Home Blog Page 189

Fake Friends Signs – 7 Clear Signals That Reveal There’s A Fake Friend In Your Circle

Fake Friends Signs

Fake Friends Signs – 7 Clear Signals That Reveal There’s A Fake Friend In Your Circle

They shine like gold on the outside…inside – wicked, rotten to the core. Fake friends stab you in the back and then ask why you are bleeding.

These people are only interested in what they can get out of you. They keep you around for their own benefits.

And you want to slap them but don’t know which cheek first. They are in your circle of friends. They’re fake.

Recognizing a fake friend can sometimes be difficult. So, to help you spot this wolf in a sheep’s clothing, in what follows, we’ve presented 7 telltale signs that show there’s a fake friend in your circle. We’ve also explained how to deal with a fake friend and recognize a toxic one. So, without further ado, let’s get to it.

What Are The Most Common Signs Of A Fake Friend?

1. They Use You, Then, Disappear 

A fake friend will call you for a cup of coffee only when they have nobody else to go out with. They want a company? -They’ll message you. They need some money? – Expect them at your door.

They’ll be with you only and only when they have an interest. Then, when you need them-bam…they disappear! No messages. No calls. Silence. Even a detective can’t find them!

Don’t expect help from a fake friend. They’ll never help you. Moreover, they’ll make you feel guilty by making you think you said or did something wrong to them.

2. They See You As A Punching Bag

Who is an ear and a helping hand? – You. Who is the best advisor? – Of course, you are. A fake friend knows they can lean on you. They know you have an ability to empathize.

Therefore, they’ll use you as a crying pillow and punching bag for releasing their worries, complaints, difficulties, and frustrations.

And they will not care. They will not care about how their negative vibes overwhelm your body and soul. They won’t care at all.

3. They Are Never Happy For You

They will adore you…until you get better than them. Then, jealousy starts biting their heart. It goes to the very core, making them unable to be happy for others.

A fake friend neither knows how to empathize nor how to share. They know how to contribute to your downfall, however. Simply because they are so self-centered.

A fake friend thinks they are the best and know everything. They think the whole world revolves around them. There’s no place for you in their world…until they need something from you.

4. They Want You To Think The Way They Think

If you aren’t their reflection in the mirror, a fake friend will teach you how to be their copy. Nevertheless, you’ll never be able to reach their magnificence!

A fake friend will always impose their opinions on you during a conversation. Moreover, they’ll be stubborn to make you accept them as always truthful and right.

If you try to express your own thoughts and feelings, they will get offended as they never accept what’s different from their opinions.

5. They Won’t Forgive You

You may be the best person, the best friend on this planet, but if you try to tell them the truth about their behavior – they will consider it an attack.

Do you want to tell them something for their own good? Go on. A fake person won’t speak to you again! Ever.

A fake friend will always ask for an opinion, but they’ll never accept it. They won’t forgive your mistakes. They won’t forgive even your wish to help them.

6. They Don’t Keep Your Secrets

A fake friend doesn’t know how to keep their mouth shut. They enjoy rumors, scandals, and secrets that entertain.

Even before you open your mouth, you’ll hear many talking trash about you. What’s more ironic, this fake friend will never admit it’s because of them.

Not only will they pretend it’s not their fault, but they’ll also never apologize; Moreover, they’ll continue spreading rumors about other people, including you.

7. They Pretend They Like You

 They wear so many masks! When you are with them, they express their love; When you are not around, they use the opportunity to tell everybody how much they hate you.

A fake friend is a dangerous creature! More dangerous than your enemy is!

Life is too short for fake friends. Kick them out of your life!

You don’t need another drop in the ocean of fake people.

Who Are Toxic Friends?

Friends help make life easier, happier, and more meaningful. They bring a sense of fulfillment into your life and keep you from feeling lonely.

Unfortunately, some friendships might completely have the opposite effect on you and your life. Such friendships emotionally harm you, bring you down, and drain you mentally. Such friendships are toxic.

The tricky thing is that it can sometimes be hard to recognize that you’re dealing with a toxic friend since your love for them can blind you to their toxicity and the negative ways they influence your life. So, to help you identify a toxic friend, in what follows, we’ve presented 10 tips on recognizing friends who make you feel drained and miserable rather than happy.

1. They Make You Feel Uncomfortable

When you are around a real friend, you’re supposed to feel free and comfortable expressing your opinions and feelings. But you don’t feel this way when you’re around a toxic friend.

Perhaps they lose their temper and shout at you over insignificant stuff, such as not returning something they lent you. Then, the next minute, they behave like everything is fine. So, if you have a friend that constantly makes you feel like you have to walk on eggshells when they’re around, take this as a sign they’re not a good friend.

2. They Put You Down

Of course, it’s normal for friends to joke with each other and even make jokes at each other’s expense, particularly if that’s making everyone laugh.

However, when a friend regularly criticizes you, makes snide or sarcastic comments about your physical appearance, achievements, family, or problems, or insults you, this is a sure sign your friendship is toxic.

3. They Make You Feel Unsettled

Spending time with a good, loyal friend is supposed to make you feel happy, content, calm, and relaxed. But if instead of feeling this way, you feel mentally and emotionally drained, upset, or just uneasy when you’re around a certain friend, even if you can’t explain why this is so, they’re likely a toxic friend.

4. They Gossip

You shared an intimate secret with a friend, and the next day, half the town knows the details.

Of course, anyone can make a mistake and unintentionally say things they shouldn’t. However, toxic friends enjoy betraying secrets even when you share personal information with them in confidence.

So, if you have a friend that constantly lets others in on your secrets, breaks your trust, and talks behind your back, you can take this as a sign that they’re toxic.

