#which i recognize is an ineffective strategy

[for-the-ninth]

It's been like a year or something since I've updated my fanfic and I'm worried that if I go back to writing it I'll have a completely different writing style again and it'll make everything all WEIRD

[kaurwreck]

Hello! I adore all your thoughts about Chuuya as the successor to the PM and I agree that the narrative is most likely setting him up for that at some point in the future. I was wondering if you could elaborate more on his role in Cannablism in relation to this because, to me (and it’s very possible i’ve been misinterpreting things or missing something), it reads as an example of why he shouldn’t be the next Boss or why if he was, he wouldn’t be particularly good at it? Despite being the pillar of and completely embodying the PM’s values (which I think makes him a great *Executive*) I’ve never been able to see him in that Boss position for real and it actually going well..? Especially because it feels like, in their specific struggles throughout, Cannibalism ultimately seems to frame Kunikida’s future succession in a more positive light and Chuuya’s in a more negative light (based on how things end up with Kunikida reassured by Ranpo in his role and recovering enough to be present for the final battle, and Chuuya in Poe’s book after being mostly ineffective in his role from the start)?

Thank you for your kind words! But yeah, I think that conclusion is missing some key details and doesn't really reflect on Chuuya's capacity for leadership.

Ranpo targeted and trapped Chuuya because Chuuya was too dangerous otherwise. Not only that, Ranpo trapped himself with Chuuya.

The Agency relies on Ranpo for strategy because it's a small operation that is forced to be clever to survive against greater, better resourced forces— and their cleverest member removed himself from the board, while their next cleverest member was hospitalized. That was a last resort, and one they were only able to execute because Ranpo happens to possess (i) information regarding the one (1) trigger Chuuya has that's capable of rendering him irrational and (ii) access to someone with a skill that's capable of tearing into their primary reality to snatch others into parallel dimensions that, in effect, lobotomize enough of their neurology to render their skills inert.

I have no idea how that suggests Chuuya's inefficacy as a leader. You don't neutralize ineffective leaders, especially not when doing so is that costly.

Both Kunikida and Chuuya expressed immense vulnerability. Neither seemed equipped to succeed their mentors. Kunikida panicked, but threaded himself together well enough until he spiraled to the chords of Fyodor's cello and became paralyzed. He stirred himself only after Ranpo seized leadership to affirmatively direct the others, and even then, Kunikida only acted to drag himself to his friend of over ten years; he wasn't leading anyone. Chuuya panicked, and his nerves were clearly shot, but he nevertheless was coordinating multiple squads of Port Mafia personnel when he was lured into an irrational outburst and then vacuumed out of space-time. He wasn't ineffective from the start; he was rendered ineffective by a clever saboteur, as was Kunikida.

They're also both only 22, and their mentors, two of the most untouchable men in Yokohama, were abruptly incapacitated and had only hours to live. Neglecting their youth, their sudden loss, and the weight of the responsibilities that fell on them neglects, I think, substantial amounts of story. I think they, in parallel, displayed their unreadiness. But if you must compare the two, then it's worth recognizing the difference between coordinating roughly six people compared to the hundreds of Port Mafia, tens of whom Chuuya was shown on-screen to be directing in person and by headset, between multiple locations. But that digresses from the human drama and heart of that arc, which is that Mori and Fukuzawa nearly threw themselves away on each other's desperation despite how badly they and their cooperation were still needed— not just by the city, but by their ragtag families.

Anyway, in other words, no, I don't think anyone's capacity for leadership can or should be measured by how incapacitated they become by an interdimensional trap discretely tailored to contain them for an extended period of time, least of all in comparison to a psychological trap discretely tailored to break the spirit of someone else.

[threads-of-influence]

Braveheart: A Cinematic Epic Marred by Historical Inaccuracies

The Real William Wallace

In Braveheart, William Wallace is depicted as a rugged commoner with a fierce passion for liberty. In reality, Wallace was a member of the lower Scottish nobility. He was not a simple farmer but rather someone educated in military tactics and likely well-versed in the politics of his time. While his campaign against England is well-documented, the details of his personal life, including his supposed romance with Marion Braidfute (renamed Murron in the film), are speculative at best.

The Portrayal of Edward I and Prince Edward

The film’s villain, Edward I of England (played by Patrick McGoohan), is portrayed as a heartless tyrant, while his son, Prince Edward, is depicted as effeminate and weak. While Edward I was indeed a formidable and often ruthless king, the characterization of Prince Edward, later Edward II, has been widely criticized for being not only inaccurate but also laden with harmful stereotypes. Historians suggest Edward II’s ineffectiveness as a monarch was due to political mismanagement rather than personal flaws caricatured in the movie.

Costumes and Battle Depictions

One of the most glaring inaccuracies in Braveheart lies in its visual aesthetic, particularly the costumes. The Scots are shown wearing kilts, a hallmark of Highland culture. However, kilts were not worn in Scotland until the 16th century, hundreds of years after Wallace’s time. Similarly, the iconic blue face paint (woad) is anachronistic, as it was a tradition associated with ancient Picts, long before the medieval period.

The film’s battle scenes, while thrilling, are also rife with inaccuracies. The Battle of Stirling Bridge, a pivotal Scottish victory, is shown without the titular bridge, which was integral to Wallace’s strategy. The film instead opts for an open-field melee, a choice that sacrifices historical accuracy for dramatic effect.

Inaccuracies in Romance and Politics

One of Braveheart’s more controversial subplots involves Wallace’s supposed affair with Princess Isabella of France. This is pure fiction; Isabella was a child in France at the time of Wallace’s rebellion and could not have met him. The film also compresses the timeline of events and oversimplifies the complex political dynamics of the Wars of Scottish Independence.

The Legacy of Braveheart

Despite its inaccuracies, Braveheart had a profound cultural impact. It ignited renewed interest in Scottish history and the story of William Wallace, inspiring some to delve deeper into historical records. For Scotland, the film became a rallying cry for national pride and a symbol of resistance against oppression.

While Braveheart is a masterpiece of entertainment, its liberties with history serve as a reminder of the tension between storytelling and historical truth. Appreciating the film requires recognizing its artistry while remaining critical of its deviations from the facts. The true story of William Wallace, though less dramatic, remains no less inspiring.

Resources:

[atlanticexterminating]

Why DIY Pest Control Alone May Not Be Sufficient

In your home, you may be tempted to do the pest invasion yourself by using do-it-yourself remedies. However, though these methods may seem convenient and affordable they often do not deal with root of the problem at all. If you live in places such as Hampden, Franklin, Hampshire, or Berkshire Counties which have varying pests that may become a recurring event then you might find that do-it-yourself pest management is inadequate. Such situations are why effective domestic pest control services are necessary for family and house security.

Do-It-Yourself Pest Management Impediments

DIY pest control, ranging from sprays, traps, and baits gives momentary relief from pests; however, they hardly eliminate pest infestations completely. Some reasons are illustrated below:

1. Incomplete Disclosures:- Most home remedies for pests are targeted toward the visible ones but the pests found behind walls, under floors, and in other inaccessible areas are often neglected. Among the pests that make their nests in places that are not easy to access include termites, bedbugs, and ants. If the source of infestation is not dealt with these insects keep multiplying therefore posing problems in the future.

2. The use of ineffective products:- Due to misidentification may worsen the infestation. For example, in Franklin and Hampden Counties, professional residential pest control services are equipped with the know-how to accurately identify and treat the particular pests infesting your house.

3. Temporary Remedies:- Home-grown methods of controlling pests appear to be more like plaster than cures for persistent infestations. While they may manage to eliminate a few of the attacking insect species on contact but these will not cure the original cause of the problem. Unless comprehensive plans containing preventive measures are laid out, then insects may return again. In addition to removing existing infestations, experts in pest control services also develop strategies for avoiding such problems in future.

4. Potential Health Risks:- your family, as well as pets you have at home can suffer from health risks because of wrong use or mishandling these pest control products. Also some types of rats or particular insects could carry illnesses that can worsen if not treated promptly. In Hampshire and Berkshire Counties area expert pest controllers are able to handle these products with care and if required can give you non poisonous alternatives.

The Advantages of Residential Pest Control Services

Hiring experts is advisable due to the following reasons: Professional Residential Pest Control Services provide a more effective and comprehensive solution to pest problems.

Pest Control Plans Customized to Fit Every Residential Setting Each home has its different requirements when dealing with pests. The pest experts from Franklin and Berkshire Counties will conduct a thorough examination of your property, identify what kind of pest infestation you are dealing with and make an individualized treatment plan directed at the elimination of the pests. This bespoke method will give better results than any one-size-fits-all approach you could think about using yourself.

In-depth Investigations Professional pest control services carry out extensive investigations in order to evaluate the degree of infestation as well as pinpoint possible entry points or habitats that support pest presence. Such an extensive detail allows them to deal with the problem on its source resulting into more permanent solutions.

Enduring Deterrent One of the most significant benefits of hiring a professional pest control company is long-term prevention. Exterminators do away with current pests but also prevent them from returning through several ways: constant monitoring, eliminating food sources and closing entry points.    

