#build loyalty programs

[vcqrupvt]

Building Customer Loyalty: The Key to Long-term Success

In today's competitive business world, building and retaining customer loyalty is vital. A well-crafted loyalty program can be the key to ensuring customers keep coming back and attract new ones through positive word-of-mouth. This blog delves into the significance of loyalty programs, explores various types, and reveals strategies for building loyalty. Discover how to create programs that gather valuable customer data and tailor offerings to their preferences. Learn about industry-specific approaches and the power of loyalty schemes in fostering emotional connections that drive sustainable growth.

[formosusiniquis]

🪱 Wiggle Wednesday🪱

Thank you @paperbackribs who tagged me last week, I saw it while I was in class and immediately forgot until I saw people posting their things today. But I'm always excited to share my current brainworms

This is a scene from a fic that I pick at every now and then, so it's basically always on the brain. It started as something about Lucas and Steve and trying to explain away the slight anachronism of Steve (popular and rich) being in Nikes before Jordan made them cool (thank you Air) and it has turned into something much more about Lucas and also his Mom relating through a shared love of basketball and Steve is also there.

It’s a Friday night after the end of the world, and strangely Lucas is at a basketball game.

Or maybe it’s only strange because it’s so normal.

A Friday night in a small town and there isn’t much to do except support the home team. Only Mom won’t watch football, she calls it barbaric, so she reserves all her team spirit for November when basketball season starts. Lucas’ skin itches a little under the Hawkins Tigers shirt he’s wearing, as he’s pretending to be normal when a couple weeks ago he learned monsters were real. What can he do though? Mrs. Byers has Will on house arrest, Mike is still mourning Eleven, and Dustin hasn’t been allowed out since Will’s Lazarus act.

Maybe he’s being too sensitive. Steve is here, who Lucas mostly knows from Mike complaining about being Nancy’s stupid boyfriend. Steve is playing like everything is fine, even though Lucas knows Steve knows. He heard whispering about it with Nancy when he went to the bathroom the last time he was at Mike’s. But Steve is smiling as he paces down the court. Miles better than the other players around him, when Steve has the ball Lucas feels like he does when he’s watching a real basketball game on the couch with his Mom.

If Steve can act like things are normal. If he can sink three pointer after rebound after assist, maybe it’s okay that Lucas is wearing his Tiger green. He floats down the court and everyone cheers. But no one cheers right. When #21 Hagan gets a rebound off of Seymour’s best player, a girl’s voice screams so loud it makes his throat hurt. No one cheers that way for Steve. It’s just excitement for the game, not for him and the way he is playing.

When the game ends, Hawkins 73: Seymour 42, and the crowd storms the court Lucas stands by his Mom in the bleachers. She hates feeling the push of the crowd against her and as he gets older, and people’s hands get rougher, he’s starting to understand. He’s too old to be caught standing by his Mom though. After everything, he knows better than to move too far away from her; going to the game with your Mom is one thing, being the kid getting called out over the intercom because she can’t find you would be life ruining.

Lucas watches the thinning crowd while he waits. Parents and girlfriends crowding their sweaty players. He doesn’t want to get caught looking at any of those boys for too long now that they aren’t playing. He isn’t sure why. So he keeps looking for something familiar.

Steve is standing beside a short, dark haired man who’s got what his father calls a beer gut. He doesn’t look anything like Steve, but he’s also the only adult anywhere near him. He’s the only person at all that’s really near Steve. They’re talking excitedly about something. He claps Steve on the back and whatever he says next has Steve looking down toward the floor.

“Is that Steve’s dad?” he asks his mom before thinking about why that might be a weird question to ask her.

“Who?” The way she says it makes him sure she hadn’t actually heard the question. She’d caught a name, when he interrupted her conversation with the lady next to them, but not enough to answer. It’s a free chance to drop the issue. To say sorry, never mind, and go back to watching people move on the floor below them.

“That guy,” she slaps his hand down as he goes to point. “The guy next to Steve, number 8, is that his dad?”

“How do you know him?” The question, instead of an answer, startles him enough that he looks at her instead of Steve. Stern, he knows he doesn’t want to lie to her, but he also isn’t sure how to say that this random high school boy saved two of his best friends’ older siblings' lives.

“He’s Nancy’s boyfriend. Mike talks about him.”

If he’d just waited. He would have gotten his question answered without asking Mom. They both watch as that man says one more thing to Steve, shakes his hand, and walks out of the gym. “I don’t see Nancy here.” Because they both know he doesn’t really need his other question answered anymore.

“I don’t think she really likes sports.”

Mom sucks her teeth, a judgmental tchk that has heat climbing the back of his neck when it's not even for him. "Well that's a shame, he's a good player." There's finally enough space on the floor that they could leave. He wants, desperately, for them to just go cause something about this conversation is making him feel guilty again. "Do you want to to say hi?"

There's nothing he wants less than that. Lucas thinks if he has to go up to this guy, who went toe to toe with a monster, while his mom trails behind he'll die. Lucas thinks if he says hi to a guy who has only seen him maybe twice in the context of Mike Wheeler's house, and has to sit there while Steve blankly accepts his congrats he'll melt into the floor.

"Can we just go home? I still have homework."

