Tuesday, October 7, 2014

It’s always easier to make excuses than to work hard to get to your desired goals. The problem with making excuses is that you’ll regret doing it later when you don’t have your finances in order. Here are 4 excuses that are commonly made by people regarding their finances.

1. “I don’t earn enough to save”

You don’t have to earn a lot of money in order to save. You might not be able to save $200/month, but saving even $10/month is enough to help you build a nice nest egg. Just because you don’t make very much doesn’t mean you can’t save. If you need to cut back on some things for a while to help you save, it’s well worth the sacrifice for your financial future.

2. “My spouse is a spender”

If you know your spouse is a spendthrift, it’s important that you keep your finances separate. You don’t owe anyone, even your spouse, your money, especially if they are putting your financial future at risk. You may be made to look selfish and uncaring, but you need to protect yourself first. Don’t be afraid to voice these concerns to your spouse and explain to him why you need to keep your finances separate.

3. “I’m not good with numbers”

This is a lame excuse when it comes to dealing with your personal finances. It’s all about adding and subtracting. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist in order to keep control of your finances. You have to know exactly how much you have in each of your accounts. When you spend using your debit card or pull cash out, write it down and subtract it from the account you took it from. When you spend using your credit card, you have to hold on to receipts so that you’ll know exactly how much your statement is going to be.

4. “I am in debt”

Being in debt doesn’t mean that you can never have a good financial future. If you can get yourself out of debt and change your money habits, you can have a great financial future. If you’re in debt, don’t continue to put off dealing with it. Stop any spending that isn’t necessary and begin using the extra money to get rid of your debt. It’s not going to be easy or quick, but when you begin seeing the results you will be inspired to continue.

If you recognize any of the excuses discussed above, realize that they are only excuses and not real reasons why you can’t have the financial future that you dream of. As long as you’re willing to work for a good financial future, you can have it.

Biggest First Date Deal Breakers

Meeting Mr. Right can be hard and if you are looking for a long-term relationship, you should be ready to face many first date deal breakers. But don’t be upset, because this experience will help you find the right guy down the road. Don’t waste your time on the wrong guys, check out 7 first date deal breakers.

1. Stories about the ex

The most annoying thing that is an instant deal breaker on a first date is when they tell stories about the exes. I think it is better to speak about the prospect of our relationship than about the shortcomings of his ex. I want to be the main figure of his attention on our first date. By all means, the ex is off-limits on a first date. When I face an ex conversation, I leave the guy at once.

2. He is late

One of the biggest deal breakers is a late appearance of your gentleman. Surely, people can get in different situations and I do understand that unexpected delays sometimes take place, but if it has happened without any explanation, you should be on the alert about this fact. It usually means that the guy is very light-minded with your relationship. If you are greatly impressed by the date with him, you should check his coming in time next date.

3. Dating etiquette

I’m not a chronic aesthete, but he should have good manners. I think no one would like to date a person who doesn’t have any manners. It is terrible to see him chewing with the mouth open and receive only monosyllabic sounds or answers to questions. A first date is an opportunity to show your best self, but not behave like a monkey. When guys complain about the menu prices all the time, they show how cheap and inexperienced they are. He should have at least basic manners if he wants to win your heart on a first date.

4. A drinker

I usually stick to the One Glass Rule. One cocktail can help you relax and remove stress, but I think everything should be within reasonable limits. Getting drunk is not a turn on and completely inappropriate. Someone tries to relief a first date jitters with a help of alcohol, but it’s not the best solution. If you don’t want to end up calling a cab, because your gentleman is completely drunk, you should find your own ride home.

5. Respect

Disrespect is a terrible deal breaker in all spheres of life. All relationships are based on respect and mutual understanding. When you are put in a very awkward position by your guy during your first date, you should make conclusions and realize that such relationship has no future. The guy should respect you vision of the world and boundaries as well. It often happens that people are incompatible. You just need to understand the nature of this person, if you don’t want to be treated without respect in future.

6. Self-absorbed

When I go on a date, I’m greatly interested in the guy. Sometimes it turns out that I feel like a journalist interviewing a man. It doesn’t mean that he should talk a lot on our first date, but I want the conversation to be interesting and easy. I’d like to hear what he wants to say. However, I want to know that the guy is interested to ask questions too. It’s a real problem if the guy is too self-absorbed.

