How-To Dateless & Single On Valentine's Day? 10 Fun Things To Do 7:11 AM Dateless and single on Valentine's Day? What can you do? A lot. So, don't fret. If Valentine's Day is a day to celebrate love, then go ahead. Have fun! Love is not exclusive for gooey-eyed couples anyway. What is Valentine's Day?Why do most people celebrate Valentine's Day? Valentine's Day is the feast day of St. Valentine. He is the patron saint of lovers, epileptics, and beekeepers. Wide range. Cool guy. There's no clear information about his life and death or how Valentine's Day started in the 14th century. But thanks to marketing, we celebrate February 14th as Heart's Day. Or Singles Awareness Day for some.Speaking of which, what should you do if you're dateless and single on Valentine's Day?Here are 10 fun things you can do. Giphy 1. Do Nothing. Don't celebrate if you don't feel like it.Some people don't celebrate Christmas or Thanksgiving because of religion or culture or because they can't be bothered. So, you may or may not celebrate Valentine's Day. There really is no pressure. Giphy 2. Go shopping. Companies offer hefty discounts and promos for Valentine's Day. This is the best time to shop and avail of the price drop. This is your chance to save on your shopping. Makeagif 3. Pamper yourself. What could be more fun than spoiling yourself? Book an appointment at your favorite spa and get pampered. They are most likely having a Valentine's Day promo. Celebrate self-love and indulge in your me-time. To love yourself is not just a self-esteem-boosting piece of advice. It is the prerequisite to truly loving others. -Tania Kotsos Giphy 4. Hangout with friends If you're dateless and single on Valentine's day, don't forget that Galentines is also a thing. So go out with your girlfriends or best buddies. They're there for you in your ups and downs. So why not celebrate love with them on this day? When you finally find your life partner, you'll have different priorities...and plans for Valentine's Day.Single girl, Valentine's Day will be fun and exciting when shared with your friends. Giphy 5. Give love to others. Send out your love to the people around you. Friends, co-workers, and even clients will appreciate your thoughtfulness. So send an e-card, give chocolates, or a single-stem rose.Feeling charitable? Volunteer your time at shelters, senior living centers, or food pantries. Giphy 6. Watch a concert or Valentine's show special. Your favorite artist may be having a show on this day. Watch a concert with friends who are also fans. Chances are, you'll be so entertained that you forget about making a big fuss about being dateless and single on Valentine's Day. Giphy 7. Travel. Grab promo flights or hotel discounts offered on Valentine's Day. Traffic may be bad around this time, and that's no fun. So plan your trip ahead of time. Giphy 8. Staycation for the single on Valentine's DayThe best place for singles on Valentine's Day? The bar? If that's your scene, sure.But also...at home!Staying home may be the wisest thing to do on Valentine's Day if you want to avoid traffic, long lines, and the temptation of spending more than you need. Watch a rerun of your favorite show or have a movie marathon. You can invite your other dateless and single friends. Valentine's Day-themed movies are a thing, but you can watch horror-thriller. No one's going to stop you. Read a good book. Play games. Cook for yourself. Or spend your time with those who love you unconditionally----your dogs!Or book a hotel nearby and order room service like a boss. Giphy 9. Tick off that to-do item on your list.Your friends may be busy today, and this could be your chance to do that thing you've always wanted.That book you've wanted to finish.That art project you started years ago.That dish you've wanted to cook since you've seen it on YouTube.That closet that needs to be organized.That friend you've been planning to call.That place you've wanted to visit.Who's got the time to worry about being dateless and single on Valentine's Day when you've got a lot of fun things to do lined up?Giphy 10. Carpe diemEven though you find it hard to believe right now, you won't be dateless and single forever. So while you still have the opportunity to spend more time with yourself, enjoy it. Seize the day. Carpe diem. Dateless or single on Valentine's Day or not, live in the moment. Be genuinely happy where you are. Remember...If you're unhappy being alone, you won't be happy in a relationship. Happiness comes from within and not from other people. Giphy Appreciate the untroubled life of being dateless and single.Benefits of Being Dateless & Single on Valentine's Day No pressure. No worrying about what you're going to wear, what gift you will buy your partner, or how you will surprise them. No hassle. The trip to the restaurant could be challenging with the number of people who will also be out on Valentine's Day. No problem. Don't listen to the lies of marketing telling you to buy flowers or be out there with everyone else. If you're only going out on a date because you're scared to be dateless and single on Valentine's Day, you'll only waste your time. That will be unfair to your date. Learn to enjoy your own company because if you won't, who else will?What do you usually do on Valentine's Day? Do you have any suggestions for the singles? This post contains affiliate links, so I'd get a commission if you purchase through my links at no additional cost to you. This helps me maintain my site. Thanks in advance!