And some tags to @fuctacles, @cauldronoflove, @thefreakandthehair, @stevespookington, @stevieharringtonwifeguy

@eriquin, @grasslandgirl, @augustjustice, and anyone else who wants to play!

[aos-presents]

MasterCard is not playing, when it comes to going, after their fair share of the local marketplace! Here's a way to get rewards + points for things you are already doing! Like paying rent and going to the gym...

More to come but for now, catch up on the details and get your invitation here...

[abcworldnews]

Consumer Loyalty in the Digital Marketplace Insights and Strategies

In the bustling digital marketplace, fostering consumer loyalty is akin to striking gold. It's no secret that acquiring a new customer can cost five times more than retaining an existing one. Yet, in the fast-paced, ever-evolving digital realm, securing customer loyalty requires more than just a quality product or service. It demands a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, tailored experiences, and, crucially, an ability to engage on a personal level. For brands looking to thrive, not just survive, nailing this balance is non-negotiable.

The digital age has transformed consumer expectations. Today's shoppers are savvy, informed, and, let's face it, a tad impatient. They demand convenience, value, and, above all, a seamless experience. Loyalty is no longer just about who offers the best price; it's about who makes shopping easy, enjoyable, and, importantly, personalised. In the UK's competitive market, understanding these shifting dynamics is key. Brands that adapt, offering a curated, frictionless shopping experience, are the ones that will keep customers coming back for more.

But here's the rub: in the digital world, personalisation is the name of the game. It's about recognising your customers as individuals, with unique preferences, needs, and desires. Leveraging data analytics to tailor marketing messages, recommend products, and even predict future purchases can make all the difference. It turns a transaction into an experience, and an experience into loyalty. If your brand isn't utilising data to personalise at every touchpoint, you're missing a trick, and crucially, risking being left behind.

Engagement is another critical piece of the puzzle. In the digital age, this means more than just responsive customer service. It's about creating a community around your brand, engaging customers through social media, blogs, and other digital platforms. It's about telling a story that resonates, creating content that adds value, and fostering a sense of belonging among your customer base. This level of engagement not only drives loyalty but turns satisfied customers into vocal advocates for your brand.

In conclusion, cultivating consumer loyalty in the digital marketplace is both an art and a science. It requires a blend of strategic insight, technological savvy, and, fundamentally, a commitment to understanding and meeting the evolving needs of your customers. The brands that get this right, those that offer personalised, engaging experiences that resonate on a personal level, are the ones that will not just attract customers, but keep them. In the race for loyalty, there's no time for complacency. The digital marketplace waits for no one, and the time to act is now.

[1st-skills-academy]

A Guide to Building Trust and Loyalty in Food Service Business

Cultivating trust and loyalty among customers, particularly those with food allergies, is indispensable in food service settings where dietary preferences and restrictions are as diverse as the dishes served. Establishing a bond built on transparency, safety, and exceptional service goes beyond mere transactions; it's all about fostering relationships that can withstand the test of time. This article delves into the pivotal strategies food service establishments can employ to earn their clientele's trust and inspire unwavering loyalty.

Trust is built over time through consistently delivering exceptional service, and loyalty follows when customers feel understood, respected, and safe.

Building Trust with Customers

Building trust with customers, particularly those with food allergies, involves a consistent commitment to safety, transparency, and excellent service. Here are key strategies to cultivate trust:

Be Transparent and Honest: Be upfront about your menu and the potential allergens in your food. Honesty fosters trust and is particularly crucial for customers with food allergies.

Ensure Safety: Implement rigorous food handling and preparation protocols to avoid cross-contact with allergens. Customers will trust your establishment when they feel their health is prioritized.

Maintain Consistency: Deliver consistent service quality, from the food quality to the attentiveness of the staff. Consistency signals reliability, building trust over time.

Acknowledge Mistakes: If a mistake happens, own up to it, apologize sincerely, and rectify the situation promptly. This demonstrates integrity and can strengthen trust.

A Guide to Fostering Loyalty

Loyal customers are invaluable to the long-term success of your establishment. They not only frequent your business but also recommend it to others. Here's how you can foster loyalty:

Provide Exceptional Service: Always aim to exceed customer expectations. A satisfied customer is likely to return and become a loyal patron.

Personalize the Experience: Remember regular customers, their preferences, and their allergies. Personal touches like these make customers feel valued and enhance their loyalty.

Encourage Feedback: Ask for feedback and show customers you value their input. Make necessary changes based on their suggestions, which can increase their loyalty.

Reward Loyalty: Implement a loyalty program or offer discounts to regular customers. Rewards give customers a tangible reason to return.

When dealing with allergic customers, their safety is the top priority. Their trust in your ability to cater to their dietary needs and prevent cross-contact with allergens is critical. Their loyalty stems from repeated positive experiences where they feel understood, cared for, and safe.

Maintain clear communication, offer allergen-free options, and train your staff adequately to handle food allergies.

In conclusion, ensuring clear and accessible communication regarding allergens in food packaging and labeling is vital. Factors like label design, multilingual labeling, symbols, packaging materials, and integrity are crucial in keeping us safe, especially those with food allergies.

