self development Archives

In lifestyle February 27, 2023 By Women of Rubies

7 Causes Of Irregular Menstruation Every Woman Should Know

Irregular menstruation could occur If you’re eating a diet that’s rich in unhealthy carbs or if you’ve gained weight. Your body will produce varying levels of certain hormones, shifting when you ovulate.

It is a well-known fact that ladies experience irregular period or abnormal flow at certain points in time. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that about 30 percent of women experience irregular periods.

Be that as it may, irregular periods are not something to worry about since they are not a sign of danger healthwise. But then, it is important to understand the reasons they happen and what the body is trying to say.

A woman will, on average, get her period for three to seven days once a month (every 30 days or so). After menstruating for several years, women tend to settle into a cycle where some women can even predict down to the hour when their periods will come.

However, a menstrual cycle would be considered irregular if there should be distortions in the normal twenty-eight days cycle pattern such that menstrual bleeding occurs more frequently than every twenty-one days or lasts longer than eight days.

1. Diet

Another common reason for a late or missing period is the food you eat and, more specifically, the weight you’re carrying.

If you’re eating a diet that’s rich in unhealthy carbs or if you’ve gained weight, your body will produce varying levels of certain hormones, shifting when you ovulate. The same goes for women as they lose weight.

2. Infections

Any infection ranging from std’s, STI’s, yeast infection, as well as illnesses, such as thyroid disorders, can cause irregular periods if blood levels of the thyroid hormone go too low or too high.

3. Stress

Stress is the most common cause of irregular periods. Cortisol, the stress hormone, has a direct impact on how much the two sex hormones: estrogen and progesterone are produced by the body.

If you have too much cortisol in your bloodstream, there is the tendency for the time and flow of your monthly cycle to change.

4. Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a medical condition that causes tiny cysts to form on ovaries which interfere with regular ovulation.

Women experiencing (PCOS) have almost always been recorded to deal with such anomaly in their menstrual cycles.

5. Over-exercising

Over-exercising like for instance, burning too much energy in the gym affects menstrual flow, if you burn too much energy during exercise there will be nothing left for the body to use at that time of the month.

6. Birth control pills

It takes months for the body to get used to hormones birth control pills release and this affects menstrual flow. As a matter of fact, birth control pills can actually make your periods lighter, or cause you to miss periods or have less or more frequent periods or even no periods at all.

7. Alcohol

Excessive intake of Alcohol can cause damages to the liver as well as affecting period- normalizing hormones. The liver helps regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle by metabolizing estrogen and progesterone where the liver is overworked or damage this affects the woman’s cycle.

In conclusion, other factors like early onset of menopause, cysts, and pregnancy could possibly disrupt the monthly flow.

However, it is advisable to seek medical help if you suspect that irregular flow could be as a result of other factors.

In Inspiration February 24, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Meet Addie Elabor, Philly-based Nigerian Designer Who Built A Million-Dollar Fashion Business

Nigerian designer Addie Elabor is a woman cut from the self-made cloth. She launched her Philadelphia-based ready-to-wear African fashion brand D’IYANU in 2014 and has grown it into a million-dollar business.

The company, which focuses on creating culturally conscious-pieced with bold prints, features handmade and ethically sourced products from West African and the United States. Addie shares the strategic moves she made to launch her idea, build a team, and continue to grow an e-commerce business, even in troubling climates.

When did you start your brand and how did you get the idea for it? What inspired you to turn it into a business?

Addie: I was inspired to start D’IYANU at the beginning of 2013 when I realized that there was a void in the fashion world for ready-to-wear African inspired pieces that were easily accessible to people like me. There wasn’t a leading brand that allowed you to celebrate your culture in a modernized way. I asked myself “why not me?”. I immediately had this vision of developing a brand that would become the African print version of Zara or H&M. I didn’t have a fashion background, but the vision was so compelling that I had to make it happen.

At the time I was dissatisfied with my career and relished the opportunity to launch my own business with the goal of building a legacy in mind. D’IYANU was launched in January of 2014 with six women’s styles and has grown exponentially ever since.

What was the first investment you made into D’IYANU to get it off the ground? Why?

Addie: D’IYANU was launched with a $15,000 investment which came from my savings and a credit card loan. The bulk of the initial investment went into producing 50 units each of my first 6 pieces produced in Philadelphia which included the pattern and sample making, fabric, and production of the collection.

Tell us how you were able to scale D’IYANU to a million-dollar business? How long did it take you from the time you started to hit the million-dollar mark?

Addie: The beginning of 2014 was a struggle since I was still working full-time and running the business on the side. I decided to quit my full-time job in May of 2014 to focus full-time on D’IYANU. I knew I needed to invest all my time and attention in order to get the brand off the ground. With the goal of gaining more customers, I would set up at various festivals and even managed to get some products into two boutiques in Philadelphia, but I wasn’t really getting much traction.