Life Lessons How Would You Rate Yourself 6:54 AM No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. -Eleanor Roosevelt How would you rate yourself?This is a common question when applying for a job. From 1-10, how would you rate yourself as a candidate or employee?Should you be humble and give a low number? Or would you be bold enough to sell yourself; your skills, your assets, and what-have-yous?Never say 1.It means that you don't know anything, have self-esteem issues, or are faking humility. Don't say 10 because that's a perfect score, meaning there's no room for improvement. For job interviews, the safe and recommended answer to the question "How would you rate yourself?" is...An 8 or a 9. Why would you give yourself this rating?It means you know enough about the industry and your role, and you're aware of your strengths. Plus, you're humble and wise enough to know that you can still improve.It shows you're willing to grow and learn.No company would want to hire someone hard to train and a know-it-all.Go Social"How would you rate yourself?" is one of the most common questions that most people find hard to answer during an interview.Here are other common job interview questions and how to answer them.How would you rate your life?How about in life? How would you rate yourself?Where are you now vs. where you thought you'd be?Are you living your dream life, or were you delayed because of a detour?How are you doing? If you're still standing after the storm...If you're still fighting despite the failures...If you still believe everything will work out despite the messy situation you're currently in...Give yourself a pat on the back and cut yourself some slack.You won't always get what you want, but God will provide what you need.Sometimes on your way to your dreams, you'd get lost. But you'll find yourself. And you'll realize there's something better.You may not be a 10 according to society, but as long as you're doing your best, who cares?Celebrate small victories.Say this with me: I'm nowhere near perfect. I'm a work in progress. But, I'm also far from the person I used to be. You are improving. You are better than the person you were yesterday.Isn't that more important than what society thinks?Be humble enough to know you're no better than anybody and wise enough to know you're unique.We have different paths to take. Your vision and dreams may not make sense to others because they weren't given that vision.I saw this funny meme on Instagram that says, "No one else is supposed to understand your calling. It wasn't a conference call."Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle or your middle to someone else's end. Don't compare the start of your second quarter of life to someone else's third quarter. (Jon Acuff)Quit overthinking. This book can help you:And when you rate yourself, remember to extend yourself a little kindness. You are a work in progress, but you are enough.This post contains affiliate links, so I'd get a commission if you purchase through my links at no additional cost to you. This helps me maintain my site. Thanks in advance!
Health & Wellness The 4 Chronotypes, Our Sleep And Activity Level Connection 12:02 AM Do you notice that you function better at a certain time during the day? Some people work effectively in the morning, while others excel during the wee hours.Maybe you know someone who can still deliver excellent work even with only a few hours of sleep. Others need to get a full 8 hours to be efficient.What is your The 4 Chronotypes, Our Sleep And Activity Level Connection Chronotype, and how is it connected to your sleep and activity level?Dr. M. Breus is one of many who did extensive research to understand the Chronotype better. He came up with a helpful Chronotype quiz.Chronotype influences your sleep pattern, energy level, appetite, mood, and other daily activities.According to Dr. M. Breus' research, people fall into these 4 Chronotype categories.4 Chronotypes: Our Sleep and Activity Level Connection1. The Lion ChronotypeThe famous idiom early bird can best describe people in the Lion Chronotype. They get up early and get things done ahead of schedule. They are productive from the get-go.They don't need much time to get ready in the morning.However, this activity level will not last all day. They would experience a drop by noon or a few hours afterward. They also don't do well with engagements later in the day. 2. The Bear ChronotypeMost people fall into this class. The Bear Chronotype mirrors the sun. They are at their peak activity-wise between 9 am and 5 pm when the sun is up.The bears need a little bit of time to settle into work, and they're at their best around noon. Like the lions, they are not best suited for social and work activities in the evening. 3. The Wolf ChronotypeThe wolves in the Chronotype category are nowhere near the bears in terms of popularity. Only approximately 15% of people fall into this class.They're known as night owls because of their sleep and activity level peculiarities. People in this category are at their best towards the latter part of the afternoon. They are at their peak and can get a lot done in the evening when the bear, especially the lion, is experiencing a drastic decline in their activity level.Wolves are not good at rising early in the morning. Because of their activity level, they are one of the best Chronotype classes for night shifts. They could do well in a freelance career, working with clients in a different timezone as the conventional working hours of 9 am – 5 pm do not favor them. 4. The Dolphin ChronotypeIf you think the wolf class of Chronotype was unusual, then you're in for a surprise.Meet the dolphin class.Only 10% of individuals are part of this Chronotype. This category would usually sleep later than any other Chronotype classes, but they would be up and active early---same as the early birds.They're known as insomniacs. One unique thing about them is their intelligence level. Despite having little sleep, they are some of the most intelligent people you'd meet.They are also light sleepers. Consequentially, the dolphin class is prone to anxiety. Other than the chronotype quiz by Dr. M. Breus, other quizzes can help you better understand your chronotype and how it's connected to your sleep and activity level.Which of the 4 Chronotype classes do you fall on?
