How do you know if you are settled in a relationship? Is settling in a relationship a bad thing? What are the first red flags of settling in a relationship? How do you know if your relationship is unhealthy?

Settling in a relationship means being ready to accept less than what you want or deserve. Therefore, settling in a relationship can be a bad thing. When you decide to settle in a relationship, you choose to accept things that you deeply know don’t sit right by you. The fear of losing the one you love is the main reason why you could be settling.

People settle in their relationships for many different reasons. In fact, it's so common that you might even be settling without realizing it.

Signs That You’re Settling in Your Relationship:

1. You’re constantly comparing – You always seem to size up your relationship against other couples, and usually, it’s not a very healthy comparison. Maybe you just can’t help but notice how much happier others are together, you’re envious of all the cool things they’re doing together, or that they’re just so compatible. If you were with someone you truly wanted to be with and cared about, these things wouldn’t matter. At least, you wouldn’t be noticing them on such a grand scale. It would be more of an observation rather than a comparison.

2. You don’t want to be alone –Thanks to our society’s poor stigma of being single, we sometimes resort to just about anything for the sake of not being alone. In fact, very few people know how to be alone and do it well. The word alone sounds so harsh, doesn’t it? It’s important to learn how to embrace being alone without being lonely. Know your worth and your value, and don’t let someone else have to define that for you. Always remember – being with the wrong person for the wrong reasons is so much worse than just riding out the single wave.

3. You justify – If it seems like you have to convince yourself and others that you’re happy, or even if you have to look for reasons, you’re with this person, I’d say that’s one of the biggest red flags you’re in a sinking ship of settling. You shouldn’t have to explain to others, or yourself, why you’re dating someone. Making excuses for a partner or anything questionably negative in the relationship is a clear sign that you’re in something you probably shouldn’t be in.

4. The little things bother you – It’s perfectly okay to get a little irked by people’s quirks and bad habits, especially when you’ve gotten to know someone well and you’ve become comfortable with each other enough for those walls to come down. But when it gets to a point of resentment, over some of the smallest things, that’s another glaring sign that you probably shouldn’t be with this person.

5. You keep thinking your partner will change – If you’re viewing any part of your relationship as a temporary thing that “will get better eventually,” there’s another indicator that you’ve settled yourself into some unhappiness. Overall, you should like your partner just the way they are right now. Fast forwarding to some future, “better” version of who you want them to be doesn’t exactly sound like a genuine, or healthy thing for that matter. The problem with dating someone because of their potential is that you’re not getting to know who they really are. While it’s normal for people in a relationship to grow, they have to do it on their own.

6. You don’t think you can do better – Maybe you feel trapped in a situation that seems decent, but you’re pretty much only in it because you’re afraid to leave. You’re afraid to leave because you’re afraid you won’t find anyone “better.” Truthfully, we shouldn’t evaluate partners on whether they’re good enough, but on whether they’re right for us. I mean, if you’re really into it, you wouldn’t have to think about doing that. Never stay in a relationship because you don’t think you can do better!

7. You feel tied to your commitments – You’ve already invested the time and energy, you’ve made plans and memories together, and you’ve taken the time to get really comfortable with each other, so why break it off? The thing is, if you’ve already given it a chance, tried working through whatever issues there are, and you still don’t feel quite right about it. No one needs consent to leave a relationship, millions of people remain in unhappy relationships that range for many different reasons. The feeling of suffocation or of having no choice stems from unconscious fears that lead to guilt. People give many explanations for staying in bad relationships, ranging from caring for young children to caring for a sick partner. Remember that you don’t owe anyone anything other than honesty — for both your partner and yourself.

Settling in a relationship means being ready to accept less than what you want or deserve. Therefore, settling in a relationship can be a bad thing. When you decide to settle in a relationship, you choose to accept things that you deeply know don’t sit right by you. The fear of losing the one you love is the main reason why you could be settling.

Settling often begins when you lose yourself to your significant other. It happens when you begin losing your worth and changing little bits of yourself to remain committed to a relationship that doesn’t serve your best interest. However, it would help if you didn’t confuse settling with compromising. When you choose to be okay with everything your partner does at your expense to keep the relationship going, that is settling.