Every detail matters in creating a safer food environment, from ensuring the labels are easy to read to selecting the right packaging materials to prevent cross-contact. These steps aren't just about meeting regulations but looking for each other's well-being. By prioritizing these aspects, we minimize risks and build trust and confidence in the products we consume.

Overall, it's a reminder of the personal impact of allergen awareness and the importance of taking it seriously in our everyday lives.

[darrenwalleyconsultancy]

Employee Re-Engagement

Photo by Sebastian Herrmann Employee re-engagement (make them happy) is not difficult once you recognise it is required. As a director, you may need to re-organise management because we all know that “People leave managers, not jobs”. Having looked at various companies and advised them on engagement, most of the time, it has been due to bad managers. Once the issues have been identified and…

[hsmagazine254]

Nurturing Your Clients: Building Lasting Relationships for Business Success

Building Lasting Relationships In the world of business, cultivating strong and lasting relationships with clients is the key to sustained success. Nurturing your clients goes beyond the initial sale; it involves building trust, understanding their needs, and consistently providing value. When you prioritize client relationships, you create a loyal customer base that not only keeps coming back…

[skygemspeaks]

do you guys want to hear about my sanji's siblings love him au?

who am i kidding, of course you do

anyways

ichiji, niji, and yonji run on facts and logic. they're programmed to have loyalty to their family, and sanji is part of that family, even if he can't do everything they can do.

and the way they see it, it just makes more sense for their loyalty to lie with the brother they shared a womb with for nine months over the father that insists on abusing all of them.

it's not sanji's fault that he's weak and has emotions. that's an objective fact. he was born the way he was. it could just as easily have been any of the rest of them that were different.

so sure, they'll follow judge's orders, because they have to, because it's what they were born to do, but they're not gonna take any of the shitty things people do or say about their brother, least of all their father

sora adores her children. because judge hurt them terribly by taking away their free will, but that's none of their fault, and they're trying in the only way they know how. she's patient with them, trying to teach them about morality and the importance of doing the right thing

at their age, they don't really understand it, but they do notice that people are more likely to do what they want with little fuss if they treat them the way their mom says they should

but then their mom dies, and maybe the loss of his wife is what pushes judge over the edge but he lashes out at sanji, because somehow in his mind sanji is the reason for sora's death. if it weren't for the poison she had taken, which had turned sanji into the weakling that he was, sora would still be alive

ichiji and the other two are furious. they hate this empire that their father has built for himself - and that little fact, that they can hate it at all - goes unnoticed by all of the kids

but they do hate it, and with their mother gone there's no reason for them to stay. so they take sanji, and they take reiju, and the five kids escape from the Germa kingdom and never look back

they work whatever odd jobs they can. and then one day they come across zeff - after he had been rescued from the island he was stranded on for months

and this zeff still has both legs and he didn't suffer as much because he didn't have a child to give up all his food for, but he still decides to give up pirating. he lost his entire crew in that storm, and he has no desire to sail the seas without them

so he had set out to fulfill his dream of building a floating restaurant for himself. he's living on an island in the east blue, and he comes across these five children. one of them, sanji, latches onto him as soon as he finds out that he's a chef. slowly, over the months, their relationship develops and grows stronger.

zeff isn't an idiot, he knows there's something wrong with these kids, but he doesn't pay it much mind. he treats them like any other children, with all the kicking and scolding that entails

normally ichiji and the others wouldn't put up with this kind of treatment from anyone, but they see the way sanji and reiju latch onto zeff, the way the two of them follow him like lost puppies and positively preen at any positive attention he gives them, and they decide they'll put up with it.

it's not like the crappy geezer's kicks actually hurt the three of them

so zeff takes reiju and the boys in, even if it means that food will be a little tight until their restaurant gets off the ground.

the 5 of them grow up on the baratie, protecting their home and surrounded by the gruffly affectionate cooks that are drawn to their father's way of life. it's so different from the environment that they had been born into that they don't know what to think. sanji and reiju take to their new life like fish to water, but it takes a little longer for the boys

yonji respects sanji like he respects his other older brothers. he watches sanji, sees the way he loves and hurts and grows. the intensity of the things sanji feels is completely foreign to yonji, but it stirs an unknown feeling in yonji's heart. he doesn't know what it is, but it makes him short-tempered with his brother

by now zeff has been around his kids for a while, and he's more or less figured out what's up. yonji learns from zeff that what he's feeling is jealousy. that he wants something sanji has that he doesn't

which should be impossible.

yonji doesn't feel things.

zeff shrugs and doesn't argue. he just leaves his kid to figure things out on his own.

after that, it happens slowly, so very slowly, but over time, ichiji, niji, and yonji start feeling more and more emotions. their emotions are still pretty dull in comparison to the frightening intensity of what sanji, reiju, and other people feel, but they cherish this new aspect of themselves.

and it turns out that sanji hadn't been the only one affected by their mother's desperate attempt to save her babies. the others had as well. it had just taken a little more work to draw their humanity out of them

by the time don krieg makes the ill-fated decision to attack the baratie, they still don't have the depth of emotion that other humans do. and maybe they never will. but they have enough to know that they will destroy anyone who even thinks of threatening their father's treasure

and they have enough to shed tears when their brother - a piece of their hearts - sets off with the future king of the pirates

it hurts, to have him leave them. and that hurt is something they wouldn't have had to feel if they had remained the way they were as children

but even that hurt is precious to them

because it's a product of how far they've come, and how much they've gained

[rubberizer92]

In the heart of Rome, at the prestigious drone center, aspiring recruits gathered for the application day, each man eager to prove himself worthy of joining the ranks of the rubber-clad drones. As they entered the center, they were greeted by the stern faces of the interviewers, their eyes sharp and penetrating, assessing each candidate with a critical gaze.

