Category: Social

  • Redefining women’s success in a world beyond societal expectations

    The Pressure of Age and Marriage

    Women, particularly those in their thirties or beyond, often face societal expectations to settle down and start a family. The pressure to conform to this traditional timeline can be overwhelming, leaving many feeling inadequate or incomplete if they haven’t achieved this milestone. However, it is crucial to remember that each person’s journey is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to happiness.

    Dispelling Myths

    You Need to Get Married: The societal pressure to aspire to marriage fails to acknowledge that personal fulfillment and happiness can be achieved through various paths. Marriage is just one option among many, and individuals should be respected for choosing different paths or prioritizing other aspects of their lives.

    Marry Before a Certain Age to Have Children: The assumption that marriage must occur before a certain age to ensure a successful family life is flawed. The decision to have children should be based on emotional readiness, financial stability, and personal circumstances, rather than societal expectations.

    Must Be Married by a Certain Age to Be Happy: Happiness is subjective and cannot be generalized based on marital status or age. True happiness stems from self-acceptance, personal growth, and nurturing meaningful connections, whether they are romantic or not.

    You’re Too Old to Get Married: The notion that there is a specific age range for marriage perpetuates the belief that it is solely for the young. In truth, age should not define the timeline for finding love and building a life together; each individual’s journey is unique, and marriage can happen at any stage of life.

    Reasons to Balance Marriage Pressure:

    Personal Growth and Fulfillment: Prioritizing personal goals and ambitions over relationships can lead to incredible personal growth and fulfillment. Women can discover their true passions, develop their skills, and become more confident individuals.

    Relationships as a Choice, Not an Obligation: Entering into a relationship should be a personal choice, driven by genuine connection, shared values, and mutual respect. Women should feel empowered to wait for the right person, rather than settling due to societal pressure.

    Redefining Success: Success should not be limited to marriage and family. It is crucial to celebrate the accomplishments that women achieve individually, creating a society that values personal growth, independence, and self-fulfillment.

    Age should never be a determining factor in a woman’s obligation to be in a relationship or get married. Breaking free from societal pressure, let us celebrate the diverse paths that women take in life, embracing personal growth, independence, and the pursuit of individual aspirations. By challenging societal expectations, we can create a world that values and supports women in their quest for fulfillment and happiness, regardless of their relationship status.

  • The impact of workplace relationships on professional success

    While these relationships can bring about a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, there are potential pitfalls that employers seek to avoid by implementing policies prohibiting certain types of relationships. In this article, we delve into the complexities of workplace relationships and explore why organizations often restrict personal connections between employees.

    Conflicts of Interest

    One of the primary concerns organizations have with workplace relationships is the potential for conflicts of interest. When two individuals in a professional setting engage in a romantic or close personal relationship, their decision-making processes may be compromised. Personal biases and favoritism can seep into professional judgments, leading to unfair treatment and undermining the overall meritocracy that organizations strive to maintain.

    Distractions and Loss of Focus

    Strong personal relationships have the potential to distract employees from their responsibilities and goals. When individuals are emotionally invested in each other, their focus may shift from work-related tasks to personal matters. This can result in decreased productivity, missed deadlines, and strained relationships with other colleagues who may perceive favoritism or unequal treatment.

    Office Politics and Gossip

    Workplace relationships, especially those involving supervisors and subordinates, can fuel office politics and foster an environment of gossip and favoritism. This dynamic can create divisions within teams and damage team cohesion, leading to decreased morale and productivity. It can also undermine the trust and confidence employees have in their superiors, as promotions and opportunities may be perceived as being based on personal relationships rather than merit.

    Legal and Ethical Considerations

    In some cases, workplace relationships can raise legal and ethical concerns. Relationships between supervisors and subordinates, for example, can create situations where power imbalances are exploited or accusations of favoritism arise. Employers may be held liable for claims of harassment or discrimination, and the reputation of the organization can be tarnished.

    Impact on Organizational Culture

    The presence of personal relationships in the workplace can significantly impact the overall organizational culture. If relationships are not managed properly, it can create divisions, cliques, and a sense of exclusion among employees who are not part of these personal connections. This can lead to a toxic work environment, decreased employee engagement, and higher turnover rates.

