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How to Prevent Gambling Addiction After Retirement


Your golden years and empty nest are both supposed to be pleasant. But preventing a gambling addiction isn’t always easy, nor is it possible when you don’t recognize the signs. So, pay attention to yourself and/or your loved one to meet the problem head-on before it’s too late…
CONTINUE READING >> 

Did you know that nearly 3% of the United States population admits to having a gambling problem? That amounts to over 10 million people, and many of them are retired seniors like us who are living on a budget. We’re seriously too old for this crap, so let’s learn what it is and how to prevent it.

What is gambling addiction?

Playing with probability in moderation is fine, but gambling addiction is something completely different. It’s characterized by an uneasy urge to continue betting regardless of the consequences. The reason it becomes addictive is because it releases reward hormones into your brain – much like drugs, alcohol, or sex.

If it’s left unchecked, your dependency on placing wagers can do significant damage to your finances. It’s also terrible for your mental health when it gets out of hand or when it starts negatively affecting the quality of your life. Thus, gambling addiction is pretty serious, especially if you’re trying to enjoy your newly empty nest.

FACT: Addiction to gambling is the world’s most common impulse control disorder, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Signs you may be addicted to gambling

It’s okay if you’re becoming a little obsessed with gambling. It’s an entertaining and rewarding pastime, and there’s always help if you need it. Still, the first step in prevention is recognizing there’s a problem. Here’s how you can tell:

    • You’re preoccupied with placing bets even when you’re doing other things.
    • You often think of ways to come up with more money for games.
    • Your wagers continually get bigger and bigger to provide a thrill.
    • You feel restless when you’re not able to gamble the way you’d like to.
    • You frequently use gambling to get away from guilt, anxiety, or depression.
    • You’ve lied to your loved ones about your wagers, whereabouts, or losses.
    • You’re in jeopardy of damaging your personal or professional life.
    • You’ve been caught stealing or defrauding to pay for your habit.
    • You chase losses as a way to get your money back.
    • You’ll ask your loved one for money or beg them to bail you out of trouble.
    • You can’t seem to cut back with any success.

Gambling addiction is marked by an inability to make rational decisions or set a gaming budget. It’s a compulsion that can tarnish your golden years, but it’s curable with counseling or group therapies.

5 ways to prevent gambling addiction after retirement

If you’re not already addicted to gambling, now is not the time to start. And if you feel like there may be a problem, early prevention is your best bet. So instead of chancing it, use these five techniques to prevent it altogether:

#1. Avoid temptation.

It’s harder to stay addicted to something when you don’t always have access to it. So, limit your opportunities for gambling or going to the casino, even if you have a lot of time on your hands these days. For bonus points, cut yourself off after a certain point.

#2. Find a few alternatives.

Pick a few pastimes that don’t involve making money wagers on games of chance. You’ve waited your whole life to have extra freedom for hobbies and interests. Don’t spoil the opportunity by squandering your resources on things that anyone could do. Remember how unique you really are.

#3. Play some free games.

You can still enjoy some of your favorite games without having to bet actual money on them. Try playing on your phone for points instead. It will give you a similar thrill while adding a layer of competition into the mix – all without busting your post-retirement budget for no good reason.

#4. Learn a new hobby or skill.

Now that you don’t have to take care of a family or report to work every day, you have plenty of time to pick up a new hobby or skill. Doing something that you’re already passionate about can help keep you interested even when you feel the urge to go out gambling.

#5. Consider the consequences.

Think about yourself and your family. Try to remember all of the plans you made when you were young. Retirement is supposed to be about rest and relaxation, not debt and undoing all your life’s work. If all else fails, seek professional help from a licensed clinical therapist as soon as possible.

The takeaway

Your golden years and empty nest are both supposed to be pleasant. But preventing a gambling addiction isn’t always easy, nor is it possible when you don’t recognize the signs. So, pay attention to yourself and/or your loved one to meet the problem head-on before it’s too late.

Marie Miguel Biography:
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with Mind-Diagnostics.org. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

Are You Restless or Do You Have Adult ADHD?

Adults with ADHD typically feel restless and uneasy, especially if they’re unaware of their diagnosis. So, if you or someone you love suspects that adult ADHD may be a problem, seek counseling as soon as you can… CONTINUE READING >> 

You’ve already tried everything to calm yourself down and improve your focus, from strong sleeping pills and extreme lifestyle changes to gentle melatonin and even CBD. But nothing seems to work. You end up feeling restless and scatterbrained most of the day no matter what you do.