The first exam tested their physical capabilities and mental loyalty to obey and accept further mind control. In a vast training hall, the candidates were put through a series of rigorous exercises designed to push their bodies to the limit.

Their muscles strained against the tight fabric of their clothing, the sweat glistening on their skin as they pushed themselves to their absolute edge. With each movement, their bodies rippled with power, the definition of their muscles accentuated by the sleek rubber outfits they wore.

Once the physical exam was complete, those who passed were ushered into a separate room, where they were instructed to strip down to their underwear. The air crackled with anticipation as the recruits shed their clothes, revealing their toned, muscular bodies to the eager eyes of the interviewers.

With bated breath, they donned the tight glossy rubber outfits provided, the material clinging to their skin like a second skin. Every curve and contour of their bodies was accentuated by the sleek fabric, their movements fluid and graceful as they adjusted to the sensation of being encased in rubber from head to toe.

As they stood before the interview panel, their bodies pulsating with energy and determination, they knew that this was just the beginning of their journey to becoming rubber-clad drones. And with each passing moment, they felt a sense of excitement and anticipation building within them, knowing that they were one step closer to joining the elite ranks of the rubberized society.

In the dimly lit room of the drone center, the chosen recruits were ushered into a space where the air hummed with anticipation. Here, they would undergo the final stage of their transformation, a process that would cement their loyalty to the rubberized society and prepare them for the tasks ahead.

As they settled into their seats, the recruits were surrounded by monitors displaying swirling patterns and flashing lights, designed to induce a state of deep relaxation and receptivity. Around them, the low hum of machinery filled the air, as unseen forces worked to reprogram their minds and reshape their thoughts.

One by one, the recruits were guided into a state of deep trance, their minds open and receptive to the commands of the Voice. Through a series of carefully crafted mantras, they were programmed to chant words of loyalty, obedience, and arousal, their voices blending together in a hypnotic chorus that filled the room.

"Rubber is our master, our guide," they intoned, their voices low and reverent. "In its embrace, we find our purpose, our pleasure, our destiny."

With each repetition, the recruits felt their minds opening further, their thoughts becoming aligned with the desires of the rubberized society. They were no longer individuals, but vessels for the will of the Voice, ready to serve without question or hesitation.

And as the final echoes of the mantras faded into the air, the recruits knew that they were ready. Ready to don their glossy rubber suits and venture out into the world as fully fledged drones, their minds and bodies attuned to the commands of their masters.

For those who had passed the final test, there would be no turning back. They were now part of something greater than themselves, part of a society where rubber reigned supreme, and obedience was the highest virtue. And as they prepared to take their place among the ranks of the rubber-clad drones, they knew that their lives would never be the same again.

As the final 1% of candidates were ushered into the next room, a palpable tension hung in the air. They moved in unison, their bodies throbbing with arousal and obedience, the tight layer of rubber sealing their bulges, exposing their arousal without allowing them any relief.

With each step, the glossy rubber suits they wore seemed to come alive, quivering with anticipation. Slowly, inexorably, the rubber began to crawl up their necks and faces, enveloping them in its tight embrace.

Their minds filled with a euphoric haze as they surrendered to the transformation, fully embracing their new identity as rubber-clad drones. For the next three years, they would serve the rubberized society with unwavering devotion, guided by the Voice and bound by the unbreakable bonds of glossy rubber. And as they disappeared into the depths of the drone center, their bodies pulsating with desire and obedience, they knew that their lives would never be the same again.

[ahsoka-in-a-hood]

The fact that tcw emphasizes that what matters to the clones generally is their loyalty and their individuality and their budding agency to decide who or what is worth fighting for, them being humans not programmed like battle droids, and the relationship they build with the jedi that begins with the jedi telling them they each feel unique in the force, and the personal relationships they develop there, and then, and then, the way all of that specifically culminates in their ability to chose and their individuality being wiped clean away so they can carry out a betrayal

[vcqrupvt]

Building Customer Loyalty: The Key to Long-term Success

In today’s fiercely competitive business landscape, building loyalty has become more crucial than ever. A well-designed loyalty program can keep customers coming back for more while attracting new ones through positive word-of-mouth. This blog explores the importance of loyalty programs, different types of loyalty products and schemes, and effective strategies for building lasting brand loyalty. Discover how fostering an emotional and behavioral commitment from customers can translate into sustained revenue and growth. Learn how various industries approach loyalty and uncover strategies to create programs that resonate with your audience and drive meaningful engagement.

[major-wren]

Eggman's programming

I know this has been mentioned before, but isn't it so weird that Eggman programs emotions and personalities into his robots??

