As January 2024 unfolds, the crisp cold air often gives people a sense of renewal and the promise of a fresh new start. The tradition of setting New Year's resolutions is a familiar one, and it is often centered around health, fitness or even personal development.

Common resolutions often include losing weight, exercising more or learning a new skill. I think that we can all take the opportunity to redefine success on a more personal level. Beyond measurable achievements, resolutions can focus on cultivating kindness and compassion, both towards ourselves and others. While all goals are undoubtedly valuable, I would like to concentrate on some commonly overlooked New Year resolutions.

Beyond the typical resolutions lies a realm of mindful practices that can significantly impact our well-being. Incorporating mindfulness and meditation into daily routines can really enhance mental clarity, reduce stress and promote overall emotional balance. The overlooked resolution of cultivating mindfulness not only contributes to personal growth but also fosters a deeper connection with oneself and the surrounding world.

Expressing gratitude is another powerful, yet often underestimated resolution. In creating future goals for yourself, it is essential to acknowledge and appreciate the present. Creating a habit of gratitude can lead to increased happiness, improved relationships and a positive mindset. This overlooked resolution encourages people to find joy in the small moments, fostering a sense of contentment amidst life's challenges.

Another overlooked resolution with a far-reaching impact that I will share is embracing environmental consciousness. Reducing your carbon footprint, practicing sustainable living and supporting eco-friendly initiatives contribute to a healthier planet in which we live. By adopting environmentally conscious habits, people can make a meaningful contribution to the well-being of the Earth.

Lastly, a resolution often disregarded is the need for a digital detox. Committing to designated periods of time without screens can enhance mental clarity, reduce stress and improve your sleep quality. Disconnecting from the digital realm allows us to reconnect with our surroundings and foster more meaningful in-person connections.

As January allows for us to reflect on the possibilities of the year ahead, let us broaden our perspective on resolutions. While traditional goals have their place, exploring overlooked aspirations can lead to a more holistic and fulfilling life. Embracing mindfulness, expressing gratitude, adopting environmental consciousness and practicing a digital detox are just some of the many resolutions that I feel can really offer you a path to personal growth and societal contribution.

By embracing these often overlooked goals, January has the potential to be a canvas for personal evolution and societal betterment. As we navigate the unknown of the new year, let us not only set resolutions but craft a narrative of growth, kindness and purpose that extends beyond the confines of tradition. This year, let us reimagine resolutions and take on a journey of self-discovery and positive change.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of The Torch.

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January 2024: time for reimagining resolutions, cultivating relationships | Opinion | valpotorch.com - The Torch

Classy and sophisticated people generally carry themselves with grace, right? Theyre also polite and considerate of others.

Being classy is more about behavior and attitude than material possessions. You can be classy and poor, the same as you can be rich and trashy.

If you have a hunch youre classy and sophisticated, lets get to the bottom of it once and for all.

Here are the personality signs and behaviors that show youre a classy and sophisticated person, even if you dont realize it.

Youre the person who says please and thank you genuinely. Holding doors open, giving up your seat for someone in need, and being aware of others personal space are part of your daily interactions.

And when we imagine a sophisticated person in our minds, we do imagine them like that, dont we?

Its basically class 101.

If you fail to do this, youre far from refinement. You can have all the money in the world, but if youre disrespectful to others and treat them as doormats, to me, youre sub-human.

But what else do we imagine when we picture a classy person?

Although the suit doesnt make a man, clothing choices are important in many situations.

If you wear classic pieces more than brief trends, youre also classy. For example, a well-fitted white shirt, a tailored blazer, or a little black dress are staples and give off an effortlessly chic and timeless vibe.

Trends come and go, but sophisticated people dont worry about them. They have a closet full of items that never go out of fashion.

And even this very mindset puts them in this desired category of people.

You know, wealthy people dont buy expensive art just to launder money. They also do it when they want to be seen as classy.

Its simply because we associate appreciation for fine art and class. But also because most regular people dont care for things like that at all.

So, whether its enjoying a well-written book, attending live performances, or spending an afternoon at an art gallery, you find joy in the arts.

You appreciate the emotions and stories behind each piece, right? And if you could stare at art or listen to classical music for hours, youre sophisticated, even if you dont realize it.