7. Appearance

First date is the time to put your best self forward that’s why both guys and ladies should care about appearance enough to present nicely. It is not necessary to wear expensive clothes, but guys should care enough to dress up delicately. He should smell good and look nice. Those self-confident guys who have a style can easily win the heart of any lady, because they have a magical power to impress.

First dates are one of the most memorable events that will stay with you for the rest of your life. You should be very attentive and reasonable if you want to be surrounded by a wonderful man. Listen to your heart. What first date deal breakers are the most terrible for you?

Easy Ways to Meet a Potential Date

Nowadays nightclubs and bars are not the only ways to meet potential dates. There are many other places and ways to find your love. It may feel as if there is not at times, especially right after a break up, but it’s much easier to meet a new boyfriend than you think. Here are a few tips on how to meet a potential date.

1. Mutual friends

One of the best ways to meet your date is through mutual friends. It’s actually the easiest way to meet a new date or just friend, and it’s how my boyfriend and I met a few years ago. Feel free to ask your close friend if they know a man who is single and who also wants to find a date. Who knows, maybe you will meet the love of your life. Just don’t forget to say your friend ‘Thank you.’

2. Restaurant

When you’re at a restaurant you can also meet a potential date. Even if you are out with your coworkers or girlfriends, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with a nice guy you like. It’s okay to take the initiative once in a while. It could lead to some amazing date potential.

3. Grocery store

Ladies, you read it correctly. The grocery store is a perfect place to meet your potential date. My best friend met her husband in the grocery store and they are so happy together now. Yes, it can be difficult to do, but it can happen. So, when you go grocery shopping, keep your eyes open because you never know if you’re going to see a perfect man. If you do, feel free to start a conversation with him.

4. School

Whether you’re in college or high school, it’s a wonderful place to meet your date. He doesn’t have to be a guy who is in your class or grade. It can be a guy you catch the eye of during lunch or just pass in the hall. If you like that guy, approach him. Don’t think that making the first move is bad for girls. Though don’t ask him out the moment you start a conversation. Just let him know you like him.

5. Work

Sure, dating someone in the workplace is not easy and it can have some complications, but it’s possible if you love each other. Just make sure the man you’re interested in is not your boss, because your relationship might not work out and you could even lose your job. Lots of people meet their partners at work since they spend most of their time at work.

6. Online

I don’t like to recommend people to meet their dates online, but it’s also a good way to try. Today a lot of people are meeting online. The Internet is a huge world of possibilities and you can easily meet your potential date online. Just be careful when you look for your dates and when you meet one of them.

7. Shopping

Finally, you can meet your potential date while shopping. No matter where you shop, look around the stores and sections where men are most likely to be. One of the best things about meeting a man when shopping is that you know that he doesn’t mind to shop and shopping together will never be a problem between both of you.

It can be difficult to meet a new guy, especially after a painful breakup, but it’s possible if you really want it. If you already have a boyfriend, where did you meet him? Tell us your love story.

Bad Dating Habits You Should Ditch Now

Dating isn’t easy, but it doesn’t need to be very difficult either. Everyone has their own rules. It’s important that you play by your own rules and find out what is important to you. You need to know what you’re willing to put up with and what you aren’t. Don’t simply settle because other people are. Here are 4 bad dating habits that you should probably ditch now in order to make your dating life a little more successful.

1. You keep hoping things will get better

If you’ve been dating a man for a while and you continue to mention things that bother you, but they never change, you are wasting your own time. Stop waiting for things to miraculously change. If expressing your feelings and needs isn’t getting the point across, get out of the relationship. You deserve to have the things you want.

2. You play too-hard-to-get

Playing hard to get can be a good tactic to use if you want a guy to notice you. Guys love a chase. If you let him chase you, but never actually give in and let him take you out, then you’re playing too hard to get and he’ll eventually give up and move on. You can’t expect a guy to chase you until you eventually decide to give in.

3. You break up and make up every other week

A relationship where you are breaking up every other week only to make up again shortly after is an unstable relationship. The reasons for your frequent break-ups are probably silly. This is the kind of relationship that is filled with drama. If you want to make good relationship changes, this is a habit you must ditch today.