Listicle 10 Things I Wish They Taught Us In School 5:47 AM Another day passed, and I didn't get to use Algebra and Calculus once. Phew! 😂Why did I take them up again? Oh, right. It's required to get my degree. I wish they'd allowed us to choose what we want to learn. Or change the curriculum and teach us the essential things in life.Do you also wish that sometimes? I mean, do you even remember what the Pythagorean theorem is and its purpose?Here are 10 things I wish they had taught us in school.10 Things I Wish They Taught Us in School1. Filing taxes and how we can save or pay lessI remember taxes being explained in school. Briefly.I don't remember our school teaching us how to lessen the amount we need to pay. I know some wealthy people find a loophole in taxes. They're so rich because they can get around it. I wish they had taught us an easier way to file taxes. The basic ones. So we don't dread tax season and do not have to hire a bookkeeper or accountant as much as possible.Thankfully, there are YouTube channels now explaining how certain taxes should be filed.2. Mental Health Care There's a stigma about people suffering from mental health problems.I wish they taught us how to deal with anxiety, for example, not only when taking up psychology, psychiatry, or the like.Taking care of our mental health should be taught early on to avoid making it worse. And for the person suffering from it to not be scared to open up and seek help.Let young people know what they feel is expected or if it's time for them to get professional help. What can they do when they feel paralyzed by fear?How should we talk to someone who is going through depression?If mental health had been given the focus and importance it deserves, maybe more suicides and self-harm could've been avoided.More people wouldn't feel bad, lost, or guilty for feeling their feelings.People would be more sensitive and empathetic towards others.3. The truth about animal agriculture or how our food is made.This is not to force people to go vegan (though it would be nice if you would). This is to give you the option. To know what you're choosing and the consequences of your choice.When I learned about what they do to animals and how unpleasant and dreadful the situation is, I felt duped. Why didn't anyone tell me how horrible the process was for my cheeseburger to be made?Thank goodness for plant-based alternatives now.Show your kids actual footage and not staged videos of animals killed for food. Then let them decide for themselves.4. How to live more sustainably. Rich people are trying to discover how we can thrive on other planets, but...Shouldn't we spend more time and money to save what we have instead of looking for another planet to abuse and corrupt live on?There's nothing wrong with progress. I'm here for a future with flying cars and all the high-tech fun.But it shouldn't mean we should trash our planet while working our way to a better future, right?May we learn to live sustainably even when schools don't focus on teaching us how.5. Laws and rightsMore than 30,000 statutes have been enacted in the US since 1789.We studied the basics of law and those necessary in your field. For example, we have a subject on Ethics and Jurisprudence in Pharmacy.But some people are unaware of their fundamental rights, like the right to fair wages. Unfortunately, that's especially true in my country.Side note: Do you know that it's illegal to fly a kite in Victoria, Australia, and Buenos Aires, Argentina?What other crazy laws do you know of?6. How to invest or the different kinds of investmentIs there a conspiracy theory that keeps the poor poor and helps the rich become richer? Because why aren't they teaching us how to grow our money properly in school?I learned all about investing and growing your money exponentially from financial gurus.If I could learn simple investment through a one-day seminar and follow it up with YouTube videos, imagine what we could do if we discover it in all our years spent in school. I'm sure you've heard stories of Chinese families talking about money at the dining table, even with their young kids, as naturally and casually as talking about their favorite Disney characters.No wonder they're good at businesses and investments.7. How to start and grow a businessSpeaking of business, not everyone's good at it.But maybe because we just don't know what we can sell or how to sell. Our every day involves marketing. We use marketing to convince our parents to give us money. Why did you add that product to your cart even if you don't really need it? Effective marketing.We recommend products to our friends. We are natural salespersons. Might as well use that skill to start a business and help us grow our money.In Robert Kiyosaki's book Rich Dad, Poor Dad, his rich dad taught him about selling and business while he was young. Imagine if he waited for school to teach him what he