I am currently a 1st year commercial banking analyst at a bulge bracket Bank on our tax-exempt team (municipalities, tax-exempt entities). I love the tax-exempt world and am not interested in any other coverage groups. I love going on MSRB and reading official statements, or reading a states's general statute on how bonds can be issued by municipalities. I'm weird like that. a good portion of the work I do is similar to our own PF team, except our functions are just different.
But I'm interested in switching to PF for 2 reasons.
1) I'm looking for a pay bump alongside a more credit-focused position. I make about 75k as of now, and could make upwards of 115k by switching (I understand hours are more). I'm also not entirely loving my current role - I'm very analytical and good with numbers. But because my program is rotational, I'm no longer in a credit facing role, and will do (what I consider) mind numbing treasury and relationship management work for the next 2 years. I'm also not guaranteed to place in a credit role when placing as associate, either, so there is risk.
2) I'm not happy in my current city. It's a smaller mid-Atlantic city, which I've lived in for 5 years now. My vibe just doesn't match this city, and I feel like I'm just coasting here. I want move to NYC, and I feel very strongly about it after mulling pros and cons for ~6 months. I've also had 6 trips there so far this year (both working and for fun), so it's not ill informed. Most of my best college friends also live there. None in my current city.
However, I'm cautious to leave my current bank because:

• It's my dream bank. I see working there as laying the foundations for a future career in public service given its prestige. I'm also not worried about exit ops given my career goals, which I understand PF is not known for.
• The potential consequences of leaving 1 year early - will there be burned bridges? Will it reflect bad in the future? Will my current employer find out I'm looking? Obviously I would handle everything professionally.

For what it's worth, my manager says it's possible to move to NYC when I rotate later this year for Analyst 2, but that I should bet on relocating when I become associate in mid 2026. For me, that is too late to move there. I have one life and want to live there at this age. Even then, it's not guaranteed I will be placed in NYC, nor is it guaranteed I will be in the same coverage group in Analyst 2 or associate.
What would you all do?

I think that to be able to understand, they have to experience it themselves. My stimuli to activities are always zero, or close to zero. That normal mortals don't seem to understand, is that their interest is backed by reward. Even if they think that an activity is boring for them, they still get an good handful of stimuli. Even if the activity is hell for them, they can have other things that motivates them, like "when I am done I am gonna do something that I like", or "Maybe I don't like this, but I need to do it to reach my goal that I really want to achieve."
So even when an activity is absolutely boring, there are still factors that can trigger motivation. The problem is that the least stimuli a normal person can experience is still alot away from absolute zero, but they think that it is. But I think that the level below where we are, is on a level of non-stimuli that they are not able to process.
I am on a level where the stimuli is almost non-existant. That makes me feel an strong discust from doing anything. A level of so little stimuli that it isn't just boring, its literally torture. I remember before I got sick, or in one of these few short windows I have had with less anhedonia. When I am on my worst I am not even able to visualise how it feels to feel normal. But I remember that even if I don't even feel motivation or interest in my activities, as long as I feel a slight feeling of comfort, the act gets 10x easier to do. Comfort I can experience even if I read the most boring book in the world. But at the level that I am normally in, I cant even feel that comfort, and without it everything that needs a little effort is torture to do.
I tried a new stimulant today that actually worked on my baseline and comfort. No motivation, but maybe a slight interest. I did some smalltalk with a friend. The most meaningless non interesting conversation that a man can have. Either way it felt so chill and relaxing. It was so pleasant and stimulating. I get surprised every time. I cant visualise how it feels to enjoy life anymore. All I know is that the reward system makes meaning in things that doesn't mean a shit, and I want it.
Wich that my doctor could understand that not experiancing stimuli is not just some situation where you feel bored. It makes everything in life to feel meaningless.

Howdy, folks!
I'm finally getting to play PF2E from the other side of the DM screen! My DM is running a homebrew rendition of Strixhaven and I've decided to play a Cosmos Oracle with the Astrologer background that is attending the school in order to develop his knowledge of magic and the cosmos, and to restore the reputation of his noble house through his academic excellence. I'm looking for some advice on how to build him to suit his story and not be too gimped, but he's definitely not optimized.
School
He's likely to go Silverquill while dabbling in Prismari and Quandrix, but I'm not 100% sure. He's got the ambition and drive for Silverquill, and his primary skills will be Deception and Diplomacy which suit, but he's a softboi that will struggle in the cutthroat competition. Could make for some good character development, of course. On the other hand, he's a very artistic soul with proficiency in Performance which suits Prismari. It still fits Silverquill since they're artsy too, and his art is focused around music and poetry, so this isn't a strong draw but it's there. Lastly is Quandrix, which actually has Astronomy as a major. That's the crux of his education, but that doesn't mean he has to be a Quandrix student, does it?
Domain
I'm drawn to Moon for a couple reasons. Firstly, Moonbeam isn't a powerful Focus spell but it is a damage die upgrade from Divine Lance with a chance to Dazzle, which is in theme with Spray of Stars and doesn't push his Curse so he'll have an offensive option to burn Focus if he's ever Overwhelmed or on the cusp. Secondly, even with +3 INT I'm really strapped for skills in order to accomplish everything I want him to be able to do. He's got every knowledge skill as a highly educated nepo-baby along with Deception, Diplomacy, and Performance for his core Face duties, but I also want to give him Craft because he's actually dead broke due to his house's decline and has to sew his own clothes to keep up the facade of prosperity. However, picking Craft means I don't have a spare point to throw at Stealth which feels necessary if I go with the other Domain, Darkness.
Cloak of Shadow is quite good, and for an Elf Oracle with -1 CON and +2 DEX, being able to Hide whenever and wherever will really help him stay alive in combat. The problem is I have to sacrifice Craft, which isn't a huge deal but a bit of a roleplay loss, and him being trained in Stealth is hard to justify for a noble whose whole job is to be in the public eye. TBH I'm really just looking for validation on choosing the RP over the mechanics, which I'm doing a ton already but I worry I'm going too far and could be a straight up liability.
Level 2 Class Feat
Cantrip Expansion is great. He's starting out with Divine Lance, Guidance, Message, Read the Air, and Stabilize at level 1, and for level 2 I'm thinking he'll start taking combat training more seriously in his early schooling and pick up Forbidding Ward and Shield. Add on Heal, Command, and Sanctuary and he can stay relatively safe supporting his allies without relying on Stealth.
Alternatively, Divine Aegis is normally pretty lackluster but since we're in Strixhaven, where he's surrounded by spellcasters, this seems like a uniquely suitable situation for it to really shine. I could perhaps achieve the same support combo from level 1 by sacrificing other options, but I'm not sure what to drop. Divine Lance and Guidance are staples for a reason, and make perfect sense for RP. Message is just too good to pass up, especially in this setting where subterfuge will be quite useful. Read the Air is arguably superfuous next to Guidance but also very thematic, so I could lose it but I really want it. Lastly, Stabilize is peace of mind for a guy not trained in Medicine and only +1 WIS at level 1. If I were to ditch any of them, it would probably be the last two, but it's a tough call.
Thoughts? Opinions? Scathing rebukes? It should be abundantly clear I'm not minmaxing so don't come at me with that energy, but I am genuinely interested in still being an asset for the party. Thanks!

NOTE: This guide contains a ton of gear and narrative spoilers
Most Sword Bard builds are either focused on either ranged or control + melee/AoE attack styles, and I wanted to explore whether or not it would be possible to take the best of both to make the ultimate martial all around build. This build features Sharpshooter with ranged damage of 20-30 per arrow and GWM + smite damage of 60-120 per single hit by the end game.

Background Theme

The theme for the build is a resisting dark urge, with a desire for redemption to become the champion of Baldurs's Gate. And this theme weaves through the playthrough with items and choices along the journey, for example:

• Getting branded by Priestess Gut and getting Loviatar's Love in at the Goblin Camp
• Saving the Nightsong (and Shadowheart) and forgoing the Spear of the Evening
• Becoming partial illithid in a quest for power
• In a moment of weakness, falling prey to the powers of Bhaal by becoming an Unholy Assassin at the Murder Tribunal, only to later realize that Sarevok and the tribunal must die.
• And finally rejecting Bhaal and giving up the dark urge powers.

Build Overview

The build centers around a combination of Bard and Paladin, with all three feats, for a Level 8 Sword Bard / Level 4 Oath of Vengeance Paladin. Feats are Shapshooter, Great Weapons Master and Tavern Brawler centered around Nyrulna for throwing + smite melee and the Titanstring bow for ranged giving absolute martial authority under almost all circumstances.
In addition to the primary martial strength, you gain the jack of all trades benefits of being a Bard, including exceptional social skills, relatively high charisma, good persuasion, deception, sleight of hand and stealth.
Early game, expect to play like any other dexterity/charisma bard, with the first 6 level progression on Bard alone.

• Focus on ranged fighting style, with enough stealth to dip in and out of battles solo, particularly against large groups like the Goblin Camp, in the Creche and the Gnolls
• Use flourishes, both ranged and melee to hit multiple targets in one round.
• Dual wielding hand crossbows early game.

By the end of Act 1, and with the acquisition of the Gloves of Dexterity in Creche Y'llek,a respec is needed to maximize the benefits of the Titanstring and the build plays like a ranged beast through all of the mid-game.
After level 6 of Bard, we begin to level into Paladin, which opens the door for the character to start building up melee power. Truth be told, I may have respec'ed a few times between levels 6-10 trying a few things on for size, but the most effective strategy mid-game was:

• Titanstring with Sharpshooter and Gloves of Dexterity for ranged flourishes and multiple Bard attacks that came online at level 6.
• Dual wield shortswords like Knife of the Undermountain King for smites (starting at level 8 - SSB 6/Pal 2) and melee flourishes.

By Act 3 and the late game, and with the acquisition of Nyrulna from the Djinni at the Circus of the Last Days in Rivington,the martial melee power took center stage, with ranged flourishes still very powerful, but no longer the primary attack strategy. And by level 12 and the end game, you have the choice between throwing Nyrulna for AoE or Slashing Flourish for specific ranged attacks.
Philosophically, the build is focused on fast nova damage to overwhelm a larger group by decimating them in the first 2 turns. High movement is key, we're always looking to surprise enemies, and taking advantage of stealth and invisibility to duck in and out of battle for the occasional "oh shit" moment or recharge of bardic inspiration.

Leveling Guide & Feats

As noted earlier, this build really doesn't come online until level 6, more so at level 8+. Prior to that, you're just an average ranged or melee bard, your choice. The end game goal is Level 8 College of Swords Bard / Level 4 Oath of Vengeance (or Oathbreaker) Paladin.
Race choices include Wood Elf, High Elf, Duegar Dwarf, Half Orc, Gnome or Halfling. I've always opted for one of the elves, primary because of movement speed. The fighting style that has evolved for me throughout multiple solo runs now is that you are often fighting in retreat, and movement is key to manage this. If you're playing this as part of a party, movement is less important.
Levels 1-6 - Bard

• Start at level 1 as a Bard with STR 8, DEX 17, CON 14, INT 8, WIS 10, CHA 16, and you should expect to respec at least once. Select Minor Illusion and Friends for Cantrips if doing a solo run, with a strong case to also be made for Mage Hand. If not for a solo, you have other options here. Longstrider is a key spell as well. For skills, optimize Persuasion (or Deception), Sleight of Hand, Stealth, and Performance, in that order. I chose Persuasion, Sleight of Hand and Stealth.
• At level 3, choose College of Swords. For spells, consider Invisibility, Cloud of Daggers (for some vital early AOE on a solo run), and Hold Person. You can also swap an existing spell slot here to get two of those three. Choose Two-Weapon Fighting for fighting style.
• At level 4, choose Sharpshooter for your first feat.