    Impact on Team Dynamics

    Workplace relationships can significantly impact team dynamics. When personal relationships form within a team, it can lead to the formation of cliques or exclusive groups. This division can create a sense of exclusion among other team members, affecting collaboration, communication, and overall team cohesion. It may also lead to a breakdown in trust and cooperation, as individuals may be more inclined to prioritize personal relationships over the collective goals of the team.

    Loss of Professional Boundaries

    Maintaining professional boundaries becomes challenging when personal relationships develop in the workplace. Personal conversations and emotional attachments can blur the lines between personal and professional life, making it difficult to separate work-related issues from personal matters. This can lead to conflicts, inappropriate behavior, and a lack of professionalism, which can harm not only the individuals involved but also the overall work environment.

    Impact on Performance Evaluations

    When personal relationships exist between employees and their supervisors or managers, performance evaluations may be biased or influenced by personal feelings rather than objective criteria. This can lead to unfair treatment, demotivation among other employees, and a lack of trust in the evaluation process. It is essential for organizations to ensure that performance evaluations are based on merit and objective measures to maintain fairness and credibility.

    Potential for Workplace Drama

    Workplace relationships can sometimes lead to drama and emotional turmoil, especially in the case of breakups or conflicts between individuals involved. This can create a tense and uncomfortable work environment for everyone involved and can have a ripple effect on team dynamics and overall productivity. Organizations often seek to minimize these disruptions by prohibiting or regulating personal relationships in the workplace.

    Legal and Reputational Risks

    Workplace relationships can expose organizations to legal and reputational risks. In cases where relationships involve a power imbalance, such as between supervisors and subordinates, there is a potential for claims of harassment, favoritism, or discrimination. Such allegations can lead to legal action, damage the organization’s reputation, and result in financial and reputational losses.

    While workplace relationships can foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, organizations often implement policies to restrict certain types of relationships due to the potential negative impact on work performance, conflicts of interest, and legal considerations. Striking a balance between personal connections and professional responsibilities is crucial to maintaining a healthy and productive work environment.

    It is essential for organizations to establish clear guidelines and provide training on workplace relationships to ensure that employees understand the boundaries and potential consequences. By doing so, organizations can navigate the complexities of workplace relationships while safeguarding the success of their employees and the organization as a whole.

  • The silent epidemic: Devastating effects of parental abandonment

    This can include not providing basic necessities like food and shelter, as well as failing to give emotional support and guidance. The consequences of parental abandonment are severe and can impact a child’s mental health, well-being, and future prospects.

    Mental health implications

    One of the most profound consequences of parental abandonment is the detrimental impact on a child’s mental health. Children who experience abandonment are more likely to develop anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The absence of a nurturing and stable parental figure can lead to feelings of rejection, worthlessness, and a lack of belonging. Moreover, the trauma associated with abandonment can manifest in behavioral issues, including aggression, withdrawal, and difficulty forming healthy relationships.

    Health and developmental challenges

    Parental abandonment also poses significant health and developmental challenges for children. Without proper guidance, children may struggle with basic life skills, such as self-care, socialization, and academic achievement. The stress and instability resulting from abandonment can compromise a child’s physical health, leading to weakened immune systems and increased vulnerability to illnesses. Additionally, the lack of emotional support and stability can hinder cognitive development and impede the child’s ability to reach their full potential.

    Impact on future prospects

    The long-term consequences of parental abandonment extend far into a child’s future. Abandoned children often face numerous obstacles in their educational and professional endeavors. The lack of a stable support system can hinder their academic performance, limit access to resources, and perpetuate a cycle of poverty. Furthermore, the emotional scars inflicted by abandonment can persist into adulthood, affecting their ability to form healthy relationships and maintain stable employment.

    Physical health ramifications

    The toll of parental abandonment is not limited to the emotional realm; it also extends to the physical well-being of the child. Studies have shown that children from broken homes are more susceptible to chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases and compromised immune systems. The stress and emotional turmoil resulting from abandonment can manifest physically, exacerbating the vulnerability of these children to various health issues.

    Addressing the crisis

    Strengthening social support systems

    Communities and governments must work together to establish comprehensive support systems that provide counseling, mentorship programs, and financial assistance to families at risk of abandonment or neglect.