Exploring different cuisines is about trying something new. But its also about savoring the flavors and appreciating the craftsmanship behind a well-prepared dish.

Fine cuisine is typically very expensive, but you enjoy a balance of flavors and appreciate the artistry of a beautifully plated meal.

Now, I do appreciate a nice meal, but I dont live to eat. I eat to live.

Still, even I can appreciate the amount of love and finesse that goes into preparing such meals, even when you get a small piece of something on your plate.

Okay, all joking aside, heres something that I find more important than most other people.

I simply hate it when people are late. If I can be there 10 minutes before a date, appointment, or meeting, so can everyone else.

Being on time shows respect for others schedules. When you value your time and acknowledge that others do, too, being punctual is a way of honoring that mutual commitment.

Its also a sign of sophistication.

And still, Im constantly waiting for others wherever I go.

Now, if I learned one thing in these 40 years on Earth, its that people dont change. Thats why I dont hold my breath waiting for others to show up anymore.

I now use the time when Im waiting for others to show up to read passages from a book.

And dont tell anyone, but most of the time, I pray for them not to show up so I can continue reading the book.

Being generous and considerate, always thinking of others, adds a beautiful touch to your interactions and relationships.

Whether its a small gesture or a thoughtful gift, you believe in the joy of giving without expecting anything in return.

Thats because you can put yourself in others shoes, understanding their emotions and experiences.

And that also helps you with the following:

Youre not just a small talk person. You dive deep into topics that matter to you by sharing thoughts and listening actively.

That also means that meaningful connections are more important to you than surface-level chit-chat.

And thats how it should be for most people, right?

Dont you just hate it when someone mentions the weather or last nights game or something like that?

I much prefer to ask one of the questions from my arsenal that helps others open up and lets us connect more deeply.

If youre a classy and sophisticated person, your living space reflects your personality. Its tidy, with a touch of sophistication.

Each item has its place, and your decor choices are intentional, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

Now again, this doesnt mean the furniture or the artwork has to be expensive, it just means you arranged your home in a way that makes sense and looks timeless.

Okay, having a nice home is great and all, but this next thing really sets you apart.

Sadly, most people stop learning new things as soon as they step outside of high school or college.

But not you. Whether its learning a new skill or attaining knowledge in a specific area, youre always seeking self-improvement.

Personal growth is an endless journey for you.

And that, in my opinion, is another sign of class. When youre hungry for knowledge and not for material things, youll live an interesting and well-thought-out life.

Life is often very unfair and leaves us asking, Why me? right? But lately, I started flipping the script and started asking the same question when something nice and beautiful happened to me.

I then realize that Im simply the sum of my lifelong behavior, actions, and choices, coupled with a random thing happening here and there.

9 times out of 10, I know things will work out. And thats why I almost never lose my cool.

The other 10% of the time, I dont have control over the situation anyway, so theres also no need for me to worry about it.

So, if youre like me and, when faced with adversity, you maintain your cool, youre, in fact, classy.

You can stay calm under pressure, which allows you to think rationally and find solutions instead of getting overwhelmed.

You know, theres a sofa I always wanted to have in my apartment. However, its super expensive, and Ive never had a lot of money.

Still, I knew I needed to have it eventually. In the meantime, I insisted on not getting rid of my barely-held-together old couch I had forever as a reminder and an incentive to work harder and earn more.

As a minimalist, this piece of furniture was supposed to be one of the last big things I ever buy.

And now that I have it, I think of all the hard work and successful things Ive done almost every time I sit on it.

Most classy people would rather own a few high-quality items than a multitude of cheaper alternatives.

Its not about having more; its about having the best that suits your needs.

So, in the end, we can conclude that being classy and sophisticated is all in your mind. If you have the mental capacity and upbringing to treat others with respect, have good manners, dress well, keep your cool, and express yourself clearly and thoughtfully, you are classy.

Even if you havent realized it yet.

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11 personality signs that show you're a classy and sophisticated person (even if you don't realize it) - Hack Spirit

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Modern Day Knight Project videos shock. Why men are going to man camps - USA TODAY

Everyone has a unique way of expressing themselves, but sometimes how we communicate can reveal more than just our thoughts and ideas.

You might consider your daily conversations and wonder if your choice of words mirrors self-assuredness or if its simply a reflection of your current mood.