I recommend a respec as soon as you are able to purchase the Gloves of Dexterity, which for me happens usually around level 4 or 5 somewhere. When you do, choose STR 17, DEX 8, CON 14, INT 8, WIS 10, CHA 16.
Levels 7-8 - Paladin

• At level 7, start with your first Paladin level. I chose Oath of Vengenance.
• At level 8, choose either Defense or Great Weapon Fighting as your fighting style. At this point in the game, I was playing with dual wielded shortswords with Knife of the Undermountain King as primary, but you could also play with Halberd of Vigilance, Mourning Frost or some other two handed weapon. Melee is less important still at this point, since we chose Sharpshooter as our first feat and primary fighting style. This is really about your secondary melee damage dealing, so whatever you prefer for the mid-game.

Levels 9-10 - Bard
We're really just marching towards that second feat here. Choose whatever you want for spells, I like Freedom of Movement, Greater Invisibility, Fear, Hypnotize. For this build, spells are tertiary to ranged and melee damage, so the focus should be on enhancements and prep spells for battle, not in battle casting against enemies.

• At level 10, level 8 bard, grab the Great Weapons Master feat. By this time in the game, we have picked up Nyrulna and have a lot of spell slots for smites. This is where the melee part of this build really shines and starts to outpace the already amazing ranged archer. NOTE: If you chose Defense at level 8, respec to choose Great Weapon Fighting.

Levels 11-12 - Paladin
Again, we're marching to our third feat but you can pick up some great Paladin support and control spells like Command, Bless, Protection from Good and Evil, and additional smites.

• At level 12, level 4 Paladin, get the Tavern Brawler feat and put your ability point in Constitution (kid of doesn't matter, I'll explain in a bit). I thought about getting Savage Attacker here for maximizing crits on smites, or even an ASI into Strength, but ultimately wanted the flexibility of using Nyrulna as a solid throwing option and I'm glad I did. I might go back and try the other two options at some point.

Gear Guide

Not extensive, but I'll list out the important items I picked up and used along the way, but place an asterisk by absolutely essential items
Early Act 1

• Ring of Protection* - Worn pretty much the entire game, best ring in the game IMO (don't @ me)
• Titanstring Bow* - the build revolves around this bow
• Doom Hammer* - Absolutely essential for any solo of Myrkul to prevent healing from Reaper's Reward ability.
• Amulet of Misty Step
• Gloves of Archery
• Crusher's Ring
• Haste Helm

Late Act 1

• Gloves of Dexterity* - Essential to the build, worn throughout the game since the build was based on dumping DEX in the spec.
• DeathStalker's Mantle* - Durge item only, essential to the build to go invisible after a kill.
• Boots of Speed* - Worn pretty much throughout the game, I almost feel are essential for a solo run. These are top 3 items for me all game for any solo run.
• Periapt of Wound Closure* - Essential for me mid-game to have healing potions max heal. I wore throughout act 2.
• Club of Hill Giant Strength - This was essential before Gloves of Dex purchase
• Disintegrating Night Walkers
• Knife of the Undermountain King
• Mourning Frost
• Unseen Menace
• Caustic Band

Act 2

• Risky Ring* - I wore this most of the game as well, with some situational exceptions
• Cloak of Protection* - This was swapped out situationally with the Deathstalker's Mantle throughout the game, really the only two cloaks I used.
• Darkfire Shortbow - used situationally for fire/cold resistance
• Killer's Sweetheart
• Helmet of Arcane Acuity - used surprisingly little, but had to mention

Act 3

• Nyrulna* - Essential to the build, couldn't do this one without it unless you went full evil and did Shar's Spear of the Evening, but that goes against the theme here.
• Bhaalist Armor* - Essential to the build to get the smite damage maximized from Nyrulna.
• Sarevok's Horned Helmet*
• Helm of the Balduran*
• Amulet of Greater Health*
• Band of Mystic Scoundrel - used surprisingly little, but had to mention

End Game items

• Sarevok's Helm
• Bhaalist Armor
• Cloak of Protection
• Boots of Speed
• Gloves of Dexterity
• Ring of Protection
• Risky Ring
• Amulet of Greater Health
• Nyrulna
• Titanstring Bow

Buffs and Enhancements

• Hag's Hair went to Strength - 17 base + 1 = 18 Strength
• Brand of the Absolute and Loviatar's Love
• Volo's Eye
• Necromancy of Thay, both buffs
• Awakened Illithid powers
• Potion of Everlasting Vigor - 18 STR + 2 = 20 Strength
• Partial Illithid, because flying!
• Githrazei Mind Barrier
• Arabella's Shadow Entanglement
• Tharacite Vigor
• Anointed in Splendor
• Statue of myself buff
• Mirror of Loss - 20 STR = 2 = 22 Strength

Other Misc Tactics and Potions

I used Potion of Speed, Elixir of Bloodlust, Elixir of Viciousness, Invisibility, and various posions/toxins for weapon dipping throughout the game. Bloodlust was easily the most important for a solo run, I tried to put it on after as many long rests as possible, followed closely by speed potions and invisibility on a per battle basis. Buy Hyena Ears and Worg Fangs every time you see them.
I stocked up on tons of scrolls along the way, the most important of which were Haste, Remove Curse, Misty Step, Fireball, Lightning (+Chain), Mirror Image, Invisibility, Cone of Cold or other large AOE high level spells.
FOOTNOTE: Thanks for reading this far. I've played through the game now like 12 times or so, with one successful honor run, and the last 3 of which were solo runs on Tactician. The solo runs were inspired by Friendly Lich and his blade warlock: https://www.reddit.com/BG3Builds/comments/1cmn6sb/a_warlock_pact_of_the_blade_multiclass_for_solo/
This resisting the dark urge run was my favorite playthrough so far, for both the narrative storyline, and how it played thematically into this build, with the choices between good and evil waffling back and forth along the way, ultimately leading to redemption. I think this is the best story arc of BG3.
I've considered a couple of other options for this build that I'd like to experiment with in the future, including ditching one of the feats and adding one level of War Cleric to get Sanctuary and Guidance. I will not lie, I save scummed a few times along the way and Guidance and Sanctuary would have helped me a bunch in those situations. However, it was rewarding to get the full martial with Tavern Brawler on Nyrulna in the end, will report back if I end up tinkering. Suggestions welcome!