I knew that the best place to find customers was online. At the end of September of 2014, I took a course on creating Facebook ads. That course was quite an investment, but it transformed my business practically overnight. With the help of Facebook ads and email marketing, we were able to hit $1 million in sales by the middle of 2016 which took 2.5 years from the launch date.

What makes D’IYANU unique from your competitors or other “African clothing” shops online?

Addie: D’IYANU is unique from other African clothing brands because we are the most innovative and offer the widest range of products for Men, Women and Kids. With the goal of being a lifestyle brand, we offer products that can be incorporated into our customers’ everyday life. Our product offerings include everything from active wear to formal, and office attire. Our innovative spirit is one of our core values that pushes us to explore other types of fabrics and materials so that our items are more comfortable and functional for our customers.

For instance, we use our unique African print stretch woven fabric to make dresses, skirts, pants, jumpsuits, and tops for women so that they’re extremely comfortable and accommodate curves and movement. The fabric looks like the traditional Ankara, but it has amazing stretch and softness.

No other African inspired brand is using this type of fabric. We also print African print on french terry to make our Men’s polo shirts, jogger and hoodie sets. Recently, we launched an iconic Jean Jacket with Kente inspired print for our pre-fall collection and we will be launching more denim and print products in the near future. We’re also looking forward to our knitwear pieces that will be featured in our Fall and Winter collections.

Were you the only person working on your business when you started? When did you realize you needed to hire or build a team in order to be successful?

Addie: I was the only person working on my business up until April of 2015 when I hired my first full-time assistant. I had been working out of my studio apartment up until March 2015 when I moved my operations into an official office space. I realized that my business was growing quickly and I needed the assistance sooner rather than later.

What has been your biggest challenge with growing your business?

Addie: My biggest challenge has been finding quality employees who are also a good cultural fit to fill various roles at D’IYANU. Two additional challenges have been learning to better manage people to bring out the best in them and finding senior employees they can lean on who are operating at a higher level and can provide guidance into their work.

If you knew now what you knew then, what is one thing you would have done differently to accelerate the growth of your business?

Addie: I would have hired a marketing team sooner in order to scale faster. I was doing way too much in the beginning and naturally I couldn’t handle all of our marketing needs.

What is your advice for someone who wants to start an e-commerce business?

Addie: My advice would be to make sure that the product you’re selling has a unique selling point and tells a story that will resonate with a sizable audience. Set aside a marketing budget and make sure to leverage social media marketing early. Lastly, start building your email and SMS list pre-launch so that you already have customers on launch day and continue to grow that list post-launch, since email and SMS marketing offers the biggest return on marketing spend.

Source: Bauce Mag

In Inspiration February 20, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Esther Ijewere: Dear Single Parents, Healing Is Your Responsibility

Dear single parents,

I understand the pain of doing it alone with no support system. I know it hurts when you think about the sacrifices, and you feel life is not fair.

Believe me, I also have those moments. When I say I understand, I truly mean it.

However, you must understand that while trauma isn’t your fault, healing is your responsibility.

You can’t heal from pain If you continuously visit old wounds or give life to topics that put you in a “dramatic” position where you entertain the public with your private matters. You will end up looking like the problem you are trying to solve.

One thing I have done to protect my energy and peace since I became a single parent is to stay away from things, people, and places that trigger any old wound I’m trying to heal from

The Power of Healing

Healing is an art.

It takes time, it takes practice, discipline, and self-love.

I also learned that healing is in phases, and the more inner work you do, the more things came to the surface.

Instead of explaining myself to folks who have not walked a mile in my shoes, I focused on my healing journey, prayer, and affirmations.

Also Read: Before You Judge Another Single Mom

Healing affirmations for tra.u.ma is one of the tips I shared in my soon-to-be-released self-help book. If you would like to have a copy, kindly click here to join the waitlist. I also shared some techniques I used over the years to stay grounded and focused, even when I was gaslighted.

It’s not easy really, but once you learn to forgive yourself, you have the power to control your emotions and your impulse.

Read Also: 5 Dating Tips for Single Moms

You will know who or what deserves a response or reaction and avoid drama.

I also realized that what some saw as my inadequacies ( single parent status), others appreciated as my strength. I focused on the latter.

Watch: 5 Ways To Stop Being A People Pleaser

The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is how to silence the mind and be discerning.

Sending love, light, and good vibes to single parents who are trying to heal from pain.

Remember, healing is your responsibility.

signed,

A single mom doing it alone.

Connect with me on social media for more inspiring content

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Subscribe to my mailing list here

In Rubygirls February 18, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Supportifly Celebrate Valentine With Exercise Book Donation

Supportifly celebrate valentine with its “School is not scam” exercise book donation project. The initiative which kicked off last year is aimed at fighting miseducation, and helping to reverse the trend that education isn’t profitable.