    Early intervention and prevention

    It is crucial to identify families at risk of abandonment early on and provide them with targeted interventions, including therapy, parenting classes, and social work support, to prevent the cycle of abandonment.

    Education and awareness

    Increasing public awareness about the consequences of parental abandonment is essential. Educational initiatives can help society understand the importance of stable and nurturing parental figures in a child’s life, encouraging empathy and support for struggling families.

    Legal protection and accountability

    Implementing stricter legal measures to hold parents accountable for neglect and abandonment is crucial. This includes providing adequate resources to child welfare agencies and ensuring timely and effective intervention in cases of abandonment.

    Child neglect is a form of child abuse and should be taken seriously. If you suspect a child is being neglected or abused, it is crucial to report it to the appropriate authorities to ensure their safety.Basically Parental abandonment has profound and lasting effects on children, encompassing mental health challenges, hindered development, and compromised future prospects.

    It is crucial for society to recognize the urgency of addressing this issue and take proactive steps to support struggling families, provide resources, and implement preventative measures. By working together, we can create a society that values and protects the well-being of all children, ensuring they have the support and love they need to thrive

  • The art of weekend rejuvenation: Embracing rest, mindfulness, and self-care for a balanced life

    However, it is essential to recognize the importance of taking time to rest and recharge, especially on the weekends. The weekend provides us with a valuable opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, rejuvenate our minds and bodies, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives.

    The Neglected Art of Rest

    In our society, rest is often seen as a luxury or a sign of laziness. However, rest is not a luxury; it is a necessity for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Rest allows us to recharge our energy levels, reduce stress, and improve our overall productivity. By neglecting rest, we risk burnout and compromise our long-term health and happiness.

    The Weekend: A Time for Reconnection

    The weekend serves as a sanctuary, a brief respite from the demands of our daily lives. It is an opportunity to step away from the constant noise and distractions and reconnect with ourselves. By intentionally setting aside time for rest and self-care, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of our needs, desires, and values.

    Unplug from Technology

    Take a break from screens and digital devices. Disconnect from social media, emails, and work-related tasks. Instead, spend time in nature, read a book, or engage in activities that don’t involve technology.

    Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

    Set aside time for mindfulness and meditation exercises. Focus on your breath, observe your thoughts without judgment, and cultivate a sense of presence and inner calm. This practice can help reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being.

    Engage in Physical Activity

    Engaging in physical activities can help release tension and boost endorphins. Go for a walk, run, or bike ride in nature. Try out yoga or engage in a gentle workout routine that suits your fitness level.

    Pamper Yourself

    Pursue Hobbies and Creative Outlets: Use your free time to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Paint, draw, write, play a musical instrument, bake, or engage in any hobby that interests you. These creative outlets can help you relax, express yourself, and tap into your inner creativity.

    Connect with Loved Ones

    Spend quality time with your loved ones. Plan a family gathering, have a picnic in the park, or organize a game night with friends. Meaningful connections and shared experiences can bring immense joy and relaxation.

    Practice Self-Care

    Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Take a nap, practice gentle stretching or yoga, practice deep breathing exercises, or engage in journaling or gratitude practices. Prioritize self-care and listen to what your body and mind need.

    Explore Nature

    Spend time in nature to relax and rejuvenate. Go for a hike, visit a nearby park, or simply sit in a garden. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind and helps relieve stress and anxiety.

    Enjoy Music and Art

    Listen to calming music or attend a live performance. Visit art galleries or museums to immerse yourself in creativity and beauty. Engaging with art and music can be incredibly therapeutic and restful.

    In a world that constantly demands our attention and energy, it is vital to prioritize rest and self-care. The weekend serves as a valuable space for us to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and foster a sense of well-being.

    By embracing rest, practicing mindfulness, pursuing personal passions, and nurturing relationships, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

    Let us remember that taking the time to rest is not a selfish act but an essential investment in our overall well-being and happiness.

  • Tips for coping with a break-up

    Actually, it is only normal to feel pain after losing someone that you deemed as the most precious. Going through a temporal depression, having feelings of anger or shame are just as typical as brushing one’s teeth in the morning.