My hands are shaking as I write this, I have to document my story incase something happens to me in the next few days. I'm not sure where to begin but I suppose here is better than anywhere.
I've always had this weird feeling, this sensation inside of me that I was older than I actually was. By the time I was twelve, my soul felt as though it was forty. By the time I reached twenty, I felt like an old woman. I would watch people around my age acting foolish, and I always thought, "What a bunch of children." So it was no surprise to anyone that when I turned twenty-one, I left my hometown and college and decided to spend the summer alone by renting an old farmhouse in an insignificant town on the edge of an even more insignificant border.
When I told my mother, she had a veritable fit, unable to find the words. She spluttered and raged around me for days before I finally left early one morning to avoid her guilt and frustration with my choices. I was not sure why I craved solitude at such a young age, why I found solace in being alone and removed from society.
In high school, I had changed unexpectedly, cutting my long blonde hair short and dying it black, getting piercings that my mother loathed and claimed no young lady should have. You see, my mother was raised proper, as she called it. Good family, good husband, and finally a good life. She despised her perfect life being squashed by my alternative looks and feelings of the same world. She just didn't understand me or the world as it changed around her. I felt like I was just a trophy to her and my father, her perfect angel who had been tainted by my own demented thoughts.
I never told my parents where I was staying, one last rebellious mission before leaving for a few months, and it took me only a few hours to arrive at the farmhouse where I would be staying for the next few months. The land around the farm was dead or dying, old crops rose out of the dry dusty earth and had turned black and forgotten, as if this land was the example of dreams long forgotten and empty. A single dreary lane connected this desolate farmhouse to the rest of the world. On the outside, it was drab and looked as though it would fall apart. It had two stories but still seemed cramped and small, as if it were a single floor tied to the ground.
Across from the house, bordering the tall weeds that had reclaimed much of the farmland, stood a maudlin-looking faded red barn, one door propped open in a dejected manner revealing naught to me but shadows, dust, and a little mystery.
Next to the barn, staked into the ground on an old-looking cross, was a ragged scarecrow. It had drab brown clothing, but its face was oddly realistic, like it was watching me with a disapproving manner. Straw poked through its joints at odd angles like they were trying to break free from their confines. The scarecrow obviously didn't do its job as it was covered in no less than three crows.
I parked my car next to the barn and stepped out into the dusty yard before the farmhouse that I would make my home for the next few months. I checked under the front mat for the key and put it in the lock.
With a satisfying click, the door fell inward into the farmhouse. Surprisingly, the inside of the farmhouse was modern, clean, and looked quite inviting. I could smell the fresh paint on the walls, and everything was so white. The realtor had told me she would stop by tomorrow to collect the rent, and she had tried to chat my ear off on the phone about all the renovations she and her son were doing on the place.
I sighed with contentment and tossed my bags beside the door. I dug around in my bag and removed my camera, my father's old film shooter as he called it. I had taken up the hobby years ago for what I called capturing the oddity in the world.
I explored the small house a little more; the ground floor consisted of a single room and small bathroom with a shower. The bedroom was upstairs and was the only room, the stairs connected directly to the white and pink monstrosity that was the master bedroom. The pillows had laces on them and almost made me gag from the cuteness. There was even cute white lace curtains on the window with little flowers stitched onto them.
Out of the only window of the room, I could see the barn and the scarecrow. I aimed my camera at the pair and snapped a photo. From this angle, the scarecrow appeared to be staring straight at me. It stood next to the left side of the barn in a dejected manner like a chastised child.
A shudder involuntarily ran through me at the sight, but I moved on back downstairs. It was getting close to dinner time now, and I had brought some food with me.
After a few minutes, I had my dinner on the stove cooking and the crickets chirping outside the open window. As I sat down to eat next to the window, I felt at peace for one of the first times in years. The solitude of this old farm was exactly what I needed. The window supplied a nice breeze that wafted through the place, it smelled of grass and warm summer nights, made me feel at peace. The simple dish of spaghetti with tomato sauce and a glass of wine was all that I needed right here, right now in this moment.
That night I climbed into the frilly laced bed and sunk into the claustrophobic mattress. I felt like Goldilocks in the mama bear's bed as it was altogether too soft. From my perfumed bed, I had a good view out the window. I had left the porch light on, and it cast an eerie glow across the yard. The barn loomed ominously, stalwart against the light of the porch, like it was protecting the shadows from the battering ram of light. The somber scarecrow leaned against the left side of the barn.
With a small jump, I thought I saw its arm move slightly. I peered through my camera using the zoom to get a better view of the scarecrow. It was completely still in the night, and I laughed quietly to myself at my silliness. I had always enjoyed horror movies, but there was no chance I was living in one. I settled back into bed and put my camera down. Within a few minutes, I fell into sleep's warm embrace.
What felt like only a few minutes later, I sat up in bed. It was still dark out, I could hear crickets chirping through the open window, and I strained my ears for a moment.
I thought something had woken me up. I felt a cold shiver run down my spine as a cold breeze wafted in through the window. I pulled the frilly blanket up around myself when I heard it. A thud sounded below me, shaking the whole world into silence. The crickets stopped chirping, and my heart felt like it had stopped beating. Someone was in the house. I hadn't locked the door or closed the kitchen window, and now someone was downstairs. A second thud sounded like a boot on the staircase. Then another and another as something was slowly moving up the stairs towards the room.
I don't know why I did it, but something came over me. I wasn't big or especially brave, but my normal cowardice in social situations changed instantly. With a dash, I tore across the room, flicking on the lights, ready to face my attacker, to defend myself against male or female. I would fight, and I would win.
But as the lights turned on, ready to strike with my foot, nothing was there. The staircase was empty, and upon further inspection, the entire house was empty. The kitchen window was open, and I shut and locked it securely before checking the door. Nothing. I sat down on the couch, my heart pounding out of my chest, as I tried to make sense of what had just happened.
"I must have still been half-asleep," I said aloud to the room in a thinly veiled attempt to calm my nerves. It failed horribly, but I went with it. What else could you do in a situation like that?
After locking up the house, I went back up to that frilly four-poster bed in the bedroom and stared out the window. Nothing was in the yard except my car, the barn, and the same old sad-looking scarecrow staring across the yard.
Day 2
The next morning, I woke up to the soft light filtering through the lace curtains. Despite the strange events of the previous night, I felt strangely refreshed, as if the morning sun had chased away the shadows that lingered in my mind.
I descended the stairs, the wooden steps creaking softly under my weight, and headed to the kitchen. As I brewed a pot of coffee, my mind wandered back to the events of last night. Was it just a figment of my imagination, or was there really someone in the house?
Shaking off the unease, I decided to explore the farmhouse in the daylight. I wandered through the room, admiring the modern renovations that clashed with the rustic exterior. The farmhouse had a charm to it, despite its eerie surroundings.
As I made my way outside, the cool morning air greeted me, and I took a deep breath, letting the serenity of the countryside wash over me. The barn stood tall against the backdrop of the morning sky, and the scarecrow seemed to watch me as I crossed the yard.
I approached the barn, curiosity getting the better of me. Pushing open the creaky door, I stepped inside, the musty scent of hay filling my nostrils. The interior was dimly lit, the sunlight filtering through the cracks in the wooden walls.
I explored every nook and cranny of the barn, but found nothing out of the ordinary. As I turned to leave, something caught my eye. In the corner of the barn, hidden beneath a pile of old blankets, was a small wooden chest.
My heart racing with anticipation, I lifted the lid of the trunk and peered inside. What I found took my breath away. It was a collection of old photographs, yellowed with age, depicting scenes from a bygone era. They were of a man with his family, two young kids, and a beautiful young wife. The man had yellow blonde hair, almost like straw in texture, but he smiled so happily with his family.
I sifted through the photographs, my fingers trembling with excitement. Who had left these behind, and why? Each photograph seemed to tell a story, a glimpse into the past of this forgotten farmhouse.
As I sat there, lost in thought, a sudden noise jolted me back to reality. It was the sound of footsteps coming from outside the barn.
"Hello?" The dreamy voice of a woman called to me from the entrance to the barn.
I slammed the lid of the trunk shut, closing the memories up in a flurry as I spun around to be greeted by a quite pretty woman with blonde hair and a pink suit skirt combo. She had bright pink lipstick, that seemed to be a permanent fixture on her face, and quite shiny and sparkly blue eye shadow on her lids. I myself only wore black eyeliner. This woman was like Barbie in her proportions, thin waist, long hair, and large tracts of land, as my father would have said.
"Oh, hello," I said simply, always awkward in normal social situations.
If she noticed anything odd about me, she breezed over it in an easy manner. Taking me by the shoulders, she led me out of the dusty barn and into the yard.
"You must be Polly. We have been waiting a while for you to come. I simply must know what you think of the renovations to the house. Aren’t they just to die for?" The lady said all in one breath, as if she didn’t need air to speak.
"Yes, they are quite nice..." I started before she cut me off, not in a rude manner but instead in one that she would have continued on even if I had just told her I was not Polly and instead I was a mass murderer looming for my next victim.
"You see, me and my son Eli—yes, Eli, you stop lurking in the shadows over there," she said, continuing on as I noticed a younger man leaning up against the barn. He wore simple clothes of jeans and a white t-shirt but had a handsome face. His hair was brown and hung slightly over his eyes.
"I hope you don’t mind if my son here continues working on some renovations while you stay here? Strictly on the outside of the house, mind you. A fresh coat of white paint would make this little beauty shine. We would have finished by now if not for the accidents," she continued, completely unabashed by my silence.
"Sorry. But you are the realtor?" I said, trying to regain my feet under me.
"Oh my god, I am so sorry, dear!" she said with an affable cackle.
"Yes, yes, I am Barbara, but all my friends call me Barb. That over there is Eli. Eli, come say hi," Barb said while her painted talons rested firmly on my shoulder.
Eli stomped over, keeping his eyes low, in a sort of moody way that actually intrigued me, sort of.
When he glanced up at me, I noticed he drank in me from head to toe, and for the first time, I realized what I was wearing. An old rock t-shirt of one of my favorite bands and, of all things, my black pajama bottoms with cartoon bats on them that said "happy halloween."
I felt my face blush crimson as he made eye contact with me. He had very mysterious eyes of blue that seemed to cut right through my soul.
"Nice shirt," he said while gesturing to me. His voice was quiet and uncertain, as if he didn’t get much practice with the art. Knowing his mother, it seemed highly accurate.
"Thanks. Do you like them?" I asked.
"Oh, he likes all sorts of things, don’t you, Eli? Honestly, you two can gab on forever. But miss, I believe we have a small matter of payment," Barb said, drawing the conversation back to herself.
"Of course. Let me go get it," I said as I went back into the house and retrieved the envelope with the rent money in it.
Barb grabbed the envelope in her bright pink talons and snapped a piece of bubblegum between her teeth. With quick fingers, she leafed through the cash, counting it. As she counted, her normal bubbly personality seemed to disappear, giving way to what I gleaned was her true thoughts and feelings before the facade slipped on once again.
"Mmkay, perfect honey, this is the right amount. Now you have my number, so you call if you need anything. Like I said earlier, Eli will stop by from time to time to work on painting the house. I promise you he won’t be an imposition, just pay him no mind," Barb said in a sweet voice as she popped her gum in between each word.
"Eli, come on, please, I have an appointment in town," Barb said to her son, and they both climbed into a garish pink convertible with jewels hanging from the mirror wrapped in a gold chain.
Barb waved one last time as she sped off out of the driveway, covering me in dust as she spun the wheel around.
With their departure, I went inside and retrieved my camera. I spent a few minutes shooting a few pictures I thought were worthy. I re-entered the barn and pulled the old trunk out into the sunshine. Inside was only a handful of photos, some old clothes, and what looked like some old heirlooms. A beautifully old candlestick and a few leather-bound books lay at the bottom, covered by an old tablecloth. The tablecloth was a nice white with intricate swirling patterns inlaid around the edges.
Why would these things be packed away in here? They were so beautiful. I decided to bring the stuff inside for further inspection. As I lifted the trunk, out of the corner of my eye, I thought I saw something move in the tall grass at the edge of the property. I stared for a minute, but nothing moved again. I must be getting jumpy being alone like this. After last night and then this, I was just imagining things.
I brought the items inside and spread them out. I put the tablecloth on the table, and it hung low to the ground. I placed the candlestick by the window and took out the photos again, spreading them out.
The photos told me a story of a loving family that obviously lived in the farmhouse before me. They had a photo next to the barn, with a brand new looking scarecrow in the back. The man even had his arm around it; it looked so much cleaner and proper in this photo. I stared outside at the sad-looking scarecrow.
I took my camera and the photo and went outside to stand next to the scarecrow. His post hung kind of crooked in the earth like it was weighed down by the scarecrow.
I snapped a photo of the scarecrow as it was, then examined the original photo. I began resettling the post in the ground, but it kept sagging. I decided to pull him out of the ground and move him while I added more dirt to his hole. With some effort, I reseated him into his original hole. He already looked better, but I straightened his clothes and pulled out the last bits of straw that stuck out of his clothes. When I was finished, I looked back at him and took a photo, smiling while I did so at my work.
I then spent some time sweeping the front porch and banging the dust out of the cushions before I curled up on a wicker chair with plump cushions for a few hours reading a book I had brought with me.
I felt quite content at this place. The sounds of the crickets began again, putting me at ease as the sun began to descend. I had spent the entire day just relaxing, and it was perfect. I sat sprawled out in the chair, too lazy to go and make dinner or even move. My bladder was full, but I waited until the last moment before dashing inside and relieving myself.
That's when I noticed it, out in the yard. It seemed as if the scarecrow had moved closer. Once shrouded by the barn slightly, it now had moved a few steps into the light from the porch. My heart dropped at the sight. Not again, I must be asleep on the porch in the chair. I pinched myself, trying to wake up, but all I received was a sore arm.
I closed my eyes, then rubbed them, hoping to dispel whatever plagued my mind, but when I opened my eyes, I noticed the scarecrow was even closer. Halfway across the yard now, it sat menacingly, hanging crooked in the dirt. The scarecrow seemed to be staring at me with an intense gaze. The slits in its face were open now, and in the porch light, I swear I could see human eyes underneath the mask.
I moved towards the front door, locking it in a swift motion. I was shaking now, and it took me a minute to relax. I never took my eyes off the scarecrow for fear of it moving again.
My cellphone was upstairs, so I couldn't flee without the scarecrow moving again. I breathed out slightly and unlocked the door, letting it swing in with a creak. The night outside was silent, as if everything was holding its breath. The usual crickets that plagued me with their song day and night had fallen quiet. I stepped out onto the porch; I needed to go confront this demonic entity. Something about this still made me think this was a prank.
"Eli, is that you?" I called out to the scarecrow.
No response, of course. I steeled myself and put one foot off the porch, never taking my eyes off the scarecrow before me. Something seemed to be dripping from its head as I approached, a dark slime that seemed to be melting from its joints as it stood there silently, except for the constant drip of the liquid on the dry dirt before me.
I walked around the scarecrow, determined to figure out what was going on. As I circled it, my vision darkened for a moment as I faced towards the light of the house. I jumped as the scarecrow's head turned to face me as I looked away. The black liquid drained faster from the being, forming a shallow pool at its feet.
I'm not proud of what I did next, but I fled, taking my eyes off the scarecrow. I made a mad dash for the farmhouse. Behind me, I could hear the pounding of feet. I screamed as loud as my lungs would let me. My voice rang through the silence as I grabbed the door handle and wrenched open the door as I felt a strong grip fall on my shoulder.
I turned to defend myself, but nothing was there. The scarecrow was gone, the wooden cross had vanished, as had the pool of dark liquid in the dirt. The world sprung back to life; the crickets began chirping loudly, and my heart restarted. I slammed the door, and the air from my force scattered the photographs on the table. I ran upstairs, leaving the lights on in the house, and dove onto the bed, wrapping myself in the frilly blanket like a set of frilly armor.
I snatched my camera from the bedside table and held it close, determined to document the rest of the night. I held it in shaking hands as the noise downstairs began—the sound of boots crossing the floor to the stairs and the careful but heavy steps of ascension as they climbed closer and closer to me.
This time, I didn't lunge forward as the light was already on. I glanced out the window, but the scarecrow was still gone. I focused my camera on the stairs and waited as the steps came closer and closer. A shape began to form as the head of whatever was coming up the stairs crested the floor. Then a plain brown mask with slits where the eyes would be. It froze for a moment, then slowly turned its head towards me. Inside the slits were human eyes that seemed to be leaking dark red blood.
In the light, I could see it now. I snapped a photo of the beast, the flash setting off a reaction in the beast. The scarecrow moved so fast up the stairs it was a blur. My scream echoed throughout the house as it lunged at me. Filthy hands pinned me down, and the deep crimson liquid began pouring out of every joint of the scarecrow. It began covering my face, my eyes, and getting into my open mouth. I spluttered and kicked at the beast, but my blows had no purchase, as if the scarecrow on top of me had no substance to itself.
I coughed and spluttered on the liquid as it began to fill my mouth faster and faster. I tried not to swallow any, but it tried to find purchase as I was held down.
"Polly?" A nervous voice called from below.
Suddenly, as if the angels had called, the pressure dissipated, and I crashed to the floor in a heap, trying to spit the blood out, but nothing came—it was gone. Footsteps pounded up the stairs again, and I flew back in fear, closing my eyes.
"Oh my god. Polly, are you okay?" A voice said, and gentle hands grabbed my arm.
My eyes shot open at the human touch, and I grabbed Eli into a tight hug, where I promptly began sobbing in fear, my whole body shaking as Eli awkwardly hugged me.
"Don't worry, it's going to be okay," Eli said patiently to me as he hugged me back gently and began stroking my back.
I shivered in a choking sob and fell into his arms, desperately wanting to believe him, and for some reason, I did.