For the special valentine exercise book donation, the Supportifly team visited Ijokodo High School and Cheshire High School, and sensitized the students on the importance of staying in school, getting good grades and making their parents proud.

Founded by Philanthropist, Bolarinwa Kashif, who believes in the power of education and committed to using his platform and resources to create change in the education sector in Nigeria.

Bolarinwa Kashif-Mr. Fly — Bolarinwa Kashif, CEO- Fly Multi Company

Asides the school project, Bolarinwa who is also known as Mr. Fly, create jobs, and gives back to the society by supporting vulnerable persons, empowering youths and children of low-income homes.

Speaking on the reason why his team decided to give back, the astute business man had this to say;

I am committed to restoring hope, educational value and create a better Nigeria. I want these children to know that education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.

The philanthropist has been recognized by several organizations across Nigeria for his contribution to the society.

His Fly Fitness gym, which is another arm of his business has become a safe heaven for pregnant women, where they are assisted with free stressless delivery through healthy exercise, the gym boasts of world-class equipment, and it is one of the most visited in the ancient city of Ibadan.

Supportifly Book donation — Supportifly Team member with the students

The Supportifly team will be visiting more schools through out the year, and using it’s social media platforms to financially support the downtrodden, vulnerable and helpless who are in dire need.

The Supportifly team led by Bolarinwa Kashif O and Bolarinwa Haishah O, supported by their amazing team,; Olasunkanmi Olayinka Habeeb, Yusuf Balkis Oluwakemi; Samuel Lance Momodu, Olokede Oluwatobi Samuel, Jimoh Awawu Folake, Aluko Shahudah Folashade and Rufai Ojo Ibrahim.

See more photos from the outreach below;

In Inspiration February 7, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Ogechi Adili Addresses Struggles And Vices Prevalent In The African Society In New Book

Ogechi Adili is a creative writer, content creator, educator and impact strategist who loves using writing as an expression. She is the author of the fast selling book; Lady Justice Has Been Raped, a novel that reflects the vices of unforgiveness and injustice prevalent in a typical African society via the lens of a young Nigerian Beauty Olaedo.

This book has connected Adili with people from different parts of the world, including Nigeria, Canada, India, Namibia, etc. It has also given her audience with dignitaries such as the Chief Justice of Edo State (Rtd), the president of the Association of Microfinance Banks in Nigeria – Dr. Joshua Ukutu.

She is also the author of the book: Fiction Writerz Juice; a guide for writers and all who intend to make their writing juice flow.

She has served as the Chief Editor of the UNIBEN Watchman Campus Magazine, a magazine that contains exciting and life-changing articles and stories. It also captures the undergraduate experiences and aims to model youths to change negative narratives and draw them to their Creator.

Her short story, The World As a Very Small Ball, was selected and featured in the Anthology of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

Ogechi Adili is passionate about making an impact. Hence, as a Tourism Community Development Service President, she undertook projects with her team to help young people and sensitise the girl child on the need to become a pillar of the society.

She has volunteered at several organisations where she received certificates of recognition.

In this interview with Women of Rubies, she shares the inspiration behind her new book; “Lady Justice Has Been Raped” , and the importance of challenging gender stereotype

Who are you?

My name is Ogechi Adili and I am a creative writer, content creator, educator and an impact strategist.

Why did you author this book?

Writing is a means of expression to me, as I get to share my view on matters. Also, it’s a tool through which I travel into minds to correct, teach, and influence thoughts, behaviours and lifestyle. Lady Justice Has Been Raped is more than a novel; it is a weapon of change and impact.

I wrote this book to address the ills and vices prevalent in the African society. Rather than join the multitude to wail, bemoan and complain about the decadence in our society, I decided to capture these moral depravities and corrupt practices in writing, thereby living up to my slogan: ‘Do not just complain about it, do something’.

I wrote this book for legacy.

I wrote this book to be another different girl child who defiantly refuses to allow gender stereotype prevalent in a typical African society truncate her ambitions and dreams.

Where can we get the book?

You can reach me via my social media handles – Ogechi Adili (Facebook), Ogechi Adili (LinkedIn), WhatsApp (08100592218) or Reach out to the publishing firm ‘Worital Publishers’

What process went into writing the book?

The book started first as short story episodes on my Facebook wall, and it started to get noticed and readers kept demanding for more episodes, I just knew it would be more.

Writing this book wasn’t just a walk through the park; there were days I felt I was not good enough but I was determined and committed to finishing what I knew would impact a lot of lives. Look where we are now.

Tell us more about the content of the book? And where it was published

This book is a fictional work of art. It is written in an unusual style, employing the use of present tense and the famous ‘Naija pidgin’ expressions (not to worry; a glossary has been attached). It’s a story of pain, vices, struggles, love and hope. You can’t read this book and remain the same. There is always something to learn.