People point out that this is really self destructive on his end because it can lead to some of his creations turning against him after building resentful emotions toward him, like Omega, Gamma, and all of the robots on Scrapnik Island.

My personal headcanon behind his thought process is that not even pure mechanical obedience can rival the loyalty a creation will have to its creator, or "father." It doesn't matter if you reprogram or rewire its entire structure to have its own free will if it's inherent personality, aspirations, and deepest desires will always be to make eggman proud of them, because of the way he's designed and conditioned them. They'll always return to him no matter how many chances you give them, because he's made it so that their biggest desire is to make him proud, even when given free-will or reprogrammed.

We see this most clearly with Metal Sonic, and Sonic will even tease him and take digs at him for it in the comics, telling him to "run home to daddy" (cringe). Clearly, even the characters in-story can see how eggman has raised all of his creations to depend on him for any sense of self worth or purpose. Truly evil, and I think something that's always overlooked when discussing eggman. People say he's not a respectable villain but I think this is really compelling and a unqiue way for a villain to function. Especially because his design is pretty dad-like to begin with, with the mustache, glasses, round body, and bald head lol.

It's so effective, that even when Metal Sonic gains even more power than Eggman through becoming Neo-Metal, he still only wants to take over the world to gift to Eggman. His influence even goes past his creations and gains loyalty from other aspiring inventors, like Dr. Starline.

Most of all, I think it's so effective because it's genuine. He really does love his creations, but simultaneously holds them up to impossible expectations and holds severe disappointment in them when they fail. I mean, think of it. Isn't it awful to design a creation that entirely depends on you for any feeling of worth or purpose, and to make it capable of love and such, only then to neglect and abandon it when it doesn't live up to your impossible standards? Just think of Scrapnik Island and the sheer amount of abandoned bots there.

I think after seeing Mr. Tinker and Belle, it raises the question, does Eggman deep down just want to foster these fatherly connections? To build childrens' toys and fun-rides and kiddy amusement parks, with his helpful heart-filled robot creations? He does often say that he only wants to take over the world in order to "enhance it" with technology, and that people just aren't cooperating. Maybe somewhere down the line his pure intentions got corrupted somehow into this extreme need for absolute control.

[many-but-one]

why do people program kids? what's the point???

(TW: ramcoa, programming, mc, trafficking, torture, child death, csem)

This is a question that has been rattling around in many people’s brains for a long time. I will rephrase your question in a way that is even more blunt: why do people torture kids? Because that is what programming is. Torture.

There are two answers, one is the one that programmers would say. One is the truth.

What programmers say: to create a perfect slave, someone who will do what I want with a simple gesture, phrase, etc. No matter the risk of harm to them or others.

The truth: thrill seeking egocentric sadists derive pleasure from torturing kids, raping kids, and making them bend to their will. They often film it and sell the media to other sick fucks for profit. These sorts of videos are unfortunately extremely profitable. One snuff film made over the course of a night could be worth thousands of dollars. That is why they do it. They like hurting people, kids are easy to control, and they like making money doing it.

There is no real, justified reason why programmers do what they do. There is no justification for torturing children and animals, no matter what they say. And if they truly believe what they tell others, it is because it helps them distance themselves from their heinous acts. If they are creating something with it, it makes the actions seem justifiable to the right people. They may claim they are building an army of programmed soldiers, but don’t realize that if they sent their programmed system into a combat situation the gunfire would trigger them so such a degree that they would be rendered useless. They make subservient sex slaves for profit, but once they get too old to not draw in the same crowd, they dispose of them and let them out into the world with no care to the mental and physical toll that life as a sex slave has done to the child.

They are insidious, evil people. They do not see children as human beings, but products to sell. Animals to put down. They care a lot less about the final product and more about the product that is made along the way—the torture films they make money off of and the excitement and thrill they get from torturing kids to program them.

Programming is not like how Alison Miller and many other conspirators make it seem. They are not making super soldiers or spies. They are profiting off of child torture and then either killing them by the end or letting them go. The only true reason things like callback programming or loyalty programming or silence programming or omega/suicide programming exists is so that they don’t get caught. If the system goes back, they will either be killed or reprogrammed or retrafficked or convinced to become a programmer themselves. They will not be going to complete some sacred duty that the programmers told them. Loyalty is only so they never tell secrets. Silence is so they never tell secrets. Suicide programming is so that they will die before telling secrets.

Programming is all about profit and not getting caught. That is why they do it. My programmers told me all the time that I would eventually become a spy for them. Black Widow style—a seductress who would kill their targets. The reality? I was a sex slave who had to commit heinous acts on camera that they sold, and when they were done with me, they cared less about that “end product” they claimed I was working towards. They’d rather see me kill myself than say even a modicum of truth about their motives.

To which I would say: kill me yourself, you cowards.

I hope that answers your question.

-Jade 🐉 (she/her)

[wonnieaura]

10 ways to look good on a budget 💸

before we begin. I just wanna thank y’all for 650 followers 🤍🤍 love y’all so much

Shop at thrift stores and yard sales: Thrift stores offer a wide range of clothes, accessories and even furniture at reduced prices. While you may not always find brand-new items, there is typically a good selection of high-quality items at great prices. Many thrift stores also offer regular discounts or sale days, so it pays to check back frequently for new items and deals. Yard sales are another great place to find bargain items. While they're typically seasonal and require more effort in digging through piles of items, yard sales often offer the most affordable prices.