That’s a common problem for empty nesters, especially those who are ready to hit the road and start living their best lives. However, restlessness may be caused by more than just your desire to travel. In fact, the experts at Mind Diagnostics say it could be a sign of adult ADHD.

5 reasons you could be feeling restless

There are many causes of restlessness, including some that are purely emotional. Depending on what’s current going on in your life, you could experience bouts of anxiety or uneasiness at almost any time. But if you’re restless a bit too much for your liking, it could be caused by one of these five things:

#1. You have a long to-do list and a short window of time.

Life doesn’t slow down just because of your age, family structure, or occupation. Truth be told, it often gets more hectic as you start to enjoy forgotten pastimes again. Combined with all the demands of everyday life, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. And wanting quick solutions can make you feel agitated, fidgety, or irritable.

#2. You’re excited about the possibilities of something.

Your emotions can get mixed up and become confusing, causing you to worry more than you should. Positive anticipation is always a good thing, but it doesn’t always feel like it. Being excited about something that’s coming up or about to happen may make you experience uncomfortable emotions when you experience the same waves every time you’re upset.

#3. Your hormones could be imbalanced in some way.

Did you know that hormonal imbalances may cause feelings of extreme restlessness, especially in menopausal or perimenopausal women? That’s because the increases in estrogen make it difficult to sleep, thereby worsening the situation with each passing night. Meanwhile, men with imbalanced testosterone levels may experience the same thing in a different way.

#4. You might be taking medication that causes restlessness.

Certain medications are notorious for causing agitation, irritability, and/or an inability to concentrate. They can also change your brain or body chemistry over time, causing you to react differently to familiar stimuli. If you suspect your medicines are responsible for your restlessness, don’t stop taking them abruptly. Instead, talk to your doctor to develop a safer treatment plan.

#5. You may suffer from adult attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, or ADHD.

Nearly 4.5% of the North American population between the ages of 18 and 44 suffer from diagnosed ADHD. It’s unclear how many undiagnosed cases there are. One thing is for sure, though. Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder is difficult to spot in active, functional adults. However, it can make you feel extremely restless, especially when performing repetitive or mundane tasks.

What is adult ADHD?

This is a chronic condition, which means it persists regardless of what you’re doing. Symptoms can include hyperactivity, impulsivity, and repetitive body movements. Meanwhile, those with adult ADHD typically deal with a low self-esteem, poor school or work performances, and difficulty maintaining relationships.

Many times, the condition begins in early childhood. However, it was not officially recognized in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) until 1990. Thus, many cases fell through the cracks, causing some empty nesters to feel especially restless once their lifestyle shifts and they can no longer hide or cope under the weight of their previous habits.

How to tell if you’re an adult with ADHD

The many symptoms of adult ADHD can be grouped into three main categories as follows:

    • Behavioral
    • Mood
    • Cognitive

Behavioral symptoms of adult attention-deficit hyperactive disorder may include fidgeting, irritability, impatience, and a lack of self-control. Excessive risk-taking, substance abuse, and gambling addiction are common as well.

Mood symptoms generally include anxiousness, extreme boredom or excitement, and mood swings, while the cognitive side effects are somewhat more disruptive. In fact, they can include forgetfulness, racing thoughts, a short attention span, and even a learning disability.

Adults with ADHD typically feel restless and uneasy, especially if they’re unaware of their diagnosis. Instead of dealing with the issues head-on, they assume the worst about themselves and become even more concerned. So, if you or someone you love suspects that adult ADHD may be the problem, seek counseling from a licensed clinical therapist as soon as you can.

Marie Miguel Biography:
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with Mind-Diagnostics.org. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

13 Foods To Add To Your Summer BBQ Menu That Almost Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re having a couple people over or just eating as a family, these are some of the tastiest things to add to your summer BBQ menus…
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It’s Spring, but I am already dreaming of summer. From workouts to help me feel my best, to delicious goodies that come for the hottest months, and fashions that are just so fun and whimsical, I love summer. It’s a time to rest, reset, and enjoy more time with the people you love most. Summer BBQ’s are always a fun way to get people together. Whether we enjoy a BBQ around the pool, at a park, or by an evening bonfire, there are so many tasty things to enjoy. Here are some of the best!

Fruit Salad

Since fresh fruit is easy to find and cheap during the summer, always make a fruit salad. It makes the best dessert and for those wanting healthier choices, you’ll always have something for them. Whether you like yours with watermelon, berries, citrus, or just combine all the fruits and make a Fruit Pizza.

