Mental health is a critical aspect of our well-being, and feeling lost, empty, and uncertain can be significant symptoms of mental health challenges. Many people struggle with these feelings, and it’s essential to recognize that they are not uncommon, nor are they necessarily the result of external factors such as social status or achievements.
Your power from within
To address these feelings and promote better mental health, it’s crucial to look inward and connect with our inner selves. This is a theme explored in many mental health books, including “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle, which emphasizes living in the present moment and finding a deeper sense of self.
“Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl highlights the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life, even in the face of adversity. This is an essential message for those struggling with mental health challenges, as finding a sense of purpose can provide motivation and help people regain a sense of control over their lives.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho encourages readers to trust their intuition and follow their passions. This is an essential message for those struggling with mental health challenges, as finding creative outlets and hobbies can be an effective coping mechanism.
“Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert highlights the importance of embracing creativity and following our curiosity. This can be a powerful tool for improving mental health, as creative expression can promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Finally, “A New Earth” by Eckhart Tolle encourages readers to let go of their ego and attachment to external validation. This can be especially important for those struggling with mental health challenges, as they may feel pressure to conform to societal norms or meet others’ expectations.
Mental health is a critical aspect of our overall well-being, and feeling lost, empty, and uncertain can be significant symptoms of mental health challenges. By connecting with our inner selves, finding meaning and purpose, and embracing creativity, we can promote better mental health and overcome these challenges.
Scammers have continued to evolve their tactics, and 2022 saw a rise in the total amount lost by consumers and small businesses. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) partnered with Ethnic Media Services to reveal the top five scams of 2022 and their economic impact, as well as how to spot and protect against them.
Scammer
According to the FTC, while there was a decrease in the number of fraud reports received in 2022, the total amount lost by consumers and small businesses rose to $8.8 billion, the most ever reported. The top two frauds were imposter fraud and online shopping scams. Consumers reported losing $660 million to business imposters compared to $450 million the year before.
Investor fraud was the most lucrative for scammers, with consumers reporting a loss of almost $3.8 billion, with the majority in cryptocurrency scams. Scammers often entice consumers to invest in cryptocurrency through social media, presenting fake websites that show the consumer’s money growing. Social media was the contact method that had the highest aggregated dollar loss, with $1.2 billion.
The FTC experts also highlighted that scammers are targeting ethnic communities and speaking their language. For example, the Latino community filed a higher percentage of reports relating to problems with banks and lenders, related to debt collection, auto issues, and also business opportunities. Scammers also targeted Latinos with bogus business opportunities and work-at-home schemes. In contrast, the black community reported the largest number of reports about payday loan applications and student debt relief programs.
Scammer
To help people spot and avoid scams, the FTC provides information in a dozen languages, including Amharic, Arabic, Chinese (both simplified and traditional), French, Hmong, Korean, Russian, Somali, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and Ukrainian. The FTC’s downloadable publication, Spotting, Avoiding and Reporting Scams: A Fraud Handbook for recent refugees and immigrants, helps people learn to spot some of the scams related to looking for a job, going through the immigration process, or just trying to figure out how things work in the US. There are also graphics in each language at the bottom of each page to share on social media, helping people in various communities know how to spot, avoid, and report fraud.
In conclusion, while the number of fraud reports decreased in 2022, scammers continue to evolve their tactics, with investor fraud and cryptocurrency scams being the most lucrative. The FTC recommends being aware of scams and provides resources in multiple languages to help people spot, avoid, and report fraud.
As I sit here in my comfortable home in America, surrounded by abundance and luxury, I can’t help but reflect on my journey to get here. I was born and raised in Vietnam, in a rural countryside where basic necessities like food were limited. Watching my family members work long hours in the rice fields just to put food on the table was a way of life for me. It was a struggle, but it was all we knew.
When I moved to America, I was overwhelmed by the abundance of food and sugar available at every turn. It was a stark contrast to the scarcity I experienced in Vietnam. But as I indulged in these newfound luxuries, I began to realize the toll they were taking on my health.
In America, food can easily become poison. It’s the main culprit behind diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and heart attacks. As someone who had experienced hunger and scarcity, I knew I had to change my relationship with food to avoid these health issues.
That’s when I began my journey of fasting. I started with intermittent fasting, skipping breakfast and only eating during a small window of time each day. As I became more comfortable with this routine, I started to incorporate longer fasts, lasting 24-48 hours.