How can you tell if your everyday dialogues are indicative of high self-esteem, or just a fluctuation of confidence that everyone experiences?

After delving into the intricacies of language and self-perception, along with observing the communication patterns of my friends, Ive compiled a list of 8 phrases you may use every day.

If these sound familiar, you might be exuding far more self-confidence than you realize.

Theres a lot to be said about the power of affirmative self-talk in boosting our self-esteem.

One of the key phrases often used by those with high self-esteem is I am. Not in the sense of merely identifying oneself, but in affirming their qualities, strengths, and values.

For example, instead of saying Im trying to be more confident, someone with high self-esteem might say, I am confident. This simple shift in language reflects a certainty in oneself and ones capabilities.

I am statements are more than just a verbal affirmation; they are a personal declaration. By using them regularly, we reinforce our self-belief and gradually build up our self-esteem.

The power of I am lies in its ability to create a positive loop. The more we affirm our positive attributes, the more we believe in them, which further boosts our self-esteem.

I can is another powerful phrase that individuals with high self-esteem often use. Its a phrase that embodies a sense of self-efficacy and belief in ones abilities.

Let me share a personal example. I used to struggle with public speaking, it made me anxious and nervous. But instead of saying I cant do it, I started telling myself, I can do this. I can speak confidently in public.

Over time, this phrase helped me overcome my fear and boosted my self-esteem considerably. The more I told myself I can, the more I believed it, and the better I performed.

The beauty of I can is that its versatile and can be applied to any aspect of life work, relationships, personal goals. Its a declaration of your capability and your willingness to take on challenges.

I choose is a phrase that reflects autonomy and decision-making power, both vital components of high self-esteem.

When you say I choose, youre asserting control over your actions and choices, rather than letting circumstances or other people dictate your decisions.

People who believe they are in control of their lives, rather than being victims of circumstance, tend to have higher self-esteem. Using I choose is a verbal reflection of this mindset.

So, if you find yourself frequently saying I choose when making decisions, big or small, its likely a sign of your high self-esteem. By consciously using this phrase more often, you can reinforce your sense of autonomy and further boost your self-confidence.

The phrase Im proud of is a self-affirming statement that people with high self-esteem use regularly. Its a way of acknowledging your accomplishments, big or small and giving yourself the credit you deserve.

When you say Im proud of, youre not just patting yourself on the back.

Youre reinforcing your sense of self-worth and validating your efforts. This can be a powerful boost to your self-esteem.

Its a simple but effective way to enhance your self-confidence and reinforce your sense of worth.

One of the phrases that people with high self-esteem often use is I forgive. This phrase is less about others and more about self-love and self-care.

When you say I forgive, youre choosing to let go of grudges and resentment, both of which can weigh heavily on your heart and mind. Youre choosing to free yourself from negative emotions that can hamper your personal growth and well-being.

Forgiveness doesnt mean forgetting or condoning wrongdoings. Its about making peace with the past so that it doesnt affect your present or future.

Personally, learning to say I forgive was a transformative experience for me. It helped me let go of past hurts and focus more on self-improvement and growth.

Im grateful for is a phrase that exudes positivity, and its commonly used by individuals with high self-esteem. This phrase is all about acknowledging the good in life and expressing appreciation for it.

There was a time in my life when I struggled with negativity. I often found myself focusing on what was going wrong, rather than what was going right.

Then, I started practicing gratitude by using the phrase Im grateful for daily, and it changed my perspective significantly.

Now, whether its appreciating a beautiful sunrise or expressing thanks for a kind gesture from a friend, I make it a point to recognize and vocalize my gratitude.

This habit has not only made me more positive but also boosted my self-esteem.

I trust is a phrase that signifies faith and belief, both in oneself and in others. People with high self-esteem often have a strong sense of trust.

When you say I trust, whether its trusting yourself to make a decision, or trusting in the process of life, youre expressing confidence in your abilities and the universe.

Trust is like a foundation for high self-esteem. The more you trust yourself, the more confident and secure you feel about your abilities and judgments.

I love is perhaps the most powerful phrase used by people with high self-esteem, especially when directed towards themselves.

When you say I love, youre expressing acceptance and appreciation for who you are, warts and all.

