hi i'm normal

1. Recognize the benefits of trusting others, and building some meaningful relationships. If you never let others get close to you, then you’re likely to feel lonely and empty inside.

2. Remember that one person doesn’t have to meet your needs. We can trust different people with aspects of ourselves. Doing that can feel less risky, and a lot less scary.

3. Look at the actions of other people before you decide if you can trust them or not. If they are kind to others and they seem reliable, then it’s likely they will treat you in that same way, too. However, be wary of people who are mean or critical, or who talk about others, or are unpredictable.

4. Give trust slowly – let others prove themselves – and if they seem trustworthy then start to trust them more. Share a few small things before you share some bigger things.

5. Trust yourself to cope if someone lets you down. We’ve all been disappointed and betrayed by other people. Have the confidence to know that you will manage, and survive!!

Pokemon GO is finally available. If you plan on playing for an extended period of time, especially if you’re not traveling by car that day, it’s probably best if you have a bag with you. My experience with location-based games has taught me to be prepared and I wish to pass this knowledge onto you; I’ve compiled a list of suggestions of things to keep with you!

Be mindful of the season, possible weather conditions, terrain, and any medical conditions you might have. Pack accordingly.

Here’s suggestions of things to keep on-hand:

Water and/or refillable water bottles

Portable battery extenders

A light snack such as a pack of crackers or a nutrition bar

Some sort of energy supplement (energy shot, caffeine pill, etc)

Adhesive bandages / minor first-aid kit

Over-the-counter painkillers

Any prescriptions of yours you may need, including epi-pens

Sunscreen and/or sunburn relief gel

Bug repellent

A pen

Sunglasses

A miniature umbrella

A light jacket, scarf, shawl or other warmth-providing garment

Disposable hand warmers

A multi-tool/swiss army knife

Extra deodorant

A small face towel and/or moist towelettes

Collapsible reusable bags

Flashlight, if your phone cannot be used as one

Appropriate safety gear for the place you’re going to

For bikers: enough change to refill your tires with air and bike lubricant

For people bringing pets: a portable water bowl and appropriate food amounts

Nighttime players: reflective gear and/or blinking lights if you’re not playing in a well-lit area

It is surprisingly easy to lose your cool, and to react to minor stresses and to irritating people. However, most of us would rather feel relaxed and in control, and the following guidelines can help us reach this goal.

1. Keep things in perspective: Often we catastrophise or over-react when the issue or offense is insignificant. Here, it is best to force yourself to take a balanced approach and remind yourself, “it’s minor, and not worth the energy!”

2. Visualise yourself coping: Take a few deep breaths and let your feelings settle down. Draw a mental picture of a calm, unflustered “you”, who takes their time to respond and is able to cope. Then, in a calm, low voice – with a few well chosen words – respond as you would like, so you maintain your self-respect.

3. Be aware of your triggers: When someone pushes our buttons we generally react. However, if we know what those are then we can regain control, and can practice how to cope when our feelings are stirred. Also, if we’re tired or hungry, feeling cold, or over-stretched then we’re much more likely to over-react.

4. Create a calm environment: Stay one step ahead by preparing yourself for inevitable setbacks and infuriating people. For example, play some music in the car, or take a walk during lunch, or keep some photos in your office of the people that you love.

5. Distract yourself: When you feel the pressure building, or you start to ruminate, think of something that’s amusing, or a fun event you’ve planned.