Safe and Practical Techniques Residential Pest Control Services use safe and effective methods that are recognized in the industry. They can solve even the hardest bugs because they have stronger treatments that the public cannot get. Besides, these companies follow strict safety measures to protect your home and family members.

Why choose us?

For your unique pest challenges, choose us for knowledgeable and specialized pest control solutions. As long-time residents of Hampden, Franklin, Hampshire, and Berkshire Counties we understand the unique problems faced by these areas. Our team uses safe and practical methods that not only kill insects but also ensure that they do not return any time soon. Your safety is our primary concern and therefore we always ensure that your house is protected without endangering any person through do-it-yourself plans. By relying on us to offer you reliable and expert service for all your pest management needs, you will be able to live in a house free of parasites for good.

If you have pest trouble or would like to avoid experiencing one, contact the professionals at Atlantic Exterminating.

Call us:-  (413) 747-7828

Email us at:   atlcpest@gmail.com 

Address:- 66 Mountainview St, Ludlow, MA 01056, United States

[passiveincomemoney]

3 Ways To Stay Focused On Your Main Goal

Staying focused on your main goal can be a challenging task, especially in a world full of distractions. However, maintaining focus is crucial for achieving success and making progress towards your objectives. Here are three effective strategies to help you stay on track:

Understand Your Motivations

Motivation is a fascinating and complex aspect of human behaviour that drives us to act and pursue our goals. It's the force that propels us forward, whether we're striving to achieve a personal ambition, improve our health, or simply find joy in daily activities. Understanding motivation is not just about knowing what we want, but also recognizing why we want it and how we can maintain the drive to reach our objectives.

Types of Motivation There are primarily two types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation comes from within; it's driven by personal satisfaction and the joy of doing something for its own sake. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is influenced by external factors like rewards, recognition, or the avoidance of negative consequences.

The Importance of Motivation Why is understanding motivation important? It's simple: motivation is the driving force behind our actions. It influences our efficiency, drives us to take action, encourages health-oriented behaviours, and helps us avoid unhealthy or maladaptive behaviours. By understanding our motivations, we can better control our lives and improve our overall well-being and happiness.

Components of Motivation Motivation is not just about the desire to do something; it's also about the ability to persist in the face of challenges and the energy to take action. These components are crucial for maintaining motivation over time, especially when pursuing long-term goals.

Improving Motivation Feeling unmotivated can be a common challenge, but there are strategies to improve motivation. Setting clear, achievable goals, finding personal significance in tasks, and creating a supportive environment can all enhance motivation. Additionally, understanding the psychological needs that drive behaviour, such as autonomy, mastery, and belonging, can provide insight into how to sustain motivation.

Write Down Your Goals

Setting goals is a fundamental component to long-term success. Goals give us direction, focus, and a clear path to follow. However, the process of writing down goals can often seem daunting or ineffective. To address this, a practical approach to goal setting is the SMART method, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This method has been widely endorsed for its effectiveness in helping individuals and organizations define and achieve their goals.

Specific: Your goals should be clear and specific, which will help you focus your efforts and feel truly motivated to achieve them. A specific goal should answer the five 'W' questions: What do I want to accomplish? Why is this goal important? Who is involved? Where is it located? Which resources or limits are involved?

Measurable: It's essential to have measurable goals so that you can track your progress and stay motivated. Assessing progress helps you to stay focused, meet your deadlines, and feel the excitement of getting closer to achieving your goal.

Achievable: Your goal also needs to be realistic and attainable to be successful. In other words, it should stretch your abilities but remain possible. When you set an achievable goal, you may be able to identify previously overlooked opportunities or resources that can bring you closer to it.

Relevant: This step is about ensuring that your goal matters to you, and that it also aligns with other relevant goals. We all need support and assistance in achieving our goals, but it's important to retain control over them. So, make sure that your plans drive everyone forward, but that you're still responsible for achieving your own goal.

Time-bound: Every goal requires a target date so that you have a deadline to focus on and something to work toward. This part of the SMART goal criteria helps to prevent everyday tasks from taking priority over your longer-term goals.

A practical example of a SMART goal could be: “I will acquire three new clients for my consulting business within two months by networking with local businesses, making at least two new connections per week, and following up with a new offer.”

By following the SMART method, you can write down your goals in a way that is structured and thought-out, making it more likely that you will achieve them. Remember, the act of writing down your goals plays an essential part in their success. It makes your goals more concrete and provides a reminder of what you need to accomplish.

For more detailed guidance on setting SMART goals, you can refer to resources such as Indeed's article on writing SMART goals in 5 steps, or Atlassian's blog post on the topic. These resources provide further examples and insights into the process of setting effective goals using the SMART framework. Happy goal setting!

Set Milestones Breaking your main goal into smaller, more manageable milestones can make it feel more achievable and less overwhelming. This strategy helps you to maintain focus by providing a clear roadmap of what needs to be accomplished step by step. For example, if your goal is to launch a business, you could set milestones for creating a business plan, securing investors, and launching a website. Celebrating these smaller victories can also provide additional motivation and a sense of progress.

By putting these strategies into action, you can boost your capacity to concentrate on your primary objective, paving the way for increased productivity and accomplishments. Keep in mind that focus isn't just about getting rid of distractions; it's also about channelling your attention and energy persistently toward your intended goal. Stay committed to staying focused, and you'll be pleasantly surprised by what you can accomplish.

[snware]

Maximizing Data Quality: The Role of Outsourced Survey Programming Services

In the age of information, data reigns supreme. Organizations across industries rely on data-driven insights to make informed decisions, develop strategies, and drive innovation. In the realm of market research, the quality of data holds paramount importance, serving as the bedrock upon which accurate analyses and actionable recommendations are built. Enter Snware Research Services, a leading player in the field of outsourced survey programming services, dedicated to maximizing data quality and transforming raw information into invaluable insights.

The Imperative of Data Quality

In a world inundated with data, the old adage "garbage in, garbage out" has never been truer. The quality of insights derived from data hinges on the quality of the data itself. Poorly structured surveys, ambiguous questions, and technical glitches can compromise the integrity of collected data, rendering subsequent analyses ineffective and decision-making flawed. This is where the expertise of outsourced survey programming services comes into play.

The Role of Outsourced Survey Programming

Outsourcing survey programming to experts like Snware Research Services introduces a host of advantages that directly contribute to maximizing data quality. Let's delve into the multifaceted role that outsourced survey programming plays in this pursuit:

1. Designing Effective Surveys:

Crafting surveys that capture relevant information while maintaining respondent engagement is a delicate art. Snware Research Services excels in designing surveys that are intuitive, user-friendly, and strategically structured. By ensuring clear question wording, logical flow, and optimal response options, the chances of obtaining accurate and actionable data are significantly enhanced.

2. Ensuring Consistency and Standardization:

Inconsistent survey design and question formatting can introduce biases and inaccuracies. Outsourced survey programming services meticulously adhere to industry best practices, ensuring standardization across surveys and minimizing potential sources of error.

3. Navigating Complex Logic and Skip Patterns:

As surveys become more intricate, navigating complex logic and skip patterns becomes a challenge. Snware Research Services boasts the expertise to develop surveys with intricate branching logic, conditional skips, and advanced question routing, guaranteeing accurate and complete data capture.

4. Minimizing Errors and Technical Glitches:

Technical glitches can disrupt the survey-taking experience and compromise data integrity. Outsourced survey programming services employ rigorous testing procedures to identify and rectify errors, ensuring a seamless respondent experience and dependable data collection.

5. Optimizing Data Collection Platforms:

The choice of survey platform can impact data quality. We are well-versed in a variety of survey software, enabling them to recommend platforms that align with research objectives, participant demographics, and data security requirements.

6. Real-Time Monitoring and Quality Assurance:

The journey to data quality doesn't end with survey deployment. Outsourced survey programming services like Snware Research Services provide real-time monitoring, identifying potential issues, and implementing corrective measures to maintain data accuracy throughout the data collection process.

7. Tailored Solutions for Diverse Research Objectives:

Every research project is unique, with distinct goals and requirements. Snware Research Services recognizes the importance of tailoring survey programming solutions to fit the specific needs of each project, ensuring that data collection methods align with research objectives.

8. Expertise in Data Cleaning and Preparation:

Data collected through surveys often require thorough cleaning and preparation before analysis. Outsourced survey programming services possess the expertise to clean, validate, and transform raw data into formats that facilitate meaningful analysis and interpretation.

The Snware Approach: Elevating Data Quality to a Science

Snware Research Services brings a comprehensive and meticulous approach to outsourced survey programming, transforming data quality into a scientific pursuit. Leveraging a combination of technical prowess, industry experience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we place data quality at the forefront of every project.

Case Study: A Journey to Enhanced Data Quality

To illustrate the tangible impact of outsourced survey programming on data quality, let's explore a hypothetical case study:

Client Background: A pharmaceutical company embarks on a study to gather feedback from healthcare professionals regarding a new medical device.