I’ve now been fasting daily for 5 months, and the results have been incredible. I’ve lost 20 pounds and have developed six-pack abs for the first time in my life. I feel healthier and stronger than ever before, and my cravings for exercise and meditation have increased.
Through this process, I’ve learned that everything we feed our minds and bodies matters. Positive thoughts and healthy food choices are crucial for mental and physical health. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded by negative messages and unhealthy options, it’s important to be mindful of what we consume.
As I reflect on my journey, I’m grateful for the struggles I faced growing up. They taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance. And now, in America, I’ve found a way to use those lessons to live a healthier and happier life.
Mental Health Focus
In today’s society, mental health problems have become increasingly prevalent. It’s more important than ever to take care of both our physical and mental health, and the two are often interconnected. As someone who has experienced the benefits of fasting on both my physical and mental health, I believe that it’s essential to pay attention to what we feed our bodies and minds.
Fasting has allowed me to cultivate a positive mindset, reduce stress, and improve my overall well-being. By cutting out unhealthy foods and focusing on healthy choices, I’ve been able to reduce inflammation and improve my brain function. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in our lives.
But fasting isn’t the only solution. We can also prioritize our mental health by practicing mindfulness, connecting with loved ones, and seeking professional help when needed. By taking care of ourselves, we can better take care of those around us and contribute to a happier and healthier society.
In conclusion, as we navigate the challenges of today’s world, let’s not forget the importance of taking care of ourselves both physically and mentally. By making small changes to our lifestyle and prioritizing our well-being, we can improve our overall quality of life and build a better future for ourselves and those around us.
Small business owners often have to compete with large corporations that have significant advantages, such as greater resources and brand recognition. To level the playing field, small business owners can join local small business associations like the Louisville Independent Business Alliance (LIBA). These associations offer a wide range of benefits that can help small business owners succeed. Here are some reasons why small business owners should consider joining a local small business association like LIBA:
Networking: One of the biggest benefits of joining a local small business association is the networking opportunities that it provides. Small business owners can connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs and share ideas, knowledge, and experience. Networking also provides opportunities for referrals and partnerships, which can lead to increased business growth and revenue.
Advocacy: Small business associations like LIBA advocate for the interests of small businesses at the local, state, and national levels. They work to promote policies and regulations that are favorable to small businesses and help protect them from unfair competition. Small business associations also help to raise awareness about the importance of small businesses to the local economy.
Education: Many small business associations offer educational programs and resources to help small business owners improve their skills and knowledge. These resources can include workshops, seminars, webinars, and mentoring programs. By participating in these programs, small business owners can learn new strategies for success, stay up-to-date on industry trends, and connect with other business owners.
Marketing and Promotion: Small business associations often provide opportunities for their members to market and promote their businesses. For example, LIBA offers a directory of member businesses on its website, as well as social media promotion and advertising opportunities. This increased exposure can help small businesses attract new customers and increase their revenue.
Cost Savings: Many small business associations offer discounts on products and services that their members use in their businesses. For example, LIBA offers members discounts on credit card processing fees, printing and marketing services, and more. These cost savings can help small businesses reduce their expenses and increase their profits.
Community Involvement: Small business associations like LIBA are often involved in community events and initiatives. By participating in these events, small business owners can help to build goodwill with their customers and other members of the community. This increased visibility can help small businesses attract new customers and grow their businesses.
Collaboration: Small business associations provide opportunities for collaboration among their members. For example, members can collaborate on joint marketing campaigns, events, and other projects. By working together, small businesses can achieve more than they could on their own.
Joining a local small business association like LIBA can offer small business owners a wide range of benefits, from networking opportunities to advocacy, education, marketing and promotion, cost savings, community involvement, and collaboration. These benefits can help small businesses succeed and grow in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Di Tran is a motivational speaker and the author of two books, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH.” He has recently shared a reflection on the importance of taking action and making decisions, particularly when you are in your forties and beyond.
According to Tran, it is easy to get caught up in talking about our dreams and ideas without actually taking any action towards achieving them. He believes that as we get older, it becomes increasingly important to take action and make decisions that will bring us closer to our goals.