    Though all these are common during a break-up episode, there is a line to what shouldn’t be gone beyond. If you experience symptoms like intense sadness, change in appetite, withdrawal from hobbies, trouble sleeping for at least 2 weeks after a break-up, it might be a sign of depression.

    Sometimes even deleting their number doesn’t work because you have already memorized it. You find yourself calling them even when you know you shouldn’t. Or sometimes, you find yourself on the way to their home. This is how break-ups are hard to deal with. However, if you are reading this, I want you to get some tips that can help you deal with a break-up without developing some lethal mental illnesses like depression, self-hatred, etc.

    Express your emotions

    Speaking from experience, my first advice is to express your emotions. Hiding how you feel just for the sake of acting strong is the worst thing I have seen, because in the end, you’ll recognize that you were only masking a wound and not patching it. Just as time goes, the wound will get even worse bearing something even worse than the wound itself.

    Don’t jump into new relationships

    Secondly, avoid new relationships. Some people say that ‘love wound is healed by a new love’, but that is not a good idea in the slightest. Work on yourself, heal yourself, be complete and make yourself happy again. Before you do all that, do not consider new relationships unless you want another sudden breakup.

    Reconnect with friends

    Meet friends. Remember, friends offer free therapy. If you’re blessed enough to have real friends, connect with them. If you find it even possible, make a calendar of plans with them. That will help you to feel surrounded and happy again.

    Give yourself time to grieve

    Has someone ever told you to cry it out? That’s because that is really helpful. Do not pretend to be happy when you’re only hurting inside. If you don’t want people to see you, go in your room and cry all you want. That will really lessen the pain in your heart and speed up the recovery.

    Even though break-ups are hard to deal with, there is always room for recovering and starting a new life. Remember that the other person is not more precious than you are. Even if it is easier said than done, ‘you were great before they came, you can even be greater’!

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  • The art of smiling: How facial expressions influence your mood

    Maybe skip that, what about you? Have you ever laughed, maybe faking it, but felt some portions of happiness after some minutes?

    Maybe it is not your first time hearing that a genuine smile can boost one’s happiness, because that is undoubtedly true. However, I am wondering what your facial expression will be if I tell you that a fake smile is equally helpful.

    When I was 10, I knew a woman who used to make her children say ‘I love you’ to each other whenever she caught them fighting. At first, the children found it so awkward but as they continued, the act of saying ‘I love you’ softened their hearts and dissolved their frustration, and in the end, they would start saying it naturally. This wise woman has taught me that faking something, or maybe putting efforts into something, for a given period of time can eventually make it a reality.

    Just like those kids, like how that fake ‘I love you’ that turned real, that’s how letting out a smile, be it real or fake, can be as helpful as taking your sad kid to amusement parks, doll shops or any other place that helps to boost their happiness.

    If you’re a social media person, or engage in social networks, you might have seen a video about practicing laughing. It gave steps like starting with a single ‘ha’, then ‘haha’, ‘hahaha’, just like that, and after 10 ‘ha’s, you’d find yourself laughing naturally.

    Do you think it’s a backward idea? Happiness is normally what makes us smile, but how can it really be the other way around? I also thought so, but in the end, science proved me wrong.

    This might seem like just a simple physical exercise but, truth be told, it is more of the nervous system exercise or simply a brain exercise. In fact, the brain is just a sucker of a grin. It doesn’t care if the smile is fake or real. The moment you smile, the brain will believe it’s because you’re happy, and in the end, it will command the release of chemicals like dopamine and serotonin that increase the feelings of happiness and reduce stress respectively. This works in what is scientifically called ‘positive feedback’.

    According to Jaime’s testimony, 60 seconds of smiling exercise every morning has changed her family’s life. “It’s part of our morning routine. If something goes awry during the day, I usually use smiling to quickly shift my mood. It only takes 10 to 15 seconds for it to make a difference for me now. It helps me to feel less stressed, transform my mood quickly and put things in a different perspective,” she said.

    You might have recognized that a smiling environment makes you reciprocate the smile. A smile is contagious. A smile is a strong thing that most people can’t resist. But more importantly, it is a language that every person knows regardless of their country.

    If you’ve ever heard someone telling you to cheer up even when your inside is breaking like a glass, it probably made you even unhappier. However, regardless of how hard it is, smiling is a powerful weapon to boost one’s happiness. The crazy but real thing is that it can even boost your immune system.