Challenge: Designing a survey that captures comprehensive insights while ensuring a seamless survey-taking experience for busy healthcare professionals.

Solution: The pharmaceutical company partners with Snware Research Services for outsourced survey programming. Snware's team collaborates with the client to design a survey that features clear and concise questions, incorporates advanced logic for targeted questioning, and is accessible across various devices.

Outcome: The survey, impeccably programmed by Snware Research Services, receives high response rates and yields rich and nuanced data. The pharmaceutical company gains insights that drive product enhancements and informed decision-making, setting the stage for successful device adoption.

Conclusion: Pioneering Data Quality Through Outsourced Survey Programming

As the landscape of market research continues to evolve, the maximization of data quality emerges as a non-negotiable imperative. Outsourced survey programming services, epitomized by the expertise and dedication of Snware Research Services, play a pivotal role in elevating data quality from a lofty goal to an attainable reality. By meticulously designing surveys, optimizing data collection processes, and maintaining rigorous quality assurance, these services empower organizations to transform raw data into actionable insights that drive success, innovation, and progress in an ever-changing world. As we look to the future, the partnership between businesses and outsourced survey programming services will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of data-driven decision-making, propelling industries toward excellence and unlocking the full potential of their data.

[batteredwarriorstillstanding]

Let me throw this in before we finally get started here: After reminiscing enough to knock this little ego-preserving project out, I have come to a number of what, for me, are fairly profound conclusions. I will disclose a number of these when prompted by the appropriate event being summarized. Some, undoubtedly, I will decide are actually stupid and never mention them to anyone. At least two will be kept inward as they go with no other lesson, or truth upon which I wish to focus. It is important to recognize truth for what it is whether it supports your immediate goals or not....it is equally impirtant to hide these inconvenient truths from others with an almost sociopathic morale. One of these, however, can and should be revealed immediately, both as a means to foreshadow what mindset and actions this review has inspired within me, and as an admission of sort to other(s) it may concern (the word "warning" is so.....dramatic. That conclusion is as follows: I have repeatedly stated that, even with your very frequently contradictory sounding statements over a long period of time, you have every right to refuse to speak to or meet with me...and, certainly,you absolutely do. However, I have an obligation to myself, a mandate, actually, to make certain that this is not easy for you. Now, a few weeks ago, you admitted (amazingly, i thought....never knew you had this in ya, frankly) to revealing an important location and posting it publicly, specifically for my consumption. Tack this onto an already lengthy list of reasons that, in the event that I simply allow you to shrug me off via indirect message (even as you whine when I start to leave, because "who's gonna tell me how awesome I am?") I should be forced into slavery and undergo brainwashing exercises designed to form submissive homosexuals from ineffective heteros....and, I can't have that. So....say "no" if you like, but expect to do so in a slightly more pressurized setting. Keep in mind that were it not for the existence of compelling reasons to require this of myself, I would have been forced to make some up. Okay, so the issue with writing this summary (which i have done several times, but not in years) is two-fold 1) the amount of time it covers (21+ years, and counting) renders it nearly impossiblre to keep it relatively short. I think the first one, which was completed just after the fiasco of 2011....so more than a decade ago, was nearly 100 pages single spaced. The second, which I put much effort into shrinking, only 20ish, but since it shied away from detailing other events that coincided with certain crush episodes, which seemingly occur out of nowhere (both in real life, AND my attempt to describe it) often my feelings, and actions made even less sense than they should. I believe I have a decent strategy now, though and anticipate 10 pages are all I'll need BUT 2) The day I first meet her.....always sucks, even if the readers don't realize it. I have no fucking way to describe what went on, internally, as some quite pedestrian events were occurring over the course if maybe 15 minutes...and unless I can help the reader understand this, the remainder of the story is just some weirdo chasing a broad. I have kind-of a plan this time, but please bear in mind that I experienced actual feelings and revelations that defy description via language. Hint: By focusing on what it wasn't rather than attempting to explain the inexplicable, I think I'll end up serving my purpose much more effectively, but much will still fail to be communicated.Okay....so. get excited, sweetie......here it comes (like a littkebit of it tonight, anyway)

[geekywritings]

Rise of a Queen - Nikolai Lantsov x OC PART 8

When Taya opened her eyes the next morning, she wasn't sure if she was actually awake or had just started another dream. There were flowers right in front of her and as she turned, there were even more roses. Slowly she sat up, looking around in both shock and awe. The entire room was covered in flowers. Roses in all colors, lilies, sunflowers, and even her favorites, orchids. Nikolai, and she had no doubt it was his doing, had apparently raided the royal gardens or all florists of Os Alta for this. But there was no sign of him in the room. Instead, Taya spotted a letter in the bouquet closest to her, unfolding it eagerly.

"My beloved Taya,

I did not forget about the flowers.

When you wake up, I will most likely be on my way again. I want to check on our parents and try to persuade some of the Grisha to come back. We could use some good Materialki specialists here and I hope to bring back a Healer to look at your wounds.

Somewhere underneath those flowers, I also bought a few books for you to read while you wait. Please take your medicine and rest. And do think of me.

Your Nikolai."

Your Nikolai. It sounded too good to be true, but it was true after last night. They hadn't said a word about love, but the kiss had spoken more than 1000 words. She could still feel her body shiver pleasantly at the mere memory of it.

Suddenly the door opened, revealing one of the maids, who had been bringing her food during the last few days. She was having trouble navigating through all the flowers with her tray of food and medicine, grumbling about having told His Highness not to spread them on the ground.

"Good morning, My Lady. How are you feeling today?" It was the same greeting every day, which Taya returned with a smile.

"Much better Mrs. Podlak, thank you.", she said, allowing the elder woman to set the tray down before her on the bed. There was tea, the dreaded medicine, and her beloved Syrinki.

"Let me open the window for you. The smell of these flowers is overpowering.", she continued, now fighting her way to the tall window. "I told him a bouquet or two would be enough...", she muttered to herself and Taya had to stifle a chuckle. It was so like Nikolai to exaggerate. But she also had to admit that she was quite surprised. The sleeping potion she still took in the evenings really knocked her out for she had neither noticed Nikolai getting up nor the big surprise being set up all around her.

"I do actually love the scent.", she called to Mrs. Podlak, but the maid had already decided that fresh air was in order. And it did indeed feel good, as a warm breeze came through the open window. "Has Nikolai been gone for long?"

"His Highness set out just before sunrise with the two Squallers. He did not say where he went and when he would be back."

Taya nodded to the answer and began her breakfast. She knew where he was and if things went smoothly, he could be back within a day. Until then, she would actually try to follow his request and rest up. At least she had some reading material now.

_____________

In the end, Nikolai returned the following day, his first destination being his chamber, where Taya was still confined to his bed. But he did not arrive alone, being followed the young man in the damaged red kefta, whom Taya recognized from the Little Palace. He had been the only Healer among the group they had found and he was probably among very few Corporalki still present. Most others had either deserted or followed the Darkling.

The prince walked up to his beloved, placing a soft kiss on the top of her head. "I see you enjoyed my surprise.", he began with a grin, before nodding to his companion, who obviously looked rather taken aback by the sea of flowers in the room. "Taya, this is Andrej Borisov. I'm going to leave you in his capable hands, while I quickly speak with the generals."

It was just a quick greeting, but Taya didn't mind. She knew Nikolai to be more than busy right now, being the one in command in his parents' absence. And there was plenty to do with city fortifications, repairs and the search for Alina. Taya was just sad that she couldn't be of more use. Though perhaps with Andrej's skills, she could be up and about much faster.

________

"Why did you stay behind?", she asked, after Andrej had started his work on her shoulder. She wasn't sure how he did it, but he placed his hands over her wound and she could feel her body pull and burn slightly, but not enough to cause extreme pain.

"Sonya, Gregori and Alexander are my friends. I could never leave them behind.", was all Andrej said. Taya didn't know who these people were exactly, though she vaguely remembered an Inferni in the group being called Sonya, but she did admire him for his loyalty.

"I hope the three of them are alright."

Andrej nodded. "They are. Sonya stayed behind at the Spinning Wheel. She found a way to be useful there with her skills. And the Twins are constantly flying back and forth or accompanying His Highness." Ah, so those were the names of the Twins, Taya thought to herself.

"And what do you want to do?", she asked Andrej, who stopped his work for a moment to check on the progress. A moment later his hand was back above her shoulder and she could feel the strange sensation in her flesh again.

"I want to help.", Andrej said simply. "I did what I could at the Spinning Wheel, but when his Highness told me I was needed here, I agreed to come. Besides, I wanted to see what it would feel like."

"And how does it feel?", Taya was genuinely curious.

"Strange... I grew up in the Little Palace. I thought it was the safest place for people like me. Turns out, it wasn't... But it is still my home and I think that I would like to return there."

Taya reached out, placing a hand on Andrej's arm. "We will make it a home again. For all Grisha. And while I can't promise that it will be the safest place in Ravka, we will take precautions this time."

For the first time since he came in, the ghost of a smile passed over Andrej's face. "We will see."