knows now.8. The power of the law of attraction or having the right mindsetWhy don't they teach us the importance of having the right attitude? The winning mentality? Or that we have the power to make things happen?We see it in movies and in other people we know. We read it in self-help books. Some of the people we met are generous enough to share this with us.Why not start this in school?9. Self-defenseSelf-defense should be mandated to be taught in schools. It's vital for survival. Not every parent has the time and resources to bring their kids to a martial arts class.Since we're already going to school every day, we might as well teach ourselves how to deal with a possible assault. ROTC was a requirement when I was in school. So what did we get out of it, really?Here are 27 basic self-defense tricks for women.10. The importance of marriage. I used to think that marriage was only a contract between two people. A piece of paper you sign for legal purposes.Maybe that's why people jump into it and walk out just as quickly.Marriage is a covenant. After the beautiful wedding ceremony is the actual relationship test, and it's not always easy.The enemy doesn't need to destroy a nation. He just needs to target the family, the basic unit of our society. And it's easy to destroy a family when the husband and wife are at war.Final thoughts Education should give us a solid foundation before going into the world.But how many of those lessons taught in the classroom can we use daily?I've not looked for the value of X since I graduated.If life is a battle, we must be equipped with the right weapon.Sometimes when I do "adult" things that are pretty challenging, like filing my taxes or struggling with stress, I can't help but wish they taught us how to properly handle these things in school. Instead of wasting our time memorizing formulas we'll never use or terminologies we forget the moment we step out of school, why not learn things that are more life- and sanity-saving.What are the things you wish they had taught us in school?
Listicle 10 Common Misconceptions About Introverts 9:24 AM 10 Common Misconceptions About Introverts Telling an introvert to go to a party is like telling a saint to go to hell. - Criss Jami They're the silent ones in a gathering. You see them eating alone. Sometimes they avoid your eyes. You get misconceptions about them, thinking they're snobs or lonely. Or that they hate people.Introverts. They are easily misunderstood. Maybe because they don't talk much, their silence could be interpreted in many ways.But introverts are extraordinary beings. Here are 10 common misconceptions about them. 10 Common Misconceptions about Introverts 1. Introverts are nerds. That is not always the case. This stereotyping may be because introverts don't always go out and are often seen absorbed in their own thoughts. Geeks may be busy thinking about and tinkering with technology, science, and other fields of interest, but introverts may just be enjoying their alone time without doing anything geeky. Sometimes they write or blog (ahem), read a book (not necessarily the geeky ones), stay in and watch Netflix, or dabble in art like painting or drawing.Speaking of drawing or illustrations, check out how artist Lingvistov captured introverts in these cute and funny illustrations.If you're looking for a fantasy illustrator, or an illustrator of any kind, to capture your imagination or daily life, you can find a few online.And that's another thing introverts love. Doing transactions online. No face-to-face meetings and no requiring them to speak to people. 2. Introverts are snobs. Probably the most common misconception about introverts is that they are snobs.It's nothing personal. Introverts don't particularly like small talk and don't consider social pleasantries a must in life.You'd get a slight nod of acknowledgment and a small smile, and that's already a huge deal. Be appreciative. 3. Introverts are depressed or lonely. Just because they'd rather be alone and often retreat to their peaceful and private world doesn't mean introverts are going through something depressing. Scientifically, introverts need to be alone because that's how they recharge. Dopamine levels tend to go down in a crowd, and they need to pump it up with peace and quiet. It's biological. 4. Introverts are shy. There are a lot of successful speakers who are introverted in person. A shy person can't talk on stage in front of a crowd. Introverts aren't shy. They just don't enjoy the limelight as much as others do. Introverts don't avoid the crowd because they're shy, but they're not comfortable in it. 5. Introverts are people-haters. Introverts don't hate people. They just don't like social gatherings.Introverts like to meet up and hang out with friends. Some even love to travel. They prefer a more intimate or one-on-one interaction over partying. Introverts have a tight circle that they adore and cherish. 