On the other hand, compromising is being ready to accept that your partner is not perfect; they have their faults. Accepting imperfection is compromising.

Accepting your partner who is not perfect is compromising, which is important for every relationship.

- Jade Asuncion

What does it mean when you say you enjoy life? Is it possible to enjoy life to the fullest?

Inevitable change is a fact. Change is inevitable and is synonymous with life and growth. The life we lead today is the result of the acceptance of change.

Many people spend their whole lives searching for things to make them happy, but what is joy and how can we come to experience it? We're so busy watching out for what's just ahead of us that we don't take time to enjoy where we are. We enjoy life when things are happening - this means you're alive. Here are the TOP 4 things that will genuinely help you live a joyful life:

1. Appreciate Little Things. Appreciating the little things in life means that you focus your attention on what nurtures and sustains you in life. On everything that brings you even the smallest amount of pleasure. It also means practicing gratitude by noticing these everyday things that you take for granted so easily.

2. Avoid Toxic Environment. A toxic environment is any place or any behavior that causes harm to your health, happiness, and wellbeing. If you’re around people who make you feel small, insecure, or bad about yourself, you might be in a toxic environment. If you feel a physical weight every time you walk into your place of work, you might be in a toxic environment.

3. Be Content. Contentment is generally defined as a longer lasting, but a deeper feeling of satisfaction and gratitude. Happiness is arguably viewed as having a temporary feeling attached to it. Whereas contentment is viewed by many to have a long-lasting effect on those that experience it.

4. Nourish your Body. You can’t enjoy life if you’re not nourishing your body. Little things matter more when you’re enjoying. Be exuberant about life, share this moment to celebrate small victories. Sometimes having fun with the people - we love is all the therapy you need.

A joyful life is not being rich, being popular, being highly educated or being perfect. It is about being real, being humble, being strong and being able to share ourselves and touch the lives of others. It is only then that we could have a full, happy and content life.

And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.

~Jade Asuncion

Every woman needs to know these.

Living in the society we do; we’re force-fed ideas and belief systems. Unconsciously we are molded by everything that goes on around us. Consequently, we grow used to them, and fail to see the wrong in them. Some of us lose the ability to see beyond what we’ve always been taught or made to believe. And those of us who dare even think let alone do anything differently face numerous difficulties. It’s virtually impossible for someone to be themselves and to go after what they truly desire.

When it comes to relationships, we’ve been brought up thinking that only when you’re with someone, you feel complete; otherwise, something will always be missing. And that being in love creates dependency and so on. Women particularly tend to get carried away with these ideas and set unrealistic expectations of their relationships.

They need to understand that relationships play out very differently in real life than fiction. And it’s absolutely normal to think and feel against the norms set forth. You can shape your relationships along with your partner the way you see fit.

• The only person capable of saving you is YOU!
Unlike the movies, there isn’t going to be a knight in shining armor to save you from yourself. You are your own savior. Just like you’d like for your partner to be capable of taking care of themselves, they would prefer the same from you. If saving you is all they ever does, the relationship won’t be fulfilling for either of you. So may be lay off the whole damsel in distress bit and learn to take care of yourself. They can be there for you when you need them, but you alone are responsible for your life and happiness.

• You cannot be anyone else’s savior
If you’re responsible for yourself, so are they. There’s only so much you can do for someone. This doesn’t mean that you should abandon them in times of need. Be the unwavering support they need. But remember, it’s up to them to help themselves. The urge to keep them safe from everything comes naturally, but you need to realize that they need to take care of things themselves. And it is essential for everyone to face the difficult times to grow as a person.

• Recognize the difference between being supportive and agreeing
Just because your partner doesn’t agree with you on something does not mean they wouldn’t support you. You might not be on the same page with them, but it shouldn’t keep you from being there for them when they needs you. For instance, you might think that a certain career path isn’t the best choice, but if it’s something they’d love to do, you should do your part in helping them get there. Similarly, if there’s something you want and your partner is not particularly a fan of, they would still be on board with it just for your sake.