He went back to his work and a good half an hour later, he stood up again, allowing Taya to dress. "Your wounds are healing well. I could not mend them completely in one go, but give it another day and you will be able to walk around normally again."

She was immensely grateful for his help and even more grateful for the knowledge that she would only be confined to the bed for a short while longer.

______

A week later, Taya was already running around normally. She had put all her dedication into rebuilding and fortifying the Little Palace, even going as far as using all funds she had at her disposal. Compared to the fortune her family possessed as a whole, it wasn't much, but it was still more than enough to procure materials and pay people to help. A few of the Materialki returned from the Spinning Wheel to aid in the rebuilding of their former home, but they still relied on outside workers for some construction work.

During that time, Taya became closer to Andrej, Sonya, and especially the twins. While the Healer and his Inferni friend were constantly traveling back and forth between the Spinning Wheel and the capital, Alexander and Gregori spent more and more time in the Little Palace, only ever leaving to accompany Nikolai on some trip or another. At one point Taya revealed her own abilities to the twins and the two, after their initial surprise, agreed to train her.

Quickly, a routine had formed. Nikolai and Taya would wake up early together and share a quick breakfast, before going separate ways. She would work at the Little Palace and he would try to run the kingdom. In the afternoon the two would gather in the war room, where Nikolai devised strategies with his generals to prepare for another attack by the Darkling, while at the same time evaluating the messages he received from the search parties he had sent out in the quest for Alina and the others. Afterward, they would eat together again and then fall into bed, utterly exhausted just to wake up at sunrise again to begin the routine anew.

It meant that they didn't have much of a honeymoon phase, where they could explore and enjoy their newly discovered feelings for each other, but the brief moments they had were enough for now. They knew when other matters took priority and Nikolai was immensely grateful for Taya's understanding. Many women would feel abandoned or not graced with enough attention, but his love found ways to occupy herself and do her fair share of work. And it didn't go unnoticed either. The rumors about her being his mistress soon made way for gossip regarding the possibility of Taya becoming his wife and future Queen. Although he tried to pay the whispers no heed, it did make him proud to hear servants and nobles alike acknowledging her skills and potential.

What bothered Nikolai however was the lack of progress they were making. While the damages in Os Alta were quickly being taken care of, the building of more aircrafts and the search for Alina were at a standstill. They lacked materials to continue production and the sun summoner and her following were still swallowed up by the earth itself. It was frustrating, to say the least.

__________

One afternoon, Nikolai was leaning over a collection of sketches he had made for some new aircrafts, all light and fortified with the newest guns, trying to find ways to reduce their production cost, while also still sulking about the rather ineffective meeting with his generals just an hour ago. Taya had not been present, because she had been busy at the Little Palace. More Grisha had returned and she was making sure they were all settled in. It was a relief to hear that life was returning to normal at least a little bit and Nikolai knew that they needed the Grisha to keep the capital safe. They were mostly left with Etheralki and Materialki at this point, but a handful of healers had also rejoined their former little family along with two Heartrenders.

Suddenly the door of the library opened and his eyes went wide, as he saw Taya walk in, wearing a royal blue kefta, embroidered in the telling silver of the Squallers. She was smiling brightly, even doing a small twirl before him to show off her newest garment. "I got it as a gift today.", she announced. "The twins said I earned it." So it was official now. No hiding her true powers anymore.

Nikolai had tried to imagine what she would look like in the kefta once, but the reality was so much better. She looked regal in it, powerful and confident and absolutely perfect. He got up to examine her in detail, appreciating her from all angles, his mood instantly lifting. "You look beautiful.", he assured her.

He received a kiss as a thank you, before she joined him at the table to get a quick summary of what she had missed during the meeting. It really wasn't much.

"We need more funds.", she summarized all their growing problems into one simple sentence. They had to expand their search, buy more materials and strengthen their borders and production sites. Taya had used up almost all of her private fortune, and Nikolai was weary about taking too much from the treasury without his father's approval. He had his own fortune as well, but that was currently being invested into a secret project to assure a strong Ravka in the future. For a second both stared at the table, before speaking at the same time.

"I could do some business as Sturmhond."

"We need to hold a ball."

Silence again, as both blinked, before a chuckle escaped them. "I assume yours will take less time, but what do you plan to accomplish with a ball?", he asked curiously.

"The financial support of the noble families of Ravka. Gather them here, show them that the capital is safe again and that they can only keep their lifestyles if we manage to defeat the Darkling, find Alina and show military strength at the border."

"It was only a few weeks ago when you told me that I don't need the support of the nobles just yet.... How quickly times change.", he mused. "I will have to convince my parents to return as well."

"No, don't.", Taya said firmly, taking him by surprise. "The nobles need to follow and respect you. Their money will flow into your projects and you are the new hope for Ravka."

Nikolai felt a weight settle on his shoulders, that he had not known before. The weight of a crown he wasn't even wearing yet. His wish to save the country, however, was stronger than any fear of responsibility.

"What would I do without you?", he asked, reaching across the table to take her hand into his.

"Spent a few months at sea most likely, robbing Kerch traders in the name of the crown.", she replied with a smile. Nikolai felt his own lips draw into a smile at that.

"Probably.", he admitted. "It did work great before to amass a fortune." Turning more serious again he asked: "Do you think the nobles will return to the ballroom after what had happened there?"

"Eventually. But now might be a bit early. So we will hold the ball outside between the Grand and the Little Palace. Invite Grisha, spread some of your ships out. It will provide a sense of safety and a quick possible escape. At the same time, they can see where their money will go."

He was positively surprised by her wit and planning. Suddenly the thought of her as his Queen hit him. He had heard the possibility being thrown around for a while now, but hearing her plan to assure the future of Rvaka made it feel right. She was perfect for the role, no doubt. Her family name and fortune made her an adequate match and her intelligence and compassion would serve her well on the throne. The fact that he also loved her was just the icing on the cake.

But he would not offer now. Not until he was certain that there still was a country to rule side by side. And for that, he would have to face another dreaded ball.

__________________

The event took place a week later and had been a nightmare to organize. Sending letters to all the right families, getting varieties of his inventions onto the grounds, making sure there was enough food and drink and entertainment offered, as well as having the Palaces look even more splendid than usual was not what he had wanted to do in times like these. It even felt wrong to hold a spectacle like this while his friends were still missing and the Darkling still out there.

"If you pull a face like this all evening, nobody will offer you anything.", Taya said, drawing him out of his thoughts. She had come in without him noticing and got to work buttoning up his uniform. He would have to be the Prince again today. The charmer and the businessman, so he needed to look the part. So he was dressed in the royal red and gold his family loved so much and felt strangely silly in it.

Taya, on the other hand, was a sight to behold. She had opted for blue again, her favorite color, and the dress flowed on her like water, the silver embellishments adding to the magical effect. She had curled her hair again, putting it up in an elegant style and adding a silver tiara and jewels for good measure. They needed to look richer than they really were tonight.

"You look absolutely stunning.", he told her.

"And you look absolutely uncomfortable.", she just replied. "Smile and relax."

"I can do one of the two."

"Then smile." It was easier said than done. "Maybe the news I have will help. Everyone agreed to come tonight. Even Count Fedjor and his family. And I send word to my parents and they send out some invitations as well to their business partners."

Those were good news indeed and they reminded him once again how grateful he was to have her. "Well, then let's go and get our hands on their fortunes, shall we?"

__________

The ball was a great success. The nobility relished in the chance of holding a grand social event again and were easily susceptible to Nikolai's charm. Getting showered with attention and compliments from their future Tsar loosened their pockets and the presence of soldiers and Grisha alike gave them a sense of security. The aircrafts received ample amounts of admiration as well and especially the men were eager to invest in such technological advancements.

While the guests enjoyed themselves, Taya and Nikolai were hard at work. Always going from one person to the next, engaging in just the right small talk, and indiscreetly asking for financial support. He took care of the traditional families, while Taya used her charms on her father's long-standing business partners.

It was the early morning hours when the last guests began to leave, some of them even taking up the offer of being flown home on one of Nikolai's aircrafts. They didn't have enough Squallers to offer everyone the chance, but only a few were curious enough to try in the first place.

"I think that went rather well.", Taya said, sounding rather pleased. They were standing in the middle of prettily lit chaos, but they had accomplished what they had set out to do. "And I think this was the first ball that I didn't have a single dance."

"I distinctively remember you hating dance lessons."

"True, the lessons were a pain, but actual dancing is one of the few joys at every event."

They had shared dances since his return, but none as an actual couple. The idea came suddenly and he acted upon it right away. "Then would you offer me this dance, my lady?"

Taya laughed. "The musicians have already left."

"Show some creativity, my dear.", he bowed down like a true gentleman and offered her his hand. Still amused, she took it and allowed him to draw her into the first steps. To fill the silence, Nikolai hummed a random song they had heard that night and Taya eventually joined. Together they waltzed over the grass, elated by their success that night, getting completely lost in it. They didn't even notice as servants arrived to begin cleaning up, all looking perplexed or smiling at the sight of His Highness with his chosen lady.