6. Introverts are boring. Fun is relative. It may be fun to go bar-hopping, mountain climbing, bungee jumping, or cliff diving, but it may be dull or scary for others. You may get bored watching reruns, curling up on a couch and reading a good book, or sitting quietly and watching the sunset. But, some people get a high doing that. We often associate quiet and serenity with dullness, but you won't really know or understand how fun it is just sitting in a corner, watching people, or enjoying the moment---unless you're an introvert. 7. Introverts don't work well with a team or can't lead a group. Introverts can function well alone, but that doesn't mean they can't work in a group.Introverts can get along well with others, and you'd be surprised that these leaders are introverts: Eleanor RooseveltBill Gates Abraham Lincoln Warren BuffettElon MuskMahatma GandhiBo Sanchez 8. Introverts can't be happier than extroverts. Extroverts are loud, so you'd know when they're happy. You can see it. That doesn't mean they're happier than introverts, though. Happiness is a choice.Just because you're the life of the party and outgoing doesn't necessarily mean you're happy. 9. Introverts don't like to talk. Give them a topic they love and surround them with people they're most comfortable with, and they can talk for hours. David Letterman and Susan Cain are both introverts. 10. Introverts won't make it big. Never underestimate the power of silence. And never take calmness for timidity. Most of the time, there's boldness, waiting for the right moment to strike...and shake the world. "Still waters run deep." Just ask these introverts who made it big: J. K. RowlingMichael Jackson Warren Buffett Steven Spielberg Johnny Depp Albert Einstein Mahatma Gandhi Mother Teresa Emma Watson Are you an introvert? What do people assume about you?What misconceptions do you have about introverts? Gifs from Google images
Home 4 Easy Steps To Create An Inviting Poolside Patio 6:25 AM 4 Easy Steps To Create An Inviting Poolside Patio A pool deck could turn into your home's favorite spot if you incorporate it with designs that make it irresistible. This could mean spending more time outdoors, especially during summer. With these four easy steps, you can create a comfortable and inviting poolside patio for you and your loved ones.1. Add colors to your poolside patio.There is something delightful about adding color to your pool.It is one of the best poolside patio ideas to make the surroundings inviting and the entire area brighter. You can use different colors to highlight specific aspects of your pool for safety purposes. For instance, use a different color to indicate spaces that need to be avoided by people who are not skilled swimmers. Choose colors that accentuate your pool and the poolside. Work with landscaping and pool experts. They will advise you on which colors will work based on your theme. You could transform your little poolside patio into a Caribbean paradise with color highlights and colorful flowers. 2. Add water features and mood lighting.A water fountain draws you instantly. The same will happen to your poolside if you incorporate water features. An easy feature to add to your home pool is dancing waters. This can produce a calming effect that anyone would enjoy. For added comfort, you can include an RIO Beach Backpack Multi-Position Lounge Chair by the poolside for the perfect ambiance. Together with the calming pool effect, this colorful chair will enhance your relaxation. This chair is comfortable and perfectly fits into any tastefully decorated poolside patio. Include some pool lights to help set the mood.3. Add unique patio touches.Patio pavements with a unique pattern can add a bit of a decorative element. Use materials that differentiate the patio area from the rest of the house. A good example would be gravel or granite. Spruce up the backyard by using elements of arched gates or entrances for a medieval look, or consider using colored posts for an elevated but elegant look. Such small details will give your poolside an unmatched resort-like feel. 4. Size matters - the bigger, the better.An oversized poolside patio is better and more inviting because you can play around with different themes or mix several in one. You can add an outdoor poolside dining arrangement. Create a relaxed area with poolside patio furniture like beach lounge seats. There should be enough intimate areas for family and friends to hold private conversations on a spacious deck with poolside patio chairs.Ample space allows you to play around with different functional ideas. It also gives room for maximum creativity and gives you the most out of your poolside patio. If possible, try to size the deck to fit your needs and make your poolside more inviting.Now youHave you tried revamping your poolside patio to make it more inviting? What elements have you added?
