Article: Emotional predators can really take a toll on you. They are people who often have little regard for your feelings and try to always put their own needs above others. Pay attention if you notice someone acting entitled. They might have a big ego, expect others to do things for them, and be careless with their words. If you know someone like this, try to keep your distance. You don't want to get too involved with someone that might end up really hurting your feelings. You're probably a kind person who tends to help others. That's great, but make sure that you are not being manipulated. Don't let others pressure you into doing things you can't or don't want to do. For example, if a co-worker says something like, "You're so much better at creating presentations than I am. Can you outline what I should say in the meeting?", they might be using flattery as a way to manipulate you into doing their work. Your co-workers can be emotional predators. These people tend to expect a lot of praise, and will sometimes talk down to others. Be careful if you're working on a project with one of these people. They tend to "delegate" a lot, leaving you and others to do most of the work. If you find yourself in a situation like this, don't be afraid to go to your boss or HR. Share your concerns, being specific about how it is affecting your work. It's a lot of fun to be in the early stages of a romance. You might let loose and let your guard down. But be careful not to move to fast. Before you bring someone into your home, or share secrets with them, make sure they are truly someone that you can trust.
Question: What is a summary of what this article is about?
Watch out for a sense of entitlement. Avoid manipulation. Keep an eye out for workplace narcissists. Take it slow when dating someone new.
Article: There's no reason you have to jump right into a huge risk right away! Starting with smaller risks will help improve your tolerance for risk and give you the confidence you need to take more of them. You can start by just saying yes to all opportunities that come your way, instead of trying to make new opportunities for yourself right away. For example, if someone asks you if you'd like to work on a new project at work, accept it. If someone invites you to try a new sport with them, give it a try even if it's not something you'd ordinarily do. Another way to start small is to just take a single step towards the risk you want to take. For example, if you want to try scuba diving but are too afraid to try, take a small step in the right direction by snorkeling in a pool. Everyone has one colossal fear that holds them back in life, whether it's fear of public speaking or fear of heights. Whatever your fear is, go out of your way to face it head-on. People have lots of fears, and often the best way to get over them is to expose yourself to them. For example, if you are afraid of heights, try walking on a high bridge. Make sure you stick to something safe. If something bad happens, your fear may get worse. If the thought of facing your biggest fear is too overwhelming, pick a part of it you will tackle. For example, you could drive near a tall bridge and just look at it rather than crossing, or you could take a few steps onto it with the help of a friend. You don't need to confront your fears alone for it to "count." Taking some risks may make your life happier and more fulfilling, but other risks may not have the same effect. Experiment with risk-taking in small steps to find out what level of risk enhances your life. There's no reason to challenge your own comfort with risks that won't do you any good. Remember that everyone is different. Some people thrive under constant pressure, while others are happier with a more steady routine. You will know when you have found the right balance for you when you feel fulfilled and have no regrets about the risks you didn't take. Just because you've decided to take a risk does not mean that you can't change your mind. Always go with your gut and don't be afraid to change your plan along the way. There's a difference between changing your mind and giving up. Try not to back out because you are too afraid to go through with taking the risk. Instead, back out if you realize that the risk is not worth taking or if an alternative presents itself that will provide the same or better benefits.
Question: What is a summary of what this article is about?
Start small. Try to tackle your biggest fear. Find your happy place. Know that you can always back out.
Article: This is an important step that permeates all kinds of interactions you have with your grandparent. Be an active listener when your grandparent is telling you stories about your family history or about her memories. Ask questions and make comments that prove that you are listening. Respond appropriately to her requests or commands. If she asks you to do a task, then you should do it. Your grandparent grew up in a different time period, where societal norms and values were different. Be aware of what habits might irritate your grandparent. Stay off of your cell phone or smartphone while spending time with her. Your attention should be focused on her. Avoid arguing with or talking back to your grandparent. Thank your grandparent when she does something for you or gives you a gift. Be polite to your grandparent and to others when you are out in public. Be helpful and do any tasks or chores without complaint. The fact is that your grandparent is getting older and will likely suffer some health issues. She is not going to be alive forever, sadly, and your grandparent needs to know that you value the time spent with her. Let your grandparent know often that you love her. Focus your attention on your grandparent when spending time with her. Your grandparent has spent many more years alive and has many more life experiences than you do. Even if you do not totally agree with her advice, your grandparent is almost certainly speaking from experience. If you do take her advice, and it works for you, be sure to let your grandparent know and thank her for helping you. Grandparents truly want to feel included and to be invited to events. If you are having a dinner party, or if you are going on a family vacation, be sure to extend an invitation to your grandparent. Although grandparents love and enjoy babysitting their grandchildren, for example, they feel more respected and included when they are invited to events. Things were very different when your grandparent grew up, so be understanding of that. Your grandparent likely has many set-in-stone beliefs, so avoid arguing with or scoffing at those beliefs. Do not try to force new ideas or beliefs on your grandparent if she is not open to learning about them. This only sets the stage for an argument and causes tension. Your grandparent might be curious about a topic or norm, but she may not want to learn everything there is to know about it. Respect the boundaries she sets for the conversation. Calmly and carefully explain certain new societal norms, like the ways people interact or the mixture of cultures present in society.
Question: What is a summary of what this article is about?
Listen to your grandparent. Display proper behavior and manners around your grandparent. Treat your grandparent like she is worthy of your time. Accept your grandparent's advice. Invite your grandparent to events or on vacation. Teach your grandparent about today's societal norms, and be understanding about the beliefs that she has.