Fruit Smoothies

Fruit beverages are a fun BBQ menu that can make your event stand out. Set up a smoothie bar near the sink so people can wash out the blender in between batches. Offer a fresh selection of fruit like a raspberry chocolate smoothie, herbs like mint, and juices or milks to add to the mix.

Chilled Adult Beverages

When you’re gathering with a group of friends, it’s always fun to enjoy a chilled beer, wine cooler, cocktail, or even hard freeze pops. These can make your time together a little extra fun when you need it.

Popsicles

Speaking of freeze pops, even if you don’t do the adult variety, guests love a good popsicle. They are fun, they are summer-y, they are tasty. And there are tons of varieties for any adult or kid to love!

Strawberry Shortcake

Summer strawberries are the best. Strawberry shortcake is a tasty summer dessert that almost everyone loves. What’s better than a tiny cake, whipped cream, and sweet and juicy berries?

Summer Squash

This vegetable doesn’t get a lot of air time. It’s the perfect summer veggie. You can slice it to serve raw in a veggie tray with dip, you can grill it, you can roast it. Add just the right seasonings and it goes with any BBQ meat you enjoy.

Creative Salads

Experiment with new salads for the summer. Whether you want to update your green salad with fruit and nuts, create new salad dressings, or add bacon to your favorite potato salad, make something creative and new. It’s fun to experiment with tasty combinations!

Bacon

People love bacon. It’s the perfect way to add flavor to many different dishes. Whether you make a cheesy casserole, mac and cheese, cheese ball, a garden salad, or even a macaroni salad, just a little bacon adds a ton of flavor!

Pineapple

Fresh ripened pineapple is perfect for summer BBQ events. Eat it fresh, eat grilled, eat it in a salad, but just eat it. Pineapple is filled with nutrients, and add sweet and sour flavors that taste great.

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods add so much to a BBQ menu. Whether you use a zesty BBQ sauce, serve chips with salsa, or add some pineapple habanero jam to your cheese and cracker tray, include something hot on your menu. Jalapeno poppers are another great summery BBQ item that people love!

Different BBQ Sauces

You may have a favorite, but at a BBQ, it’s fun to try out different BBQ sauce combinations. Whether you take pre made ones and doctor them up or start from scratch, your BBQ sauce choices will help bring out the flavors of any meat.

Smoked Meat       

Have you watched any of those BBQ contests where everyone smokes their own meat? Smoking meat adds a new depth of flavor– more than simply grilling everything. You can smoke turkey, chicken, beef, pork, and even fish. When you add these smoked meats to your menu, you and everyone you invite will enjoy all the unique flavor combinations.

Kabobs

Meat, veggies, and fruit combinations grilled on a stick are delicious. You can even marinate them to add more robust flavor combinations. They can take time to create, so make sure you have your meat and veggies cut and ready to go when you want to put them on the sticks. Grill and serve.

Whether you’re having a couple people over or just eating as a family, these are some of the tastiest things to add to your summer BBQ menus.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

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Six Tips for Taming Your Frizzy Tresses (Even in the Insane Florida Humidity!)

If your hair seems frizzy and out of control, please don’t give up hope. Having touchably soft, smooth locks can totally be possible for you by using these six easy tips…
CONTINUE READING >> 

Your hair says a lot about you, whether you like it or not. Whether you like to wear it all-natural or you prefer to stay on top of your routine salon appointments, it speaks volumes about you, giving away secrets about you that you didn’t even know was possible. Who knew that their hair was also a sort of extension of your persona?

However, despite giving insights into your personality and sense of style, it can still be challenging to try to tame your mane. Humid days mean frizz, and dry days mean that it can feel like straw. It can feel like a no-win situation, no matter how you look at it. How’s a fashion-forward maven supposed to keep her locks in line, when they seem to already have a mind of their own?

Fortunately, having beautiful hair doesn’t have to be a chore, and you can have gorgeous locks, no matter your hair type. If you’re looking to tame your wild, out-of-control tresses, look no further. Here are six easy tips for transforming your ‘do, allowing you to finally love it once more… no matter where you live or what type of hair you have!

Ditch the Harsh Surfactants

It’s normal to want your hair to feel squeaky-clean when you get out of the shower, especially if you live in a state that’s as hot and humid as Florida. That said, using a lathering shampoo may feel good in the moment, but it’s one of the worst things you can do to your hair. Strong surfactants (like sulfates) can strip your hair, making it drier and more poufy. Instead, try using gentler shampoos, or maybe even switch to co-washing.