Wear what you have: The majority of our wardrobes are full of items we rarely wear or have only worn once or twice. Instead of buying new, look through your closet and see what you already have that you may not have worn in a while. Consider creating new outfits with the items you already have, mixing and matching to create a new style. This not only saves money, it reduces waste and helps you make the most of what you already have.

Buy timeless staples: Building a wardrobe of high-quality, versatile items can help you look good on a budget. Look for classic, simple pieces like a white t-shirt, a well-cut pair of jeans, or a classic black dress. Investing in quality items that will last will save you money in the long run, as you'll be wearing them for years to come.

Take care of your clothes: How you treat your clothes can determine how long they last. Always follow the care instructions on the label, and don't be afraid to hand-wash items if necessary. You can help reduce any damage by investing in a good de-piller, and avoiding the dryer whenever possible.

Accessorize: Accessories can elevate any outfit, transforming what was once a simple look into a stylish one. Look for pieces you can mix and match, like a neutral handbag or a set of simple gold studs. Accessories are a great way to add interest to an outfit without breaking the bank.

Shop sales and clearance racks: The end of season sales can be a great way to find bargain items. Look for items that are on sale or marked down, especially at the end of a season when stores are trying to make room for new merchandise. Look in the bargain bins as well. You never know what gem you may find hiding in plain sight.

Join loyalty programs or use coupons: Loyalty programs are a great way to get discounts and earn rewards for your purchases. Look for loyalty programs in your favorite stores, and take advantage of any special offers. Many stores also offer mobile apps with digital coupons, which can save you money on specific items.

Shop for beauty products in drugstores: Drugstores often carry popular beauty brands at more affordable prices compared to department stores or high-end makeup counters. Look for affordable skincare and hair products that cater to your specific needs, and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the staff.

Be confident: The most important thing is to always have confidence in yourself. Standing tall, taking care of your appearance, and being proud of who you are can enhance your beauty and make you look your best, even if you're wearing budget-friendly clothes. Take pride in who you are, and don't let others' expectations bring you down.

Have fun with fashion: Fashion should be fun, not stress-inducing. Mix and match your clothes to create your own unique style, and don't be afraid to experiment with new outfits. Experimenting with different styles can help you find what works best for you, and make fashion more enjoyable as well.

Remember, looking good on a budget can be challenging, but it's all about being creative and making the most of what you already have. With these tips and a positive attitude, you'll be sure to look your best without breaking the bank.

[blood-orange-juice]

ok so ive never properly played genshin and don’t plan to but i know a bit about it’s lore and characters and i think it’s really neat. however i have thousands of hours on ffxiv. on that note please explain why graha and childe are similar. i only have very basic knowledge on childe and i gotta know

Fellow ffxiv enjoyer. <3

(anyone asking me about G'raha has a 100% chance of getting a wall of text and I'm not apologising for that. enjoy your wall of text)

I'm not entirely sure I'm not a case of a person with a hammer to whom everything resembles a nail, but I do think they are the same archetype.

Sweet characters who could have been perfect sidekicks (who still are perfect sidekicks) but listened to too many epic tales as kids and found themselves in a wrong place at a wrong time and now have to play a key role in some universe-changing story.

Both are defined mostly by their stubborness, they are not very suitable for the roles they've chosen and fail over and over again until they do it somewhat right (barely).

No matter how badass they look, their power is not their own, G'raha is a glorified technician of someone else's miracle and little else than a living key, Childe wields an art of old Khaenri'ah without fully understanding it. It's all borrowed from someone else who needed them to achieve a goal.

They do look badass, but mostly because they larp. I'm honestly not sure which one enjoys theatrics more.

Civilisations that created the magic they use specialised in perversion of the natural order of things. They try to use it in relatively noble ways and mostly hurt themselves but the flavour is there.

Both are unbelievably tragic and both somehow make their stories seem almost lighthearted. Complete absense of self-pity. I think that's what makes them both so charming, it's a rare trait.

Both have an incredible capacity for loyalty and love and an incredibly twisted view of what relationships look like. "I'll cross time and space for you, I'll die for you, I'll build a city for you, I'll live for you but please don't ask me to share my plans." "I'll sacrfice my own health and respect of my subordinates to keep my brother's happyness, probably my humanity too, but don't expect me to actually interact with him."

Both have something that looks like self-sacrificial tendencies bordering on suicidality while being, if we are honest, a self-serving trait (partially born out of low self-esteem but still self-serving). They want to live in an old myth and sacrificing oneself is a perfectly reasonable price for that.

Huge egos. And I mean Huge Egos. It's a bit less obvious in Graha's case but I know the type, you see guys like that in PhD programs a lot.

Huge dorks. Both of them.

Both are stuck somewhere between human and non-human and, hmm... their ability to remain human is the most astonishing quality of both. By all accounts, neither should have. They somehow did.

Both are incapable of lying to the point where a third of each fandom headcanons them as autistic. Both are somewhat all right with tricking people without technically lying (although Childe had more practice).