    Ever since I came across that knowledge, my life revolves around this simple line:

    “Fake it until you make it”

    Smiling is a powerful weapon to boost one’s happiness.

  • Advantages and disadvantages of different Matrimonial Property Regimes of Rwanda

    In Rwanda, marriage regimes are provided for under law No: 27/2016 of 08/07/2016 governing matrimonial regimes, donations and succession.

    Nonetheless there are advantages and disadvantages of each of the matrimonial regime in Rwanda and it is up to the couple to choose what can be most favorable for them take at each of the regimes.

    Community of property regime

    In this arrangement of marriage of community of property regime, the spouses intend to have joint ownership of property and the spouses shall select among themselves, who shall have the obligation of management of the common patrimony and they equally share the rights to monitor and to present.

    The spouses are jointly held liable for the debts contracted before and after their marriage, this is a very crucial point to note as you make your choice on which marriage regime to legalize.

    Where dissolution of a community of property regimes occurs either by divorce or changing the type of matrimonial regime, the spouses share equally the properties. assets and liabilities, court may as well order for deduction of the shares on each spouse for the value of damages caused by either spouse.

    Advantages

    Joint Ownership: Both spouses share ownership of all property acquired during the marriage.

    Equal Sharing: Assets and liabilities are equally divided upon dissolution of the marriage, promoting fairness.

    Unified Financial Responsibility: Both spouses are jointly liable for debts, fostering shared financial responsibility.

    Disadvantages

    Shared Debts: Both spouses are collectively responsible for debts, which may lead to financial strain if one spouse incurs significant liabilities.

    Lack of Independence: Limited financial autonomy for individual spouses as all assets are jointly owned.

    Equal Sharing May Not Reflect Individual Contributions: The equal division might not consider individual efforts or contributions to the marital property.

    Limited community of property regime

    A limited community of property regime implies that the spouse married under that regime shall only share the assets and debts that accrued when they are together right from the wedding day.

    Under this regime of limited community of property, spouses manage the property based on the common agreement , they even have the same legal obligation to follow it up and act as legal representative of that common property.

    Advantages

    Selective Sharing: Limited sharing of assets and debts, focusing only on those acquired during the marriage.

    Individual Management: Spouses have the flexibility to manage their personal assets independently.

    Potential for Fairness: Allows for a more nuanced distribution of assets and debts based on individual contributions.

    Disadvantages

    Complexity in Management: Requires careful documentation and agreement on which assets and debts are shared.

    Potential for Disputes: Disputes may arise if there is ambiguity in the agreement regarding shared assets and debts.

    Less Financial Integration: Limited community may lead to less financial integration and shared responsibility.

    Separation of property regime

    Under the separation of property regime, the spouses take back their own property after divorce.

    The property which the spouses previously owned jointly shall be considered to be equally owned unless there is proof that changes the whole facts as stated.

    The regime of separation of property is a contract under which either spouses agree to contribute to the expenses of the household in proportion to their respective abilities while retaining the right of administration, enjoyment and free disposal of their personal property.

    Each spouse is liable for the personal debts contracted before or after marriage unless the spouse has contracted such debts of the household.

    The joint debt is paid by each spouse from his or her own property according to the arrangement they both agreed upon while contracting that debt.

    When dissolution of separation of property of marriage occurs, due to divorce or change of marriage regime, both spouses take their properties independently without seeking for court clarification.

    Various matrimonial regimes come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the following points aim to illuminate some of them.

    Advantages:

    Individual Ownership: Each spouse retains ownership of their personal assets after divorce.

    Financial Independence: Spouses maintain financial independence, managing their assets and debts individually.

    Clear Financial Boundaries: Clearly defines each spouse’s financial responsibilities and ownership.

    Disadvantages:

    Unequal Contribution: There might be unequal contributions to household expenses, potentially causing financial disparities.

    Complex Financial Arrangements: Requires careful planning and agreement on financial responsibilities.

    Potential for Disputes: Disputes may arise if there is ambiguity or disagreement regarding financial arrangements.