Tran encourages people to not just talk about their dreams, but also to share what they have done to achieve them. He believes that sharing our actions can inspire others to take action as well. Tran states, “Now tell people what you’ve done. Tell people what you are doing for the thing that you’re going to do more in the future.”
Tran’s reflection is supported by Tim Grover, a renowned sports performance coach, who has worked with some of the world’s top athletes, including Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. Grover believes that taking action is key to success, stating, “Winners take action. Losers take meetings.”
Tran’s message is not only relevant for those in their forties and beyond but for everyone who has ever had a dream or idea that they want to bring to fruition. It is easy to get caught up in the planning and brainstorming phase, but without action, our dreams will remain just that – dreams.
Tran’s reflection also touches on the concept of idea generation. He asks his readers to consider how many ideas they have had throughout their life that they have actually implemented. This is an important reminder that having ideas is not enough; we must also take action to turn those ideas into reality.
Di Tran’s reflection on taking action and making decisions is an important reminder for us all. It is not enough to simply talk about our dreams and ideas; we must also take action to make them a reality. As Tim Grover says, “Don’t talk about it. Be about it.” Let us all take this message to heart and start taking action towards our goals today.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. In addition, around 450 million people currently suffer from such conditions, making mental disorders one of the leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide.
Here are some common mental health problems and self-improvement solutions for each:
Anxiety disorders: This includes generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias. Self-improvement solutions may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. It’s also important to identify triggers that cause anxiety and find healthy ways to manage them.
Mood disorders: This includes depression and bipolar disorder. Self-improvement solutions may include regular exercise, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in social activities. It’s also important to seek professional help and follow a treatment plan, which may include medication and therapy.
Psychotic disorders: This includes schizophrenia and delusional disorder. Self-improvement solutions may include sticking to a routine, managing stress, and avoiding drugs and alcohol. It’s also important to take prescribed medication and attend therapy sessions.
Personality disorders: This includes borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder. Self-improvement solutions may include therapy, mindfulness practices, and identifying and challenging negative thought patterns. It’s important to remember that change takes time and effort, and seeking professional help is essential for recovery.
Eating disorders: This includes anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Self-improvement solutions may include seeking professional help, practicing self-care, and developing a healthy relationship with food. It’s also important to identify triggers and practice coping mechanisms to avoid relapse.
Substance abuse disorders: This includes alcohol and drug addiction. Self-improvement solutions may include attending support groups, seeking professional help, and practicing self-care. It’s important to identify triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms to avoid relapse.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): This includes unwanted repetitive thoughts and behaviors. Self-improvement solutions may include CBT, exposure and response prevention therapy, and mindfulness practices. It’s important to work with a therapist to identify triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
It’s important to note that mental health problems can occur at any age and affect people of all cultures, genders, and backgrounds. Seeking professional help is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems, and self-improvement solutions can complement professional treatment.
I am grateful for this new day and the opportunities it brings.
I am filled with positive energy and ready to tackle the day.
I trust in my abilities to achieve my goals.
I am worthy of love and success.
Today, I choose joy and happiness.
I am healthy and strong.
I am surrounded by abundance and prosperity.
I am open to new experiences and growth.
I am at peace with myself and the world.
I trust that everything will work out for my highest good.
I release all negative thoughts and emotions.
I radiate positivity and attract good things.
I am capable of overcoming any obstacle.
I am confident in my decisions and choices.
I am surrounded by loving and supportive people.
I am enough just as I am.
I am grateful for my blessings and challenges.
I am focused and productive.
I am free of stress and anxiety.
I am worthy of rest and self-care.
I am creative and inspired.
I am calm and centered.
I am aligned with my purpose and passions.
I am kind and compassionate to myself and others.
I am constantly growing and evolving.
Why it works: Morning affirmations set the tone for the day, helping to cultivate a positive mindset and outlook. By focusing on positive affirmations, it helps to shift the focus away from negative thoughts and emotions, reducing stress and anxiety. By acknowledging our strengths and abilities, we become more confident and self-assured, which can lead to greater success and happiness.
Night Affirmations:
I am grateful for all the good things that happened today.
I release all negative thoughts and emotions from the day.
I forgive myself and others for any mistakes or shortcomings.
I am proud of my accomplishments and progress.
I trust that everything will work out for my highest good.
I am at peace with myself and the world.
I am surrounded by love and positivity.
I am deserving of rest and relaxation.
I am grateful for the lessons learned today.