4. You move too fast

Even if you’ve talked online and on the phone for months before having your first real life date, you do not want to move too fast when you finally start dating. You may have connected well online and on the phone, but don’t expect the real life experience to be exactly the same. You might know details about each other, but the real life experience will be a new experience. Don’t rush into talking about the strong feelings you have for each other. Don’t even mention all of the plans you made while talking on the phone late at night.

When you decide to ditch the bad dating habits you’ve been holding onto, you will find that you will have better relationships. You will more easily end relationships that aren’t working for you when you decide that bad habits aren’t worth your time. Do you have any of these bad dating habits?

Ways to Stop Being Lazy on Your Day Off

It’s so easy to become lazy on your day off instead of doing something useful. While it’s essential to relax and enjoy doing nothing, it’s a bad idea to be lazy the whole day. In fact, there are many things you can do on your day off that doesn’t involve watching TV or sitting in front of the computer the whole day. Here are a few tried and true ways to stop being lazy on your day off.

1. Don’t sleep in

It’s so tempting to hit that snooze button over and over again when you know you don’t have to go anywhere. But, it’s actually a bad habit. While almost everyone likes sleeping in on their day off, it’s important that you don’t overdo it. Make a habit of getting up early even on your day off. Sleeping too much can be harmful to your health and it can make you lazier. 7-8 hours of sleep is enough to restore your body’s mental and physical energy.

2. Clean up

You will feel more at ease and ready for the day if you make you bed right away. Not only does it tidy up your room, it makes it harder to crawl back into your bed. You don’t want to mess up your newly made bed, do you? Clean your house as well and you will start your day more productively. I always feel better and more alert when my house is tidy and clean.

3. Get dressed and have breakfast

The next thing to do after you wake up and make your bed is to get dressed and eat a healthy breakfast. It’s much easier to avoid laziness when you shower and get dressed in the morning. Don’t skip your breakfast, especially on your day off, and make sure your breakfast is healthy and nutritious.

4. Plan your activities in advance

Planning your activities for your day off well in advance is an effective way to prevent boredom from arising. Make a list of the things you want to do or you need to do and plan your day accordingly. Try to do the things that energize you and are not draining. You should also have some back-up activities, such as getting your nails done or doing the laundry. If plans change, you won’t be stuck with nothing to do.

5. Exercise or just take a stroll

Boost your energy levels and improve mood by getting out and being active. When you work out, even lightly, you are less prone to being lethargic. If you don’t feel like exercising on your day off, you can simply take a stroll. Walking is a gentle, low-impact form of exercise that’s free, easy and perfect for people of all ages.

6. Stay productive

You might want to spend your day off doing nothing but it’s actually a bad idea. Sitting around all day will make you lazy and you will just waste your precious time. Why not start the project you have been putting off for long? You will stay productive and feel happy that you accomplished the important tasks while still staying at home.

7. Have a cooking contest

If you want to host a potluck party, one of the best ways to do it is through a cooking contest. You can also have a cooking contest at home. Though it can be a bit messy, you’ll have loads of fun. Invite your siblings and friends over and enjoy spending time together. If you don’t want to throw any party and you don’t want to hold any contest, then simply choose a meal you (or your friends) have never cooked before and start cooking together.

There’s a big difference between relaxing and laziness. Laziness is never a good thing and if you consider yourself a lazy person, try some of the aforementioned tips. Hopefully, they will help you be more productive even on your day off. Do you know any other ways to stop being lazy on the days off?

Effective Ways to Drop Pounds in a Week without Exercising

Do you want to lose a few unwanted pounds quick, but you don’t want to work out daily? Luckily, there are a few tried and tested ways to drop pounds in a week without running, jogging and doing other exercises. Patience, a bit of adjustment and time are everything you need here. So, here are 7 ways to lose weight in a week without exercise.

1. Have a healthy, filling breakfast

Just because you are trying to lose weight in a week without exercising doesn’t mean you should skip the most important meal of the day. Whether you are on a diet or not, you should always have a healthy, filling breakfast every single morning. Sure, it doesn’t mean eating the bacon, meat, soup, or several extra pancakes in the morning. Your breakfast should be filled with protein, which will help control your hunger. Also, opt for healthy snacks throughout the day.

2. Eat small portions

Reducing portion size is a proven way to drop unwanted pounds. Take a small plate instead of a big one and focus on consuming more meats and vegetables instead of potatoes, pastas and rice. Don’t worry, meat won’t cause weight gain, of course, if you eat it in moderation.