29M - USA - 2.5 Months
One concern that I had with the idea of SR when I first began contemplating the topic was that once "charged up" I would begin to behave foolishly concerning my dating prospects, and that the buildup of sexual energy would cause me to simp after women more heavily than if I was depleted, where I perceived I would be able to "play it cool" with girls. This was certainly the case to a significant extent during my initial streaks, and these types of outcomes were an impediment for me to realizing the advantages of SR in my early twenties.
The reason this was initially an issue for me is that the beginning of the beginning, as in, before any streaks longer than a month were accomplished my brain was highly sexualized causing me to behave in a deranged way once the buildup began. This still occurs, and is why in my opinion SR can be detrimental to a successful dating life because it oftentimes pedestalizes the act of sex, which can create a loop of Oxytocin deficiency which I believe is what causes people to enter their 'loner' phase.
I believe the cure for this is to break through successfully in personal endeavors unrelated to sex, which creates positive dopamine associated with elements outside of scoring with the opposite gender. My current realization is that before you're able to see improvements in behavior, there's going to be a dip and your behavior is actually going to get worse in many cases. This is of course referred to as a flatline, the longer you're able to go without O, the less extended flatlines will become with each subsequent streak. I also believe in the elasticity of streaks, for several years ago when I first began this journey I accomplished a 5 month streak, and my overall demeanor became pretty negative. That first 5 month streak was probably the most depressive period of my life, but it was a culmination of reaping what I had sewed for upwards of 10 years prior to that. Therefore, I can't blame the streak itself for this depressive time.
However, it did create some antisocial behaviors that I'm still unlearning and that I didn't have an issue with as much prior to that great streak. For one thing, my internet behavior became far more anonymous, and to this day my social media habits have shifted from representing my real identity through instagram/facebook, to browsing anonymously through reddit, youtube. This shift I believe created a psychological dissociation from my real world social media profiles, and now I have a l higher evel of anxiety about going on Instagram as myself that I consider to be an impediment. Of course, Social Media is generally considered harmful overall, but if the reason I'm not going on it is because of an anxiety, I consider that just as harmful. So that's something I'm working on.
When one goes 'monk mode' for too long, one may begin to cultivate the desire to begin forming attachments to girls again in the future, but find it more challenging to ride that bicycle compared to if they had not allowed the muscle of PUA to atrophy. That being said, re-integrating socially is definitely possible after a long SR streak, and in doing so you'll still possess any SR benefits that you cultivated during a lonersome period. Overall, I'd say the effort to change behaviors and re-invent yourself is more valuable than the loss of social calibration that can occur. I'm speaking on this topic from the experience of being unemployed for 8 months and then being thrust back into a job that required a high volume of person-to-person interactions.
Benefits on this streak:

• Found a new better higher paying job. I've been barbacking at a prominent restaurant for the last 4 months but I finally received a bartending offer at a different quality downtown establishment. I'm using all these adjectives because many restaurants are trash to bartend at, but the new spot is a place I am actually blessed to be working at.
  
• Reconnected with a childhood friend. They're doing quite well in their career and the wellness gained from my SR streak definitely leveled any psychological issues this would have otherwise caused between our friendship.
  
• Polarization with coworkers. Even though I'm sometimes overly aggressive / moody at work, SR positions me to be the person people are talking about rather than a sideline gossiper (this could be in my head, I'm not sure).
  
• Overall sense of optimism and deeper sense of purpose, even if that purpose is struggling to find an outlet.
  
• Physical: muscle growth, low body fat, Improvement in muscle tone, I'm lean af, my hairline is rock solid, teeth haven't been in pain once.
  
• Attraction from females at work, one extremely hot girl put her face right by mine the other day and told her friend who I knew from high school 'yep this guy is good vibes'. Still not cold approaching people outside of work as much as I would like, but people can tell I've got an energy to me
  
• This one girl at work hit me with a pullback and I've overall been handling it like a boss, even though these situations cause a greater sense of despair when on a decent streak, I've gained increased resilience to rejection and have maintained a strong demeanor, and I'm slowly become better at 'spinning plates' than I otherwise would be.
  
• This other girl at work has defended me in multiple instances and generally been supportive of my turbulent period of SR and in over-pursuing this other girl. This bartender was giving me a hard time and I eventually told her to 'chill tf out', she informed the manager. The other girl fist bumped me after she heard about it, and more recently when a manager snapped at me, she later defended me and said she "got my back".
  
• Haven't checked my T levels but I would estimate they have likely doubled based off how I feel.
  
• Resting chad face, the first physical changes that come with longer-term consistent streaks of at least a month over 2 years have certainly caused my jawline to improve and my face to widen. Natural 'mewing'
  
• Disassociation from past identity and sense of self. SR lets me feel that real change is possible. This sometimes manifests as a decrease in tasks/side hustles pursued in a day, but that is because I am consolidated and more conscious of avoiding spreading myself thin in too many directions, the way I would do in the past.
  
• Become capable of saying 'I love you' to my parents, something that we were never able to do for years. Overcame certain mental blocks.
  
• Decreased programming from YouTube & Social Media, I've found myself questioning some of the self-improvement content / general content I consume more than I probably would otherwise. Without SR, I would just be using this type of content to cope & clinging to every word. Greater critical thinking skills & self awareness.
  

The only downsides I've seen are that I have increased cravings for weed, although I've been able to take upwards of 5 days - 2 weeks at a time off. The issue is that with SR I'm able to handle THC and still function in a way I simply wouldn't be able to if I wasn't on a decent streak. I Haven't been as successful with quitting weed as I have with SR yet because I've been dreading the dip in performance that comes with quitting any substance, but I still do find the therapeutic benefits of use to be a silver lining and I feel the discipline I'm cultivating with SR will allow me to effectively quit in the future.
So far, this streak I've been mainly focused on interpersonal dynamics, but today for the first time in a while I was able to go deeper into my own world once again. I grabbed that bull by the horns & wrote this post, and focused on a side hustle.

I won’t lie to any of you I’ve had quite the bad relapse and I’m not proud of myself but I’m not mad at myself either. Let me explain, on this journey you will relapse it is part of kicking an addiction especially this one but you need to not see it as you’ve lost your streak or you’ve reverted back to your addiction. Picture all the days in a month (31) how many times did I jerk it in the last 31 days. I’ll tell you 1 time and I aim to keep going. you see it’s all about getting bigger and bigger gaps until you kick it all together and that’s the path you wanna be on. Believe me it’s gonna take time but that’s the nature of self improvement it takes time it’s not gonna happen overnight. Stay strong, stay active, stay happy we’ll all make it through I believe in you.