Both are secretive because no one would understand anyway.

FF XIV is a kinder story, so it's easy to overlook, but technically G'raha is a case of body horror, accepts the role of a villain for a while and hides from the player way too much. Hmmm... Where else have I seen it. Hmm. Oh right. That ginger guy from Genshin.

Minor things:

Both are little shits and enjoy annoying the hell out of people they dislike.

Abysmally bad fashion sense. There should be a name for this particular type and level of bad. I don't think I've seen this anywhere else.

And then there's the colour scheme. Red+black+white+blue and red+black+light grey+blue (it's an "anime magician" color profile, I think. black-red-white as alchemy colours + blue as pure magic/something elemental). Childe doesn't quite fit but still the combination is rare.

They way they talk. Dear gods. Who the hell talks like that.

Here's where the similarities end.

One is morally grey but ultimately a good guy (technically. I think the point of ShB was that Emet and G'raha are almost the same), another is a morally grey but still (kind of) a bad buy.

At every step of his story Graha is surrounded by people who love or at least appreciate him, Childe is pretty much on his own and surrounded by people who are either shitty or clueless.

G'raha is kind. Truly and astonishingly kind, in a doomed world he chooses to love everything he touches. Silly little priest of hope. Of all the things he has done this is the most wondrous, I think. Not the time travel, not the city he founded, just being able to remain kind after everything that happened to him.

Childe is... well, Childe. I think he is a deeply decent person (to the point of having a visceral distaste for any kind of unfairness) and he's idealistic but he's indifferent more than he is kind. Empathy usually develops only when someone has shown the person empathy first and, as far as we know, he didn't have much of that in his life.

Also G'raha builds things. Childe breaks things. Childe breaks pretty much everything he touches.

One is an archeologist and a mage and another is a warrior.

I think these differences are caused mostly by the settings they were put into. Childe raised in Sharlayan would have been a very different person. G'raha trained by a voidsent and shipped off to Garlean military would look very much like Childe.

G'raha also has a beautiful character development arc. I love his ShB role. He has this huge ego in the raids and is insufferable and then we see an older and wiser him with a bunch of actual achievements and a bad case of impostor syndrome (trying to do anything real always humbles a person, we all know that real world is held together by sticks and scotch tape. honestly, this change alone is beautiful). And he gets to be an actual hero when he abandons all hope to be Important and resigns to die as a nameless villain if it saves everyone and spares his loved ones from heartbreak.

Childe's character development is yet to happen and I'm not hoping for much but we'll see.

The only difference that definitely isn't created by setting is that G'raha is naturally manipulative. In a kind-hearted way and mostly for the sake of better larp but he isn't that straightforward. Childe is spectacularly blunt for all his mysteriousness.

As a bonus, they both compare main characters to stars, but in completely different ways.

"No doubt your heroism will be the star by which I chart my course," says G'raha to the WoL.

Childe mentions the morning star, which is, of course, pretty and a good companion to a lonely traveler, but also it's not a celestial body you can chart your course by.

It's a guy whose signature weapon is called "Polar Star" and his first artifact set was full of nautical themes, so I think he fully understands what he's saying. "You are my friend but I won't change anything in my life for you."

So I don't think his story will be anything like G'raha's, his life took a different turn very long ago. I do think they used to be similar as kids, bookish boys who dreamed of adventure and being special. So it's fun to compare.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk. <3

[xan-izme]

You Give Me Strength (Tsu'tey x adopted!Daughter reader)

You were the first child to be born on Pandora. Your mother was a scientist while your father resided in the RDA. The two were already married. When others found out about your mother being pregnant with you. There was some conflict on where the child should stay when arrived in the world.

Your father loved your mother and knew himself that a child going back and forth between their parents in such an environment wasn't healthy. So, he left the RDA building and stayed with his wife in the Avatar program building.

Your father was actually a big help, he helped gather samples, protected the scientist from wild animals without actually killing the animals, as he was a big animal person and had a really big soft spot for the Pandora animals.

Seeing as how much he actually cared about what the Avatar program was doing, they made him an avatar. It took a while for his avatar to fully form, and when his avatar did fully form, that's when Jake arrived.

Both Jake and your father bonded with each other pretty quickly. Both being in the military back at earth. Jake was a Marin while your father was in the Airforce.

You were finally born a week after Jake arrived. Both the RDA and Avatar program were thrilled for your arrival. And at that time, your father and Jake were already training to become one of the people. So he wasn't around that much.

But once he was able to hold you, he- no, actually him and Jake would refuse to give you back to your mother. Too busy playing with you.

When your father would tap back in his avatar, he wouldn't stop gushing about you to Tsu'tey, the Na'vi who was guiding him.

On the ceremony, Jake wanted his wife and child to be there. His wife was able to come, but there was no possible way for a baby to attend. Being a baby and all. But the moment the ceremony finished, he was quick to get to the lab in his avatar and hold your small body in his arms.

You and your parents were happy that night, the two of them already had an avatar body forming for you at the moment. Just have to wait 6 years.

sadly, your parents didn't have six years. Your mother was shot to death, becoming one with the spirit tree and Eywa. Your father, engulfed with sadness and rage, he fought in the war as hard as he could.