Embedded in the book are circumstances of several sectors in Nigeria I would love to change. I may not have the physical power to do that, but I have the vocabulary and literary prowess to cause rainfall in summer. After all writers in the past caused revolutions through their works.

Are you a first time author? Otherwise, how did your other books fare?

I have written other books which are only available as Ebooks but this is my first paperback and my debut novel. Cold Rush which is a tour guide on Obudu Mountain Resort and Fiction Writerz B̶l̶o̶c̶k̶ Juice are EBooks and they are doing just fine.

What next now that the book is written?

It is a step towards the big ideas in my head. Expect more. I hope to write more life changing books. I dream to be in rooms I only read in books; I hope to be a woman young minds will look up to and believe in their hearts that they could be more; I hope to own a publishing firm so as to improve reading and writing culture in Africa.

Tell us a story of your upbringing. One that would wow us and that connects with what you do now.

Growing up, I have always loved reading stories and writing my own stories in jotters. Interestingly, I would save up for weeks just to buy story books.

I also had dreams of becoming a lawyer. Back in the days, I would go to a family friend’s cyber cafe to design funny logos for my chamber, but sadly I didn’t get a chance to study Law despite hitting high scores. Further, growing up I learnt females from my community couldn’t own lands and girl children are not regarded highly.

I began to ask questions and through books I met great women doing wonders like Chimamanda Adichie, Oprah Winfrey, Okonjo Iweala etc. My father would always say; “If Adichie and Okonjo Iweala could, you can.’ That was how my dreams began to grow.

I didn’t get to study Law, but when I realized I could still achieve all I envisioned to change and achieve through writing, I embraced it.

Who’s your mentor or favourite author?

My favorite author is Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. However, there are other recent writers I have come to love too.

What one national matter would you want to contribute on? (Please do contribute in let’s get your opinion).

The girl child can be more. Women are not trophies to be won by men and gender should have nothing to do with greatness and success. Their voices should be heard for good and every woman should maximize her potentials.

What trending topic would you like to jump in? (Please do jump in, let’s get your opinion).

I would love to talk about what it takes to have a better Nigeria. For me, I feel it begins with us. If everyone becomes instrumental to change in the little corner where they find themselves, only then is a better Nigeria possible.

Sell yourself

I nurture ideas and birth them into books. I will help sharpen your writing skills and gift you the pen of a ready writer. I thrive on opportunities to make impact through my writing.

Sell your book

Lady Justice Has Been Raped is a novel that captures themes such as injustice, struggles, pain, hope, and love prevalent in a typical African society through the lens of a young African beauty ‘Olaedo’

It is so African that it is written in a unique style.

Olaedo just like every young person out there has a lot of challenges that seem to drown her. However life brings her way agents of love and light. Will she embrace this newness or will she chose to dine with the dark shadows of her life? Find out in Lady Justice Has Been Raped.

How did you get to know Worital, your experience with Worital and what makes Worital different.

I have been following Worital for about a year since after seeing the quality work done on Your Book Will Sell by Emeka Nobis and Brick by Brick by Brenda Unu. I visited their website and the price list almost got me discouraged as a young author but I just knew it had to be Worital.

I didn’t want to be just another published author; I wanted to be the golden egg amidst the normal.

I had some challenges that almost got me discouraged, but the team especially Fola and Book-chef walked me through the process.

What makes Worital different is the quality work they do. Their exterior is top notch – your eyes will get to feed before eating the actual content.

What makes you a woman of Rubies?

To many people, rubies are gem stones representing love, passion, energy and power. They are precious, rare and of great value. It is linked with power, wealth and royalty. In same way, I am a woman with passion, vision, value and purpose.

This is just the beginning for me.

In lifestyle February 7, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Don’t Forget These 3 Tips For Your Next Job Hunt

Looking (and successfully applying) for new jobs is always going to be difficult – it does not matter if you are a recent graduate looking to take the first steps in your career, or an experienced professional seeking a change. The job market becomes increasingly more competitive each year, with numerous qualified people applying for the same job. Therefore, it is important that you take on any and all advice offered to you when searching for a job – whether they offer advice on cover letters or what to wear to an interview

Here are some top tips to help you through the process!

1. Alter your resume

Every job will have a different job specification, where they will list the skills and abilities required to undertake the role. It is important that you read this specification carefully and then alter your CV to carefully match their requirements. For example, if you have worked in a shop, be sure to note down you have cash handling experience if it is on the job spec, as opposed to assuming the employer will be aware of this already. This makes the process of looking over your CV much easier for the employer, who will be able to quickly determine whether or not you are suitable for the role.

You don’t have to massively change your CV each time. Set up a base CV that contains your main skills, work experience, and any academic qualifications and simply alter it a little each time.