Keep It Off Your Neck

One way to keep your hair from looking unruly is to look into easy, cute updos. For instance, flirty topknots or playful braids can help keep those flyaways in check, without compromising your sense of style. By embracing a low-effort (but still chic!) style, you can take your focus off your hair and allow yourself to enjoy other aspects of your wardrobe.

Don’t Brush It While Dry

One rookie mistake many women make is running a brush through their hair once it has dried. While you may think it’s giving you body and bounce, it can actually have the opposite effect. By doing so, you may inadvertently fray its cuticle, causing it to stretch and snap. That’s a one-way ticket to Split-ends-ville, and you’ll want to avoid that trip at all costs. Instead, you should gently finger comb it while damp to minimize that frizz.

Use Leave-In Serums

Using the right serum or leave in conditioner for curly hair can make a world of difference in how your hair looks, even on the most humid of days. However, you want to make sure you choose the right one for your hair’s needs. For instance, if you’re more of a 2A (with fine, wavy hair), you’ll want a lighter serum. If you’re closer to a 4C (with thicker, more textured curls), though, you’ll want one with richer ingredients in it.

Look Into Keratin Treatments

Many people mistake frizzy hair for dry hair, but sometimes it may just mean that your hair is in desperate need of a protein treatment. Damaged hair can appear frizzy and brittle, and while moisture can help mask the appearance of unhealthy hair, it may not be the cure for it. On the other hand, proteins (like keratin) can help restore your hair, making it sleeker and shinier, too.

Reach For the Right Towel

It may not seem like it, but one of the biggest culprits of frizzy hair may actually be your bathroom towel. While cotton towels can definitely be absorbent and may dry your hair in a jiffy, they can also fray your hair’s cuticle, causing it to frizz. Instead, you’ll want to use a microfiber towel. They’re incredibly absorbent but still very gentle on your hair, allowing it to dry without turning it into a puff-ball.

Be Gentle When Styling

If you want smooth, frizz-free hair, then you may have to kiss heat-styling goodbye. Or, at least, reduce your frequency of it. Heat styling can be very damaging to your hair, causing permanent damage to the hair’s shaft. If you do have to heat style, though, it’s always a good idea to prepare your hair with a heat protectant. This can help minimize the damage to your hair, allowing you to rock your style without guilt.

If your hair seems frizzy and out of control, please don’t give up hope. Having touchably soft, smooth locks can totally be possible for you, even if you feel like giving up on it. By using these six easy tips, you can finally have the hair of your dreams — all without any unnecessary stress or expensive trips to the salon!

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

6 Tips for Planning Your First Vacation Since 2019

The world is returning to normal, and the first thing that many people want to do is take a vacation. If this describes your current situation, it’s important to know what goes into planning a post-pandemic vacation…
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Travel stood at a near-complete halt since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Since then, the world is slowly returning to normal, and the first thing that many people want to do is take a vacation. After months and months of staying cooped up at home, who can blame them?

If this describes your current situation, it’s important to know what goes into planning a post-pandemic vacation. There is more that travelers have to consider when planning a vacation, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still have the time of your life.

Before you book your airfare and check in to your hotel, look into these suggestions to help your trip go smoothly:

Consider the Destination Less Traveled

Even with restrictions lifting, social distancing is still a factor when picking a vacation spot. Instead of traveling to a crowded place, like a large metropolitan area, consider visiting destinations in smaller population centers, like a beach town, the countryside, or a national park. These destinations will not only be less crowded, but they will also be safer.

Check Travel Regulations

Before picking up your passport, make sure to check the travel advisories for your destination. Make sure to know if your destination requires visitors to be vaccinated. Some countries still have strict rules in place that may include a quarantine period upon arrival. If a COVID-19 test is required before you board your plane, ensure that you schedule a test with enough time to have results ready for your flight. Even within a country, different regions may have different rules in place, so research accordingly.

Boost Your Immune System

Vaccinations are now broadly available worldwide to protect people from COVID-19; however, there are still several other illnesses like the flu that could put a wrench in your travel plans. Consider taking immune support vitamins before you leave and throughout your trip. Preparing your immune system is a step you can take early in advance of your journey, even if you’re already vaccinated. Having a healthy immune system will prepare you for the unexpected and help you ward off any illnesses that could be confused for COVID-19.