Books 2021 Reading Challenge Completed And 12 Short Book Reviews 8:34 AM Who else did not open a book in 2020? Just me? Okay.2020 was like a nightmare. I couldn't even bring myself to read a book then.So I made a promise that I'll go back to reading again this year.Thus, my "Read one book or one series in a month for one year" Reading Challenge started.I joyfully and proudly completed the task I gave myself at the start of the year. 😄 Oh, the commitment it took and the feeling of accomplishment after. You should try it. I'm sharing my short reviews for the books I read in twelve months in 2021. Hope this helps you decide which book to choose and not to pick for your next reading challenge.This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost.2021 Reading Challenge Completed & 12 Short Book Reviews1. January 2021 - Fifty Shades Trilogy by E.L. JamesRating: ⭐⭐ I'm not saying this to diss the author because I can only imagine the time, effort, sleepless nights, coffee, and glasses of wine involved in writing a series. High respect.But about the book...You'd know right away that it's written by a woman...A drop-dead gorgeous young multi-millionaire who wants to give you the world, a sex god who just happened to have a big heart for the needy, with an equally kind-hearted family...Anastasia Steel is supposed to be an English Lit student who later became editor-in-chief. But can she have a more boring train of thought? There are so many lines that I wish were deleted as it made me cringe and want to throw the book across the room.I will never understand why the first book outsold JK Rowling's, Harry Potter. Okay, maybe I do. Sex really does sell. No matter how jejune the narrative is, no matter how gray the characters are (pun intended), it will sell if there's crazy sex involved.I also read Fifty Shades as Told by Christian Trilogy: Grey, Darker, Freed, and I would say it's better.Rating: ⭐⭐⭐Maybe because Christian is a successful young entrepreneur, his everyday life is more exciting. His past is also colorful, to say the least. He's a complex human being, so there's a curiosity in trying to figure out why he is the way he is and what's going on in his mind.It's less torture to read as Christian doesn't have an inner goddess who annoyingly bounces, spins, pole vaults, and pirouettes. It's more tolerable.Whatever you think about this series, I'd say I started my 2021 Reading Challenge with a bang. 😄If you want an honest trailer about the movie adaptation and have a good laugh, you should watch this:2. February 2021 - The Red Queen by Victoria AveyardRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I didn't know this was a part of a series when I picked it up at the bookstore. It reminds me of Hunger Games and Divergent. In this novel, their society is divided into Silvers and Reds. The Reds are the inferior community, and the Silver possesses superpowers.Lo and behold, they discover that Mare, the story's protagonist, is a Red with extraordinary gifts.Though I predicted who the real villain was, I like how it was written creatively. The battle scenes are thrilling. And there's still an element of surprise.I can't wait to finish the whole series soon (it's currently out of stock in the bookstores here).And I also wish that this would be made into a movie or series. Hi, Hollywood. Please?3. March 2021 - Thy Brother's Wife by Andrew GreeleyRating: ⭐⭐⭐It's intriguing but not as engrossing as I expected it to be. Two brothers - a senator and a priest - fell in love with their adopted sister.They both thought the other one deserved the woman better, but they lived out their lives according to how their father planned them to be. So again, it's about the struggles of being human.Struggles of children who follow their parents' dreams instead of following their hearts.The struggles of siblings who want the best for each other are willing to risk their own morality and principles.Struggles of humans seeking God's answers and looking for signs when going through a dark time. Struggles of a young priest.This novel also reminded me about how things could grandly change if only we learn to say what is really in our hearts. 4. April 2021 - Eleven Minutes by Paulo CoelhoRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Eleven Minutes is about discovering love from unconventional people in the most unexpected place and how far a person is willing to go for ambition or dreams.It's the first Paulo Coelho novel I read so fast I finished it in days. It didn't lull me to sleep. :D I love that airport scene. It's the least I expected from this character, so it's a pleasant surprise. I literally had to stop reading and squeal like a high school girl. I've not done that since Eleanor & Park.It made me wonder why Maria the prostitute's thoughts are more eloquent, poetic, and sensible than English Lit major Anastasia Steel's. I wouldn't have predicted why it's titled Eleven Minutes. So that's another great discovery. 