Suddenly the first drops started falling from the sky, quickly followed by more. Within seconds, it was a proper rain shower and while the servants rushed for cover, Nikolai and Taya continued their dance. Their humming turned into laughter, as he spun her around before drawing her back close to him. They were absolutely drenched, but Taya had never enjoyed a ball more.

"I love you."

His words were almost drowned by the rain, but she heard them nevertheless. She wasn't sure where it had suddenly come from and it was unlike any declaration of love she had ever read about in books, but it was perfect. Because those words were coming from him.

"I love you too, Nikolai."

He pulled her towards him, his kiss almost desperate. They were pressed against each other, the rain still soaking their hair and skin, but neither cared. Taya's arms were around him, holding onto his jacket at his back. Their kiss got more frantic and they only broke apart when there was no air left in their lungs. Blue eyes stared into hazel and suddenly he pulled her along.

The way back to his room took longer than expected. Every few steps they were locked in a kiss again, with him pressing her against the closest wall or door. At one point they knocked over a vase with flowers but didn't even fully notice.

Taya didn't understand the fire that was suddenly burning within her, but she wasn't about to question or let it go. She wanted Nikolai close, wanted to feel all of him to show him how much she really meant those words she had said. And he seemed to feel exactly the same.

Once in his room, they began to tear at each others' clothes, trying to get them off their wet bodies. He was shirtless and working on her corset when he stopped for a moment as if his thoughts cleared for a second.

"Are you sure?", he asked. Taya's heart swelled with love at his concern for her, but she nodded. "Stop asking questions and kiss me."

He did, hungrily and passionately, his hands finally removing the corset. He slowed down only when she was fully nude before him, taking his time to take her in fully with his eyes. She was slender, but with just the right womanly curves, which he explored with his hands. He wanted to memorize every detail of her and get to know her body's secrets.

Soon they were on the bed and she was shivering against him, as he slowly learned just what she liked. There was a moment when he was about to ask her again if this was what she truly wanted, but before a word could escape him, Taya drew him into a kiss.

"No nonsense.", she said. "Make love to me, Nikolai."

The words alone were ecstasy for him and he wasted no time to fulfill her wish. They made love several times that night. Wild, slow, passionate, and intimate. And by the time the sun rose, both were exhausted. Stil entangled, they closed their eyes and sank into a much-deserved sleep.

_____

@imma-too-many-fandoms​

[poychachi]

How to Write About PTSD

@writinghaven on instagram [source: https://lisahallwilson.com/how-to-write-about-ptsd-in-deep-point-of-view/]

PTSD is featured in many fictional works, primarily as a source of internal conflict for a character. However, many writers simply research symptoms and run with it. There is so much more to PTSD than flashbacks that can add emotional layers, depth, and connection to readers, as well as increase the accuracy of the representation. Here are some important things to remember/consider when writing about PTSD! 

What do writers get wrong about PTSD? 

Giving characters a traumatic past and an ongoing condition that hinders their ability to move on is great for character arc if you can pull it off. Otherwise it can come off sounding trite or melodramatic. The character struggling with PTSD is facing overwhelming odds, and any character who stands up to a bully of any kind (even when it’s a mental illness) is someone readers will cheer for.

Do more research than just symptoms. Flashbacks seem to be the most appealing aspect of writing a character with PTSD, but actual recurring flashbacks are a symptom of very severe PTSD which is absolutely debilitating in every way. Try talking to someone who struggles with this. Read blogs written by those who live with or struggle with this, or have a loved one who struggle with this. Know that the symptoms don’t encompass the whole struggle but are simply the tip of the iceberg.

What else is there to PTSD other than flashbacks? 

Yes, flashbacks can happen with PTSD, but here’s the truth about flashbacks – not everyone has them frequently or even at all. Most writers love the idea of using flashbacks, I’ll admit they’re fun to play with, but where writers often miss the mark with PTSD are all the OTHER symptoms that are debilitating and soul-crushing. Far more common are triggers which require more subtlety and art to really convey how devastating they can be.

PTSD is a filing problem – basically. Where most brains are able to process and appropriate file away a traumatic memory, for whatever reason – a particular memory or file gets left out and never gets filed away (processed). It’s kept front and center for easy access essentially rewiring the brain.

When triggered, (a smell, a place, a feeling, a person, etc.), the inner-most part of the brain (the amygdala – stay with me) sounds off like a fire alarm. When that fire alarm goes off, the rest of your brain diverts all power/energy to that alarm center. So, once the fire alarm goes off, you’re incapable of “thinking” your way out of a situation. Instead, you’ll instinctively react in the way that’s most likely to “save you” whether it’s fight, flight, or freeze.

When PTSD rewires the brain, that fire alarm (which is useful, which is necessary) is now super super sensitive. It’s like placing a fire alarm over your toaster. You’re going to get a lot of false alarms. So, in real life we might take the battery out of the alarm, move the alarm or move the toaster. But with PTSD, because the brain can’t figure out where to file that memory, you’re kind of stuck with these constant false alarms. So most or at least a lot of energy goes into avoiding setting off that fire alarm.

This creates a near-constant hyper-vigilance that is exhausting. Utter, soul-draining, bone-weary exhaustion. To the point where you can’t think clearly – you struggle to order your thoughts or prioritize things correctly. It’s debilitating and can very thoroughly undermine your self-confidence. Every small task or outing gets weighed against the emotional and physical and mental toll it could exact. And let me tell you, this foggy thinking makes life seem pretty hopeless pretty fast.

And while only the most severe cases have persistent flashbacks, that hyper-vigilance and exhaustion is pretty common. The mental fog caused by the hyper-vigilance or a trigger is common. The frustration and internalized shame of not being able to sort your thoughts, or trust your own thinking is intense.

Give your character a coping mechanism

Most people learn coping mechanisms to manage the symptoms of PTSD simply to function, but those mechanisms wear out, their effectiveness wanes over time, our tolerance of them grows thin. If a trigger is the fire alarm, the coping mechanisms are essentially the broom being used the fan the fire alarm to prevent it from going off.

If that “broom” is the only way you can manage life at all, you’ll go to some pretty extreme lengths to prevent having it ripped from your hands. Now, that “broom” can be expressed in a wide variety or combination of ways: anger or violence, self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, workaholism, eating disorders, becoming a hermit, suicidal, etc.

At the same time, someone with PTSD is going to cover up their pain at all costs. People stare. They avoid you. They whisper. And all of that gets internalized over time. They’ll be fine in a social situation until they aren’t and they react in (what might appear to be) an irrational or erratic way, but internally they’ll have clamped down and “soldiered up” as long as possible.

Show the consequences of how ineffective that bloody broom strategy is! Show what happens when the broom is taken away (alcohol, a person, a schedule, etc.).

Show don’t tell a PTSD Trigger

You want to show and not tell, right. The person struggling with these kinds of anxiety or PTSD is going to go to great lengths NOT to think about the original traumatic event. Who consciously relives traumatic events? Nobody.  

More likely, the traumatic memories are shoved to the very back of the mind and actively avoided, and numbed when avoidance isn’t possible. They’ll be ruled by emotions, and unless they dig down into the WHY of their strong emotion, the PTSD may go untreated for a very long time.

Instead, show the coping mechanisms (the broom) used to control the symptoms or turn their mind off (escapism, fantasy, porn, drugs, alcohol).

“For me there’s a predictable progression that happens that tips me off to that fire alarm detecting smoke. I feel it in my gut first, a clamping down, a tension, a tightness, and a feeling like I don’t want to be in that place. Then I start to blush, my face feels like it’s on fire. Then I start to tremble. I’ll look down and notice my hands trembling, but at times it won’t feel like I’m looking at my own hands at all. Then my last warning is profuse sweating – regardless of the environmental conditions.” - Lisa Hall-Wilson

When PTSD is triggered you’re at war with yourself quite literally. It will seem to come out of nowhere or can build up slowly to a crashing crescendo. A moment ago you were rationally able to recognize there wasn’t any danger, but then the switch is flipped and your body is absolutely convinced you’re in mortal danger.

Know what your character’s primal goal is when they’re triggered. Is it safety? Is it survival? Is it escaping? Have them seek that out at all costs.

They could have a mantra they recite to control their thoughts. They might have a safe person, someone they trust to watch their backs in new or upsetting situations. The slow removal of their dependence on their grounding techniques or coping mechanisms is a great way to show growth.

Those who know what their triggers are will actively avoid situations that might set them off. This is a potential for conflict – force them into a situation where they’re uncomfortable, where they feel threatened or unsafe. Spring it on them. Put them in new situations. 

“I wasn’t aware that exercise fatigue mimicked my PTSD symptoms, so I was triggered by a jerk at the gym and couldn’t feel it coming on because I was in the middle of a workout. The times when you’re triggered without warning are the worst. Being blindsided sets you back days, weeks, even months.”

A blindsided character could be an “all is lost” moment

Being blindsided by a trigger at any point. A situation that’s been fine a thousand other times can trigger you that one day because someone new is there, because you can’t get your usual seat by the door, because someone’s wearing the cologne that your attacker wore. This is a great device to save for a pivotal conflict.