If I hadn’t drunk an entire gallon of tea back at the hotel, maybe none of this would’ve happened.
Well, maybe if we hadn’t gotten kicked out of the hotel, none of this would’ve happened.
It had been just the two of us in the small car, but with the animosity heavy on the air, it felt overcrowded. I don’t know what had been worse, the hour of arguing, the two hours of silence afterwards, or the burgeoning realization that maybe I didn’t know him as well as I thought I did.
I studied him out of the corner of my eye. We'd been together for several months, but the recent experience left me wondering if I had ever even met the real Brian – who he truly was on the inside.
It had been our very first trip together.
We'd saved up for one of those super fancy hotels and had been having a great time – until, of course, Brian decided to attempt a five-finger discount in the jewelry store in the lobby.
He'd told me when we first started dating that he'd had some run-ins with the law in the past – when he was young and that was the only way to put food on the table, and I'd understood.
But this wasn't the same. It wasn't for survival, it was just greed.
We’d both spent the rest of our vacation money and then some, paying for that $1,800 watch so no charges would be pressed.
They still kicked us out. I don’t blame them.
Asking him to stop at the next place we came across was the first thing I'd said to him in hours, and he nodded, solemnly.
My discomfort was escalating to the point where I was considering asking him to pull over on the side of the road – rain be damned – when we saw the dim sign flickering in the distance.
The small store was out of place on the quiet, tree lined mountain road. We’d been deep in a tunnel of trees and hadn’t seen so much of a hint of the lights in the distance – it seemed to just appear into view as we went around the bend. I didn't recall seeing it on the way to the hotel, so it was a pleasant surprise.
I felt a flood of relief wash over me.
It stuck out in the otherwise beautiful mountain landscape – windows so dirty that the light inside barely reached us through them – several letters on the sign lit up in such a way that the only word we could even see was a blood red '- MART' flickering.
Any relief I'd managed to feel was short-lived.
When we walked in, we both froze as we took in the interior.
I instantly wished we’d just stopped by the side of the road after all. I looked at Brian and could tell he felt it too – he was fiddling with his new watch and took off his glasses, cleaned them on his shirt, and put them back on, as if that would make what he was seeing make more sense.
There were no other customers, no employees visible, it was just the two of us.
Ceiling tiles hung askew, and the floor was filthy – we had to step over a drain in the floor with grimy stains circling it, to walk in.
If it weren’t for the lights, gentle hum of the AC, and grinding sounds floating from down the long hallway at the back, I’d have thought the place was abandoned.
It was humid inside, and the smell coming from the old coolers that lined the back walls hit me as soon as we walked in. It reminded me of the summer my dad had decided to dabble in taxidermy in our basement.
The slight hint of rot that lingered on the damp air indicated poorly done taxidermy, at that.
As I darted towards the back towards the restroom sign, a placard dangling off it caught my eye, informed me the restroom was for paying customers only.
I quickly perused the shelves for something to buy. The aisles were tall, nearly to the ceiling, and despite the store being somewhat small, I felt the panicked sense of being cornered and trapped in an endless maze – at risk of becoming lost in there forever. The food on the shelves resembled nothing like the usual chips and candy these types of stores carried – there were rows upon rows of soft looking mystery items in plastic wrap, some of them leaked a red-brown residue down the shelves – none of it looked remotely appealing.
I passed by a section with a stained placard that said ‘handcrafted from local artists’ that was filled with eclectic items, none of which seemed to go together.
There were torn shirts with random logos – nothing related to the town or area we were in, stained with mud, grass, and god knows what else. Dried ropy things formed small and delicate sculptures of animals unlike any I’d seen before. I reached for a bracelet with intricately carved white beads but nearly dropped it when I realized the band was made up of woven human hair. It left a residue on my hand, and I noticed then that the same sour-rot smell was coming from the collection of items, too.
I opted for a flat and lukewarm Dr. Pepper instead, and placed two $2 dollar coins on the glass counter in front of the hand scrawled ‘shoplifters will be processed’ sign near the register.
I figured I misread it, after all it, looked like it had been written by a hand unused to holding a pen.
Brian had grabbed an armful of those unnerving plastic-wrapped packages but hovered at the counter a bit too long. I could hear the scrape of him retrieving the coins on the glass, the sound of him dropping them into his pocket.
He gave me a pointed stare as he did so.
I sighed, so tired of arguing that I just walked away from him and down the hallway. I figured I’d pay (again) after he got back in the car.
No sooner had I closed the door to the women’s room behind me, than I could hear him talking to someone.
His voice rose until he was nearly yelling. Mortified and trying to delay being involved in another incident that day, I splashed water on my face while trying to drown out what appeared to be a one-sided argument.
I kept trying to wash the grimy feeling that had lingered on my hands after picking up the bracelet, but no matter how I scrubbed, I couldn’t get it off – it kept getting worse.
I felt nauseous when I realized the greasy residue was coming from the pale-yellow bar of soap. I decided I’d scrub my hands raw at our next stop, and stepped out into the hall and back to the store.
Brian wasn’t there.
I called out for him, but all I heard in answer was that same vague whirring and drilling sound coming from further down the long hallway.
I double-backed to the car, but found it empty.
I circled the store, my frustration turning to panic as I shouted his name and still got no response.
I called his phone, it just rang, and rang before going to voicemail.
The car was locked and he had the keys, I couldn’t help but feel nervous, standing out there in the rain. We were still in the middle of the deep woods and with clouds obscuring the light of the moon and stars, the area was blanketed in darkness. I reluctantly headed back inside.
Somehow, the smell had managed to become even worse – I gagged when the wet, disgusting air hit my nose again. It was so strong I could nearly taste it, putrid on my tongue.
I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was always someone just behind me as I walked quickly through the tall aisles, but whenever I looked over my shoulder, there was never anything there.
I called his phone, wondering how I’d managed to lose him in such a small store when I finally heard it ringing – it was echoing from down that long hallway.
As I headed towards it, I heard someone moving on the other side of the floor-to-ceiling aisle, placing something onto the shelf with a sickening wet thud, before weaving lithely through the aisles behind me.
“Brian?” I called out softly, trying to convince myself that everything was fine – trying to disguise my fear.
I knew it wasn’t him – I don’t know how, but I knew it. Have you ever had the feeling that if you look closely enough at something, if you truly see it, you’ll never be able to close your eyes again without it haunting you? That feeling of being in close proximity to something that your fragile mind was never meant to know existed?
I forced myself to turn around anyways.
Once again, whoever or whatever had been there was gone by the time I rounded the aisle, but I heard a gentle clinking sound, and saw a trail of red-pink droplets.
I followed it back to that section – handcrafted from local artists, there was something new hanging from a hook near the shelves – wet, glistening strips dangled from along what looked to be a curved bone with bits of gristle still attached. From one of them hung an expensive men’s wristwatch, another was tied around a shattered, thick glasses lens. Yet another sagged under the weight of car keys. They gently swayed with the motion of having been recently placed. Fluid continued to drip from the still wet viscera and mingled with the mud on my shoes.
Shoplifters will be processed
I didn’t need to see the items down the other aisles to figure out what I was looking at, what must have happened.
I could already tell that we’d never have another argument, ever again.
I heard a door open and close in the back, soft footsteps approaching from down that hallway.
I realized that in my distraction, I'd forgotten to put money back on the counter.
I choked up, but knew there was nothing I could do for him. So, I tossed the first bills I found in my purse onto the floor, frantically untangled the car keys, and in shock, I drove myself the remaining four-hour drive home.
Every so often, along the quiet country roads – those I could've sworn were empty on the drive up – I’d see that grimy building, the sign, '-MART' flashing in the distance.
I didn’t stop once.
I've been home for a week now.
A few nights ago, something triggered a motion alert on my video doorbell, but there was no one there when I checked the footage.
The next morning, I found a cardboard box on my porch – with no stamp or return address.
In it was a torn t-shirt, and several of those now-familiar wrapped packages, putrid fluid leaking out of them through the bottom of the soggy cardboard.
I've received a similar box every night, since.
I don't know if it's meant as a threat, or if due to some sort of twisted interpretation – I’m now a 'paying customer’ – he's slowly being returned to me.
Either way, it turns out that I've gotten to see who Brian was on the inside, after all.
JFR

My sister actually used to be quite extremely abusive (telling her to fuck off when she was only 3 years old) and constantly shouting at her non stop and acting so inconvenienced anytime she need anything from her (yes a 3 year old needing her mother).
At this time i actually called social services (like cps but in england) and it turned into worldwar 3 in my family because half of us were on one side and the other half didn't want CPS involved. They got involved but they did basically nothing. Because she wasn't being physically abusive and my niece is somehow by a miracle quite a confident child despite this I think when they visited they were charmed out of it. It's crazy. When I reported her they said they wouldn't inform me of any updates and the rest will be dealt with directly with the mother of the child.
So they reached out the my sister and gave her loads of notice of the visit so she pulled her self together sorted out her home to make sure it was tidy and clean and presented herself so well that I think they just closed the case but I will never know. I later did tell my sister it was me that was involved as we did start talking again when she stopped drinking and I thought that she'd started treating her daughter better but it looks like there are still issues. She told me that they did nothing. This was like 4 years ago now.
I live another city and this year I have seen them both only twice but on both instances I left feeling so uncomfortable and angry with how she still speaks with her. She treats her like the biggest inconvience and irritation and interupts her and treats her in a way that I cannot stand.
I have never been treated like this as a child and still grew up to have major self esteem issues so I am heartbroken to imagine how my innocent little niece will grow up.
I feel so helpless here. Because my dad believes the way things are now are the best they can be and getting social services involved again will just isolate my sister and my niece from the family because she will know it was us again and the social services will probably do nothing again meaning that we will have no involvement in my nieces life making things ten times worse and all for nothing.
I think the confidence my niece manages to hold onto for now is because of the involvement my parents and other siblings have so to jepordise this again with social services feels like a risk that will likely do more damage than good.
My sister is very defensive and in the past when I was assertive with her and confrontational about her behaviour before it even got as bad as it did (when my niece was about 2 years old) she played victim and said that she'd never treat me the way I'm treating her... we didn't speak for a long time because of it. The main reason I am in contact with her is because I want to be able to remain in contact and good relations with my niece. My oldest sister no longer speaks to her at all which is understandable but as a result she has banned my niece from ever having any contact with her.
My new strategy is to spend more time with them and try and spend time with my niece alone so I can pour my love into her and boost her self esteem by showing her the love and respect and playfulness that she deserves to constantly be recieving from her mum and also try and get to the bottom of what is driving this abrasive behaviour from my sister in a caring and supportive way so that I can try and indirectly influence her to being a better parent given the direct approach did not work before.
But the issue is is I am not the most emotionally stable person as I mentioned I suffer with low self esteem myself and have anxiety issues as it is and even being with them for 1 day sent me into a tension headache and rumination hole of thinking of the worst case scenarios for 2 days straight... So it saddens me that I am the only one who seems to be proactively trying to take initiative here and being called to manage such a devastating situation when I myself need to be helped and supported as it is. I am all alone in the world in the sense that I have no partner, no close friends, and am distant to my family due to the fact that I find it very difficult to be around them and they make no effort with me at all and spending time with them literally drives me insane at the best of times.
The last thing I want to do is make this about me - but I do worry that I am genuinely not strong enough to navigate it the way I highlighted above. But I know I need to because I don't think there is any other options :(
This is such a complex scenario and I completely appreciate that Reddit may not have the answers but I am just in desperate need of a perspective that could help.

I’m new to studying organic chemistry and romance; I’m still trying to figure it all out and I need help!
The girl I’m dating has a pollen allergy and can’t smell weaker aromas like fruit (I have no idea how this works it’s a more recently discovered problem she never knew she had) but can smell sweeter scents like strong vanilla. We were talking about flowers and she told me she never understood them; I told her they’re amazing being that my family has a garden and just really loves flowers in general . For our next date I really wanted to make an origami rose bouquet, but I wanted to see if I could take it a step further and help her smell the roses.
Rose oxide (C10H18O) is the chemical that attributes the natural rose smell that we’re familiar with to lower concentrations, so I was wondering of there’s any ways I could try to extract it as a gift for her on the origami.
Where I live ordering it would take up to 6 weeks and, I can’t find any stores or shops that sell it.
If you have any ideas or recommendations please let me know anything would help!

Been drinking alot for too long, try to make pauses, and I do. But, PTSD, severe abuse, severe bullying and loosing three kids makes the nightmares return, and the numbing of the pain, and the stopping of the nightmares, only thing that really helps is the deep end of a bottle, or, getting stoned out of my head.
I was severely bullied throughout the school years, damned with a photographic memory, so I can replay all those years in my head like a video when I need to go to sleep, answer, alcohol or sedatives.
I have lost three kids, had a severely abusive wife, answer, alcohol or weed.
My mostly daily issues are, I can remember most moments of pain like a video, and too often, as I try to sleep, the brain goes "Yeah, remember THAT moment??".
To sleep, I have been in therapy, got Theralen, but, don't want to ask for it. I had antidepressants, but they also have a side effect, it killed my sex drive, which ended up with me in more depression. SSRI's, can't remember the brand/type though.
So, with my wife, who'm with I lost three kids (she also had multiple affairs after, and before), now I needed Viagra or Cialis. Yay.
The last 20 years have been pretty decent, but I am stuck in the past, stuck blaming my wife, and I drink way to much. Way, too much.
I do not like SSRI's, as I still like to have a sex drive. I like weed, as it really super duperly helps me sleep, without the nightmares. But, weed is illegal here, and I can't get a hold of it too often, maybe twice a year, but then I sleep like a prince. Instead, alcohol is readily available.
Which I try my best to self medicate with. I also have researched how to as in the longest not to ruin your liver, cats claw, magnesium, vitamin supplements and turmeric with black pepper (turmeric really works well, makes your lymphatic system step in, turmeric + black pepper, you will not get hung over).
Where should I start, to get help? I live in Sweden, but every time I have asked for help, all I get is Theralen.
Always I am active, 1 hour of hard exercise every day, I do not eat breakfast or lunch, but have cat claw tea, or Hibiscus tea, with vitamine pills, fish oil, nattokinase, and passion flower, alongside turmeric with black pepper.
Anyone got any suggestions as to, how do I get off the damn juice. I have so many things I want to do, but, I sleep half the day away, and spend the rest, drinking and being upset.
51 years old, so probably also living on borrowed time with the liver. I just as you can probably read, tried alot of things, but the damn nightmares, I can't get them to stop. Where should I look for allevation?
Treatments, medications, life affirmations, anyone göts any suggestions? The lack of sleep is just driving me nuts, and, I know the drinking is going to put me in a early grave.
Sorry for the long post. Someone recently told me that victims of severe abuse have a problem with asking for help, and never do. I realized, wtf, that might be me. I don't trust anyone.
But, there it is, where the heck, should I start? Apologize for the long rant. I never ask for help, because no body has ever helped me, I read recently that this might be a syndrome too. I am my own person, and always fix everything in my life on my own, because other people have never been a help.
As a bonus though, I can probably fix everything from the car to the house to the heating/wateroof/drainage etc.. simply because I always felt I need to do it on my own, since if I ask anyone for help, I am going to end up hurt.