3. Stick to a no carb diet

Another step to take to lose weight in a week without exercising is to cut out all carbs. Sticking to a no carb diet is hard and sometimes even stressful, but it’s very important. Avoid consuming starches, fruits and refined sugars. You need to eat protein. While it’s not the best strategy for long-term weight loss, it will certainly help you drop those unwanted pounds in a week.

4. Drink water

Drink a glass of water before and after your meal. Water has no calories, and it helps keep you full and help to eat less. If you often overeat and it’s the major reason why you gain weight, try drinking a tall glass of clear water before your meal. Not only will it help you to lose weight in a week, it will also help keep your weight under control down the road.

5. Keep a food journal

One of the most effective ways to drop pounds in a week without exercising is to keep a food journal. Write down everything you eat daily in order to know what it is you are eating and what you should change about your diet. Most people think keeping a food journal is not effective way to lose weight. But it’s actually incredibly effective. Plus, it only takes several minutes.

6. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is a very important, because when we are tired we tend to eat more. If you’re sleep deprived, it’s no wonder you have a big appetite. So, if you want to drop several unwanted pounds in a week without exercising, make sure you get enough sleep every night. When you are sleep deprived, running or jogging is right for you.

7. Count calories

Just like keeping a food journal, counting calories is also effective when it comes to weight loss. To achieve your goal faster, set a calorie intake limit for every day. This will help to reduce the amounts of junk foods you consume a day. While learning to count calories isn’t an easy thing, it brings amazing results!

When it comes to losing weight, exercising is not always the best solution. Follow the aforementioned tips, and you will certainly achieve your weight loss goals in a week. Have you ever tried to lose weight in a week without working out?

Important Lessons Every Father Should Teach His Daughter

im Valvano once said, “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.” Every father plays a unique role in his daughter’s life. Like a superman in her eyes, the father has the responsibility to show her what a “real man” is and to give her confidence to face the world with happiness and strength. Moreover, a father is the first man in his daughter’s life. Here are the principles every father should teach his daughter to prove her dad is the best man in the world.

1. She is very special

Every person is special by the nature. The main point is to realize this fact. The father has to help his daughter find her identity in life and understand that she is special and unique in all meanings. A good father should love and accept his daughter the way she is. Surely, it will make her feel happy and all-rounded person. Moreover, your pure parental love teaches your kids love themselves, others and help them gain correct values and vision of the world.

2. She deserves the best in this life

I think every father knows that his little princess deserves the best in this world. He always tries to increase his daughter’s self-esteem and persuade her to believe that she deserves respect, love and appreciation. Furthermore, daughters should learn to enjoy and value the present moment that is full of wondrous things. If you want your daughter to be happy, then teach her to stop obsessing about what people think of her and fully realize that she can open up to all the good she deserves in this life.

3. She is strong enough

One of the most important things fathers should teach their daughters is that they are strong enough to live and overcome difficulties. She should be confident in her abilities and not to be afraid of failure. Teach her that sometimes she will face ups and downs, but she can’t let the fear stop her from trying something. Nowadays the society is full of confident and all-sufficient ladies. There are no more male-oriented principles. Fathers are the people of high authority for their daughters. That’s why they should teach daughters to be physically and mentally strong.

4. She should speak her mind freely

I understand that it is very difficult to overcome the fear and get the freedom to say what you really feel and think. When I was a child I often found myself afraid to ask questions. Later I tried to avoid hurting, disappointing and angering others by my frank feelings and thoughts. Many girls are tender and shy creatures, therefore fathers should help their daughters get rid of hesitation. Teach your daughter speak her mind around the family and let her opinion be heard.

5. She should be self-disciplined

Self-discipline is one of the most important and useful skills everyone should possess. It’s up to you to help your daughter become a self-disciplined personality. Self-discipline means self-control, which is a sign of inner strength and having more in control of your life. The father’s sternness will be enough to teach the daughter to be disciplined. Try not to be a “nice parent” or too harsh with your daughter.

6. She should stand her ground

A father is a person number one who knows how to protect the family in a proper way. I think every person should possess the skill to stand their ground. That’s why fathers have to teach their daughters to defend themselves or the people they love and respect. Life is so unpredictable and full of conflict situations. Women often find it more ladylike to hold their tongue, but sometimes you are to stand your ground by all means.

