident individuals see them as lessons. You communicate better. Confidence allows you to speak clearly, stand your ground, and express your ideas effectively. Without confidence, even the most talented person can remain unnoticed because they don’t step forward or voice their ideas. Common Myths About Confidence Many people hold beliefs that actually hold them back from becoming confident: 1. “Confidence means being loud and outgoing.” In reality, confidence can be quiet and calm. You don’t need to be the center of attention to be self-assured. 2. “Confident people never doubt themselves.” Everyone has doubts. Confidence is about moving forward despite those doubts. 3. “You have to be perfect to be confident.” Perfection is an illusion. True confidence comes from accepting your flaws and still valuing yourself. How to Build Confidence Confidence is like a muscle—the more you work on it, the stronger it becomes. Here are some practical steps: 1. Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses Write down what you are good at and where you need improvement. Confidence grows when you are realistic about yourself and still choose to act. 2. Set and Achieve Small Goals Start with achievable tasks. Each success, no matter how small, reinforces your belief in yourself. 3. Improve Your Skills Lack of confidence often comes from feeling unprepared. The more skilled you are, the more confident you’ll feel. 4. Practice Positive Self-Talk Replace negative thoughts like “I can’t do this” with “I will try and learn from the result.” 5. Work on Your Body Language Stand tall, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Your posture and tone can influence how others see you—and how you see yourself. 6. Surround Yourself with Positive People Spend time with those who encourage and believe in you. Negative people can drain your confidence. Overcoming Confidence Killers Fear of failure, comparison with others, and overthinking are the biggest enemies of confidence. Remember: Failure is a step toward growth. Every successful person has failed multiple times. Your journey is unique. Comparing yourself to others ignores your personal path and progress. Action reduces fear. The longer you wait, the more fear grows. Take small steps immediately. The Lifelong Journey of Confidence Confidence is not a one-time achievement; it’s an ongoing process. Life will present challenges that may shake your self-belief, but each time you rebuild it, you become stronger. Just like a tree becomes more rooted after enduring storms, your confidence deepens with every obstacle you overcome. When you choose to believe in yourself, you open the door to possibilities you never thought were within reach. Confidence is not about having all the answers—it’s about trusting that you can find them when needed. So, take that step, speak up, and pursue your goals. The more you practice, the more your confidence will grow—and with it, your ability to create a life filled with purpose and success.
By Shoaib 6 months ago in Chapters
Steps of Liberation : Paths to Wholesome Freedom - Part 5
She was surviving, not living - until healing showed up in red lipstick, quiet prayers, and belly laughs. This is a story of becoming whole, one small act at a time.
By Yvey Essen6 months ago in Chapters
Steps of Liberation: Path to Wholesome Freedom - Part 4
A raw, faith-filled reflection on how worship, scripture, and intimate trust in God carried me through divorce, grief, and cultural silence. Discover what it means to find divine strength in the fire.
By Yvey Essen6 months ago in Chapters
Steps of Liberation: Paths to Wholesome Freedom - Part 3
There is a weight heavier than grief .. The weight of shame you were never meant to carry. After the dust of my divorce had settled and I’d begun to find my footing, I noticed something lurking beneath my progress. It wasn’t sadness. It wasn’t fear.
By Yvey Essen6 months ago in Chapters
Steps of Liberation: Paths to Wholesome Freedom
The first thing I noticed was the silence. Not the peaceful kind that wraps around you like a soft blanket - but the kind that echoes. The kind that reminds you of absence. The kind that sits across from you at the dinner table and dares you to say something. Anything.
By Yvey Essen6 months ago in Chapters
“The Room with No Name”
She walked into the room like a question begging to be answered. Barefoot, half-robed, skin tasting of lavender and doubt. Her name was Elizabeth — soft lips, storm eyes, and a tension in her step that betrayed everything she tried to hide.
By Randolphe Tanoguem7 months ago in Chapters
Stop Guessing: Use Calculators Smarter
We live in a world where every decision, big or small, can cost you time, money, or your health. Yet many people still rely on rough guesses when it comes to calculating calories, estimating loan payments, figuring out insurance premiums, or tracking personal health metrics. The problem? Guessing is fast but often wrong.
By Martin U7 months ago in Chapters