Self-love is the cornerstone of high self-esteem. When you love yourself, you affirm your worth and value. You acknowledge that you are deserving of love and respect, just as you are.

Love yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and watch your self-esteem soar.

The connection between our language and our self-esteem is profound. The phrases we use daily dont just reflect our self-esteem, they help shape it.

Studies in the realm of cognitive psychology have shown that our internal dialogue plays a crucial role in how we perceive ourselves. Positive affirmations and self-talk can significantly influence our self-esteem and overall sense of well-being.

Using phrases like I am, I can, I choose, Im proud of, I forgive, Im grateful for, I trust, and I love are more than just words. They are powerful tools of affirmation that can help cultivate a sense of self-worth, confidence, and high self-esteem.

As you go about your day, pay attention to your language. Are these phrases part of your vocabulary? If not, consider incorporating them into your daily language.

Remember, the words you choose to use every day can be a reflection of your self-esteem. But more importantly, they can be a powerful tool to enhance it.

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If you use these 8 phrases every day, you probably have high self-esteem - Hack Spirit

Do you consider yourself to be emotionally intelligent?

Its hard to believe emotional intelligence didnt hit the mainstream until the release of Daniel Golemans book Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ in 1995.

Its front and center now and more important than ever. It boils down to two things at its core

Were all naturally born with some level of EQ but just how much varies from person to person. Despite what you might think, its about more than being good with people. In fact, you might be more emotionally intelligent than you even realize.

Today, were sharing 9 signs that suggest youve got more emotional intelligence than you might think.

Lets jump straight in, shall we?

Are you one of those people whos able to put yourself in someone elses shoes?

When theyre feeling good and celebrating, you share their joy and excitement as if its your own. But on the flip side, when things are tough, you feel their pain and emotions.

The ability to feel for others like this is called empathy and its central to emotional intelligence.

Imagine this: youre having dinner with friends.

Your pal, Josh, takes a call outside. When he returns, you immediately sense a mood change. He hasnt said anything but to you, his whole demeanor is different and you want to make sure hes okay.

As you look around, you realize, that nobody else seems to have noticed. People are still laughing, joking, and taking no notice of Josh.

Sound familiar?

Being dialed into emotions like this is a classic sign youre highly emotionally intelligent. It comes so naturally to you, its hard for you to believe others dont see it too.

Being able to pick up on emotions like this is both a blessing and a curse.

You cant enjoy your evening knowing someone is upset as it upsets you too. But it makes you a great friend to someone in need.

Remember Phoebe from Friends?

Shes a perfect example of someone whos in tune with who she is. Shes different and quirky but whole-heartedly herself which makes her one of the most endearing characters on the show.

Are you like Phoebe in that way?

Youve got a strong sense of self. Youre neither cocky nor lacking in confidence. Instead, you recognize your strengths and lean into them.

Equally, youre aware of your weaknesses. Some of them youre working to improve and others you embrace as part of who you are.

If being in tune with yourself like this resonates, its a sure sign you score high in emotional intelligence as it shows youve got lots of self-awareness.

Are you the person who stays cool, calm, and collected when the pressure is on?

It seems like everyone else is letting their emotions take over, but not you.

You feel your emotions flaring up too but the difference is youre able to keep them in check and use a level head to navigate the situation.

Being able to not only recognize but also control your emotions like this, sometimes described as being level-headed or calm under pressure is known as self-regulation.

Being able to self-regulate is a tell-tale sign of emotional intelligence and something that sets you apart from most other people. If youve got this ability, harness it.

Youve probably heard of the marshmallow test, conducted in the 1970s to see if children could resist the temptation of eating one marshmallow now, to get two marshmallows in 15 minutes.

The test was about assessing their ability to delay gratification; resist temptation now, and reap the reward for it, later.

The truth is: its not just children whod struggle with this task. Lots of adults would too. However, some people can resist temptation for a greater reward later on.

Are you one of those people?

Youve got enough self-control to study for exams, train for that half-marathon, or even simply resist that extra cookie. Moments of weakness are few and far between for you because you know the reward comes later.

If this strikes a chord with you, its yet another sign youre more emotionally intelligent than you realize and youve got an inner strength that shouldnt be taken for granted.

Do you find it easy to get along with most people?