It’s like a two-by-four to the head. Show their emotional wounds bleeding all over the floor and have them keep going anyway. Show them growing stronger, trusting people again against their instincts, forgiving themselves because they couldn’t get a hold of themselves again, etc. Let the whole process be messy, two steps forward and one step back. The stories that end in a pretty bow and leaves everyone “cured” simply aren’t authentic.

SOURCE: https://lisahallwilson.com/how-to-write-about-ptsd-in-deep-point-of-view/

[karastrukel]

Week 6 Blog Post

Chapters 4 and 5 of the Social Organization are titled, “Forming a Vision for Community Collaboration” and “Developing a Strategic Approach to Community Collaboration.”

Chapter 4 discusses how social media can have a positive impact on pursuing mission and vision statements of a company. However, one big point Chapter 4 highlights is the understanding of when community collaboration is appropriate. “Community collaboration is more appropriate when large groups of people act independently to contribute and share open and complementary information that aggregates well into a bigger picture and results in actions that lead to heightened performance.” (Bradley, 2011, p. 42). “Community collaboration is less suitable for challenges that require deep analysis, where information is best provided by intermediaries who are often recognized experts and who influence one another. Also, if information is sensitive and requires significant safeguards in its use, then sharing it with the masses is less appropriate.” (Bradley, 2011, p. 43). Another huge takeaway from Chapter 4 that I recognized is the “Six F” Model of Attitudes Towards Social Media; folly, fearful, flippant, formulating, forging and fusing. Each of these characteristics determine an audience’s view on social media, and having a clear understanding of which attitude your audience has towards social media can be extremely beneficial when deciding whether or not community collaboration will help your company increase value.

Chapter 5 discusses the importance of purpose within a community collaboration strategy. When inviting your audience to participate in your community collaboration, the invitation is important. Having bland and boring invitations will not increase any engagement. When discussing the purpose of your community collaboration strategy, you must answer four questions: “Who are the target participants? What is the nature or focus of their collaboration? What’s in it for participants? What value will the organization realize?” (Bradley, 2011, p. 59). One of the biggest takeaways for me through Chapter 5 is “determining the power and potential value of a purpose by assessing it against the following characteristics: magnetic, business-aligned, low community risk, measurable, facilitates evolution.” (Bradley, 2011, p. 60-61). I think that this is an extremely important point because it gives you a guideline to determine if your company will increase value within community collaboration. A high-quality purpose for collaboration will have each of those characteristics. If it doesn’t, the collaboration probably won’t have that much value, and therefore may be a waste of time, or ineffective.

From the Hootsuite modules this week, I was able to establish the importance of targeting differently depending on the social platform you are using. Each social media platform has a different audience that needs to be stimulated in a different way to target engagement. The hootsuite modules this week give you “best practices” per each social platform, which I found to be extremely beneficial. The client I am working with for my project is my sorority, Sigma Sigma Sigma. I think that these modules this week helped me have a better understanding of the main platforms used by my chapter, consisting of Instagram and Facebook. The modules gave me different suggestions to engage within each of these platforms, especially Instagram, by discussing many of the various features it has to offer, such as Instagram TV, Instagram Insights, Instagram Ads etc. These modules gave me a better understanding of all of the features Instagram has to offer, and how I can better engage my audience with these features.

References

[eroticmassagebali]

The five Important Methods to Acquiring a Therapeutic massage That Will Help You to Feel Better

one. You are always correct and need to get exactly what you want. Several massage buyers suppose that you are going to a skilled massage therapist and therefore whatsoever they say goes. The aged adage that the customer is often right also applies to the therapeutic massage remedy sector. Of course, you want to perform with a "dependable skilled", but that does not indicate that if you believe you want much more emphasis on a specific location or altered strain that you should not acquire just that. A "reliable skilled" will hear to precisely what you want and utilize the strategies that are likely to help you achieve that aim. When you go out to buy anything that you have currently made a Erotic massage bali  decision to acquire you are not likely to enable a salesperson promote you on some thing diverse than what you experienced in thoughts (even though this takes place all also often in the market). The exact same is accurate for your massage treatment encounter. If you are not confident what you need but have a distinct criticism, your therapeutic massage therapist must pay attention to your chief grievances and give a solution that aids you obtain your sought after result (a lot more on this afterwards). If you sense that the therapeutic massage therapist you are working with is not listening to your wants, it is completely alright for you to conclude the therapeutic massage session. This may possibly seem a bit severe, but throwing away your time and money on ineffective therapies is not an appropriate selection. two. What you should count on from your therapeutic massage therapy treatment. The massage therapy treatment ought to particularly fulfill your desired end result. You should anticipate that you are heading to function with a competent massage therapist that is heading to pay attention to your concerns and support you get a massage that is extremely gratifying for you. From the second you contact in to routine your therapeutic massage remedy you must have a sense that you are going to operate with a therapist that is heading to take care of you as an specific and regard your individual wants. It is proper to question for the therapeutic massage therapist's qualifications and knowledge. You might also want to speak with an present shopper to ensure that they have experienced a pleasant experience an current consumer that they function with that has experienced a enjoyable expertise with the practitioner you are about to have a therapeutic massage with. You can ask to appear by and see the facility in which you will be obtaining your massage. Does it appear clean, comforting, and therapeutic? What does the vitality of the facility truly feel like? Does it align with your power and really feel like a spot that you will be relaxed with? It is also proper to request to meet with the therapist who is will possibly be operating with you prior to the massage therapy so you can be certain that you will be comfortable with the massage therapist. When you have established up your massage remedy and get there for your massage you will be questioned to fill out some paperwork. Let for ample time to fill out the paperwork so it does not interfere with your massage time. Following all, if you are looking at a massage professional, chances are they are extremely occupied and they have clients just before and after you. When you get there at the establishment you must be warmly greeted and supplied drinking water although you fill out the paperwork and wait to fulfill your therapist (if you did not satisfy them prior). Your therapist need to introduce themselves to you and welcome you and immediate you back again to the massage place. The therapist must then inquire you about your specific ambitions for the session and pay attention to you ahead of continuing. You need to truly feel that the therapist cares deeply about your objectives for the session and is interested in assisting you accomplish them. The treatment place should be calming and comforting. The therapeutic massage therapist ought to make clear that you can disrobe to your stage of convenience. Notice: For some men and women their level of convenience may be to keep all of their clothes on. This is completely fine. I have labored with consumers who started out with me operating with me completely clothed and as their comfort and ease degree enhanced they commenced to take away some clothes so I could therapeutic massage straight to their pores and skin. The fact is that massage treatment feels better when it is utilized right to the pores and skin. The other simple fact is that a experienced therapeutic massage therapist can perform with you with all your clothing on and nonetheless provide a great massage. You need to be covered or draped with sheets appropriately for the duration of your massage. This is not only a regulation, but is intended for your comfort and ease. This implies that only the region of your body that is currently being massaged will be exposed. The rest of your human body will be coated by a sheet and when you are chilly a blanket as well. Observe: I have experienced therapeutic massage at institutions that have utilized quite minor towels to cover my naked physique. I am really comfy with my body, but in a single session in certain (at a San Diego establishment) I was very cold during the session and the draft created the therapeutic massage extremely not comfortable. I have occur to find out that this distinct establishment may possibly not be a reputable massage practice but a front for prostitution. You would in no way know this as it is promoted as a working day spa, so be cautious of where you established up your appointment. I can guarantee that if I would have implemented these five methods I would have recognized that this institution was not legitimate and I would have saved myself the not comfortable knowledge and the waste of my time and funds. Business name: Massage Bali Phone Number: +6282339188882

[morneboshoff]

When is it Time for a Website Refresh?

You’ve heard the old adage… You have 6 seconds to convince a website visitor that your website is the website they’ve been searching for – before they hit that back button.

So keeping your website up-to-date is no longer a matter of preference, it’s a matter of survival.

If it’s been a while since you’ve updated your website, it might be a good idea to consider updating the elements on your website like the content, the design, adding new content or completely overhauling your website as part of a major redesign.

Does your website need a refresh?

So What’s a Refresh?

A business changes as it grows. The same is true with your website. As you create your website, make sure it reflects the business it represents.

Your website’s design will become outdated over time, that’s just how it goes. What was popular 2 or 3 years ago, can feel painfully outdated now (remember keyword clouds?) So refreshing the design is necessary to remain competitive.

Does Your Website Need a Refresh?

If your website has been up for a while, it may be a challenge to know when it’s time to update it. But here are some signs it’s time.

The design of your site is not appealing anymore

Conversions are low

Nothing is interesting or exciting on your website

Ineffective communication with website visitors

Leads aren’t coming in like they did before

Bounce rates are high

Recognize any of these? If so it may be time to make some minor updates or revamp your entire website. It just depends on your situation.

Here are 7 ways you can refresh your website

1. The Basics

Let’s start with the basics. The look and feel of your website can be dramatically updated simply by choosing a more modern fonts set to revamp its overall look. Even small changes can significantly impact transforming an old site into something new and impressive. Google fonts is free, and offers many great options.