When people say they dislike their dog or they regret their dog, they're told that they just didn't research enough. If you had researched properly, you would have known what you were getting into.
This doesn't always apply, especially with dogs you don't get as puppies from reputable breeders. You can do a ton of research and still end up with a dog you didn't expect. Or, you can find your feelings towards your dog change over time. Maybe you were fine with your previous dogs but not this one.
With my dog, I was well-versed in dogs before adopting her. I read about dog training, dog behavior, how to take care of a dog, etc. She technically wasn't even my first dog either. But, it turns out she had strong behavioral issues and an unusual temperament.
I was fully prepared to deal with-- for lack of a better word-- a "normal" dog. I could handle a dog that resource guarded a bit or was energetic. I could deal with a dog that pulled her leash. I had no clue what to do with a dog that literally would not go for walks. A dog I couldn't even get out the front door no matter what. A dog that was seemingly afraid of everyone that wasn't her owners. A dog that doesn't even like toys.
I don't want to have any more dogs after her. Maybe I could have a better experience with a puppy I get from a reputable breeder years from now, but I don't think I can deal with dogs anymore. They're cute in stores but I think this will be the last dog I own. Just the sound of dogs barking makes me sick after having such a bark happy dog.
Five years ago, I would have laughed at this. I thought I'd own dogs my entire life. I loved them so much. But, taking care of her has changed me. I don't know if she put me off on dogs or if she simply made me realize I'm too neurodivergent and sensitive to own dogs. Maybe I'll have better luck with guinea pigs or ferrets.

Male, 27, BA in Foreign Languages and Cultures, BA in East Asian Studies (Double Major Chinese and Japanese, Double Minor Spanish and French), Graduate Certificate in Chinese-American Studies, 6 months professional job experience.
Hey there. The job search for me out of college has been exceptionally brutal. I won't get into the weeds about it, but I just spent 2 and a half years waiting on potentially being hired for my dream job, only to find out I have been determined unsuitable for the job. To say I'm crushed would be an understatement. I'd go on about how devastated I am, but no one needs to hear all that. As you can see from above, I'm multilingual, and was primarily looking for jobs relating to Translation. The job I'd like to have would have me working with the languages I've studied so hard to learn, and would utilize my expertise in East Asia. That has proven to not only be very difficult due to a lack of job postings, but my lack of experience seems to be hampering any ability to even be remotely considered.
I have explored the options my degree provides me with but have so far come to these realizations:
Interpreting: Depends on your level of experience, and where you live. There is no agreed upon standard of certification for interpreting, and it varies from state to state, and sometimes company to company. Generally requires some kind of certification and specialized training, which I have not yet received, along with experience demonstrating your expertise. You can land a high level job somewhere like the UN, or with a government or other company or agency, but the majority of jobs are freelance, with income highly variable.
Translation: There aren't as many job postings for this as you might think. Many are remote jobs, and those that do exist do not pay well (most are $35,000 a year), even for languages that are rare or in high demand. Many translation agencies outsource out-of-country, and thus have no desire or need for domestic translators, and usually only require the services of translation agency management jobs that do not actually require language skills whatsoever, such as being a liaison between clients, overseeing translations, etc. Some require ATA certification, which is a difficult requirement to meet, needing to pay a $500 per language fee annually, along with taking a test each year, for someone who has been unemployed for a long time now. There is the freelance route as well, but it too is highly variable, and success is not guaranteed. I would likely need to start an LLC to prevent legal issues due to lack of experience if I decided to go all-in on freelancing.
Military: This is an option I am still considering, but it has several drawbacks. It is a 5 year commitment minimum, without the freedom to say where I am to go, where I am to live, when I am to leave, no guarantees about what language I would study, or what job I would be performing, and boot-camp. The military provides absolutely no guarantees, irrespective of what a recruiter says, and I may not actually be suitable depending on a few factors (physical stature, background, etc.). If I change my mind, there would be absolutely no turning back. Lastly, the military itself is not guaranteed to accept me. However, the upside is the potential for a very high paying job out of the military when my service is complete. Some jobs pay up to $120,000 a year.
Government: 2 and half years (no, I'm not kidding), and I have nothing to show for it. I've done this route definitively, I simply do not have the energy, mental fortitude, and patience to try again.
Teaching: This is an option I am seriously considering, but it would require me to go back to school. Ideally I would like to be a Professor of Chinese, or East Asia Studies. I am $65,000 in debt, and I would be adding at least another $30,000 to that to get a PhD. I'm also unsure of where to start, and what programs to look into and apply at. Even after all of that effort and work, I may only make $40,000 a year, though I would likely enjoy the job.
Analyst: Many of my colleagues who I studied with have gone onto perform Advisory or Analyst roles, and most are doing well for themselves. This is a broad category of Risk, Financial, International, and other Analyst positions that don't directly have to do with foreign language per se, but use it as a major skill. I have attempted dozens of times to apply to various positions, but without experience, I have found I am nearly always turned down even before I get an interview.
Cryptologic Linguist: Without a Security Clearance, this is a job that is usually impossible to apply to.
These are the major options, but of course there may be many others. I'm not sure what to do or what job to apply for. There are many directions I could go in, but I'm starting to feel like I don't even know how to apply for a job anymore.
TLDR; What jobs should I look for now given my skills, experience, and degrees? Am I being too limited or unrealistic in my job search? How do I look for a job?
I'm totally devastated, and I don't know what to do anymore. Any advice at all would be appreciated.

Hi Bankruptcy,
I currently live in California, and I was wondering what would be my best option between declaring bankruptcy and debt relief.
In summary, I have been scammed by Sochi, a masseuse school (I am only including it so you can be aware of their fraudulent behaviour). They created a fake high school diploma for me in order to reap the rewards of having access to a government loan, which cost me roughly 16K.
Additionally, I have also been in a car accident a few years ago. I am not certain of the nature of the accident, as in, I am not certain if it was officially declared criminal. In short, the other vehicle swerved purposefully in our lane and front ended us, and I was not the driver, so I definitely was not considered at fault. However, the accident caused me to be hospitalized for a total of 6 to 8 months. I was insured at the time, but due to the Californian law protecting the hospital from disclosing what can and cannot be covered by my insurance, I ended up with a bill totalling over 100K.
And finally, I have three small debts of roughly 3K total with different banks. Tl;dr: I wasn't able to pay them back because I was in the hospital.
Overall, I am thus looking at a crippling debt of 120K give or take.
Here is where I really need advice:
1) My current plans involve moving to another country to make a life with my partner. 2) If I get married to my partner, would my debt impact them as well, even though it would be in another country? And if so, how would it impact them? 3) Due to wanting to be there sooner rather than later, I have about a year and a half to clear my current debt situation. 4) I currently do not own a house or a car, and I have no dependants. 5) My credit score is currently completed ruined.
I am leaning strongly towards the bankruptcy route due to not owning any valuable assets, so my main questions specifically tied to bankruptcy are:
6) What kind of chapter would I have to sign for? 7) Does anyone know a good lawyer they could recommend in the Los Angeles county? 8) How much would it realistically cost me in court / lawyer fees? 9) How long does the process take, i.e. could it be resolved within a year's time?
I am still open to the idea of taking the debt relief option, but none of my current plans require for me to have credit. I am nowhere near having a down payment for a house, so I don't plan on acquiring a mortgage in the coming decade, and I could technically buy a used car with cash.
Thank you in advance for the help, I'm currently at a loss as to what should be my next step in this.

Hello everyone!
I know this is a rather contentious issue atm in the community, but I am a strong advocate for attempting to make due with what is introduced and to "fix it" within the confines of what is presented within a story.
To put it another way, I wanted to look at HW3 with a critical eye for editing rather than outright ditching whole concepts. So, in spirit of that, I suggested very minimal gameplay changes (introducing a Keeper in place of the Warsage) while keeping to primarily dialogue changes. This means none of the cinematics need to be altered (we'll just handwave a little bit with the lip sync) and instead you can add to the dialogue as needed to convey the information that's required.
Google Doc is 33ish pages, though there are images used as pacing stops (to indicate where things take place): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yJ-x5-frgLI_4i2h87k2jH40rUaHMFqrXQhkVtcEYjU/edit?usp=sharing
Key take aways are going to be fairly long, so please bear with me:

So what does this accomplish?

• It gives more connection between Isaac and the mission. He has a personal investment and a personal dislike of Imogen for being kiithless, a longstanding prejudice between ex-Taiidan and Kushan that briefly abated during the Vaygr War but has grown into a fire again (giving us politics! yay!).
• It makes the connection with Karan more distant, less intimate, and more mentor-like. Karan’s presence is greatly diminished and is used more referentially to help build her mythology.
• It ties up the Progenitor storyline by giving players tidbits of the lore, while embracing the idea of never fully explaining it. Tiamat and Sajuuk had their day in the sun, but that time has passed.
• Sajuuk is not a full AI ship, it’s just a part of Him - the true vessel was the Mothership with the Sajuuk starship docked to it (which explains The Foundry, the nature of the Mothership, etc. It moves away from Progenitors as humans and into Progenitors as something beyond humanity.)
• Whirlpool galaxy is mostly untouched, sans for a little expansion on the nature of politics. With the kiith leaving in droves for other opportunities, the politics of Hiigara are in flux. What even IS a Hiigaran at this point? That’s up to the player to decide for themselves.
• References to existing galactic powers including the Council (can throw in Fernn and any other races that make sense) helps build upon the lore.
• Vaygr war being relatively recent helps lend credence to the state of galactic technology. With more time, the Sajuuk should have resulted in unspeakably advanced Hiigaran starships, but we do not see this in game.
• Khar-Kushan being fundamentally a research ship helps to explain as well why such a vessel would be sent to do this task. No one expected to find a Progenitor godship intact and functional, and it gives reason for the pursuit of the Khar-Acharis.
• Removing the Sajuuk name from any other element ensures that when the name is brought up, players take notice.
• Creates emotional connection and conflict between Tiamat and Imogen; Tiamat is desperate for connection anyone who is compatible with her and has committed unspeakable atrocities in the pursuit of that. Imogen is also seeking connection, but sees in Tiamat a dark mirror of desperation.
• Kim Paktu replaces Karan in narrative nature, and her death helps cement the trust between Imogen and Isaac as kiith and kiithless.
• Tiamats death removes the last known Progenitor, and frees the galaxy from their grip.
• Karan-Sajuuk (as a merged entity) exist as a key to the gates, is apolitical, and cannot get involved. Keeping her in that position removes the need to worry about the hyperspace cores, the impact on the lore, or the involvement of Karan in politics. Her connection to her people becomes more and more distant with each generation until, at last, she no longer has any.
• It makes the decision to sacrifice the cores an important one, as their decision to stay in this galaxy to protect the rest of the universe now has meaning.
• This opens up an entire new galaxy to explore. Did Tiamat truly dominate all of it? Was she lying? What happened here? Did anyone from the Khar-Acharis survive?
• This gives writers an opportunity to work across Nimbus, Sunflower, and Whirlpool without risking stepping on existing canon. Maybe The Beast was a relic of the Progenitor Civil War? Maybe you find the people who made the Nagarock?