7. Self-sufficiency

This lesson is going to be one of the most important. Your daughter should realize that she doesn’t depend on a man. The father usually helps, but he shouldn’t act like an ATM machine every time she has problems. You have got to teach your daughter to become financially independent and self-reliant. She doesn’t need a man’s money for everything. Moreover, your daughter should have simple skills to save money and keep up with bills.

8. Self-confidence

Self-confidence is the passport of your daughter to lifetime health and social happiness. It is the foundation of her well-being and the key to success in the future. Every father should tell his daughter that she is the most beautiful and smart lady in the world. It will boost her confidence and make her successful in all life spheres. Every girl wants to be loved and appreciated, especially by dearest and nearest people. Let your daughter become confident and you will surely be proud of her.

9. Real love is unconditional

Nicholas Sparks once said, “What it’s like to be a parent: It’s one of the hardest things you will ever do, but in exchange it teaches you the meaning of unconditional love.” I think every father knows what real unconditional love is, because he already loves his wife and mom, daughters and sisters. Now he has a responsibility to teach his daughter what real love is. It will form the vision of real unconditional feeling in her mind. This way, you will develop and enrich your daughter’s inner world and spirituality.

Your daughter is the best flower of your life. Every father should be strong enough to bring up a confident, self-sufficient and disciplined daughter. What other lessons do you find very important?

Reasons to Eat Breakfast Every Single Day

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there are many undeniable reasons why you should never skip your breakfast no matter what. The most vital reason is because it betters your health. However, your breakfast must be absolutely healthy and it should provide you with the energy and nutrients your body needs for the day. Many of us, myself included, often skip this important meal, but here are 7 reasons why you and I should stop doing it.

1. Eating breakfast daily improves your health

Having a healthy breakfast every single day improves your health, helps regulate the insulin level, reduces the risk of diabetes and lowers the risk of obesity. Making your health a priority is a must, so make sure your breakfast consists of healthy food only. There are many other health benefits of eating a healthy breakfast daily, keep reading…

2. Boosts your energy levels

Eating your breakfast every single day sets the stage for a good mood. A great number of studies have shown that people who eat their breakfast regularly have more energy and a better mood throughout the day. Just ensure you make a healthy choice such as egg whites to keep your energy levels high.

3. Boosts your metabolism

Another important reason to eat breakfast daily is because it gives your metabolism a boost. Breakfast is essential if you want to have an active metabolism. Studies show that people who don’t eat breakfast often eat more calories throughout the day, thus they gain weight faster. Do you really want it?

4. Fuels your exercise

Depending on the time of your workout and your workout level, eating before you exercise is very helpful. I always eat breakfast before workout, especially if it’s a high intensity extended workout such as a distance run or long interval training. I suggest you try exercising with and without breakfast and see the difference. I get up at 5:30 in the morning every day and I really enjoy having my breakfast and working out early in the morning. But sometimes I don’t feel like eating so early in the morning. In this case, I eat an apple before I exercise and it also helps fuel my workout. Give it a try!

5. Helps lose weight

If you are trying to lose those unwanted pounds, you should never skip your breakfast. Again, studies prove that those who have a healthy breakfast daily lose weight quicker. However, you should avoid eating a sugar laden cereal or sugary donut for breakfast. Opt for lean protein such as scrambled egg whites, egg whites, or oatmeal.

6. Improves brain function

One of the most wonderful health benefits of having breakfast is that it improves your brain function. This means you are more alert, you think clearer, and you are more effective. Breakfast is incredibly easy to make, so why we skip it? Just wake up earlier, make an egg white omelet, a healthy green shake or just boil some eggs, and you will feel much better during the day.

7. Helps you eat healthier throughout the day

When you consume protein for breakfast, it keeps you full for longer and helps set the stage for a happy and healthy day. Many people feel hungry after eating breakfast because their breakfast is unhealthy. But when you make the healthier choice, 2 hours after breakfast, an apple will be everything you’ll want to eat for a snack and you won’t even think of eating that sugar laden cereal bar.

Now that you’re aware of the reasons to eat breakfast every day, make sure you begin your day with a healthy breakfast. Do you know any other things that I should have added to my list? What do you usually eat for breakfast?