    Choosing the most suitable regime depends on the couple’s financial goals, preferences, and level of trust and cooperation. Legal advice is essential to make an informed decision tailored to the couple’s specific circumstances.

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  • Breaking the Chains: An urgent call to end the culture of silence surrounding intimate partner violence

    The person responsible for her torment was none other than the one meant to be her protector—her husband.

    The nightmare began shortly after the birth of their first child when Kirabo noticed a drastic change in her husband’s behavior. What ensued was a two-year ordeal of unimaginable suffering, with her husband committing acts of violence, including rape, even in the presence of their kid.

    Despite Kirabo’s attempts to seek help from family, she was met with skepticism and disbelief.

    In a conversation with IGIHE, Kirabo disclosed, “When I left the house later after getting the courage, he had started beating me whenever I refused to sleep with him, saying that I am his wife and my body belongs to him.”

    Her courageous escape revealed the extent of the abuse, and months later, Kirabo discovered she was pregnant with her second child—a stark reminder of the trauma she endured.

    Kirabo emphasizes the prevalence of such violence, especially among women who, influenced by cultural myths, suffer in silence. She passionately advocates for a campaign to empower women to break the chains of silence, challenging societal norms that perpetuate shame and stigma.

    The global scale of violence against women is staggering, with an estimated one in three women experiencing physical or sexual abuse in their lifetime.

    Despite its pervasive nature, gender-based violence remains concealed by a culture of silence. This unethical violation of human dignity manifests in various forms—physical, sexual, psychological, and economic—deeply rooted in gender inequality.

    Kirabo’s story sheds light on the importance of community intervention in abusive relationships. Frequently, signs go unnoticed by neighbors, friends, and family until tragedy strikes. Intervening, far from meddling, is a moral duty to prevent further harm.

    To combat gender-based violence, hotlines like 4433, established by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in partnership with Alight Rwanda, serve as crucial resources. The hotline responds to and prevents sexual and gender-based violence, emphasizing the urgency of a collective effort to address this pervasive issue.

    The narrative underscores the significance of removing legal barriers to prosecuting gender-based violence crimes, emphasizing that silence only perpetuates abuse. Society must unite to break the cycle of domestic violence, providing a voice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable.

    The call to action is clear: break the chains of silence, challenge cultural norms, and unite against intimate partner violence. Ending this pervasive issue is not only a moral obligation but a collective responsibility that demands urgent attention.

    The global scale of violence against women is staggering, with an estimated one in three women experiencing physical or sexual abuse in their lifetime.

  • Why being thankful matters

    Thanks to my laziness and ‘hate’ for cooking, avocados are now my go to ‘dish’, as they accompany my everyday meal (omelette) so well, making it taste like ‘KFC’.

    This article isn’t intended to make you fall in love with avocados like I did, nor is it meant to make you judge my laziness, instead it’s meant to encourage you to practice gratitude in all forms possible.

    The lady who sells me the avocados is one, many of us would term as ‘poor’; given the job she does, where she does it from and her appearance while at her job.

    However, there’s not a single day that she serves her customers without a smile. She smiles so wide that I sometimes wonder if she ever wishes to get out of that state (I buy the avocados mostly at night while coming from work, and during that time, she’s by the roadside with a toddler).

    Mary (not real name) is the true meaning of what Roy T. Bennett said in the quote, “Being grateful does not mean that everything is necessarily good. It just means that you accept it as a gift.”

    How many of you out there are in better positions than Mary, but complain every single day about life being hard, how your parents didn’t do enough for you to have a good life, how you hate that job you have (meanwhile, you sit in an airconditioned room and a waterproof shelter), and so on and so forth?

    Well, according to research, the more you practice the art of thankfulness, the more you have more to be thankful for.

    Being thankful is not just a polite gesture; it has far-reaching benefits for individuals and society as a whole. We will look at some of the benefits it comes with.

    Improved Mental Health: It is believed that expressing gratitude can lead to improved mental well-being. When we focus on the positive aspects of our lives and express gratitude for them, it reduces stress and anxiety. “Grateful people often experience higher levels of happiness and lower levels of depression,” says research.

    Enhanced Relationships: Gratitude is a powerful tool in building and maintaining strong relationships, says experts. When we express thanks to others, it strengthens our connections and fosters a sense of trust. It’s a way of showing appreciation for the people in our lives and can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.

