Are You The Black Sheep Of The Family? 7 Ways To Handle It

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black sheep of the family FI

You’ve heard people describe themselves (or others) as the “black sheep of the family.” It’s not usually a compliment.

But the way they describe it sure sounds familiar. 

Being the black sheep of the family doesn’t mean you’re never included or that your parents changed the locks when you “finally crossed the line” (though that’s true for some). 

The exclusion doesn’t have to be physical or absolute to affect your relationships and mental health.

You don’t have to be “the worst” to be the family outcast. 

You just have to stand out in a way they don’t like. 

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13 Ways To Know When To Walk Away After Infidelity

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walk away after infidelity FI

Most people struggle with the decision to get a divorce or end an unmarried partnership.

Even when infidelity occurs, the decision is not always immediate or easy. 

You'll start by wondering, “Can a marriage survive an affair?”

The answer depends on the people and what happened.

Every relationship involves two unique people. Their personalities, behaviors, and emotions will direct the outcomes. 

Some spouses recover from infidelity, and some don't.

As you evaluate your relationship, you'll have to judge whether you see signs that you should walk away.

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What To Look For In A Man: 31 Qualities Of A Good Man

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qualities of a good man FI

Are you looking for a good man? Do you know what to look for?

Dating and finding long-term love involves some forethought.

With something as significant as dating and marriage, you want to figure out what you value in a partner.

You naturally want love and companionship, but you shouldn’t compromise on things that matter to you.

Knowing what you want empowers you to make strategic choices that could lead to a satisfying and happy relationship.

What to look for in a guy varies a little according to individual tastes, but some things stand out as the best qualities in a man.

Read MoreWhat To Look For In A Man: 31 Qualities Of A Good Man

27 Top Signs Of An Unhealthy Relationship

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couple sitting at sunset, unhealthy relationship

How is your love relationship going? Is it more happy than unhappy — or is it the opposite?

When your love relationship is unhealthy and unhappy, it infects your entire life and your mental health.

Fortunately, there are plenty of resources and options to help couples in an unhealthy relationship — from courses to counseling.

But sometimes we don't recognize the signs of real trouble, even though we feel deeply unhappy, lonely, or confused.

It can also be hard to admit to ourselves and others that our relationship is anything less than perfect.

Acknowledging the problems forthrightly and seeking help to learn better relationship skills (or decide to end the relationship) is the only way to find peace of mind and regain happiness.

Quick note: Are you feeling drained and worn down from living with a verbal abuser? Check out this resource that can help you discover all the signs of emotional abuse.

Read More27 Top Signs Of An Unhealthy Relationship

9 Compelling Characteristics Of A Hero

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characteristics of a hero FI

Anyone who does anything remotely positive seems to get labeled a hero in the media lately.

They are undoubtedly great people, but the word hero has long been reserved for someone who does something extraordinary.

The qualities of a hero must arouse admiration or even awe.

The word hero derives from the ancient Greek word heros, which held a meaning related to protecting people.

These ancient roots still matter today, although the definition of a hero has evolved in modern times.

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75 Rainy Day Date Ideas To Salvage Your Plans For Fun

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rainy date ideas FI

You and your partner are thinking about where to go for a date when it suddenly starts raining.

Ah, rain… Romantics everywhere agree: A rainy day date is quite dreamy, isn’t it?

Well, it may be in The Notebook or Breakfast at Tiffany’s but, in real life, we paint a completely different picture.

When you think about a date, a rainy day definitely isn’t your go-to setting. After all, shivering in the cold with wet feet and ruined hair totally kills the mood.

Read More75 Rainy Day Date Ideas To Salvage Your Plans For Fun

13 Signs Of A One-Sided Friendship

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signs of a one sided friendship FI

Are you starting to feel as if your friendship is taking more than it is giving you?

You willingly go the extra mile when your friend sends an SOS signal.

Yet, when it’s your time to ask for help, he or she is suddenly too busy to care.

Also, somewhere along the way, you’re the only one sending messages and planning get-togethers when you miss your friend.

Unfortunately, your friend’s hot and cold behavior often means that you’re stuck in a one-sided friendship.

It’s a relationship where you play the role of an attentive listener, advisor, and helper whenever the situation arises.

Your friend, on the other hand, is only on the receiving end.

Does any of this sound familiar?

Read More13 Signs Of A One-Sided Friendship

How To Get Your Life Together

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get your life together new FI

Do you ever feel like your life is spiraling out of control — as though you’re running around in circles with no clue about what you’re supposed to be doing?

We’ve all been there at some point in our lives, and it’s an unsettling, painful place to be.

When you’re caught in this trap of confusion, it feels impossible to take the first step to extricate yourself.

But that’s the thing about life — it’s overwhelming and difficult, but at the same time it presents you with a unique opportunity to gain clarity as you grow and evolve.

If you’re feeling stuck and want to make some changes, these 25 strategies show you how to get your life together so you can feel confident and happy again.

Read MoreHow To Get Your Life Together