I am excited for what tomorrow will bring.
I am free of stress and worry.
I am confident in my abilities to overcome any challenges.
I am worthy of love and respect.
I trust in the universe to guide me towards my highest good.
I am grateful for my blessings and the people in my life.
I am focused on my goals and priorities.
I am constantly learning and growing.
I am surrounded by abundance and prosperity.
I am kind and compassionate to myself and others.
I am filled with peace and serenity.
I am aligned with my purpose and passions.
I am grateful for the gift of another day.
I am in control of my thoughts and emotions.
I am open to receiving abundance and positivity.
I am constantly improving and becoming a better version of myself.
Why it works: Night affirmations help to reflect on the day and let go of any negative thoughts or emotions. By focusing on gratitude and positivity, it helps to cultivate a sense of peace and relaxation, promoting better sleep and mental health. By reaffirming our worth and capabilities, it boosts self-esteem and confidence, helping us to wake up feeling energized and motivated for the new day.
Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatized in our society. However, the importance of mental health is becoming increasingly recognized, with more attention being paid to the topic in recent years. In this article, we will explore the significance of mental health, citing the works of various authors to emphasize the relevance of this topic in today’s world.
Focus on your mental health
One of the most influential books on the subject of mental health is “An Unquiet Mind” by Kay Redfield Jamison. In her memoir, Jamison, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychiatry, shares her personal experience of living with bipolar disorder. She describes her struggles with mood swings, manic episodes, and suicidal thoughts, as well as the impact that her illness had on her relationships and career. Jamison’s book highlights the importance of early intervention and treatment for mental health issues, as well as the need for greater understanding and acceptance of people with mental illnesses.
Another significant work on mental health is “Lost Connections” by Johann Hari. In his book, Hari explores the root causes of depression and anxiety, arguing that these conditions are often a response to disconnection from meaningful relationships, work, and community. He emphasizes the need for social and environmental factors to be considered in the treatment of mental health issues, rather than relying solely on medication or therapy.
Meditation
A third important author in the field of mental health is Brené Brown, who has written extensively on the topics of vulnerability, shame, and resilience. In her book “The Gifts of Imperfection,” Brown encourages readers to embrace their imperfections and vulnerabilities, rather than trying to hide or mask them. She argues that self-acceptance and self-compassion are essential for mental health and well-being.
These authors and their works emphasize the importance of mental health in today’s world. Mental health issues affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Moreover, mental health is closely linked to physical health, with the two often influencing each other. For example, chronic stress or anxiety can lead to physical health problems such as heart disease or digestive issues.
Be kind to others
In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards promoting mental health and well-being, with increased awareness and understanding of mental health issues, reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing better access to mental health services and support. This movement has been driven in part by the work of authors and advocates who have brought attention to the importance of mental health.
Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and its significance is increasingly recognized in our society. The works of authors such as Kay Redfield Jamison, Johann Hari, and Brené Brown highlight the importance of early intervention, social and environmental factors, and self-acceptance in promoting mental health and well-being. As a society, we must continue to prioritize mental health and work towards reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, providing better access to treatment and support, and promoting greater understanding and compassion for those who are struggling with mental health issues.
In conclusion, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated, and the works of authors like Di Tran serve as a powerful reminder of this fact. Tran’s books, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” highlight the need for a shift in focus away from ourselves and towards others and faith.
By focusing on others and cultivating empathy and understanding, we can improve our mental health and well-being, as well as build stronger relationships with those around us. Moreover, by dropping our fears and focusing on faith, we can develop greater resilience and courage, and overcome the obstacles and challenges that we face in life.
Tran’s message aligns with the growing movement towards promoting mental health and well-being, with a greater understanding of the impact that mental health issues have on individuals and society as a whole. As a society, we must continue to prioritize mental health and work towards reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, providing better access to treatment and support, and promoting greater understanding and compassion for those who are struggling with mental health issues.
Incorporating the teachings from Di Tran’s books into our daily lives can help us focus on the bigger picture, and recognize the interconnectedness of ourselves with others and the world around us. By doing so, we can create a more positive and supportive environment that promotes mental health and well-being for all.
Dylan Tran, a five-year-old boy, is an embodiment of imagination and creativity. His ability to create stories out of small experiences is remarkable, and it’s a testament to how children’s minds work. In his kindergartener class, Dylan had the opportunity to play with fish and snails, and he was excited to share his experience with his dad.