• You don’t need to play caretaker just to show them support
The only way to love someone wholeheartedly is to love yourself first. There is nothing wrong with placing your needs above everyone else’s. Unless you feel content, you won’t be able to make anyone else feel the same. Sure, you should be there when they need you, but that does not mean enabling them in anyway. It’s crucial for everyone as an individual to take care of themselves on their own.

• First impressions matter
Pay close attention to what they say and more importantly to how they act. Don’t fool yourself into believing that they might change somewhere along the way. If you can’t accept them the way they are then you’re only setting yourself up for regret. If there’s something that you find unacceptable about them, and you keep up with it initially hoping for it to go away, you won’t like the result.

• Learn to accept things and people the way they are

Be very clear on what you want and if you choose to be with a certain someone, who wants different things, come to terms with it. This is the only way you’re going to have a viable relationship. Don’t suppress your needs or wants and don’t make your significant other do that either. Accept them as they are, and you’ll be at peace with your relationship.

• Face the difficulties instead of running away from them
No matter how difficult, terrifying or hopeless a situation may be, running away is never an option. If you’re out the door at the very sign of trouble, you probably need to reconsider your idea of a relationship. You’ll face problems regardless of who ever you’re with and whatever you do. So, bring yourself to deal with them. In relationships, it serves to be a cornerstone, and if done right, strengthens the foundation.

• You are equally responsible for the condition of your relationship
Whenever something goes wrong, we tend to blame the next person. It’s the easier thing to do. In doing so, we fail to acknowledge our shortcomings. There is a pretty good chance that if you’re not particularly happy with your relationship, it could be because you are either doing something wrong or maybe not doing anything at all. The way your relationship turns out depends on you as much as it does on them.

• Some relationships inevitably end
Whenever you meet someone that you decide to be with, you naturally want them to be the one. Where it could happen, there’s always a chance that it couldn’t. Life has its uncertainties. In some cases, you both might not be on the same page, or you drift apart while in others, even if you two want to ne together, things just don’t work out. That does not have to be the end of the world, you still have yourself. Love yourself and whoever is meant to stay, will stay. Some things are beyond your control and there’s no point in stressing over them.

As long as you come to terms with these realities, you will have better luck with your relationships. You will know what to expect and what to give in return. And that your first priority should be yourself. You can’t expect a relationship to last without any sort of efforts. Cater to its needs and everything will fall into place.

- Jade Asuncion

"The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives the passion that she shows. The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years." - Audrey Hepburn

Beauty. It’s sad how people use this word to describe the attractiveness and physical appearance of some people. Beautiful is the first word that comes to our minds when we see a gorgeous woman walking confidently, dressed in a bomb outfit head to toe while tossing her long, amazing hair aside.
In all honesty, this is a sight that would leave us all speechless. But, here’s what. Beauty has nothing to do with looks. The truth is, beauty isn’t a good outfit, or an eyeshadow blended to perfection. Beauty is much more than what your eye sees.

The real beauty is reflected in a woman’s soul.

Here are 5 things that make a woman beautiful that has nothing to do with her looks:

1. HER MIND - The most beautiful women out there are not the ones who attract with their looks. In my opinion, the most beautiful women are the intelligent ones. The ones who seduce with their sharp minds and their intellect. The ones who are eager to learn more and cultivate their minds. The ones who are hungry for knowledge and aren’t afraid to let their imagination run free.

2. HER SPIRIT - A woman’s true beauty is reflected in her spirit. It can be seen in the way she copes with life challenges and the way she handles all the obstacles that come her way. A woman’s true beauty in her soul. Her real beauty is the enthusiasm that she gives away. The love that she shares with the world. The sparks in her eyes that make her a ray of sunshine in a human form.

3. HER PASSION - Her deepest, wildest dreams are what make her who she is. A unique, extraordinary and truly incredible person. Her beauty can be seen in the things that make her heart smile, eyes sparkle, and smile shine the brightest.

4. HER STRENGTH - A woman who is not afraid to fight for what she believes in is a beautiful woman. A woman who is not afraid to stand on her own is an incredible woman. A woman who refuses to give up and let society’s standards define her is a truly extraordinary woman. Her beauty is not measured by her appearance, but by her strength to cope with everything that life faces her.