All in all, I hope you enjoyed this rewrite. It is pretty bare bones, but I wanted to show that this story has a LOT of potential to be quite good, and just needs some more meat on it.
Taking all the existing elements, you can see how changing a few things adds tension, builds characters, builds on top of the existing world's lore, and doesn’t introduce retcons. It doesn’t remove the accomplishments of those who came before, and establishes the continuity of all the prior games.
TLDR;
The game’s story can be good. Just needs polishing, editing, and some elements added to it.
Prior to commenting, please give the document a read!

I’m new to studying organic chemistry and romance; I’m still trying to figure it all out and I need help!
The girl I’m dating has a pollen allergy and can’t smell weaker aromas like fruit (I have no idea how this works it’s a more recently discovered problem she never knew she had) but can smell sweeter scents like strong vanilla. We were talking about flowers and she told me she never understood them; I told her they’re amazing being that my family has a garden and just really loves flowers in general . For our next date I really wanted to make an origami rose bouquet, but I wanted to see if I could take it a step further and help her smell the roses.
Rose oxide (C10H18O) is the chemical that attributes the natural rose smell that we’re familiar with to lower concentrations, so I was wondering of there’s any ways I could try to extract it as a gift for her on the origami.
Where I live ordering it would take up to 6 weeks and, I can’t find any stores or shops that sell it.
If you have any ideas or recommendations please let me know anything would help!

Still waiting to commit as I have yet to hear back from a few places but I wanted to ask a few questions to get a better idea of what it’s like at Georgetown to help me decide :)
1) What’s the social scene like? 2) I know clubs can be pretty exclusive (require applications, interviews, etc) — does this make it difficult to have strong school spirit/make connections? 3) Are profs accessible? Are they people you would get dinner with? How easy is it to get involved in research?
Any and all advice is appreciated!

I know neither one is good, but sometimes those are the only two reactions I’m realistically going to get when I screw up in a way that a neurotypical person wouldn’t understand.
A few examples of how I struggle with this.
It is very difficult for me to remember daily tasks like brushing my teeth. I cannot form habits. Doing that for over 20 years with poor access to dental care has left me with mostly blackened, dead, misshapen teeth. I tried getting some of them fixed a few years ago when I finally had some money but left the office abruptly because I could see such strong judgment in the eyes of both the dentist and the assistant. They thought I was a severe drug addict and did not want me there. They were not a receptive audience to any alternative explanation. Well, the time has come to go to the dentist again and I’m terrified. I don’t want people who hate me inside my mouth.
Basic interactions at work are hard. I take longer at some things that are “basic” for everybody else. I have to go slower because I’m clumsy and it will be worse if I try to match the pace of others. Basic conversations are also hard because they feel like minefields. The more time passes, the more people begin to judge me as a bad person. Telling people I have autism only makes it worse because they don’t know what to do with the information.
I know pity isn’t good, but in some situations it’s a lot better than judgment. Pity at least inclines people to help instead of withhold. And I need help from people at this point.

It was only a handful of days ago that I came on here, saw some of the anti-firearms rhetoric being targeted at the EDC posts that had a CCW, and even knife posts containing a CCW. I want to thank you all for joining, and it's great to see everyone's organic posts. If you're a member and you haven't posted an organic post, please do so. Let us get to know you, and let's become a strong community centered around the idea that these two great tools ought to be carried together just as they always have been.
Also, if you see a post that looks like it would belong here (whether a collection of firearms, knives, or a firearms/knife EDC), please feel free to let them know there's a great growing community here, and they could post it.
Thank you again for all your contributions to this sub so far. I am quite optimistic about the future. I went on an initial campaign to find some users to join me on this journey, and you're my first 95. Words can't express how thankful, humbled, and excited I am to see my little idea grow to almost 100 people. So, do you think we can make it over 100? Do you think we can make it well over 100? I'd like to think that guns and knives are quite popularly carried together, and maybe not just in American culture.
100 people is a crowded restaurant on a Saturday evening, or a local park with some strong BBQ going on. Y'all think we can get enough supporters to fill a concert hall or a popular tourist attraction spot? I'd love to see it, and I believe we can. It's been amazing witnessing the growth so far, and I am extremely grateful! I hope y'all post and share your firearm/knife content to your heart's content, and I hope we continue to grow!

Adopting a healthy eating lifestyle is a transformative journey that can lead to a more vibrant, energetic, and resilient life. This comprehensive article provides a roadmap for incorporating nutritious whole foods into a balanced diet. Readers will discover simple tips and delicious recipes to build a foundation for optimal nutrition and well-being.
In this guide, we'll explore the importance of healthy eating, the benefits of a balanced diet, and strategies for overcoming common obstacles. You'll learn how to create plant-based meals that are satisfying and nutrient-dense, as well as how to manage food allergies and intolerances. Additionally, we'll delve into the principles of clean eating and the role of weight management through mindful consumption.
Whether you're seeking to improve your energy levels, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, or simply cultivate a more vibrant, healthy lifestyle, this article will empower you to make sustainable changes that will positively impact your overall well-being.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Key Takeaways

• Discover the importance of incorporating nutritious whole foods into a balanced diet.
• Learn strategies for building a balanced plate that promotes satiety and sustained energy.
• Explore the benefits of plant-based diets and the nutrient-dense properties of various whole food options.
• Understand the significance of mindful eating and portion control for achieving a healthy lifestyle.
• Gain insights into managing food allergies and intolerances through adaptable recipes and dietary adjustments.

Understanding the Importance of Healthy Eating

Maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle is crucial for overall well-being. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, plant-based options, and organic ingredients can provide a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond physical health. By embracing clean eating habits and adhering to dietary guidelines, individuals can experience enhanced energy levels, improved weight management, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Full Meals and More Healthy Diet Tips Here!

Benefits of a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet that incorporates a variety of nutrient-dense foods can have a profound impact on an individual's health and wellness. Such a diet not only supports weight management but also contributes to better cardiovascular health, improved cognitive function, and a stronger immune system. Moreover, a plant-based approach to eating can help mitigate the risk of food allergies and intolerances, allowing individuals to enjoy a wider range of delicious and nutritious options.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Overcoming Obstacles to Healthy Eating

Despite the numerous advantages of healthy eating, individuals often face various obstacles that can hinder their ability to adopt and maintain a balanced diet. Common challenges include time constraints, budget concerns, and a lack of knowledge about whole foods and clean eating principles. However, with the right strategies and resources, these barriers can be overcome. By planning meals, exploring affordable nutrient-rich options, and expanding their culinary skills, individuals can seamlessly integrate healthy eating habits into their daily lives.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Benefits of a Balanced Diet	Overcoming Obstacles to Healthy Eating
Improved energy levels Better weight management Reduced risk of chronic diseases Enhanced mental clarity Mitigation of food allergies and intolerances	Time constraints Budget concerns Lack of knowledge about whole foods and clean eating Strategies for cost-effective meal planning Exploration of affordable nutrient-rich options

Building a Balanced Plate

Creating a well-rounded, nutritious meal is the foundation of a healthy eating lifestyle. When building a balanced plate, it's essential to focus on including protein-rich foods, fiber-filled vegetables and fruits, and whole grains to ensure your body receives a comprehensive array of essential nutrients.

Protein-Rich Foods for Satiety

Incorporating protein-rich foods into your meals can help promote a sense of fullness and satisfaction, preventing overeating and supporting your weight management goals. Opt for lean sources of protein such as chicken, fish, legumes, tofu, and eggs to create meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.

Fiber-Filled Vegetables and Fruits

Filling your plate with an abundance of fiber-rich vegetables and fruits is a key component of a balanced diet. These plant-based foods are loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. Aim to include a variety of colorful produce, such as leafy greens, bell peppers, berries, and citrus fruits, to ensure you're getting a diverse range of nutrients.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Whole Grains for Sustained Energy

Incorporating whole grains into your meals can provide a steady stream of energy throughout the day, helping to prevent mid-afternoon slumps. Opt for whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa, and oats to reap the benefits of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and other essential nutrients that support your overall nutrition and clean eating habits.

Healthy Eating: Tips and Strategies

Incorporating healthy eating into your daily routine doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. By embracing practical tips and strategies, you can seamlessly integrate nutritious whole foods into your lifestyle and reap the numerous benefits of a balanced diet. This section delves into the key elements of successful healthy eating, empowering you to make sustainable changes for a healthier, more vibrant life.

Meal Planning and Preparation

Planning and preparing your meals in advance is a game-changer when it comes to healthy eating. By dedicating a bit of time each week to menu planning, grocery shopping, and meal prepping, you can ensure that nutritious, whole foods are readily available, reducing the temptation to reach for less healthy options. Experiment with plant-based recipes and organic ingredients to create balanced, flavorful meals that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.

Reading Food Labels

Navigating the aisles of the grocery store can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to identifying healthy, minimally processed foods. Develop the habit of carefully reading food labels to make informed choices. Look for products with a short list of recognizable, whole food ingredients and minimal added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. By becoming a savvy label reader, you can easily spot clean eating options that align with your dietary goals and nutrition needs.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Healthy Eating Tip	Benefit
Meal Planning and Preparation	Ensures the availability of nutritious, whole foods, reducing the temptation for less healthy options.
Reading Food Labels	dietary guidelinesweight managementHelps you identify clean, minimally processed food choices that support your and goals.

Incorporating Whole, Plant-Based Foods

Embracing a diet rich in whole, plant-based foods is a cornerstone of a healthy eating lifestyle. These nutrient-dense options not only provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but they also offer a wealth of benefits for overall well-being.

Benefits of Plant-Based Diets

Research has consistently shown that plant-based diets can have a positive impact on heart health, weight management, and environmental sustainability. By focusing on a variety of whole, plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, individuals can lower their risk of chronic diseases, achieve a healthier weight, and reduce their carbon footprint.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods

Whole, plant-based foods are packed with essential nutrients that support a balanced diet. From fiber-rich leafy greens to antioxidant-dense berries, these nutrient-dense options provide the body with the necessary building blocks for optimal health. By incorporating a diverse array of whole foods into their meals, individuals can ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs while enjoying the flavors and textures of a clean eating lifestyle.

Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods	Key Nutrients	Health Benefits
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Arugula)	Vitamins A, C, K, Folate, Calcium, Iron	Promote eye health, support a healthy immune system, and aid in maintaining strong bones.
Berries (Blueberries, Raspberries, Strawberries)	Antioxidants, Vitamin C, Fiber	Help fight inflammation, improve brain function, and support a healthy heart.
Whole Grains (Brown Rice, Quinoa, Oats)	Complex Carbohydrates, Fiber, B Vitamins	balanced dietProvide sustained energy, promote digestive health, and contribute to a .
Legumes (Lentils, Chickpeas, Black Beans)	Protein, Fiber, Iron, Folate	managing food allergiesSupport weight management, aid in , and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

By embracing the versatility and nutrient density of whole, plant-based foods, individuals can create healthy eating habits that nourish the body and support long-term well-being.