2. Search smartly

Though you may feel in desperate need of work, you must search for jobs that you are trained for or have a specific interest in. It is important that you enjoy your work – you want it to be something you look forward to and can really invest yourself in order to get the most out of it. Once you know what industry you want to work within, find the best ways to apply for jobs in that industry. For example, if you are looking for business administration work, you may benefit from applying on LinkedIn or Indeed.

However, if you are looking for work within a more niche field, such as audio visual jobs, then you need to use job application portals that are more industry-specific and focused, such as Lasso. When registered with Lasso, you can browse through hundreds of jobs within the audio visual field, selecting those that are a perfect match for your skills. Even better, you don’t have to wait for invoices and can get paid weekly.

3. Do your research

When applying for a new job at a company, it is important that you learn as much as you can about that company. Check out their website and social media pages, research any news articles written about them, browse through their LinkedIn. Try to gain a deep understanding of not only the services they offer but their attitudes to work and their ethos. This will help you decide whether you want to work for them, but can also be used to help you stand out from the crowd in an interview.

Source: Baucemag.com

In Inspiration February 6, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Zoe Saldana Is The First Actor To Star In Four Films That Made Over $2B At The Box Office

Zoe Saldana is a hit at the box office, making her mark in four of the biggest films. She’s Gamora in Avengers: Endgame and Avengers: Infinity War and Neytiri in Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water. With the most recent Avatar film surpassing $2 billion worldwide, Saldaña is officially the first actress to star in four films that have crossed that mark.

Out of six films that have managed to achieve this feat, Saldaña is grateful to have starred in most of them. “Knowing that at 27 years old I was seen by James Cameron and he thought that I had what it took to become Neytiri, I just ran for the hills I tell you, I just ran with it and I gave 120 percent every single day. I haven’t stopped doing that,” she told Essence.

Zoe Saldana’s Background

Zoe Saldana was born on June 19, 1978 in Passaic, New Jersey, to Asalia Nazario and Aridio Saldaña. Her father was Dominican and her mother is Puerto Rican. She was raised in Queens, New York. When she was 10 years old, she and her family moved to the Dominican Republic, where they would live for the next seven years. While living there, Zoe discovered a keen interest in performance dance and began her training at the prestigious ECOS Espacio de Danza Dance Academy where she learned ballet as well as other dance forms. Not only did her training provide an excellent outlet for the enthusiastic and energetic youngster, it would also prove to be a fortunate precursor for the start of her professional acting career. At age 17, Zoe and her family moved back to the United States where her love for dance followed and an interest in theater performance became stronger.

Career Path

She began performing with the Faces theater troupe which put on plays geared to provide positive messages for teens with themes dealing with issues such as substance abuse and sex. These performances not only gave her valuable experience but also a source of great pride knowing that she was making a difference in the lives of young people like herself.

While performing with the Faces troupe and also the New York Youth Theater, Zoe was recruited for a talent agency and her dance training years before coupled with her acting experience greatly helped her land her first big screen role as Eva Rodriguez, the talented and headstrong ballet dancer in the film Center Stage (2000). Since her professional career began several years ago, Zoe’s talent and determination have allowed her to be involved in blockbuster films and act with major actors, actresses and industry insiders at a pace that very few young professionals have experienced.
Zoe has not only held her own in major motion picture productions but gained the respect and praise from industry insiders such as Jerry Bruckheimer and Steven Spielberg and actors/actresses such as Tom Hanks, Bernie Mac, Keira Knightley, Ashton Kutcher, Kirsten Dunst and Orlando Bloom.

According to many of her co-stars, producers and directors, the sky is no limit for this young star who has incredible range, intense concentration, and a steely determination to be involved with projects that challenge her professionally with wide-ranging subject matters and characters. Just to ask practically anyone who she has worked for or with about her, glowing comments abound and earned friendships and respect are readily revealed. A star has been born, and growing every day.

In lifestyle February 4, 2023 By Women of Rubies

12 Top Relationship Deal Breakers You Shouldn’t Negotiate

Do you have relationship deal breakers?

A deal breaker is a factor to consider when deciding whether to follow through with something or not. It’s that little something that makes you say “I’m done!” even when you really love someone or you’ve been together forever.

It may sound harsh — after all, no relationship is perfect, right? — but having a list of relationship deal breakers is actually a healthy way to protect yourself from toxic situations.

Don’t get caught up in controlling, hurtful, and potentially dangerous relationships.

Here are 12 relationship deal breakers that you should seriously consider when deciding whether your sweetheart is actually worth your time.

1. There Is Abuse in the Relationship

A healthy relationship is about respect, putting your spouse first, and treating them how you want to be treated.

On the other hand, a partner who lays a hand on you or emotionally abuses you is a major relationship deal-breaker.

Many people convince themselves that just because it happens once doesn’t mean it will happen again. Remember, you deserve a healthy relationship, and someone who abuses you Physically or emotionally even once isn’t worth your time.

2. You’re a Secret

If you find out that your spouse hasn’t told their friends or family about you, run for your life! Because being a secret means one of three things.