As he narrated his story to his dad, Dylan’s imagination took him on an adventure that involved eating a pet, flying to the moon, and eating it all up. Though it might seem like a silly story, Dylan’s imagination is a powerful tool that can help him navigate the world.
Imagination is a critical part of our lives, and it is what propels us forward. As we grow older, the demands of life can sometimes cloud our imagination, and we lose touch with the creative part of ourselves. However, if we can tap into our imagination and use it to visualize our goals and aspirations, we can make progress in our lives.
Dylan’s ability to create stories from his experiences is a great example of how we can use our imagination to make progress. By seeing beyond what is immediately in front of us, we can imagine a different future, a better future. This future might involve taking risks, stepping outside our comfort zones, and doing things differently. But by tapping into our imagination, we can create a roadmap to get there.
Creativity is also an important aspect of making progress in life. Dylan’s ability to create stories is an example of how creativity can help us overcome obstacles and find solutions to problems. When we are creative, we can find new ways of doing things, and we can come up with ideas that we might not have thought of before.
In today’s world, creativity is highly valued. The ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions is what sets people apart. Creativity is not just limited to artists or writers; it is a skill that can be applied to any area of life, whether it’s business, technology, or science.
Dylan’s story is a reminder that imagination and creativity are powerful tools that we should never underestimate. As we grow older, it’s important to hold onto these traits and use them to make progress in our lives. By tapping into our imagination and creativity, we can envision a brighter future and work towards making it a reality.
Dylan’s story about his kindergarten experience with fish and snails might seem like a simple story, but it’s a reminder of the power of imagination and creativity. These traits are essential for making progress in life, and we should cultivate them to ensure that we never lose touch with the creative part of ourselves. Whether we’re five or fifty-five, we can use our imagination and creativity to envision a better future and work towards making it a reality.
Being an entrepreneur is like being a superhero, constantly learning to figure oneself out and going through life’s ups and downs with answers constantly coming through. It’s a challenging but fulfilling path that involves wearing all kinds of hats and facing fears of being different.
As a child, many entrepreneurs may have feared standing out from the crowd, but as they progress through each stage of their business journey, they learn to embrace their uniqueness and become comfortable with being different. This acceptance is not always easy, as entrepreneurs may find themselves being accepted by the norm one minute, and then being unaccepted the next. The cycle of acceptance and rejection can be challenging, but it is all part of the journey.
Entrepreneurs are loved by some, hated by others, and are often subject to high expectations. They strive to make the majority of their customers happy with their products and services, but some will never be satisfied, and this is something that they must accept.
However, as entrepreneurs, they learn to accept all results, and not take offense to any level of criticism thrown their way. They evolve and change every minute to adapt to the constantly changing business landscape, and learn to handle the lows and control their excitement during the highs. Nothing is too much or too little for them, and boredom is a non-existent concept.
Each day brings new opportunities, and entrepreneurs crave the excitement and challenges that come with it. They prepare themselves every morning and are ready to hustle out the door. They appreciate all things in life because they know that all things and people matter in the ecosystem of business. They give thanks daily for everything that they have.
Despite the rewards of being an entrepreneur, it can also be a lonely path. Entrepreneurs often feel isolated because no one else understands the challenges that they face. But this is a cost that they are willing to pay to pursue their passions and create something of value for the world.
Being an entrepreneur is like being a superhero. It involves constantly learning, evolving, and facing fears. Entrepreneurs must wear many hats, accept all results, and learn to adapt to the constantly changing business landscape. While it can be a lonely path, entrepreneurs appreciate everything in life and are always ready for the next challenge.
Need Helps lauching your new businesses?
If you’re ready to take the next step in launching your new business, don’t go at it alone. The New American Business Association and Di Tran Enterprise are here to support you every step of the way. Our team understands the importance of having a strong support system when starting a new venture, and we’re here to provide you with the guidance and resources you need to succeed.
Whether you’re looking for advice on business planning, financing, or marketing, our team has the expertise and experience to help you navigate the challenges of launching a startup. With our help, you can feel confident in your ability to bring your vision to life and build a successful business.
So why wait? Contact the New American Business Association or Di Tran Enterprise today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you launch your new business with confidence. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your entrepreneurial dreams!