Youre able to adapt your style to fit in with the group youre with. But its not about being fake, its about being tuned into the vibe and adjusting to it.

My cousin James is great at being socially adaptable. Hes generally quite reserved and low key but when the social occasion calls for it, he can transform into the life and soul of the party, becoming energetic and outgoing.

The transformation is hard to grasp, kind of like how its hard to believe Bruce Wayne and Batman are the same guy. But it just shows how socially adaptable he is.

Being able to adapt socially like this is a lesser-known hallmark of someone whos highly emotionally intelligent.

When it comes to motivation there are two kinds; extrinsic and intrinsic.

Youre all about that intrinsic motivation. Sure, awards and accolades are nice but its not what gets you out of bed in the morning. Your drive comes from within.

And no matter what it is, if you feel strongly about it, youll have the self-motivation and discipline to make it happen.

As outlined by Caroline Castrillon, career and leadership coach Emotionally intelligent individuals understand the deeper meaning of their goals and the self-motivation skills required to achieve them.

If youre highly motivated and self-disciplined then theres a strong chance youre also more emotionally intelligent than you might think.

Weve all witnessed someone speak without thinking and insulting someone else in the process. Its painful, right?

This isnt something that happens to you though, you think first then you talk. As someone with high EQ your empathetic nature means youre considerate of others.

Youre not only aware of peoples emotions but also the power of your words on them. Its like you automatically filter your thoughts before you speak to make sure you dont hurt anyones feelings.

This high degree of empathy comes naturally to you so you might not even realize you have it but believe it or not, not everyone has this filter. Its a sure sign of emotional intelligence.

Are you on a constant journey of personal growth and self-discovery?

One of the, often overlooked, signs that someone is more emotionally intelligent than they realize is always working on personal growth.

But think about it: EQ is about self-awareness, self-motivation, and empathy. All necessary for personal growth too.

Author and motivational speaker, Jay Shetty, talks on his podcast about how levels of growth are like different seasons of the year; there are 5 seasons of personal growth.

To navigate each season you need to leverage EQ.

Youve got to have self-awareness to know where you are now and where youre headed, you need self-motivation to get you there but also patience, understanding, and empathy for yourself along the way.

Being focused on personal growth, clearly indicates youre more emotionally intelligent than you think.

How many of these signs do you recognize in yourself?

Very often, people who dont realize just how emotionally intelligent they are, take it for granted because its just who they are. They assume everyone is like them.

But make no mistake, emotional intelligence is very powerful and a great attribute to have. Embrace it.

And dont worry, if your EQ isnt where youd like it to be, its something that you can work on and develop over time. And its well worth the effort to do so.

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9 signs you're more emotionally intelligent than you realize - Hack Spirit

Could you please suggest some books related to self-development, a young man asked. An appropriate answer did not strike me instantly since I had not read any specific book for my self-development as a child or an adult.

Self-development, to me, is not an end in itself but a continuous process resulting from fierce scrutiny of oneself in different times, spaces and contexts while dealing with people, places and institutions. When one is young, the family, the peer group, schools, teachers and elders become reference points. Their habits and responses to different situations intensely affect a tender mind. For instance, I have been amazed by my fathers routine of waking up at 4 a.m. and spending at least two hours on his lifelong passion for medicine, literature and poetry. I learnt from him to make sacrifices for ones passion. Similarly, I was deeply influenced by my mothers empathy and kindness to one and all, both critics and admirers.

Stories, fables, folk tales and classics made an indelible impact. Unfortunately, my grandparents were not alive to tell me stories, and my parents told me some. Chandamama, a childrens magazine, fulfilled that need to some extent. I read the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as a young boy, which elevated my imagination and curiosity. I listened to the Puranas and Bhagavatha. As I grew up, I read other epics, classics and literature of other cultures. I watched dance, drama and theatre. I learned to appreciate music.

Three books which stuck with me immensely when I was young were Parajaa and Maati Mataala of Odia novelist Gopinath Mohanty and Ernest Hemingways The Old Man and the Sea. Mohantys exquisite literary craftsmanship was dipped in the acute sense of humanism. Hemingway, of course, opened a new way of thinking how to express what to express with precision and intensity. Reading a good book is like interacting with a brilliant mind, and there is no substitute for it for self-development.