They are already in a relationship and you are the side piece.
They can’t commit.
They are embarrassed by you.

Your time is valuable and shouldn’t be wasted being with someone who would rather keep you as their dirty little secret.

3. Plans Are Constantly Cancelled

Does your partner always seem to be ditching out on plans with you last minute?

Sure, there are legitimate reasons that your partner may be doing this, such as being called into work unexpectedly, but feeling like the person you’re crazy about is bailing on your company in favor of partying with their friends is definitely shady.

If you find that your long-term partner starts doing this, it may be signs of a deeper problem in the relationship that needs to be discussed.

4. Substance Abuse Problems

Sitting down with a drink is a great way to relax — and let’s be honest, having a buzz on is fun! But if your spouse needs some sort of substance to have a good time, or if their personality drastically changes when they are under the influence, it can really throw you for a loop.

Substance abuse is one of the biggest relationship deal breakers on this list. It can cause your partner to mistreat you, be untrustworthy, waste money, and make poor decisions that will hurt you.

Why would you want to be around someone who is high or drunk 24/7, anyway?

5. Your Partner Isn’t Faithful

When it comes to cheating, put your foot down immediately. Don’t forgive and wait for the next round of heartbreak. If you have both agreed to a monogamous relationship, both parties should be respecting that decision.

Even if you put breaking your trust and your heart aside, your partner’s cheating on you puts you at risk for depression, sexually transmitted infections, and major embarrassment.

If your partner doesn’t love and respect you enough to stay faithful, dump them. They aren’t worth your time.

6. They Fight Dirty

There are times when we’ve all said stupid things in the heat of an argument, but there’s a difference between getting caught up and using a disagreement as an excuse to be a complete jerk.

If during an argument, your partner or spouse:

Brings up past experiences with the intention of hurting your feelings
Calls you rude or degrading names
Gaslights you to make you feel crazy
Attacks you instead of the issue
Uses the silent treatment

Then you should consider walking away.

Healthy relationships are about open communication and fair conflict resolutions — not about seeing who can hurt the other more.

7. You Don’t Feel Good About the Relationship

Do you feel good about being around your partner, or do you get knots when you think about hanging out together?

Do you get anxiety when you think about your relationship?

Does your partner make you question your self-worth?

If so, something inside you is probably screaming: “This relationship isn’t right!” There is definitely something to be said for gut instinct when it comes to deciding whether or not to stay with someone.

If your gut is telling you something is off in your relationship, there probably is.

8. You Want Different Things

Sometimes, even if you really love each other, your relationship game just isn’t meant to work out.

He wants East Coast, you want West.

She wants to save money, you want to spend.

He wants kids, you’re fine riding as a duo.

Even if you get along well, these fundamental differences in your goals and where you see your lives going are going to cause serious resentment problems if you don’t address them soon.

9. They’re Unbelievably Selfish

We’re all selfish from time to time, but some people take it too far.

If you feel like you’re giving your all to your spouse, and all they’re doing is taking, focusing on themselves, and taking advantage of your kindness, it may be time to re-evaluate your relationship.

Don’t spend a second longer with a selfish narcissist. Trust me, it isn’t worth the headache.

10. They’re Always Jealous

Healthy jealousy is totally cool when it inspires couples to treat each other better and not take one another for granted.

However, controlling, hack-your-Facebook-and-demand-your-phone-password jealousy should never be tolerated. This is a sign of insecurity and can quickly develop into dangerous or abusive behavior. It’s better to get out before it reaches that point.

11. You Don’t Share Values

You may think that opposites attract — and that’s true! — but that doesn’t always mean they make the best partners.

If you are passionate about your politics or your faith and your spouse has opposing beliefs that upset or anger you, it could mean that your relationship wasn’t meant to be.

If you’re going to be in a relationship with someone with opposing values, be aware that it will take a great deal of time to work through how you talk about and handle those things. If you simply don’t have the patience or desire to do so, it’s time to walk away.

12. You’re Always Fighting

Do you feel like you and your spouse are always arguing?

Sure, even happy couples argue, but constantly arguing with a partner is one of our relationship deal breakers because it shows that you have poor communication skills.

Communication is everything when it comes to a healthy, happy relationship. Couples need to be able to talk to each other in order to build empathy, resolve problems, and get closer. This means addressing problems as they arise, not letting them sit and turn into huge fights down the line.

The Bottom Line

Life is far too short to spend it with someone who isn’t worth your time. If your spouse is controlling, annoying, or won’t seem to give you the time of day, it’s time to call it quits! This is obviously a difficult decision to make, but your future self will thank you when they’ve found someone who is better for them.