    Increased Resilience: Gratitude can help individuals become more resilient in the face of adversity. When we are grateful for what we have, we are better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks. The act provides a positive perspective that helps us navigate difficult times with a more optimistic outlook.

    Physical Health Benefits: Believe it or not, being thankful can have a positive impact on our physical health. Grateful individuals tend to engage in healthier behaviours like regular exercise and better sleep. These behaviours contribute to overall well-being and can lead to a longer, healthier life.

    Improved Self-esteem: Gratitude can boost self-esteem and self-worth. When we recognize the good things in our lives, we are more likely to feel valued and competent. This self-assurance can lead to increased confidence and motivation to achieve personal goals.

    On the flip side, being ungrateful can strain relationships, increase stress, reduce happiness, diminish mental resilience, and contribute to mental health problems. So, cultivate gratitude if you want to live a happier and healthier life both for yourself, and the society as a whole.

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  • Understanding marriage motives and outcomes

    This article delves into the intricate web of motivations behind marriage, highlighting the potential pitfalls of rushing into this sacred union and the far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society as a whole.

    The worldview effect

    A person’s worldview plays a significant role in their decision to get married. Worldview encompasses one’s values, beliefs, and expectations, which can be heavily influenced by cultural, religious, and philosophical perspectives. Some individuals marry because their worldview dictates that marriage is the ultimate goal, and it aligns with their spiritual or cultural beliefs. While such motivations can lead to a fulfilling marriage, it can also lead to disappointment if the partnership doesn’t meet the idealized expectations.

    Peer pressure and societal myths

    Peer pressure and societal myths can be potent motivators for marriage. Pressure from family and friends, or the fear of being seen as ‘left behind’ in the marriage race, can push individuals into matrimony. Additionally, romanticized notions of marriage perpetuated by society, such as the idea that it solves all problems or that it is the only path to happiness, can be misleading. When people succumb to these external influences, they may rush into a marriage without truly understanding their own desires and compatibility with their partner.

    The age factor

    Age often plays a crucial role in the decision to marry. Some people feel societal pressure to get married by a certain age, fearing that being single in their late twenties or thirties is undesirable. Rushing into a marriage due to age-related concerns can lead to emotional and psychological distress as people may not be fully prepared for the responsibilities that come with marriage.

    Rushed marriages and negative impact

    Marriages that are rushed into often suffer from a lack of preparation, self-awareness, and compatibility. Such unions can have several negative consequences and theses Include:

    Strained relationships: Rushed marriages can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings, as the partners may not have had the time to truly get to know each other and their expectations.

    Emotional and psychological stress: Individuals in rushed marriages may experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression, especially if they feel trapped in an unfulfilling relationship.

    Divorce rates: Marriages entered into impulsively are more likely to end in divorce, further exacerbating the social and economic costs of divorce on individuals and society.

    Impact on families: The consequences of a rushed marriage are not confined to the individuals involved. Families on both sides can be deeply affected, experiencing emotional turmoil and strained relationships as a result.

    Societal and economic implications: High divorce rates and broken families can strain social services and impact the well-being of children, as they face the challenges of living in divided households. Additionally, the financial costs of divorce can be substantial for individuals and society.

    Nation’s development : Rising divorce rates and a high number of rushed marriages can have a detrimental impact on a nation’s development. Broken families can lead to an increased demand for welfare services, strained healthcare systems, and reduced productivity. The emotional turmoil experienced by children of broken families can impact their educational attainment, perpetuating cycles of poverty and underdevelopment. Thus, the hasty decision to marry can have far-reaching implications for the nation’s overall well-being.

    To sum up , marriage is a profound and beautiful institution when entered into with careful consideration, mutual understanding, and shared goals. Rushing into marriage due to external pressures or societal myths can have dire consequences, not just for the individuals involved but for families and society as a whole.

    It is imperative to encourage open dialogue about the complexities of marriage and provide support and education to individuals contemplating this lifelong commitment. Ultimately, a well-considered, thoughtful approach to marriage is essential to ensure that it remains a source of love, stability, and growth for individuals, families, and society.

    Marriage is considered one of the oldest human institutions. Photo iStock