5. They Don’t Accept You For Who You Really Are

A true friend understands that you have your own insecurities, fears, annoying habits, and flaws just like everybody else, and they accept you just the way you are – with all your weaknesses and imperfections. 

If there’s something you’d like to change about yourself, you can ask for their help or advice on that, and they might encourage you and support you to do that. However, they’ll likely wait for you to ask for their help rather than telling you what you should change about yourself. Toxic friends do the opposite.

6. They Don’t Apologize Sincerely

If a genuine and loyal friend has said or done something that hurt your feelings, they won’t be hesitant to admit that, apologize to you, and try to make it up to you somehow. They’ll be willing to accept responsibility for their actions. This is something a toxic friend would never do.

If you call a toxic friend out on their behavior, they’ll either ignore you or tell you something like, “I’m sorry I told you those things, but I was just joking.” They’d never admit their mistakes or hurt your feelings. And when a person doesn’t apologize to you sincerely, this is a clear sign they don’t care what effect their behavior has on you.

7. They Compare You To Others

Do you have a friend that often points out that you’re different from their other friends and that hanging out with you would be more interesting if you behaved more like X or dressed more like Y?

The thing is that we all have unique traits that make us special and different from the rest, and a real friend will always be aware of that. They won’t make you feel like you’re less than others or expect you to behave like someone you’re not and never will be.

8. They Demand All Your Attention

Regardless of how much you love and care about a friend, you can’t fulfill every emotional need they have or spend time with them 24/7. However, toxic friends do not or refuse to accept that. A toxic friend may try to convince you that it’s your responsibility to devote all of your attention to them no matter what. For instance, they may try to demand your attention by:

  • Insisting that you’re the only one that understands them the best.
  • Calling you or reaching out to you many times during the day.
  • Exaggerating personal problems to get your support.
  • Excessively praising you for how helpful, generous, and caring you are.

9. They Always Put Themselves Front

A toxic friend will call you and hang out with you only when they need something from you. However, when it’s you who need their help or emotional support, they’re nowhere to be found. They simply disappear.

A true friend is always there for you when you need them. They let you know you can always rely on them. And they never change the subject of discussion when you’re complaining about something or trying to vent your frustrations or anger.

10. They’re Jealous Of Your Other Friends

A real friend will never feel jealous of other people in your life. They’ll never disrespect those you care about, try to isolate you from them or convince you that your life would be more meaningful without them in it. A toxic friend does the exact opposite.

How Do You Deal With A Fake Person?

First things first, keep in mind that it’s completely fine to want to give a fake friend a second chance. Perhaps they don’t understand what impact their behavior has on you. Or perhaps they selfishly behave toward you without showing any bad intentions. In this case, talking to them about how their actions make you feel could help improve things. For instance, you can tell them something like, “It really hurts my feelings when you make negative comments about my friends. Please, be careful what you say about them in the future.”

However, if you’ve tried talking to that person and the conversation hasn’t helped, and the friendship negatively affects you, this may be a sign that it’s time for you to put an end to the friendship and move on.

Whatever the case may be, here are a few tips on how you can deal with a fake person.

1. Set Clear Boundaries And Stick With Them

If the fake person happens to be one of your friends, and you’ve decided that you don’t want to end the friendship, it’s important for you to establish firm and clear boundaries.

Let your fake friend know that you won’t tolerate certain behaviors, like lying, manipulating, criticizing, insulting, gossiping, or acting immaturely or irresponsibly. You can also explain how these behaviors make you feel and how you’ll react to them in the future.

2. Don’t Allow Their Toxic Behavior To Get To You

Fake people can be quite annoying and difficult to handle at times. But no matter how irritating they can get and how quickly they can make you lose your temper, it’s important to keep your cool when around them.

Nevertheless, if the fake person is rude to you or says something that insults you, you don’t have to act as if nothing happened. Instead, call them out on their behavior and let them know you won’t tolerate being treated that way.

3. Keep Your Interactions Short

If you have a fake friend, it can be hard to avoid seeing and hanging out with them. However, instead of ignoring your fake friend altogether whenever you see them, try to behave politely while being a little distant towards them. Talk to them the way you’d talk to someone you’re meeting for the first time.

4. Be Open And Direct

If you’ve decided to end the friendship, make sure your fake friend knows the reasons why you’ve made that decision. Explain to them why you don’t think there’s a point in staying friends with them. Carefully think about what you want to say and how you want to say it. This will help you avoid any ambiguity regarding the status of your friendship.

5. Turn To Your Support System

Being trapped in a friendship with a fake friend can make you lose your trust in others and feel confused. So, you may have taken a break from other friends. If so, you should consider reaching out to them again.

Your friends and family are your support system. They’re the ones who truly care about you and have your best interests at heart. Opening up to them about your situation can help you determine whether you want to keep or end the friendship. They can give you an unbiased assessment of your situation and offer you support and advice on how you should treat your fake friend and whether you should continue being friends with them.

6. Be Calm And Direct

If you’ve decided to end the friendship and are planning to inform your fake friend about that, chances are they won’t approve of your decision. They could start a bitter argument or even try to turn the situation around and make you feel like you’re the one to blame for your failed friendship. When that is the case, it’s important to stay calm and not react angrily or start insulting them. Instead, stay firm and explain clearly why you no longer want to be friends with them.

7. Take A Break From Them

If you’ve noticed a friend is treating you unfairly, you might want to take a break from them temporarily and see whether this will change something.

Taking space for yourself can help you reflect on your feelings and think about what steps you should take next. For example, you may realize that you’re happier and better without that person being around you. If so, this is a sure sign that you should end the friendship.

How Do You Let Go Of Fake Friends?

Letting go of a friend is never easy, even when they’re a fake friend. However, that is sometimes the best thing you can do to save yourself from someone’s lies, controlling behavior, and negativity.