In Interviews&profile February 2, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Sickle Cell Warriors Deserve Love And Empathy- Mary Oyohosuho Phillip

Mary Oyohosuho Phillip Is a sickle cell warrior, a sickle cell advocate, a Confidence Coach and Skin Care Consultant. Mary is the first Sickle Cell Warrior in her family, out of 3 in total 5 kids. Mary suffered severe complications of sickle cell, and was bedridden for 3 years, this resulted in deformity.

She has managed to further her higher institution learning walking with two sticks. Mary’s lived experience as a sickle cell survivor is a tool she continuously used to inspire, motivate and encourage people. She goes to schools, churches to share her survivor story.

In this interview with Esther Ijewere, the founder of Jesus Girls Club, Int’l shares her inspiring story.

Mary Oyohosuho Phillip- Sickle Cell Warrior

Childhood Influence

I can truly say that my childhood prepared me for what I am doing today. While growing up, I watched my parents give their all to serving humanity and affecting the life of people positively. I have admired and wished to affect the lives of people just the way my parents were doing, and that has given me that push in life and has brought me to where I am and what I am doing today.

What Inspired Me To Be A Sickle Cell Advocate

What basically inspired me to be a sickle cell advocate is first, me being a sickle cell warrior, having two other siblings being warriors too in total making three warriors in the family. Secondly, losing my younger brother to sickle cell. Thirdly how sicklecell got me deformed, all the excruciating pain, discomfort, and all that comes with it. Going through all this I became dedicated in creating sickle cell awareness for people to prevent birthing children with the sickle cell disease.

Jesus Girls Club

Going by all the social vices that we hear daily in our society which affect the girl child, I always get heartbroken and think of a way to change the narrative. Social vices like early pregnancy, rape, molestation, sexual abuse etc. when I hear and watch young ladies in other part of the world doing amazing thing in their different field endeavors , this challenges and motivate me to want to groom and teach teenage girls starting from my community , to my country and to the world at large on having good morals, building a healthy self esteem self discovery and purpose driven life.

Another major thing that motivated me to start Jesus girls club was when I heard that in this age and time teenage girls still make use of cloth pieces, that is, rags to care for themselves when on their menstrual flow which is unhygienic to their health. This broke my heart completely.

The Journey So Far

The journey since I started my organization has been full of ups and downs. At the beginning it was going smoothly but along the way many obstacles and challenges came up. At one point I gave up completely, but my passion for this vision brought me back on track.

Challenges

There are so many challenges :first lack funds . Since after my NYSC my inability to get a job was a big challenge in carrying out my vision but the little business I was doing and the passion kept the vision running. Then the second challenge was reaching out to these teenage girls in remote rural communities where roads are accessible, and I don’t sit so well on a bike. So in general, funds and mobility are my major challenges.

Watch: 5 Ways To Stop Being A People Pleaser

How My Work Inspire Sickle Cell Advocates

wow! Am certain that my work has inspired other sickle cell advocate because so many Warriors always reach out to me in my inbox, telling me how I inspire and motivate them to do better in their advocacy.

Other Projects And Activities

There are so many other projects and activities lined up for my organization. First, getting my foundation registered with the corporate affairs position (CAC) ready so I can operate officially. Presently there is a project at hand called: “BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN”. My organization will be providing writing materials such as Notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers etc for children in public schools whose parents can’t afford those materials for them. There are many other projects coming up and this is a call for people to sponsor and partner with me in achieving this.

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

What I enjoy most about my job is seeing smiles on the faces of people we reach out to. My prayers to God when I was growing up, was that God should use me as a channel to bring joy into the life of people so, for God to help me in this little capacity, gives me great joy and I want God to bless me more to do greater Exploits and reaching out to more & more people within Nigeria, Africa & the world at large. That will be my greatest joy.

3 Women Who Inspire Me And Why

Since I began this Journey, there are three (3) powerful women I have seen & they inspire me greatly they are:

1. Esther Ijewere [Founder, WOMEN OF RUBIES]

2. Dr. Adesoye Tosin (Founder Sickle Celebs)

3. My Mother Mrs. Blessing O. Phillip

1. Esther Ijewere is one woman I love so much, she inspires me. Since I came across her on Facebook, I always rush to her page everyday to read what she has posted. I admire her strength,I admire her supporting women and generally I classify her as Beauty & Brains.

2, The Second woman that inspires me so much is Dr. Adesoye Tosin, the founder of Sickle celebs. When I began the journey of advocacy for sickle cell. The first woman I came across with the same issue as mine is Dr Tosin. I thought to myself, if a young lady with sickle cell can go study a course as tedious as medicine and still do well in it then, she is worth emulating and this got me inspired.

3.. The third woman that motivates me is my biological mother Mrs. Blessing O.philip. a woman who is my first teacher, doctor, prayer warrior and caregiver. A woman that never stopped loving and caring for myself and my siblings after the demise of my beloved dad, despite our many health challenges. My super hero, my strong support system, my disciplinarian but correct in love I admire her strength, perseverance, doggedness.