Great Reasons to Ignore People’s Comments

This challenging world is full of criticism and it’s very difficult to perceive other people’s comments and opinions. The main thing is to ignore what others think and say about you; otherwise it can hold you back in life. Moreover, a negative comment from someone can affect your mood if you care too much about it. On the other hand, if you care about what other people think about you in a healthy way, you can gain valuable feedback and become all-rounded. I hope these 7 reasons will help you realize that there is no need to get caught in an endless loop about people’s comments.

1. It’s not about you

You should remember that not all things that others may say or think are really about you. Other people’s words and comments are just their personal vision of the situation. Moreover, there are a lot of ill-bred and inexperienced people who are used to criticize things they don’t know. You cannot change the perception and the state of mind of negative people. So, you should ignore the negative comments and destructive words, which can ruin your day.

2. Take the nuggets of truth

Another idea is to sift through the comments and analyze what is truth and what is a lie. Only you can analyze and judge the info, because you know yourself better than anyone else. If you are a self-critical person, then you can learn some useful things from these comments. If not, then try to ignore these emotional attacks and go on with your day.

3. People tend to share their bad mood

Nowadays many people tend to damp someone’s spirits if they have a bad day. You should realize that there is nothing personal, but the product of one’s bad day. Maybe they have got up on the wrong side of the bed or missed their morning coffee. If you’ve noticed that your workmate is in a bad mood, you should stay reasonable and don’t take their negative words and comments too hard. Just enjoy your day!

4. One person – one opinion

The opinion of your negative co-worker isn’t the voice of the whole planet. Nowadays there are more than 7 billion people on earth. That’s why you should stop worrying and wasting time. If you are very sensitive and vulnerable person, then one negative comment will be enough to ruin your day. You should try to ignore other people’s comments.

5. Rude and crazy people

This world is full of crazy and rude people. They don’t have the slightest idea on how to make a polite conversation and often end up hurting people around by their rude comments. The only way is to disregard the opinions of such people. Never ever try to justify yourself. If they resort to comments, nothing you say will make a difference, so don’t even try. Stay away from such people as far as possible. Try to listen to the words of supportive and level-headed people.

6. Only you know who you are

You should remember that you are the only one who knows your nature, beliefs, traditions and values. If a stranger doesn’t like your values, you shouldn’t worry about this fact, because it’s absolutely normal. Tastes differ, that’s why many people have different visions of the world, upbringing and level of personal development. You should practice being open-minded instead of defensive about negative words and comments of others. Such life approach will help you improve yourself and learn how to deal with criticism.

7. Don’t let others ruin your day

It’s up to you if you let them ruin your day, or if you learn to stand up for yourself and accept yourself just the way you are. Don’t let other people’s comments change your mood. If you cannot avoid rude comments addressed to you, then keep your cool and respond with politeness. Joel Osteen once said, “When someone is rude, keep a smile on your face. When you stay on the high road and keep your joy, you take away their power.”

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once said an interesting thing, “I pay no attention whatever to anybody’s praise or blame. I simply follow my own feelings.” This has become my life moto. How can negative comments affect your mood? What do you usually do to keep yourself away from negative comments?

Easy Ways to Eat a Low-Carb Breakfast

Whether you are trying to lose weight or just want to eat healthier in the morning, there are many health benefits of having a low-carb breakfast. Researches have shown that beginning the day out with more protein than carbohydrates can prevent fatigue, boost mental focus, curb sugar cravings, suppress appetite, better insulin levels and increase lean body mass. Plus, it can also help lose weight. Here are a few easy ways to eat a low-carb breakfast.

1. Smoothies

If you usually start your day with a healthy smoothie, make it even healthier by using ¼ cup fruit. Add cucumber, stevia, spinach, and a dash of cocoa powder to your smoothie to make it sweeter. When choosing fruits for your smoothie, make sure you use low sugar berries such as blackberries, raspberries and acai instead of banana.

2. Oatmeal

If you are an oatmeal junkie like me, you probably start your day with a warm bowl of oatmeal. When it comes to oatmeal, one of the best ways to eat a low-carb breakfast is to use ¼ cup oats rather than ½ cup and cook them with egg whites and almond milk (or coconut flour and chia seeds if you are vegan) in order to thicken your oatmeal up. It will lower the carb content and boost the protein content at the same time.