5. May 2021 - After Series by Anna ToddRating: ⭐⭐Another book that sold probably because of all the sex involved. My friend warned me that it's hard to read (too wordy), and I should have listened.I was reading fast to get it done and over with. I want to know if Tessa finally realized her worth and allowed herself to find the healthy love she deserves.There are some similarities with Fifty Shades of Grey, or at least with the characters. Tessa is also a bibliophile and a virgin. Hardin is an enigmatic guy with a complex past who fell obsessively in love with this naive girl. Both men don't have a problem when it comes to money. Neither seems to make an effort; Hardin is in school, and Christian is in his Forbes 500 business but is thriving anyway.Both have aggressive or violent tendencies.Though when it comes to red flags, Hardin is the winner."Toxic" is an understatement to describe their relationship. Their story is about trying to fix someone who doesn't want to be fixed and suffering through a toxic cycle. If you want to know what red flags to look out for and what happens if you meet them head-on, instead of dodging them, read this book. 6. June 2021 - Great Cases of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan DoyleRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐It's exciting to read how the brilliant mind of Sherlock Holmes unravels mystery after mystery, but I would say the TV series and the movies are better.There were cases that I thought were easy to solve, and there were plot twists I didn't see coming.A great break from the previous romance books I've read, that's for sure.7. July 2021 - Write It Down Make It Happen by Henriette KlauserRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I've always believed in the power of written words. My thoughts and plans get more organized when I see them written down on paper. Heartwarming, inspiring, and astounding sharing of people who have turned their dreams into reality by writing them down is waiting for you in this book.It renewed my faith and reminded me just how powerful we are in creating our destinies and shaping our future.8. August 2021- Whiteout by Ken FollettWhiteout by Ken FollettRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Another novel I'd like to be made into a movie. I love how the story is plain and simple but full of suspense. I seldom see plots wherein the heart of the action climaxes and (almost) ends in one location.Not everyone loves a happy ending, but I do. Needless to say, I closed this book with a smile on my face.9. September 2021 - Forced RestThat's not the title of my September read. I got sick this month and didn't have the energy to read a book. So I took a break and read two books for October instead.10. October 2021 - Beach Town by Mary Kay AndrewsRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Greer and Eben. The two characters in this book were a breath of fresh air from Christian + Anastasia and Hardin + Tessa. Eben is uncomplicated, genuine, and honest. Greer is no-nonsense, especially when it comes to her job.I love how the story happened in one place - the Beach Town. The simple way they live in Cypress Key reminds me of my old hometown. I miss going to the beach, and this book makes me want to live near one.It's not a complex story - no suspense, action, heavy drama, and, most importantly, no mysterious boyfriend with a heavy baggage to carry.But it makes me look forward to what will happen next, especially where Greer and Eben's relationship is going.It brought me that pleasant summer vibe even though I read it in October.This book is an excellent come-back read for me after struggling with my health. October - The Distance Between Us by Maggie O'FarrellRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I'm not a fan of book flashback scenes, but I don't mind it with The Distance Between Us. It's highly relevant to the story and effective in piquing your curiosity. Why do these sisters have this unique bond? Why does Stella keep seeing this man or think she did, and why is he making her feel this way?What is she running away from?How in the world is she going to meet Jake when he's halfway across the globe?How will they work things out when they seem to live in different worlds?How is Jake going to make peace with his past?Questions that keep adding up as you read along but, in the end, were answered satisfactorily. Jake and Stella didn't have a good past, but you'd know they'll have a promising future. 11. November 2021- The Road Home by Rose TremainRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐It's raw and moving. A story about a man who once became homeless in hopes of providing a better life for his family back home.It's good to be reminded of how kindness, even from people we barely know, can change our lives. And that we really have no idea what the other person is going through.I love how Lev did not let his present circumstances hinder him from dreaming new dreams.He worked hard and persevered to save his family and turn his dream into reality. To give the people in their small town another chance.There's also a part about the wrong love he chose that still haunts him but makes him more human.And that's what I love about this story. It doesn't shy away from the reality of life. Only four stars, though, because I wish he's found peace in his heart and allowed himself to move on and be really happy. 12. December 2021- The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heath and Dan HeathRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I read this book as a requirement from our club. It was reading out of obligation at first which was no fun, but I eventually enjoyed it.Enlightening, perceptive, and sometimes funny.As someone who's been working with customers for about 18 years now, I have many eureka moments here.Not only are the insights helpful for work or business, but they also gave me an idea of how to create powerful moments in an otherwise ordinary time, build a stronger relationship with others, and turn something unpleasant into an opportunity for an epic moment.A must-read, especially for entrepreneurs or those who want to improve their career in customer care.2021 Reading Challenge TakeawayWhen I was a few pages away from completing my 2021 Reading Challenge, I had an incredible sense of pride and satisfaction.This year was far from perfect, but at least I've been productive and learned more than I did last year.I hope my picks for my 2022 Reading Challenge will be much better.What's on your reading list for 2022? Recommendations are welcome.