On The Stigmatization Of Sickle Cell Warriors

one thing I will say to people who stigmatize sickle cell warriors is that “STIGMATIZATION IS VERY BAD”. No one choose to be born with sickle cell or any other health challenge. Stop stigmatization, show love, empathy to sickle cell warriors. Do not discriminate, we deserve to love and to be loved in return.

What Government Should Do To Support Sickle Cell Warriors

The government should make the health facilities & health insurance available and accessible to sickle cell patients in our hospitals. Routine drugs and medical checkup should be provided or made cheap for sickle cell warriors / caregivers to afford.

Being A Woman of Rubies

I am an extraordinary lady who lives an exemplary life for the younger generation to emulate. A go-getter, a warrior who never gives up. A fearless woman, courageous, tenacious. A lady who works towards leaving an impactful footprint on the sands of time

What I Would Say To A Young Person On The Verge Of Giving Up

“GIVING UP SHOULD NOT BE AN OPTION”. Embrace life to the fullest. Believe in God, and yourself and Hope for a better tomorrow. Put in your own efforts, because “THERE IS A PRICE FOR EVERY PRIZE”. Thank you

In Career Gems January 27, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Esther Ijewere: 5 Reasons Why You Feel Worthless And What You Can Do About It

Feeling worthless , down or unmotivated? This article is for you.

It hit hard by a message Inbox yesterday when a sister told me she feels useless because nothing is working for her, and she needed words of encouragement. Encouragement is one of the easiest things you could give anyone, If you yourself have enjoyed being encouraged several times.

Feelings of worthlessness can come at any time in your life, but if you are suddenly feeling like you can’t do anything right or that you aren’t worthy of the things you have in your life, you might be wondering what has happened to your self-confidence.

You are not alone. Feelings of unworthiness can be triggered at any time, especially during your development years.

What’s even more possible is that if you are struggling with your self-confidence as an adult, it’s likely that you have had some experience with others telling you that you aren’t worthy and you might have been harboring those old feelings in some way now.

If you can’t shake that feeling that your self-confidence is waning, it might be time to start exploring why that is. Here’s how.

Someone else has been telling you that you are not good enough

It’s hard to understand why anyone would say mean things to another person, especially unprovoked, but many people grow up in households where they have been told repeatedly that they are worthless.The more you dig into your thoughts about what others have said about you or to you, the less power they have over you and the more likely you are to be able to create new thoughts about yourself.
You are comparing yourself to others

You probably spend a lot of time looking at other people, reading about other people, wishing you had another life, made more money, had a different job or house.If you find yourself doing this, you need to stop and start practicing gratitude for what you have in your life.
You’ve experienced great change in your life

Sometimes a change in our identity can alter our sense of self. If you have been separated or divorced (Like me) or lost a job, you might not know how to quantify your value.Many people look to their careers as a way to validate their success in the world and if you have recently lost yours, you might find it difficult to relate to others and the life you once had.When you’re dealing with trauma or heartbreaking change, it can become easy to blame yourself.
You feel like everyone is against you

You might find that you feel bad about yourself, not because of the thoughts you are having about yourself, but because of the thoughts you are having about other people!Sometimes we put words in other people’s mouths and we think they are thinking things about us even when they are not.

If you feel like the whole world is against you, it’s not because they are out to get you, it’s because you think they are. When you create these situations in your mind, you find that they often come true.You’ll start to see evidence of how people are working against you, even when they are not.In order to deal with this, you need to turn your attention inward and ask yourself why you think people are out to get you.
You are Negative:

I was this person for a longtime , till I found my own light.Do you find yourself dwelling on criticisms or mistakes you’ve made? That negative events tend to draw your attention more than positive events? It is called “Negative Bias”. They keep you in a negative box.

What to do when you feel worthless?

Get up and Keep it moving, Be your own motivation
Ask Questions: Ask questions about how you do things, why you do them, and what you get out of them. Use the information you discover to help you move forward. For me, I find that writing in a journal every day allows me to get to know what I’m really thinking and feeling.
Be Present , Be in the now: Lack of self-confidence often comes from living in the future. Being in the now allows you to accept where you are and where you’ve come from instead of putting pressure on yourself to get where you are trying to go later. It is called “Mindfulness” , It is a tool I use to draw myself back to the present and focus on what is most important; Now.

Watch: 3 Psalms for Mercy and Protection

In Conclusion

Feeling worthless is a common human experience for many people. Whether it’s from growing up in a non-supportive environment, a trauma-based event or the tendency to compare ourselves to others, feelings of worthlessness are difficult to deal with no matter who you are.

But learning to practice mindfulness to allow us to question our own thoughts and emotions allows us to take a step back from the mind and understand that we don’t need to think negatively about ourselves.

Taking an objective look at reality will allow you to see that you have a lot of potential and skills, a lot to be grateful for, and you don’t need to believe your own negative thoughts.

Selah!

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