Make Reservations

Social distancing guidelines have had a significant impact on seating capacity in restaurants and other venues. With great demand and limited capacity, travelers need to plan and secure reservations. Seating at restaurants is now more limited than before, meaning that wait times are longer, or getting a table may be impossible. Spend less time worrying by securing your seats ahead of time.

Stock Up on PPE

The last year has made people around the world familiar with face masks and other forms of personal protective equipment. Some areas still have strict laws about wearing masks while using public transit, and several businesses will require face coverings for entry into their establishments. Make sure you are ready with a supply of masks for your trip. Also, carry a travel-size hand sanitizer with you for situations where washing your hands isn’t immediately available. Having a pack of sanitizer wipes on hand also makes contact with unknown surfaces a safer process.

Book Early

Today is not too early to plan your vacation. With destinations and services in high demand, it’s better to get a head start and make sure that your destinations are available for you to enjoy to the fullest. Booking too late may have serious financial consequences, especially if travel regulations change last minute and you are unable to get a refund for your tickets or lodging. Booking earlier gives you the flexibility to make changes well in advance should they be necessary and will provide you with a sense of security.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Casino Gaming Behaviour and Trends at Wolf Run Slot Machine Casinos

The pandemic has significantly affected the casino industry. Let’s see how Covid-19 affected gaming behaviour with gamblers playing Wolf Run slot machine and other casino games…
CONTINUE READING >> 

Under normal circumstances, change is a constant in the world. With the occurrence of a global pandemic like the coronavirus disease, the changes experienced are exponentially more drastic and ravaging. In the worst cases, mental health could be affected.

As a result of social distancing, more people are seeking out ways to pass the time and keep their minds occupied since hanging out with friends and regular outdoor activities are restricted.

Fortunately, while many market sectors and higher education institutions are completely shut down, the online gaming market is not hindered by physical limitations and has become the respite for many seeking any sort of recreation. Hence, the first noticeable change in the industry is the shift from physical gambling to online gaming.

Online Gaming during the Coronavirus Pandemic

According to a recent study of digital media trends in 2020 by Deloitte, the onset of the Covid-19 crisis caused about a third of consumers to subscribe to a video gaming service for the first time. Subscriptions were either for eSports or cloud-based gaming services, but the online casino has seen a tremendous upsurge too.

With games like Wolf Run slot machine free and other free slot games no download no registration increasingly accessible, casual players have now become more dedicated, taking advantage of the free time they have and the convenience that these games accord.

As a result of online gaming witnessing a meteoric rise worldwide, different game platforms, studios, streaming services, and publishers have quickly laid a claim on this “goldmine” by creating and developing engaging and exciting services. Their target audience? Avid gamers who are looking to spend their time on something memorable across the board.

However, as a consequence of making the abrupt change from land-based gaming to the virtual scene, there are noticeable changes in gaming patterns that have given birth to new gaming trends. These behavioral trends are:

    1. The art of escaping
    2. Live streaming
    3. Social gaming mode
    4. The rise of female gamers

The Art of Escaping

The art of escaping, also known as escapism, is a new gaming behaviour prompted by the advent of Covid-19.

Since participating in leisure activities that involve contact is practically impossible, online games, including free slot machine games, now act as an efficient social support mechanism for the regular player.

As proof of this newly developed gaming behaviour, popular search engines have released statistics evocative of a 100% rise in individuals who search for the keyword “game app” every week. Coming in a close second is “best online games.”

Gamers are even opting for Virtual Reality devices that simulate real-life events and provide a feel of the traditional experience.

Streaming

Aside from gamers playing their favourite video games, another aspect of online gaming that’s currently gaining unprecedented traction is streaming.

Although this aspect of online gaming has been on the scene for almost a decade now, the recent lockdown measures have seen more individuals keen to view and make comments on other people’s gameplay.

YouTube, just like its “game” exclusive streaming competitor Twitch, is now participating in different social media campaigns, with the most recent being the #stayhome challenge.

Here, content creators, irrespective of what gaming aspect they’re dominant in, come together to invite their fans to play games with them. What’s more? Most of these events occur in real-time.

Social Gaming Mode

Although social gaming has been a recurring theme deeply rooted in the online gaming scene for years, most players tend to play games on their own rather than in a team. Nowadays, more individuals are inclined to gaming in the “multiplayer” mode – a feature that guarantees allows various players to work towards a common goal.