Mindful Eating and Portion Control

Achieving a balanced lifestyle encompasses more than just the foods we consume. It also involves cultivating a mindful approach to our eating habits. Mindful eating encourages us to become more aware of hunger cues, savor each bite, and practice moderation to prevent overeating. By fostering this mindful relationship with our meals, we can develop a healthier and more sustainable relationship with food.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!
One of the key strategies for mindful eating is to slow down and be present during mealtimes. Rather than rushing through our meals or multitasking while we eat, we should take the time to appreciate the flavors, textures, and aromas of our food. This heightened awareness not only enhances the enjoyment of our meals but also allows us to better recognize when we have reached a state of fullness, preventing us from consuming more than our bodies need.
Portion control is another essential aspect of mindful eating and healthy living. Overeating, even of nutritious whole foods, can lead to weight gain and other health concerns. By being mindful of our portion sizes and focusing on balanced plates that incorporate a variety of plant-based foods, lean proteins, and whole grains, we can ensure that our bodies receive the necessary nutrients without consuming excessive calories.
Implementing practical strategies, such as using smaller plates, eating slowly, and listening to internal hunger and fullness cues, can help us cultivate a more mindful approach to eating. This, in turn, can lead to sustainable weight management, improved digestion, and a greater sense of overall well-being.
By embracing mindful eating and portion control, we can unlock the full benefits of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. This holistic approach to food consumption not only nourishes our bodies but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the joy and satisfaction that can be found in every bite.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Managing Food Allergies and Intolerances

Navigating a healthy eating lifestyle can pose unique challenges for individuals with food allergies or intolerances. However, with the right strategies and a little creativity, it is possible to enjoy a balanced diet while effectively managing these dietary restrictions.

Identifying Allergens and Triggers

The first step in managing food allergies and intolerances is to identify the specific ingredients or foods that trigger adverse reactions. Common allergens include gluten, dairy, nuts, soy, and shellfish, while intolerances may be linked to lactose, fructose, or histamine. By being mindful of these triggers, individuals can make informed choices when selecting and preparing meals.

Adapting Recipes for Special Diets

Adapting recipes to accommodate food allergies or intolerances is essential for maintaining a balanced, plant-based diet. This may involve substituting whole food, organic ingredients for traditional allergens or using specialized alternatives, such as gluten-free flours or non-dairy milk. By experimenting with ingredient swaps and exploring clean eating techniques, individuals can discover a world of delicious and nutritious meal options that align with their dietary needs.
Through a thoughtful and proactive approach, individuals with food allergies or intolerances can navigate the complexities of healthy eating and enjoy a wide variety of whole foods while maintaining their overall well-being.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Clean Eating: Minimizing Processed Foods

In the pursuit of a healthy eating lifestyle, one crucial aspect to consider is the minimization of processed and packaged foods. The clean eating movement emphasizes the importance of consuming whole, minimally processed ingredients to maximize the nutritional value of our meals.

Recognizing Unhealthy Additives

When it comes to clean eating, it's essential to be aware of the common additives and preservatives found in many processed foods. These can include artificial colorings, flavors, and sweeteners, as well as preservatives like sodium nitrite and trans fats. By learning to identify these unhealthy additives, you can make more informed choices and avoid products that may compromise your balanced diet.

Organic and Local Food Options

Incorporating organic and locally sourced whole foods into your healthy eating routine can have numerous benefits. Organic produce and products are typically free from synthetic pesticides and hormones, and they often contain a higher concentration of nutrient-dense compounds. Additionally, supporting local farmers and producers not only reduces your carbon footprint but also provides access to fresh, seasonal offerings that are rich in plant-based goodness.
By prioritizing clean eating and minimizing the consumption of processed foods, you can unlock a world of whole, natural ingredients that nourish your body and support your overall weight management and wellness goals. Embrace the simplicity and vibrant flavors of clean, whole-food eating for a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Weight Management Through Healthy Eating

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is an integral part of a balanced healthy eating lifestyle. By understanding the principles of calorie density and macronutrient balance, individuals can make informed choices to support their weight management goals.

Calorie Density and Satiety

The concept of calorie density refers to the number of calories per gram of a particular food. Whole, plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains tend to have a lower calorie density, meaning you can consume a larger volume of these foods without exceeding your daily calorie needs. This can lead to a greater sense of satiety, or feeling full and satisfied, which can support sustainable weight management.

Balancing Macronutrients

In addition to considering calorie density, it's important to focus on balancing the three macronutrients: protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Each macronutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy eating habits and supporting weight management. By incorporating a mix of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats into your meals and snacks, you can help regulate your appetite, stabilize blood sugar levels, and fuel your body with the necessary nutrients for overall well-being.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle doesn't have to break the bank. With strategic planning and savvy shopping, it's entirely possible to enjoy a balanced, nutrient-rich diet while staying within your budget. In this section, we'll explore cost-effective meal planning strategies and highlight affordable whole food options to help you achieve your healthy eating goals without straining your finances.

Cost-Effective Meal Planning

One of the keys to healthy eating on a budget is mastering the art of meal planning. By taking the time to plan your meals and create a grocery list, you can avoid impulse purchases and make the most of your food budget. Start by identifying affordable, nutrient-dense ingredients that can be incorporated into a variety of recipes. Batch cooking and freezing portions can also help you maximize your time and money, ensuring you always have healthy options on hand.
Another practical tip is to embrace the versatility of plant-based whole foods. Beans, lentils, and whole grains are not only budget-friendly, but they also provide a wealth of essential nutrients, fiber, and complex carbohydrates to keep you feeling full and energized. By making these nutrient-dense foods the foundation of your meals, you can stretch your grocery budget while nourishing your body.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Affordable Nutrient-Rich Foods

When it comes to healthy eating on a budget, there are numerous nutrient-rich foods that won't break the bank. Some of the most affordable and nutritious options include:

• Frozen vegetables and fruits: These nutrient-packed options are often more affordable than their fresh counterparts, and they have an extended shelf life, reducing food waste.
• Eggs: A versatile and protein-rich ingredient, eggs are an excellent source of nutrients and a cost-effective addition to any meal.
• Canned fish: Canned tuna, salmon, and sardines are budget-friendly sources of lean protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Oats: A whole grain powerhouse, oats are inexpensive, filling, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to baked goods.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are nutrient-dense, fiber-rich, and incredibly affordable, making them a staple in any healthy eating plan.

By incorporating these affordable, nutrient-rich foods into your meal planning, you can enjoy a balanced, healthy diet without breaking the bank.

Affordable Whole Food	Nutritional Benefits	Average Cost per Serving
Frozen Broccoli	High in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants	$0.50 per serving
Eggs	Excellent source of protein, vitamin D, and choline	$0.25 per egg
Canned Tuna	Rich in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids	$1.00 per 2-ounce serving
Rolled Oats	High in fiber, complex carbohydrates, and B vitamins	$0.10 per 1/2 cup serving
Lentils	Packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals	$0.20 per 1/2 cup serving

Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!
By incorporating these affordable, nutrient-rich whole foods into your healthy eating plan, you can enjoy a balanced diet without straining your budget. With a little creativity and strategic planning, maintaining a healthy lifestyle on a budget is entirely achievable.

Conclusion

As we conclude this comprehensive guide on healthy eating, it's clear that embracing a balanced diet filled with nutritious whole foods, plant-based ingredients, and organic options can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. By understanding the importance of healthy eating, learning to build a balanced plate, and incorporating mindful eating strategies, readers are now empowered to embark on a transformative journey towards a healthier, more vibrant life.
Whether you're seeking to manage food allergies, reduce your intake of processed foods, or achieve your weight management goals, this article has provided a comprehensive roadmap filled with practical tips and strategies to overcome common obstacles and make sustainable changes. By prioritizing clean eating and embracing the wide variety of nutrient-dense whole foods available, you can nourish your body and mind, ultimately leading to improved energy levels, reduced disease risk, and a heightened sense of overall vitality.
Remember, the journey to healthy eating is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It's about finding the right balance and incorporating the strategies that work best for your individual needs and preferences. With dedication, creativity, and a willingness to experiment, you can cultivate a nutritious, affordable, and enjoyable eating lifestyle that serves as the foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling tomorrow. Embrace the power of healthy eating and embark on a path towards a more vibrant, resilient, and joyful existence.

FAQ

What are the benefits of a balanced diet?

A balanced diet offers numerous benefits, including improved energy levels, better weight management, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and enhanced mental clarity.

How can I overcome obstacles to healthy eating?

Common obstacles to healthy eating, such as time constraints, budget concerns, and lack of knowledge, can be overcome through effective meal planning, learning to read food labels, and exploring affordable nutrient-rich options.

What are the key components of a balanced plate?

A balanced plate should include protein-rich foods for satiety, fiber-filled vegetables and fruits, and whole grains for sustained energy.

How can I incorporate more whole, plant-based foods into my diet?

Incorporating more whole, plant-based foods into your diet can provide numerous benefits, including improved heart health, better weight management, and greater environmental sustainability.

How can I practice mindful eating and portion control?

Practicing mindful eating, which involves becoming more aware of hunger cues and savoring each bite, can help you achieve portion control and develop a healthier relationship with food.

How can I manage food allergies and intolerances while following a healthy eating plan?

Identifying common allergens and triggers, as well as adapting recipes to accommodate special dietary needs, can help you manage food allergies and intolerances while still enjoying a variety of delicious and nutritious meals.

What are the benefits of choosing organic and locally sourced foods?

Organic and locally sourced foods often have a superior nutritional profile and a reduced environmental impact compared to processed and conventionally grown options.

How can I achieve weight management through healthy eating?

Understanding the concept of calorie density and the importance of balancing macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) can support sustainable weight loss or maintenance through a healthy eating lifestyle.

How can I maintain a healthy eating plan on a budget?

Cost-effective meal planning and incorporating affordable nutrient-rich food options can help you enjoy a balanced diet without breaking the bank.
Sign up Here for 32 FREE Healthy Meal Plans With Low Calories and High Protein!

Most people wannabe INTJs, many tests make just yes or no questions to speculate, more and more people have confusion towards it. I will make it easy to learn
INTJs that seems overly wanting to show the world their strong personal wearstyle like gothic. Wants to be mastermind and controll people but ending being ridiculous = ISFPs mistyping themselves comparing fiction characters
INTJs that overly strive for efficiency, making things, don't having time for others because of a goal. Tendency to megalomaniac = ENTJs or even ESTJs too focus in a goal to look inside and see the obvious
INTJs that focus in too many things, learn a lot of have various disconnected interests and hobbies in life. A bunch of these knowledge don't see the sunlight = ENTPs or INTPs that see to many possibilities and because of it takes as one they are maybe INTJs (1% in their test said it)
INTJs that are like INTJs by most description, but create a whole own philosophy of human suffer seeing people day by day and others tend to trust him with ease = INFJ or even INFPs, believe it or not
INTJs that took the test in a very stressfull period because someone friend of the cousin of my friend's girlfriends told it may help. The questions confused me = ESFP or ESTP, they forgotten it when become happy again
INTJs that are very organized/straightforward in thoughts and speak, with easily grumpy grandpa aura or "it is how it is, just do it"... I really need to say ISTJ or ISTP?
INTJs that are people oriented, want to create a good and utopian society because everyone needs to achieve happiness in life or live a carrier that leads people to the universal best way of living = ENFJs or ESFJs, these tests are junk if have this mistype
ISFJs will almost never tend to get mistype. Their moral is above some test to feed human ego, they already know they sacrifices themselves do to others. INTJs pay to them clean their house or feed them
ENFPs will never read all of this. Just if really are into track and understand a certain INTJ romantic interest
Seems silly but I would prefer this to study cognitive functions for a year straight. Probably an INFJ or ISTJ will clarify the questions, i'm done of it 👍