So, if you’ve decided to let go of a fake friend, here is how you can do that without causing yourself or themselves pain:

1. Be Direct

If you’ve decided to end a fake friendship, be direct with that person. Let them know why you don’t think your friendship is not working well anymore and that you’ve decided to take a different direction in life.

However, make sure you don’t end your friendship with that person over the phone or by texting them. Instead, talk to them face to face.

2. Think About What You Want To Say To Them

Before you tell a fake friend that you’ve decided to end your friendship, make sure:

  • You carefully think about all the things you want to tell them and how you want to do that.
  • You are firm, clear, and thorough while explaining how you’re feeling about your friendship. 
  • They know everything that’s on your mind. 
  • You remain as calm and nice as possible.

3. Allow Them To Express Their Opinion

Once you’ve said what you had to say, let them talk. They may try to apologize or make it up to you somehow. Or they may get defensive and start an argument. Whatever their reaction may be, give them a chance to express their feelings and opinions.

4. End The Conversation And Walk Away

If you’ve decided to end the friendship and you know there’s no chance that you will change your mind about it, politely thank them for talking with you and say you’re sorry things ended that way. 

Baby Formula Guide

best baby formula

Modern baby formula is carefully designed to meet the kids’ needs. Such food is a good alternative to breastfeeding and the supermarkets are overwhelmed with it which makes the selection of the right formula a kinda challenge.  So how to make the right choice in the diverse baby formula? Let’s find it out. 

baby drinking milkTypes of Baby Formula

There are a large number of different formulas, which are classified according to different indicators. 

By Consistency

The first type is the liquid formula that does not require additional preparation, except for heating, but the cost is very high and the choice is quite limited.

The second type is the dry powder formula which is much more dominant in terms of variety and quantity. It’s much more convenient for transportation, preparation, storage, and dosing.

By Content

Most modern infant formulas are based on the best quality cow milk such as hipp baby formula. Less often you may find baby food based on goat milk. But both of these types are riched with various vitamins, prebiotics, and bifidobacteria. According to the degree of milk processed, the formula is divided into adapted, partially or less adapted, and non-adapted.

Adapted milk formulas are as close as possible to breast milk, they are much easier to digest and are recommended for feeding newborns.

Partially adapted formulas are less close to breast milk and suitable for children older than 6 months.

Unadapted milk formulas are made from milk powder or casein-based natural cow milk protein, but fatty acids or whey may be excluded. (1)

By Age

As a newborn grows and develops, its body’s needs for micronutrients and vitamins change, this is a completely natural process, because breast milk changes its content over time. It is very important to pay attention to the formula stage, which is always indicated on the product packaging. According to the EU regulated commission, the formula must be divided into stages. For example, such a world-known brand as Holle has baby food intended for kids from birth to 3 years old for normal and healthy development. 

Sometimes, due to the peculiarities of a kid’s health, it is necessary to use specialized formulas e.g. with a high content of certain vitamins or without lactose. Therapeutic nutrition should be prescribed only by a pediatrician.

Of course, to design a content identical to breast milk is simply impossible. But the best baby formulas contain a full set of nutrients, vitamins, and trace elements needed by the immature organisms. The formulas can be enriched with additional components. For example, amino acids that are necessary for development. As well as prebiotics and probiotics, which are important for the normal formation of intestinal microflora. (2)

Final Thoughts

The best formula is the one that suits a child. Sometimes babies get used to the formula without any problems. And sometimes you have to try products of different types and brands to find the best solution. In any case, the first step before starting bottle-feeding should be a consultation with a pediatrician.

How To Win When Playing In Online Casinos

online casino slot machine

It’s no secret that online casinos can be a lot of fun. But for some people, the prospect of winning money makes the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re one of those people, you’ll want to read on. This post shares some tips on how to win when playing in online casinos. So without further ado, let’s get started.

casino Ad

Stick to the Rules of the Game

This means knowing when to hit and stand in blackjack or which numbers to select in roulette. It also means being familiar with the terms and conditions of each casino’s bonus offers. Familiarizing yourself with the rules will help you avoid making costly mistakes that could lead to significant losses.

Most casinos will often have rules that you must follow to claim any winnings. So make sure you are familiar with the game’s rules before you start playing. It will help you look good in the eyes of the online casino.

Choose the Right Casino

Choosing the right site is essential because it can affect your chances of winning. A reputable, well-established casino is more likely to offer fair games and good customer service. It’s also important to read the fine print and make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the site before you make a deposit. This will help prevent any surprises down the road.

With the many options of the casino sites, you may wonder which approach to take first. Luckily, you’ll land at the best online casinos with some research. It’s fundamental to go through the reviews others give regarding the platform. Think about the bonuses and ease of depositing and withdrawing money.

Know-How Far You Go

The second rule of winning in online casinos is to know your limits. It means setting a budget for yourself and sticking to it. It’s also important to be aware of your limitations. If you’re not comfortable risking large sums of money, then don’t.

There’s no shame in playing it safe and sticking to lower-stakes games. Doing so will help you avoid mistakes that could lead to considerable losses. This makes you a responsible player who is healthy in the long run.

Be Selective With Your Games

Not all casino games are created equal. Some, like slots, are purely based on luck. Others, like blackjack and poker, require skill and strategy. If you want to improve your chances of winning, it’s important to choose games that favor skill over luck.

Blackjack and poker are two good examples. Both require a certain amount of strategy and skill to win. They also offer some of the best odds in the casino. So if you’re looking to improve your chances of winning, these are two games you should focus on.

Practice Makes Perfect

There is nothing as rewarding as playing more often. This means playing for fun before you play for real money. By doing so, you’ll get a feel for the games and how they work. You’ll also be able to test out different strategies and see what works best for you.