3. Veggies

Veggies boast plenty of health benefits so it’s definitely worth adding them to your breakfast. Add some leafy greens to your morning smoothie or toss some peppers or asparagus into your eggs. Veggies are high in fiber that helps lower your blood sugar and control insulin surges that cause weight gain.

4. Eggs

Eggs are a great food that you can use to make your low-carb breakfast. In case you don’t like whole eggs, you can use only the whites by pouring them in your smoothie or just stir them into your oatmeal. They are rich in protein, they are tasteless, and they can help you reduce your sugar cravings in no time!

5. Protein powder

A protein powder is really helpful for making a low-carb breakfast. Opt for a high quality protein powder that doesn’t contain sugar, artificial ingredients, and that is low in carbs and fat. You can stir it into your oatmeal, add a little to your smoothie, or bake with it instead of flour to make pancakes and muffins.

6. Coffee

If you can’t imagine your morning without a cup of coffee, keep it to only one cup. While one cup of coffee a day can improve insulin, a few cups can spike insulin levels just like sugar can. You might want to consider drinking green tea instead of coffee.

7. Avoid cream and sugar

One of the easiest ways to eat a low-carb breakfast is to add unsweetened coconut or almond milk to your coffee instead of cream and use stevia in place of sugar. For a morning mocha, try adding a dash of cocoa powder.

Eating a low-carb breakfast isn’t as difficult as you might think. When made right, a low-carb breakfast can be incredibly satisfying and delicious! Moreover, you don’t have to count those unwanted calories. Having a high protein breakfast is actually one of the best things to do for your health. Do you eat a low-carb breakfast?

A Year with Google Glass Will Turn You Into an Obnoxious Monster

What happens when you spend a year wearing Google Glass? People find you awkward and weird, and you learn to hate your phone.

Wired's Mat Honan spent the last year wearing Google's wearable technology at every available opportunity, and his biggest takeaway was that people find wearable technology very, very weird. "Again and again, I made people very uncomfortable. That made me very uncomfortable," says Honan.

Honan found Glass was inappropriate for all manner of social situations, like eating dinner, commuting, and helping his wife give birth to their second child. Even his coworkers at Wired, the geekiest magazine on the newsstand, made fun of him for wearing Glass.

Glass was also not welcome at his oldest child's school, "because sometimes it scares children," which is exactly the kind of press Google wants you to read.

That's why, for now, defeating the social and economic obstacles of wearing an ugly $1,500 computer is nearly impossible. "Glass is a class divide on your face,"according to Honan. Despite the splashy launch, Google has had to fight the social backlash against wearable technology since Glass debuted earlier this year. Besidesthe undeniable aesthetic problems, sometimes people threaten to beat up Glass users.

But Honan's year with Glass did yield one significant benefit. Disconnecting from the Internet was a popular trend story in 2013, and now there's a backlash brewingagainst our addiction to phones. "Backlash against cell phones won’t arrive until we understand the real problem," Robert Lanham wrote for the Awl recently. "Cell phones have made us dull." Which is precisely what Glass did for Honan. Glass helped Honan realize "what a monster I have become," for spending too much time on his phone:

Glass kind of made me hate my phone — or any phone. It made me realize how much they have captured our attention. Phones separate us from our lives in all sorts of ways. Here we are together, looking at little screens, interacting (at best) with people who aren’t here. Looking at our hands instead of each other. Documenting instead of experiencing.

Glass sold me on the concept of getting in and getting out. Glass helped me appreciate what a monster I have become, tethered to the thing in my pocket. I’m too absent.

We are all guilty of this now — standing in a group at a bar where everyone has a drink in one hand, phone in the other, and there are routine breaks in the conversation for everyone to check Twitter. Friends checking out to send an email or a text message, or just to check Instagram, Snapchat, Tinder or anything else we can do on these little wonders of technology

Though Honan isn't entirely sure that Glass is the answer to this problem. "Can yet another device make me more present?" he asks. "Or is it just going to be another distraction? ... I have no idea." But the important thing is Honan acknowledged he was spending too much time on his phone instead of interacting with humans.

Is a reckoning against smartphones coming? Probably not. There are too many phones now, and they're too integrated into every part of our lives. But expect the "I abandoned my smartphone for a dumb phone and got my groove back in the process" to be the regressive tech trend story of 2014.

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