2. Consider a redesign – when you need more than the basics

Your website plays a big part in the identity of your business. The way your website looks will have a big impact on the way your visitors feel when they land on your website. What will their first impression be? Are they going to want to do business with you? You are not doing yourself any favors by still using outdated stock graphics and imagery.

Your brand’s identity is shaped by elements like layout, fonts, colors, etc. To keep your website looking crisp, determine which sections have aged gracefully and which areas need improvement.

Replace your outdated images & graphics with a mix professionally taken photos of your staff and business along with some carefully curated high end stock images.

Choose a simple, clean font will make your site look sleek and modern. For example, Google Fonts offers many free typefaces.

An updated color palette can also improve the experience of your visitors.

3. Improve Your Communication

We’ve talked about the 6 seconds you have to grab your visitors attention and keep them on your website so it’s not a surprise that there’s little time for you to get your message across.

Regardless of what you sell, the customer is primarily interested in how you will help them solve their problem. It’s always about them, whatever you say. So make sure visitors can find the content they are looking for without a lot of clicking around.

Speaking of communication it’s a good idea to sprinkle in a variety of compelling and relevant CTAs on your site. Believe it or not, your visitors aren’t mind readers so you need to tell them how they take the next step. CTAs provide various options for the visitor to take action, such as:

“Call Now”

“Book Your Appointment Today”

“Join Now by clicking here,”

“Get started Today”

“Connect with us Today”

“Get your free ______ today”

“Signup today and get ________ “

And don’t forget about social sharing buttons.

The most important thing is that your CTA’s should be well-designed and strategically placed in areas where clients can easily see them.

Pro tip: Make sure that your CTA’s contrast well with the rest of your design but don’t get blend into the rest of your content. CTA’s are most effective when they look like buttons.

4. Improve Your User Experience

You must design your website so that the customer can navigate through it quickly. Your site will attract more visitors if it is easy to navigate. Just a few changes to your menu and checking that every link works can make a massive difference in the over all user experience.

Your navigation consists of links connecting your website’s pages. Carefully examine all your website pages and make sure they are still relevant and organized.

Test your links. Make sure that they don’t lead to 404 Error (Page Not Found). This makes your website appear not maintained and sloppy. Take a look at all the links on your site, including internal and external, and ensure they’re taking your visitors where you want them to go.

5. Analyze Your Website Content – And See Where You Stand

It’s not only about looks when it comes to refreshing a website. Your site must be considered current. Ensuring that what you are saying is valid, helpful, and readable to your visitors. So how can you determine whether your content is new, high-quality, and up-to-date?

By conducting a content audit.

A content audit is intended to assess which links get indexed by search engines, which need to be refreshed and no longer exist. Here are some basic steps you need to follow:

Compile all your databases and sitemaps. The sitemap is a document that lists your site’s pages, videos, and other files along with their relationships. Data from your website is organized into your website’s internal database.

Your site’s URLs are indexed by web crawlers who collect content throughout the Internet. An algorithm can be applied to web crawler data to find relevant links in response to specific search terms and keywords. We recommend using Google Analytic, Google Webmaster Tools, and Screaming Frog for crawling website content.

Content auditing can go beyond essentials: You can use titles, descriptions, and word count as primary criteria for content auditing. All of your content entries should contain these elements.

Check organic search, conversions, publish date, time-on-site, page views, load speed, and mobile-responsiveness, too.

The number of conversions divided by unique visits is the conversion rate. By measuring this metric, you can determine if your website traffic is profitable.

Time-on-site is pretty self-explanatory: it’s the amount of time your visitors spend on each of your pages. Content audits can benefit from this metric since you get a clear idea of the performance of your online content.

A page-per-visit measurement indicates how much content is viewed per visit. In most cases, it is presented as an average, which is calculated by dividing the total number of visitors by the total number of page views.

The slower your page loads, the fewer pages search engines can crawl, affecting your search engine rankings.

Take a good thorough look at your content: Identity what content no longer reflects your current business and goals and delete it. Do you need to rewrite or update anything? Is there anything that needs some attention?

Note: It is essential to perform two separate content audits if your website has Desktop and Mobile versions as their codebases are different.

6. Competitor Analysis

You should also examine how your competitors’ sites can be improved while evaluating the same areas where yours could be better. Are they doing anything new on their website that is working? Is their website more responsive than yours? Have they made updates to their website recently?

Aside from seeing what your competitors’ websites look like, it would help if you also figured out which websites link to them. Is it possible to obtain links from these same websites, or can you get links from other high-ranking websites? This is authority backlinking 101 & makes a huge impact on your rankings.

7. Make Sure Applications Are Maintained

Now that you have updated your contact information, added some fresh content, and checked for broken links, make sure that all of your web apps are functioning properly. For your tech to keep pace with your business growth, it must adapt and grow along with it.

App management practices include testing and debugging software, enhancing technology and site functionality, updating and maintaining existing security protocols, maintaining new browser versions, creating and maintaining 3rd party integrations, and more. It is very important to maintain your website’s modules, code, plugins and integrations to avoid various issues.

Honorary Mention: A Mobile-Responsive Website

This one is obvious and goes without saying. But nobody is surprised when I say smartphones are the most popular way people access the web. And a lot of them never use anything other than their phone so to say mobile responsiveness is important would be an understatement.

Plus Google favors mobile web-optimized websites in its search rankings and penalizes those that aren’t.

In conclusion, keep it simple. Think marathon, not a race.

A website refresh can be as extensive as you want to make it… Just like any renovation. Although we’ve covered many small changes you can make to your website some will make a much bigger impact than others. But do not under-estimate the end result.

So what now? evaluate your needs and make a plan of attack – and then get started on it. There’s no time like right now.

DOWNLOAD YOUR DIGITAL STRATEGY PLANNING TEMPLATE

[faithhopeloveandtherapy]

Basic Tenets of Attachment Theory

1. Attachment is an innate motivating force

Throughout our entire lifespan from birth to death, humans are hardwired to attach to others. It is not a childhood trait we outgrow, rather it is an innate part of being human.

2. Secure dependence complements autonomy

There is no such thing as complete independence from others. There is only effective and ineffective dependency. Effective dependence fosters autonomy and self-confidence, so the more securely connected we are, the more separate and different we can be free to be.

3. Attachment offers a safe haven

Predictable physical and emotional connection from an attachment figure calms the nervous system. Positive attachments create a safe haven which offers a buffer against the effects of stress and uncertainty as we face the world and provides the optimal environment for growth.

4. Attachment offers a secure base

This positive sense of self coming from a secure connection creates a secure base from which we can explore the world, take risks and develop a sense of competence and autonomy. Having a positive sense of self makes us more able to make more successful bids for connection with others. We come to believe that the world is safe and manageable.

5. Accessibility and responsiveness build bonds

Accessibility, responsiveness and emotional engagement (A.R.E.) are the building blocks of attachment bonds. In other words, we are asking our attachment figures “Are you there for me?”

6. Fear and uncertainty activate attachment needs

When we are upset by difficult events or negative aspects of life, or we feel insecure in the attachment bond itself our attachment needs for comfort and connection become compelling. They result in the activation of attachment behaviours such as proximity seeking. A sense of connection with an attachment figure is a primary inbuilt emotional regulation device.

7. The process of separation distress is predictable

Separation distress arises when an attachment bond is threatened. If attachment behaviours fail to evoke contact and comfort from an attachment figure, a process of angry protest, clinging, depression and despair occurs, culminating in detachment. In secure attachment relationships, protest at inaccessibility is recognised and accepted.

8. A finite number of insecure forms of attachment can be identified

If, growing up, people did not have attachment figures who responded to them sensitively, then they adapt one of three different strategies - anxious, avoidant or disorganised - in response to the question “Can I depend on you when I need you?” Anxious attachment is characterised by hypervigilence & neediness, whereas avoidant attachment is characterised by shutting down and avoiding emotional engagement. Disorganised attachment (called Fearful Avoidant in adults) occurs when a person has been traumatised by an attachment figure, which then causes a tremendous conflict as their source of comfort also becomes a source of fear.

9. Attachment involves working models of self and other

Securely attached people are comfortable with closeness and the need for others. They believe others will be dependable and responsive when needed. Their basic relationship strategy is to recognize the need for others and then congruently reach out. Each relationship impacts our working model and contributes to expectations and beliefs which we carry forward into future relationships.

Adult-adult bonds are more reciprocal and less dependent on physical closeness. Just thinking about the attachment figure can calm the nervous system.

10. Isolation and loss are inherently traumatising

Attachment theory explains why the trauma of deprivation, rejection and loss of attachment figures have such a big impact on us, our personality formation and our ability to handle stresses in life.

Taken from “Attachment Theory in Practice” by Susan M Johnson

[jeetkuneflow]

Dan Inosanto recognizes six S’s essential to martial arts:

- Strength

- Speed

- Stamina

- Skill

- Strategy

- Spirit

The first three S’s are self-explanatory, but often overlooked.