Gambling is a marathon, not a sprint. This means that you shouldn’t get too caught up in the excitement of the game and make impulsive decisions. Instead, take your time and think about each decision carefully. Doing so will help you sharpen your skills and knowledge more.

It’s pivotal to use the free online games for practicing. This will help you understand how the games work and give you a better chance of winning when you play for real money. So be sure to take advantage of the free games offered by most online casinos.

Managing Your Money

This means knowing how to set a budget and stick to it. It also means being mindful of your spending. When you’re on a winning streak, it can be tempting to keep gambling until you lose everything you’ve won.

Winning in online casinos is all about following the right strategies. By sticking to the game’s rules, knowing your limits, and being selective with your games, you can improve your chances of coming out on top. So keep these tips in mind next time you’re looking to win big in an online casino.

Play When Sober

friends

One of the most important things to remember when playing in online casinos is to avoid alcohol. It can cloud your judgment and lead to impulsive decisions. So if you want to improve your chances of winning, it’s essential to stay sober while playing.

Winning in online casinos is about following the right strategies. By sticking to the game’s rules, knowing your limits, and being selective with your games, you can improve your chances of coming out on top. So keep these tips in mind next time you’re looking to win big in an online casino.

Diversity In Clinical Trials: Why Is It Important? 

Clinical treatment

Clinical trials are essential to developing new and innovative treatments, but they are only as effective as their participants. That’s why it’s so important that clinical trials include a diverse range of participants from all walks of life.

It helps ensure that the final product is safe and effective for everyone. This blog post will explore the importance of diversity in clinical trials and discuss the challenges of recruiting a diverse pool of participants.

What Is Diversity In Clinical Trials?

Diversity in clinical trials includes individuals from different racial, ethnic, and sexual groups in research studies. The purpose of diversity in clinical trials is to ensure that new treatments are effective for all patients, regardless of their background.

The FDA issued draft guidance on enhancing the diversity of clinical trial populations in 2019 and finalized the guidance in November 2020. It’s essential to have a diverse population in clinical trials not only so that the results of the trial are generalizable to everyone and because specific subpopulations may respond differently to treatments.

Why Are Clinical Trials Important?

There are several reasons why this is essential. Some of them are explained below.

1. To Ensure That All Patients Have An Equal Opportunity To Benefit From The Treatments Being Tested

When you have a more diverse population in a clinical trial, you can be sure that the trial results will be much more widely applicable. That’s because different people respond to medications in different ways, and if a drug is only tested on one type of person, it’s impossible to know how well it will work for someone else.

To have a clinical trial that accurately reflects the treatment population, you need to have a diverse group of people testing it out. That way, you can ensure that the results apply to as many people as possible.

2. To Get A More Accurate Representation Of The Population Being Studied

Accurate representation is critical because it helps ensure that the clinical trial results can be generalized to the target population. If a particular group is underrepresented in a clinical trial, there is a chance that the results of the trial may not apply to that group.

People will respond to treatments differently based on their characteristics, such as age, sex, race, and genetic makeup. Therefore, clinical trials must enroll a diverse population to apply the results to as many people as possible.

Clinical trial diversity is also crucial because different groups of people may have different perceptions of the risks.

3. To Reduce The Chances Of Bias In Testing Results

Bias in testing results occurs when a particular group is more likely to be included in a clinical trial than other groups. It can happen for several reasons, including that one group may be more accessible to researchers or more willing to participate in a study.

When bias exists, it means that the results of a clinical trial may not be accurate or representative of how the treatment would work in the general population. It can be dangerous, as it could lead to approved treatments that are not effective for everyone.

Including a diverse group of people in clinical trials helps to reduce the chances of bias and ensures that the results are more accurate.

4. To Improve Patient Care And Safety

The safety of new treatments is only as good as the data supporting them. For that data to accurately reflect how a drug will affect different patient populations, it’s essential to have a diverse group of patients in clinical trials.

It is especially true for drugs targeting specific racial or ethnic groups. For example, the FDA has approved specific cancer treatments for people of certain ethnicities based on data from clinical trials. But if those trials only included white patients, the drugs might not work as well for people of other ethnicities.

5. To Increase Our Understanding Of Diseases And How They Impact Different Groups Of People

Many diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes are more common in certain racial and ethnic groups. By enrolling a more diverse group of people in clinical trials, researchers can learn more about how these diseases affect different groups of people. This information can help doctors better diagnose and treat these conditions.

6. To Identify Potential Side Effects For Different Populations Earlier In The Drug Development Process

The drug development process is expensive, so companies are typically reluctant to go back and do more testing once a drug is on the market. But suppose doctors and patients notice severe side effects in certain racial groups that weren’t identified in clinical trials. In that case, it can be essential to go back and do more research.

Conclusion

Diversity in clinical trials is essential for many reasons. It helps to ensure that the results of a trial apply to as many people as possible.

What is the Psychology Behind Decision-Making?

Psychology

Have you ever had a think about how many decisions you make each day? The estimate you come out with is likely to be much lower than the truth. Indeed, psychologists believe that we could make as many as 35,000 decisions in one day. This can range from picking what to have for breakfast or what to wear to work, along with more minor choices such as whether to have that extra mouthful of food at lunch or not. It is important to understand how decision-making works so that you don’t end up succumbing to decision fatigue. Having strategies in place is a good way to ensure that you are always making the optimum choice in any given situation.

Caption: A video about making better decisions.