In a sense, it has become the alternative in the absence of human-to-human interaction.

The current circumstances have totally redirected players’ priorities. Previously gamers were more concerned with winning awards or making it to the top of the leaderboard. Now, rather than these platforms being used for gaming purposes alone, players are forming groups to render much-needed support for their teammates who are having torrid times dealing with the pandemic, making them fare better in other life aspects.

With social gaming in the mix, even though gamers sit at the corners of their rooms, totally isolated, they aren’t lonely at any given point. A good example is a case of Generation Z (Gen Z) gamers who have mastered the art of creating relationships with their online friends through social media platforms.

The Rise of Female Gamers

Before now, people had this belief that gaming was and is a male-dominated leisure activity. This is an assumption that many might oppose, but the reality is that most of the video game community has always been male.

This narrative had been slowly changing in recent years, but since the Covid-19 era, the online gaming market has seen an astronomical rise in the number of female gamers on its platforms worldwide.

In fact, 2020 saw the creation of the first-ever all-women team known as “Galaxy Racer” in the eSports scene. This team comprising 5 women has been to some tournaments representing the interests of the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, and Iraq. The team went on to win the coveted “Girl Gamer” prize in a gala held in Dubai.

Summing Up

The coronavirus certainly brought about negative changes globally, especially in public health care. Nonetheless, some people believe the pandemic is a blessing in disguise.

Firstly, it has taken the online gaming industry to new heights. Also, the free time available to many individuals in this period has brought about self-realization that wasn’t possible given the normally hectic daily schedules. These digital gaming solutions are fantastic hobbies to revel in during these times, and as earlier mentioned, time spent with online gaming also benefits mental stability.

While we look forward to the end of the pandemic, this digital transformation will hopefully remain the norm since players and gaming companies alike have received the current behavioural trends with open arms.

3 Rules That Women Over 40 Should Break

There are so many societal expectations and “rules” for women over 40 that are outdated, unnecessary, and above all else, offensive. Society seems to believe that hitting 40 means that a woman’s life is over and it’s time to settle down and wait for retirement.

What gives?

We don’t believe in following those expectations. 40 is just a number, not a cage. Keep reading for a list of common “rules” for women over 40 and why we think that you don’t have to follow them.

1. Slow Down Your Sex Life

Many people think that women over 40 are no longer sexual beings. You turn 40 and ditch the lingerie and your sexual desires at the door. Well, you know that this isn’t true for most people, and no one expects it of male 40 somethings, so ignore it.

This will mean different things for different people. For single women, this means that you don’t have to stop dating around if you don’t want to. Not everyone is into “hooking up,” but your age shouldn’t be a factor.

For women in relationships, this may mean that you don’t have to stop experimenting. You should be able to express your desires and “not fake it” if they don’t work out.

If you’re in a polyamorous relationship, you don’t have to stop and “grow up” when you get older.

2. Dress Conservatively

Have you ever visited parts of the mall that are geared towards you and found clothes that don’t at all represent your personal style?

The clothes are neutral, conservative, and downright boring. They focus on comfort or covering up rather than fashion. Some people bash women in media who don’t “dress their age.”

What does dressing your age mean, anyway? Why does life after 40 have to be so beige and boring?

No, you need to let your style shine. Dye your hair fun colors, wear the bold makeup that you’ve always liked, and let your clothing represent you. If this means wearing heels and short dresses, go for it. If it means boho-style flowing clothes, that’s great!

Regardless, don’t give in to the idea that it’s time to cover up and neutralize your style.

3. Stop Chasing Your Dreams

Let’s face it: society thinks that women over 40 are homemakers. They should either tend to the house or be settled into a job that they’re ready to stay in forever.

For some women, this works. They like the stability of a consistent career or the idea of staying home to tend to the house. There’s nothing wrong with that!

For other women, though, they’re not ready to stop chasing their goals. They want to become novelists, artists, performers, and more. They may want to go back to school.

You shouldn’t quit your day job, but know that many people don’t find their “place” until they’re over 40. Even some of your favorite celebrities were beyond that point when they got famous.

Women Over 40 Can Make Their Own Rules

Being a woman over 40 might feel isolating when you notice all of these restrictions that the world wants to put on you. Don’t fall for them. Women over 40 can live by their own rules, not the ones that society imposes.

Wear your short skirts, keep your love life fresh, and keep working towards your passions and goals. 40 is the new 30.

For more fun articles on all of the top trending topics, check out the rest of the site!