He died protecting his friend, his war brother, Tsu'tey from sky people.

Your father and mother showed so much love and loyalty to the Na'vi, You Na'vi body was still developing, and Jake was already having plans to adopt you.

And in a way he did. Taking care of you as much as he could, but when Netyam was born, Tsu'tey took care of you the most. Tsu'tey unofficially adopted you.

And when your Avatar body finally fully formed, you became Na'vi. And officially became the daughter of Tsu'tye te rongloa ateyitan,

Y/n l/n te Tsu'a Arvok'an

15 years later

"Come on Y/n!" Spider shouted as he ran on the vines connected to the floating mountains.

"Be careful Ma Mai'nu!" You shouted, worried that he'll fall, or just hurt himself. You were with the rest of the sully kids who you knew as your brothers and sisters, and Spider who was your own personal brother, as you liked to think.

You made sure to keep up with both Lo'ak and Spider. Neteyam and the girls close behind.

This was one of the days when you all are allowed to roam free, be children again, before the sky people returned. You sighed as you watched Lo'ak and Spider doing stupid things again.

But you liked watching them being carefree.

You were practically the same age as Spider, but he always treated you like you were way older. And you treated him as if he were a toddler, you can't help it. He both looks and acts like one to you.

Even if you were mainly known as Tsu'tey's daughter, Jake and Neytiri acted like your parents a lot.

Jake lectured you a lot

"Stop running like that!"

"No no no no! put the knife down Y/n!"

"Y/n L/n te Tsu'a Avrok'an, go and apologize to your father this instant!"

Jake made sure to keep you in line. To keep you out of any danger, afraid that you'll possibly get really hurt. You might not be his actual blood child or not belong to him, but he saw you as his own. So he treated you like his own.

Neytiri, oh how she babied you. Cottoling you and spoiling you. Not just you, but Neteyam as well. The two of you were her pride and joy. She gave you motherly love and that lead you to calling her "mom."

Then your father, Tsu'tey. He was very soft with you. Never harsh with you, never raised his voice at you. Whatever you wanted, he did for you. Hungry for a certain fruit that is possibly very deep in the forest? he'll get it for you.

You were the blood daughter of his dear friend, and his little girl. Evry emotion of pain and anger Tsu'tey felt when he was growing up, is something he never wanted you to feel. He never wants you to know the feeling of getting close to someone, loving that person, then that person ends up leaving you to be with Eywa once more.

That feeling is hurtful. That feeling is painful.

You were quick to mature. You became a perfect warrior with Netyam. The two of you being the youngest Na'vi in your clan.

"Y/n."

You turn your head and see Tsu'tey. You smiled and gave him a nod before turning back to your weaving.

"Who is this for?" Tsu'tey asked as he sat next to you, referring to the small poncho you were making.

"For Mai'nu. It is close to the cold season. Human skin is weak. The things Norm gives him weigh him down. Mai'nu does not even wear them! Did you know humans get sick easily?" You ranted off like a annoyed mother. Tsu'tey chuckled.

"Spider is strong for a sky person." Tsu'tey didn't hate Spider. His feelings were neutral towards the boy. In all honesty, Tsu'tey left those hateful feelings behind when you became his child.

You sighed and stopped your work. "How long will this war end, Papa? . . . We are winning the battles, but we lose our people in the process." Yes, you were raised as a perfect warrior, and due to your biological father's background and your current father's reputation as one of the best warriors in the clan. It is a natural expectation for you to be the same. Which you were.

But that means you enjoy it. You don't enjoy fighting. You don't enjoy taking lives and watching lives being taken.

Innocent lives.

Spider meant a lot to you. In all honesty. You felt like the two of you had more understanding with each other. The two of you were born on this planet, parents died from war.

And even if you were permanently in your Avatar body, you heard the whispers, you felt the constant staring.

You have earned respect from the clan. But Trust?

So much pain has been inflected through the whole clan ever since the sky people returned. Pain from the past was resurfacing.

There were times when you were given so much love by many but felt so empty. Recently, you would just space out. Find yourself stuck in the clouds.

"Y/n? you listening to me.?"

Your eyes flutter a little before finally focusing your sight on the human boy in front of you.

"Oh, yes Mai'nu?"

Spider frowns a little "You, okay? you've been spacing out on me lately."

You smiled fondly down at him and put your hand on his head. "I was just deep in thought. What was it that you need?"

"I was just thinking. You should take me on the raid today." You were quick to stare him down. "You already know my answer. Don't make me repeat myself."

Your smile faded quickly. Becoming stoic as you got yourself ready for said raid that was to occur in 20 minutes or less. The trains have become faster for transport lately.

"But- Jake lets Lo'ak and Neteyam come along!" Spider tried to protest. You sighed and dropped your bag on the ground before looking back at Spider, giving him your signature warning look, but he continued.

"You've been training me! let me prove it to you that I can do this."

"Okay, one; the training I give you is to protect yourself better for dangerous situations that you shouldn't be in. Secondly, I'm not Jake. When I say no, it's a no. Now go to Kiri, I have to go." You stormed off out the tent, leaving a sad little defeated Spider.

You don't mean to be harsh on him. Your just afraid to lose anyone.