5. HER COMPASSION - A cold-hearted woman will love herself, but no one will love her back. Having a kind, compassionate heart in a cruel world like ours is a true gift. And it is the real mark of a beautiful human being. For there is nothing more extraordinary than being there for others and being able to share your love with every human being out there. Compassion is one of the most important human virtues. Compassion is the true beauty of the soul.
   As you go about your day today, think about what is bubbling up from your soul for the world to see. glance in a mirror. Are you radiating joy and happiness?

   Remember, true beauty is a reflection of the soul.

- Jade Asuncion

As the year begins, you may be considering a New Year’s resolution. Maybe you made a resolution last year and stuck with it, or maybe you had totally forgotten about it by February. Maybe you don’t believe in making New Year’s resolutions.

Regardless, it may help if you have a better idea of what exactly a New Year’s resolution is and what you’d like it be, too. A New Year’s resolution is a promise that you make to yourself or others to carry out an idea or action.

Health and fitness resolutions are some of the hardest to keep. However, these resolutions can be crucial to improving both your physical and mental health. Don’t make the mistake that many often do — make big, unattainable goals and end up disappointed. Start out with small and doable fitness goal, then build from there.

1. Go for a walk after dinner. Tip: If you don’t have a dog who’s expecting a walk, bring a family member with you or just some headphones to pass the time. You can start with short distances at first.

2. Get familiar with a new machine. Tip: Ease into a new machine at the gym. Be sure to start slow and don’t overexert yourself.

3. Move every day. Tip: Some days you may move less than others, and that’s OK. Listen to your body, but try to loosen up to prevent stiffness and injury.

4. Address problem areas before they get worse. Tip: Buy yourself a small ice pack that you can put on areas you’ve previously injured or that frequently get sore. Use it nightly or in the morning after you stretch.

5. Drink an extra glass of water each day. Tip: Pick a time of day that makes sense for you, such as first thing in the morning. Consider swapping out a sugary or caffeinated beverage for water.

6. Learn how to prepare a vegetable dish you love. Tip: Choose an easy recipe if you’re new to cooking. It doesn’t have to require the oven, either. You can easily create unique salsas or salads.

2021 has been a challenging year for all of us, but we can’t let that stop you from living our best life!

~ Jade Asuncion

Let’s face it, we all struggle with negative self-talk. Some more than others, but we all hear that little voice in the back of our minds that either berates us, expresses deep disappointment or frustration with our actions, and flags down our every insecurity when we least expect it. We hold those so-called “truths” as fact and not for what they are: thoughts. Fleeting thoughts plague our minds now and again, but it’s essential to realize that the power remains within ourselves.

The key to combating this phenomenon is self-compassion and not giving said thoughts any more intensity or tenacity in our already stressful lives.

Upon the first actualization of what self-compassion is, we may ask ourselves, “Well, what is it?” or, “What does that even mean?” and this question is more common than I realized. Most have experienced compassion at least once in their lives, either from a parent, friend, teacher, or mentor. Those moments are a lot more precious than when we first acquaint ourselves with them. This saving grace is transformative, and practicing this method towards ourselves would amount to unprecedented changes within our lives.

Self-compassion factors in three components: self-kindness, mindfulness and common humanity -- all three of which we practice daily. The warm inner understanding, acceptance of imperfection, and balanced approach to our humanness that accompanies self-compassion is the focal point of it all. Taking a nurturing perspective, rather than critical, makes all the difference in our mental wellbeing and can improve our outlook on life and our actions.

It’s dually essential to understand what self-compassion is not, and how the initial realization is daunting and discouraging in this mindfulness journey. Dr. Kristen Neff describes this phenomenon as akin to ‘backdraft,’ “A similar process can occur when we open the door of our hearts – love goes in, and old pain comes out…. ‘When we give ourselves unconditional love, we discover the conditions under which we were unloved’ or ‘Love reveals everything unlike itself.” (Self Compassion, Neff).

While confidence and wishful thinking are ideal and the easy way out, it cheapens the true meaning of what self-compassion is. Holding ourselves accountable for our mistakes and flaws helps us elevate and rewire our thinking to bolster long-lasting pleasure in our lives.

~Eryka Warren