We Make Thousands of Decisions Every Day

If you break it down, life is all about loads of tiny decisions that lead to different outcomes. No matter what you do, from typing away on the computer at work or playing some online games in your downtime, you’re constantly selecting what to do. Even pastimes that feel as though they don’t require a strategy need some level of decision-making. Roulette is known as a game of chance, but you still need to choose an option out of the various selections online like European Roulette, Live Immersive Roulette and Super Stakes Roulette. Then, you need to select how you are going to bet on each turn. One simple game can end up requiring a multitude of assessments that you may not even be aware you’re making.

In your working life, you probably get to the office and have numerous tasks you must complete over the course of the day. You need to decide what you’re going to tackle first, when you’re going to have a break, and when you’re going to procrastinate or socialize. Even before you’ve arrived, you’ll have chosen whether to have breakfast or not, what to eat, and how much to consume. When you start to count all these micro-decisions that make up your daily life, it can seem a bit overwhelming.

Why We Need Different Decision-Making Strategies

To avoid surrendering to decision fatigue or decision paralysis, some people employ effective strategies that make their lives easier. Have you ever wondered why Mark Zuckerberg wears the same plain outfit every time you see him in photos or in the news? According to the billionaire founder of Facebook, he does it to save energy and cut out a decision from the start of his day. He doesn’t want to end up getting stuck at the clothes rack, overthinking things for minutes on end. Steve Jobs, Barack Obama, and many other famous businessmen and politicians have employed the same technique.

When it comes down to making decisions in everyday life, flipping a coin just won’t cut it. After all, a lot of choices can have greater consequences down the line, so it’s crucial to have a process in place to deal with decisions. People have internal biases that affect their thought processes, with cognitive dissonance and consistency theory playing huge roles. Sometimes, these biases can be beneficial, but other times they can be a hindrance. There are different decision-making models devised by psychologists that you can try out, and it’s a good idea to explore them all to see which one works best for you.

Most psychologists agree that there are five main decision-making models, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The rational decision-making model is probably the most famous one, and it involves methodically going through the aspects of a choice to come to the most unbiased selection possible. Other models include the intuitive decision-making model and the recognition-primed decision-making model.

Each of these models has applications in different situations. For instance, the intuitive decision-making model can be useful when you need to make a snappy selection. This model follows a pattern and assesses similar decisions you’ve made in the past. It wouldn’t be advisable to use this for important choices, however. For a decision that’s likely to have a big impact on your life, the bounded rationality decision-making model or the rational decision-making model could be the best options.

There has also been some interesting research on how we reach decisions in groups. If faced with a choice in a group, our decisions can sometimes be affected by a desire to conform to the consensus of our peers. Solomon Asch’s conformity experiments in the 1950s were highly insightful and showed how people can make decisions that go against their beliefs in order to conform. The psychologist found that people were willing to give incorrect answers to fit in with their peers. It’s imperative that you are aware of the influence of groups you are in and that you don’t let this affect your choices.

Caption: A video about Asch’s conformity experiments.

Why We Should Be Aware of Our Decision-Making

When the world’s most successful people talk about how they’ve attempted to reduce the number of decisions they make in their lives, it’s clear that getting this stuff right can have a hugely positive impact. It may be a wise idea to model the likes of Zuckerberg and remove simple decisions like clothes and food from your day-to-day routine.

Jeff Bezos says that decisions boil down to one-way or two-way doors. Some choices only have one direction, and you can’t go back on your decision later. The Amazon founder also talks about how he tries to make three good decisions each day, with these choices likely to have a bearing on his life and company a few years down the line.

Understanding how many decisions you make each day is an important place to start in improving the way you make these choices. Controlling certain aspects of your life can help you avoid decision fatigue, and employing decision-making models can assist you in reaching the best possible conclusion in any situation.

Which New Jersey Online Slots have the Best Payouts?

casino slots

With practically a decade in action, collectively across all New Jersey online casinos, there are far more slots to choose from compared to other states where iGaming is also legal such as Michigan or Pennsylvania. The NJ online casino market maturity makes it the perfect state to sample which slot titles have the best payout ratios in the US. Moreover, if you live in New Jersey, meaning you are lucky enough to gamble online, this guide will give you a list of online slots with the best payouts in the region.

Below, we begin by explaining what we mean by ‘best payouts’, then we take an insightful look at a list of the top NJ online slots at slots.info to bring you a list of the top 10 video slots that give you the best return on your investment using their RTPs as a benchmark.

Using RTP to decide the most attractive NJ video slot payouts

For the benefit of those of you that are still learning about how slots work, let’s very quickly cover the concept of RTP. Obviously, if you already know this concept, you can skip ahead.

RTP stands for ‘Return to Player’. It is an indication of the percentage of bets placed on the slot that will be returned to the player. For example, a slot with a theoretical RTP of 96% is set to return $96 out of every $100 bet. Now notice the word ‘theoretical’ before RTP. Just because a slot has a 96% RTP, it is not to say that the slot guarantees you will get back 96% of your bet consistently. This figure is based on the long-term average of all bets and payouts.

Try to think of it like rolling dice. Theoretically, the 6 should appear 16.67% of the time or more simply put 1 in 6 times according to probability. Yet after 20 rolls the 6 still eludes you. However, your session continues and after 600 rolls, it appeared 145 times. It’s now 24.17%, so now above the 16.67% average. In this scenario, you began with a 0% RTP after 20 rolls and finished with a 24.17% RTP. At some point during your 600 sessions, the 16.67% average was hit. Yet by the end of the session, the RTP finished above.

We call these upswings and downswings, while the technical term for these swings in probability is ‘variance’, otherwise known as probability theory. Therefore, to cut a long story short, RTP on a video slot is there to give you an idea of the average percentile the slot will return in the long term. Now let’s take a look at the RTP of some of the most played slots in New Jersey online casinos.