Traditional martial artists hold fast to the idea that technique trumps athleticism, so they often shirk the conditioning needed to be an effective fighter.

Contemporary martial artists may focus on developing power and speed, but sometimes skip more tedious cardio training.

The last three S’s are a little more complex.

Skill more or less refers to the ability to perform techniques properly.

Strategy is the ability to execute those techniques against a resisting opponent—using footwork, range, timing, rhythm, and position.

And spirit is the willpower to fight, to overcome adversity, to power through.

When I think about what separates effective martial arts from ineffective ones, I realize that it often comes down to Strategy.

Sure, a martial artist may punch hard and kick high, but if they don’t have the ability pull those skills off in a real fight—using footwork, range, timing, and position—they’re virtually useless.

Likewise - wrist cranks, eye pokes, and tiger claws will definitely cause damage to a human body. But if you can only pull those things off in a vacuum, in the dojo—in theory—they won’t do you any good.

I think a lack of strategy plagues traditional martial arts in particular. TMAists hit hard, move fast, and are generally athletic. But they sadly lack the ability to apply their skill in a real fight. <- this is obviously a generalization and I’m aware that there are traditional schools that focus on strategy. But those are the exception and not the rule.

How about you - which S is missing from your training? Which S do you think is most important?

[militant-holy-knight]

John Hunyadi, the White Knight of Wallachia, was born in the year 1407. He was a mighty Catholic warrior who led the forces of the Kingdom of Hungary to halt the advances of the Ottoman Empire into Christendom. A military genius, his entire life was spent in this noble cause. He is one of the great Defenders of Christendom.

The king of Hungary recognized Hunyadi’s exceptional military abilities while he was still quite young, and wisely made him a trusted advisor and the field commander of his armies. Hunyadi quickly rewarded King Sigismund’s confidence in him by demonstrating his complete mastery of military strategy at the expense of the invading Ottoman army of Ishak Bey, which he defeated in battle at Semendria. When another huge Ottoman army invaded Transylvania the following year, Hunyadi, with only a small force, decimated the immense host and put them to flight.

The Ottoman Empire, with a better appreciation of their adversary, put together an even larger and more powerful force to invade Hungary in the year 1442. With 80,000 of their finest warriors, including thousands of Janissaries, they were dispatched with the intention of punishing the Hungarians for their previous defeats.

Hunyadi met them at a place called the Iron Gates with only 15,000 men. Upon seeing the diminutive size of Hunyadi’s army, the Ottoman commander, Sehabbedin, arrogantly expected to easily sweep them from the field. Instead, Hunyadi, with incredible skill, repeatedly maneuvered his forces into advantageous positions to overwhelm the ineffective forces of the disbelieving Ottoman commander. The expedition meant to humble Hunyadi instead made of him a hero celebrated throughout all of Christendom.

Hunyadi followed up his remarkable victories with an expedition of his own that has come to be known as the “Long Campaign.” Marching at the head of his vanguard, Hunyadi boldly passed through the Gate of Trajan to enter recently conquered Muslim territories in the Balkans. He was soon challenged by an Ottoman army near the town of Nish. There he confronted a distinguished general and invincible warrior who, because of his proven ability, had come to be known as Iskander, Lord Alexander. This name was given him by the sultan himself, honoring the commander by comparing him favorably to the Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great. Hunyadi would soon come to know how deserving Iskander was of the honor.

As it turned out, Iskander had never truly accepted Islam and was planning on joining the advancing Catholic army. When the battle began, Iskander switched sides with three hundred Albanians who had been forced to serve the Turks, fighting side by side with Hunyadi. Turning their swords against their Islamic oppressors, they easily defeated the Muslim army and took back the city of Nish. Further successes followed after Nish during the Long Campaign, as Hunyadi triumphed in Bosnia, Herzegovina, Serbia, and Bulgaria before winter forced him to return home.

Iskander was asked to join a papal alliance which included Hungarian, Bulgarian, and Polish forces, together with Teutonic Knights, in a new Crusade against the Turks. They marched overland to Varna, bypassing Ottoman strongholds, where they expected to meet the Papal fleet and sail on to Constantinople. These 25,000 men, under Hunyadi’s capable leadership, might actually have been sufficient to drive the Turks out of Europe.

Sadly, it was not to be. The plan was completely thwarted by base treachery, as a traitor among the Christians advised the Ottoman sultan of the advance of the Christian army. In a further despicable act of betrayal, the Venetian galleys that had been sent on ahead in order to prevent the sultan from crossing back into Europe, instead offered the use of their ships to the Ottoman sultan. They received one gold piece in payment for every Turkish soldier they transported back across the Bosporus. The sultan’s army of 100,000 men then traveled toward Varna to await the coming of the unsuspecting Christians. In a separate and final act of treachery, Iskander was prevented from joining the Christian army through a deceitful ruse perpetrated against him by the king of Serbia, who was hoping to gain the sultan’s favor. None of these men seemed to be aware that the defeat of this army and the death of these Christian warriors would be to their eternal shame, and something for which they would someday have to answer personally to God.

The Christian army learned they had been betrayed at a point when they were trapped between the enemy and the Black Sea. Some of the men called for a retreat, even though that wasn’t feasible. Others wanted to take up a defensive position. Hunyadi called for action. “To escape is impossible, to surrender is unthinkable. Let us fight with bravery and honor our arms.”

The battle began as the Christian left wing repelled the attack directed against them, and then chased the retreating Ottoman forces from the field. The Christian right wing was overcome, however, and also retreated, many of them cut down as they fled. The enemy were stopped temporarily by reinforcements, and Hunyadi told 20 year old King Wladyslaw to wait upon his return with 500 of his Polish knights. The outcome of the battle was still in the balance when King Wladyslaw disregarded Hunyadi’s advice and attempted a direct assault with his knights against the sultan and his bodyguards, the dreaded Janissaries. The king fell, and was slain by a Janissary, who cut off his head to display it on a pole to the Christian host.

Discouraged and defeated, the remnants of the Christian army rallied around Hunyadi, who was somehow able to orchestrate the retreat of the army. Thousands died in battle, and many others who surrendered were slaughtered at the sultan’s command, although a few were captured and sold as slaves. The sense of optimism felt throughout Christendom was immediately swept away with the terrible defeat. The shame of it all is that it did not have to be, as it is almost certain that the outcome of battle would have been reversed only if Iskander had been present.

The following years were full of conflict and difficult trials for Hunyadi, even though heaven had provided him with a powerful ally in Iskander. After this defeat at Varna, it appeared that the Ottoman Empire had grudgingly granted Hungary a period of peace. In actuality, Mehmet II was only reluctantly conceding a cessation to the Hungarian conflict in order to concentrate his efforts on other objectives.

In the year 1453 all of Christendom was stunned to learn of the fall of Constantinople to Mehmet the Conqueror, great-grandson of Bayezid. The Byzantine Empire, which had survived for over 1,000 years keeping at bay all of the nomadic tribes of Asia, was a bulwark which was now suddenly gone. Emperor Constantine had died fighting, thousands had been slain, and tens of thousands more were sold into slavery.

The Muslim conquest of Constantinople was a remarkable achievement that proved the power of the Ottoman Empire. The great and ancient city, once the seat of the Roman Empire, became the new seat of Ottoman government. Entering the city in triumph, Mehmet saw himself as the successor to the Caesars, and ordered that a splendid palace be built there for his private residence where he would live from that time on.

The Christian kingdoms that bordered the Ottoman Empire suddenly realized that they were now vulnerable to further Turkish aggression. Iskander and the Albanians, as well as Hunyadi and the Hungarian people, prepared for the impending assault they knew would soon come.

In 1456 Mehmet II attacked Hunyadi at Belgrade with an army of 160,000 men. Hunyadi was on his own with only 4,000 soldiers to resist this huge army, but due to the preaching of St John Capistrano, perhaps as many as 30,000 men, mostly peasants, flocked to Hunyadi’s banner. Most armed only with farming implements, and having no military training, they were eager enough, though seemingly ill-matched to go up against the Ottoman infantry.

Heavy cannon fire had demolished the formidable walls of Belgrade in several places when the Turks finally entered the city in force. The desperate fighting flowed from street to street, but despite their superior numbers, the Janissaries were outdone by the incredibly fierce determination of St. John Capistrano and his devoted followers. Not satisfied with merely holding their city, the Christian’s trailed behind St. John through the open breaches as he held the crucifix aloft. Taking the fight to the Turks, the Christians put them to flight, while the sultan himself was wounded and carried from the battle.

The siege of Belgrade was perhaps Hunyadi’s greatest victory, though he didn’t long outlive it. A few days after the battle, having accomplished many great deeds to preserve Christendom, Hunyadi took ill and died. Mehmet II gave praise to Hunyadi upon learning of his passing, saying, “Although he was my enemy I feel grief over his death, because the world has never seen such a man.” Pope Callixtus III lamented, “The light of the world has passed away.” They were fitting tributes to the White Knight, whose efforts had helped save Christendom.