Slots with the best payouts found in New Jersey

The slots listed below are available on the New Jersey iGaming scene, however, different casinos offer slots from different software providers, so if you find one you like the look of, be sure to check which casinos host them.

Top 10 NJ Slots with the Highest Theoretical RTPs:

  1. Blood Suckers by NetEnt – 98% RTP (Available at BetMGM)
  2. Himalayas Roof of the World by Barcrest – 97.75% RTP (Available at Caesars)
  3. White Rabbit by Evolution/BTG – 97.72% RTP (Available at Unibet)
  4. Medusa Megaways by NextGen – 97.63% (Available at 888 Casino)
  5. Wild Play Super Bet by NextGen Gaming – 97.46% RTP (Available at Golden Nugget)
  6. Secrets of Atlantis by NetEnt – 97.07% RTP (Available at Fanduel)
  7. Halloween Fortune by Playtech – 97.06% (Available at bet365)
  8. Hotline by NetEnt – 97.04% (Available at Unibet)
  9. Olympus Thunder by NextGen – 97.01% RTP (Available at BetMGM)
  10. Wild DoDo by Side City – 97% (Available at Unibet)

All of these slots are available for free play using the demo modes available so you can test them out. If you find a casino with a good mix of these top 10 RTP titles, then the next step is to sign up and choose a banking solution to make deposits with which you can also claim bonuses. All options are available via mobile and desktop access to these casino sites.

Rounding Up NJ Slots with the Best RTPs

NetEnt and NextGen have some of the highest paying slots on average, but the titles listed here are in the top percentile. There are plenty of slots in and around the 96.7% RTP+ range. Adding to this, just because the RTPs are high, that does not always mean you will enjoy playing these slots.

Quite often it is the software provider (game developer) that is the most important factor when you are choosing the best slots to play. Some of the most highly rated in New Jersey include Playtech, NextGen, NetEnt, and if you visit a casino like 888 you will come across proprietary slots with progressive jackpots. Just be sure not to count on RTP being consistent, and that you always manage your money when playing slots, or any casino game, by implementing a sensible bankroll management strategy.

Where to Exchange Cryptocurrency Safely and Anonymously: Godex Exchange Service

Crypto

The cryptocurrency industry has exploded recently and more and more people are looking to get involved — or more involved — in the space. But if you want to buy, sell and trade cryptocurrency safely, do it the right way.

On a platform with bad security, you risk losing money or getting your data leaked — and it doesn’t always depend on whether you, specifically, are careful. Poor security practices within the exchange itself, security issues in open-source dependencies used in a code of the platform, a targeted cyberattack — all these could compromise you. In 2021, there already have been more data breaches in Q3 than in the entirety of 2020 — plus, hacks on crypto exchanges keep happening. It’s hard to underestimate the significance of your data’s safety. 

Because of this, it is a good idea to use an anonymous crypto exchange to protect yourself. One of the best ways to make secure crypto transactions is to conduct them via Godex.

What Is Godex Crypto Exchange 

Founders created Godex, inspired by the original idea of cryptocurrencies. They believe that anonymity and privacy are very important rights for everyone, and there’s no reason for a resource that deals with crypto to collect customers’ data. People in the crypto field needed an exchange with fair rates, good transaction speed, reliable service, and anonymity — and Godex provided all that.

Benefits of Using Godex 

Many benefits go along with using Godex.

Anonymity

On Godex, people exchange coins without registering or providing the platform with personal info of any sort. All that’s needed is the addresses of your crypto wallets. Customer support might ask you for an email address — it’s easier to contact you via email about your inquiry — but you can choose not to reveal it.  (1)

Security

Security is also a major priority for Godex. They protect their servers, use strict security protocols, and have an SSL certificate that helps to avoid the interception of information. Godex team often teams up with cyber security specialists to ensure they are always up-to-date on software and tech stack updates and security practices — and are always improving their safeguards (e.g. adopting the newest encryption protocols.) They also have detection and elimination mechanisms for DDoS attacks installed. 

High Speed

Godex is quick. The transaction usually takes up to thirty minutes due to the specifics of blockchain — and the platform itself is extremely responsive.

Easy to Use

The exchange is also incredibly easy to use for almost anyone. The interface is simple and user-friendly, and the steps to exchange cryptocurrency are super straightforward. The customer service team helps deal with users’ issues and answer users’ questions quickly and effectively — a lot of praise is thrown at them in the platform’s reviews.

How to Exchange Crypto Anonymously 

Just recently, in October of 2021, haveibeenpwned, a website that monitors data security breaches, reported that hackers have been trading emails of CoinMarketCap’s users. This resource covers crypto market capitalization, with lots of users being frequent visitors to exchange platforms — CoinMarketCap didn’t know how hackers have accessed their userbase because they’ve detected no breaches. Cryptofield, as you can see, is super attractive for hackers — and it’s much easier for them to hack you if they know your email. So: use Godex. 

Choose Cryptocurrency to Exchange

Godex has more than 301 coins available. Choose cryptocurrencies to exchange from the drop-down lists. 

Enter Amount and Needed Data

Enter the number of coins you need to exchange and wallet addresses: for a currency you want to exchange and for the one you want to receive. 

Note, that while there’s no upper limit for exchanges on Godex, lower limits for several cheap coins (the system will tell you if you’re trading with one of those) and BTC (the lower limit is 0.003 BTC) exist. 

Double-Check

Go through all of your numbers several times — you won’t be able to undo the transaction after it’s started. 

Initiate Exchange

Initiate the transaction. Now, Godex locks the transaction fees for the duration of the operation — so rest assured that the final fees won’t be a surprise for you. The transaction could take 5-30 minutes, depending on the coins you’re working with and the current load on the blockchain (if you’re exchanging large sums, that’ll take a little longer.) 

After the exchange, you’ll receive an order ID which you can use to access the details about how the transaction is going and authenticate it. The information about ID will be deleted from the platform’s services within a week — as it goes against their vision to keep it. 

Do the Right Choice Picking up Godex Exchange

If you want a secure and safe anonymous crypto exchange that doesn’t require your personal information, consider using Godex. It provides a great user experience, makes it easy to exchange cryptocurrency and works incredibly quickly. With low fees and a great customer service team, there is no reason not to try it. (2)

Beauty Tips – How to Pineapple Your Hair

Pineapple Your Hair

For those that are unaware of what the term means, to pineapple one’s hair has nothing to do with using a pineapple on your hair. The name came about given the look of the hair after this beauty or hair management procedure has been carried out.

You would realize that the locks indeed have a pineapple look after this technique is used, hence the name. Now that you know this, the bigger question is why people (especially ladies) perform this technique.

More often than not, it is to protect the locks especially when sleeping. Be that as it may, the look after the styling is done is delightful and some people choose to use it as their day-to-day hairstyle. For some, this is just for a brief period.

If you would like to learn how to pineapple hair, then you are reading the right article. This is because we will discuss how to go about it here amongst other things. So, ensure that you keep reading so that you do not miss out on any important detail.

Who Benefits the Most by Using the Pineapple Technique?

People with curly hair benefit the most from this technique. Other than this, people that do not like the way their locks look after they sleep will benefit from this technique.

The reason is that it positions the locks in such a way that the friction that normally affects them will be avoided. As a result, there is nothing or very little to worry about in terms of having frizzy-looking locks.

For this reason, people worried about how to maintain their curls or keep them in the right state and shape while sleeping should try it out. It would do them a world of good as long as it is done the right way. Speaking of doing this technique the right way, you should keep reading to find out more about that.

How to Pineapple Your Hair

curly hair

Many ladies use this technique to protect their curls and other hair structure, especially while sleeping as mentioned above. Some are glad to use this technique considering how it helps their locks stay intact and good-looking.

On the other hand, some people do not see the desired result despite trying it out. More often than not, the reason is that they do not go about it the right way. In other words, you have to pineapple your locks the proper way. To make sure you do it right, pay attention to the following steps:

Last Minute Preparation Is a lot Better

It is not often that last-minute preparations end up paying off. Well, this is one of the things you should know about this technique. What we mean by last-minute preparation is that it is better if it is done just before you go to sleep.

Doing it a long while before you eventually go to bed will not have the same measure of positive effects. So, you should only use the technique when you are certain it is time to take that nap.

Having made that clear, you should know that preparation is not just about making the locks into a ponytail before making them look like a pineapple. You also need to treat the locks well.

It is highly recommended that you use an effective hair oil product for this purpose. Apply the oil to add some shine to the locks. But more importantly, it also moisturizes your locks

This is very important as it will enable them to become soft as well as frizz-free. This is why you should get the right oil. For more on this subject, you can visit: https://www.healthline.com/

Pack Your Locks Accordingly

It is possible to have your locks in the pineapple style for day-to-day activities. However, it is mostly used because of how it protects the locks while you are sleeping.

To have your hair in this style you have to pack it well. Not playing by this rule is one of the things that can make it seem like the technique did nothing to keep your locks intact. So, make sure you pack it just as it should be packed.

To do this, you are advised to maintain the right posture by leaning to the front. This posture will enable you to gather your locks entirely at atop your head. Afterward, you can slip in your scrunchie or whatever it is you are using to pack the locks.

It is advised that you use something appropriate as this matters as well. Whatever you use has to have the right amount of elasticity to offer the desired result.

You should be mindful of the strain you apply while packing. So, do not make it too tight. It is better if it is a bit loose as this will prevent creases and dents, especially during the period you are fast asleep.

Evenly Distribute the Locks

After you pack our hair into a ponytail, you also need to evenly distribute the locks into two halves. It is only then that the look of the pineapple that this technique is called will be seen.

Secure The Hair Well

We have stressed several times how this technique is more about keeping the locks intact for a lot of people. Well, you can still do more to secure the hair.

Items such as soft bonnets or satin scarves can be worn for added security. Also, the ends of the locks that make it look like pineapple can be clipped as well.

On a Final Note

You have learned how to pineapple your hair in this article. This is very important but there are other things you should be aware of as well. How to take down pineapple hair is one such. If you would like to know how to do this, you can watch this video.

The process of making pineapple hair has to be right and this is why you should take note of the details in this article. The steps are no doubt easy but effective so you should take note of them.

Can CBD Oil Help with Insomnia?

CBD oil

After a long day, there is a time when some people just can’t fall asleep. For most people, this isn’t an issue since they’re able to fall asleep easily in the first place. But it’s still important to get the right amount of sleep each night. CBD oil has been proven to help people who suffer from sleeplessness or insomnia if you choose the right CBD oil to improve your sleep. It helps individuals fall asleep faster and helps relax the muscles in the body. If you’re looking for a way to ensure you get the sleep you need on a nightly basis, then CBD oil is one option worth considering.

Cannabidiol and Sleep: What Is the Evidence?

The cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) is the most prevalent in the cannabis plant. It has positive effects on sleep. Cannabidiol may be consumed in a variety of ways.

CBD helps with sleep regulation by calming anxiety and promoting calmness before bedtime. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps to naturally regulate sleep, interacts with the molecule. People with chronic insomnia and other sleep disorders can use CBD to potentially help them get a better night’s rest.

A small clinical trial of CBD oil reported how patients behaved when given CBD oil. Their sleep increased by a median of 1 hour. The number of times they woke up at night also decreased significantly.

How Does CBD Oil Help with Insomnia?

The human body contains an entire system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It uses naturally occurring cannabinoids to maintain healthy cells, regulate sleep-wake cycles, and control essential functions, including mood, appetite, and pain sensation.

Unfortunately, the ECS produces insufficient amounts of its own cannabinoids in some people. This imbalance may cause a range of conditions, including insomnia.

Fortunately, CBD oil helps promote healthy endocannabinoid activity to support the improvement of numerous conditions associated with sleep disruption like insomnia.

How Should I Use CBD Oil for Insomnia?

CBD oil generally has a very calming effect on people. When used in small doses, it can help you relax and fall asleep more easily at night. It also helps reduce anxiety, which can also contribute to sleeplessness and other sleep issues. And because it’s non-habit forming, you won’t have to worry about becoming dependent on CBD oil or feel tempted to increase your dosage.

You can take CBD oil for insomnia orally by placing a few drops under the tongue and swallowing or adding it to food or drink for those who prefer not to taste the oil directly. You may find that this is not the most comfortable method of taking CBD oil for insomnia, but it can be effective when used correctly and if you buy quality CBD oil for your sleep from the best brands, those oils will come with different flavors and special droppers. Which can make the whole experience more enjoyable.

If you use CBD oil consistently and correctly, you may begin to notice an improvement in your symptoms of insomnia within a week or two. If this treatment doesn’t work for you after several weeks, it may be time to try something else.

Does CBD Oil Have Side Effects?

Although CBD helps with insomnia, there are some unwanted side effects that are worth considering. These include:

Diarrhea – Diarrhea is an uncommon side effect of taking CBD oil. If you experience this with any CBD product consumption, consider reducing the amount you’re taking until the symptoms subside. This also tends to go away with continued use as a body adjusts to the cannabinoid.

Dry Mouth – It is not uncommon for THC to cause dry mouth. However, it is not clear if CBD causes dry mouth too. The reason for this is that it does not seem to interact directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the salivary glands like THC does.

Low Blood Pressure – Although CBD does not directly affect the CB1 and CB2 receptors, it does seem to have an effect on certain other receptors that could, therefore, indirectly impact blood pressure levels.

Lightheadedness – If a person takes too much CBD oil or takes it alongside other medications, they may experience lightheadedness as a result. This can be accompanied by dizziness or fainting.

A Useful Guide to Know What You Should and Shouldn’t Buy When Expecting a Baby

shopping baby accessories

The arrival of a baby is one of the most joyous occasions in a family’s life. Yet, for new parents, it can also be one of the most expensive. Between cribs, clothes, gear, and toys, there are plenty of items to buy when you’re expecting. However, not all purchases are necessary – or wise, and will only put a strain on your budget unnecessarily. To help guide you through what you should and shouldn’t buy before your little one arrives, we’ve compiled a list of must-haves and optional buys, along with some general advice on how to get through the first months/years.

baby bag

Preparing for the Early Years

A lot of people get a bit scared when they’re about to become parents, and that is completely normal. It’s the beginning of whole different life for you, and you start to think about all the things that can go wrong and worry about your baby in advance. It’s important to seek out advice, whether it be by talking to other parents or reading up on some parenting tips online that will help you make it through the early years, it will help you have peace of mind – being better prepared. There are so many items on the market for babies, that it can be difficult to decide what to purchase and what is not necessary. Here are some tips on what to buy and what not to buy when preparing for your baby’s first years: 

What you Should Buy:

  1. Diapers – It is advisable to have a large stock of diapers, as your baby will go through a lot of them.
  2. Baby wipes – These are a necessity for cleaning up messes.
  3. Clothing – You will need a lot of clothing as babies grow quickly. It is best to buy a few pieces at a time, so you can spread out the cost.
  4. Formula – If you are not breastfeeding, you will need to purchase formula for your baby.
  5. Bottles and nipples – If you are not breastfeeding, you will need to purchase bottles and nipples for your baby.
  6. A crib, mattress, and sheets – A crib is a must-have for a newborn baby. Make sure to get a waterproof mattress protector and sheets to go with the crib.
  7. Toys – Babies love playing with toys, so it is important to have a good variety of them. Choose safe toys that are developmentally appropriate for your child’s age.
  8. Pacifiers – Pacifiers can help soothe a fussy baby. Just make sure to wait until your baby is at least six months old before using them, as they can cause problems with teeth development if used too early.
  9. A baby carrier – A baby carrier can be helpful for carrying your baby around when your hands are full. When choosing, see that it’s comfortable for you, as well as for your baby.

What You Shouldn’t Buy: 

  1. Crib bumpers – Crib bumpers are not safe and can increase the risk of SIDS.
  2. Baby walkers – Baby walkers can be dangerous and should not be used. They can cause babies to fall downstairs and in other dangerous places.
  3. Teething rings – Teething rings and comforters are not necessary and can actually increase the risk of SIDS.

baby brush

Optional Stuff You Probably Won’t Need

There are a lot of things expecting parents need to buy when they find out they’re having a baby. However, there are also a lot of things that can be put off until later, or that you may not need at all. Here are a few optional items you may want to consider before spending your money. 

  • A baby bathtub. Babies can be washed in the sink or in the shower until they’re about six months old, so you may not need to buy a baby bathtub until later on. It might be an unnecessary expense.
  • A baby carrier. You may not need a baby carrier until your baby is a bit older and can support their own head.
  • A stroller. You may not need to buy a stroller until your baby is a bit older and can sit up on their own.
  • Furniture for the nursery. You may not need to buy furniture for the nursery until your baby is born, and you can measure their crib size.

This article provides a useful guide to what you should and shouldn’t buy when expecting a baby. By knowing what to buy, you can save yourself time and money and also avoid last-minute scrambles. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about buying items that won’t be used or that won’t fit your needs.