As I entered adulthood, I struggled to balance body and beauty, emotion and logic, diffidence and decisiveness, dreams and reality, and failure and success. Every failure offered me an opportunity to introspect and made me stronger and bolder; every relationship made me mature and wiser. Every personal loss taught me to value the near and dear ones more. As I started working, I met many personalities with different skills and expertise academics, bureaucrats, businesspeople, diplomats, sportspersons, artists and filmmakers. Some contributed to the sharpening of my understanding of things, beings, and situations and, in the process, self-development.

Institutions, organisations, and places contributed immensely. I spent the best two years of my high school at the school that produced Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. The school environment was electric then, which taught me to strive for excellence and value hard work. In college and university, I met fellow travellers better organised and equipped than me to face the world. I admired many of their qualities and tried to imbibe some that suited my habits and lifestyle. As a diplomat, I served in and travelled to many countries and got acquainted with the unique cultural traits of people and societies. I learned to be flexible, tolerant, and non-judgemental.

I am hesitant to suggest self-development as a project for which one can read specific books in a time-bound manner. For me, it is a never-ending practice of introspection till one lives. Each individual is different, endowed with different abilities, passions, and dispensations. So are their circumstances. As one passes through the various stages of life, one must recognise ones strengths and weaknesses and consolidate the strengths while overcoming the shortcomings. Its an inward-looking activity, and people, institutions, situations, and books can only help one provide choices for personal growth and self-development.

arun.sahu68@gmail.com

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Reading alone wont maketh a perfect human - The Hindu

In many countries around the world, community health workers play a unique role in establishing a link between the healthcare system and society. Today, development and transformation of social health needs have resulted in the development of health programs and management of unpredictable cases. Therefore, selection and employment of suitable people who can fulfill the assigned tasks and roles and also meet the needs of the society are among the main priorities of the healthcare system.

The present study explored the perceptions and experiences of health system stakeholders at different levels, based on the criteria used for selecting and employing CHWs to help identify qualified people and provide effective community-based services. The present findings are promising due to the localization of employment criteria in order to select highly qualified people. Moreover, instructional barriers to selecting competent people were highlighted according to the perspectives and experiences of DBTC managers and supervisors (Table2). The exploratory themes extracted in this study and their relationships are presented as concepts and sub-themes.

Some of the general requirements based on the MOH instructions are the lack of addiction to cigarettes, narcotics, and psychotropic substances, lack of a history of criminal offenses or convictions, having physical and psychological health, and not being banned from employment in governmental institutions according to legal organizations. The findings of the present study showed that all the participants had a positive attitude toward the general requirements in the MOH instructions. However, the some sub-themes identified in this study did not fulfill some of these general requirements; these sub-themes could not be evaluated when completing the registration form.

The participants believed that providing community health services was one of the difficult tasks of the CHWs, who were required to have physical and psychological agility. Some individuals may choose this occupation just to have a source of income and may be less motivated, which contributes to their poor performance. All the participants believed that the CHWs should be interested in their job, besides being compassionate, inspired, reliable, responsive, and sociable. An ample amount of evidence suggests that these features should be considered when employing people as social service providers [1819]. Studies have also shown that confidentiality and poor trust are among key barriers to hiring CHWs who can provide maternal and pediatric health services [20].

In a previous review, the most important criteria for the employment of CHWs were their personal characteristics, such as interest in the field, willingness to learn, and compassion. It has been also reported that non-financial incentives, such as trust, respect, familiarity with the community, and self-esteem, are among the potential triggers of favorable performance. In this regard, Mishra et al., in a study in India, explained that CHWs should be more interested in their job than money [21,22,23].

The primary education level is one of the specific requirements for being accepted as a CHW; therefore, all candidates need to have at least 12 years of academic study [15]. According to the sub-themes identified in this study, the participants believed that the quantity and quality of education were associated with competency-based selection. Common people stated that the CHWs should have a high level of education to be trusted. Interestingly, common people also cared about the university where the CHWs had studied.

According to the supervisors and managers of the CHW training schools, a persons basic education, including the field of study and academic records, was an important criterion. They believed that people graduating with a diploma in experimental sciences were better prepared to receive the necessary health education and were usually more successful than their graduated counterparts. Another important background factor was the persons records in their last educational course. People with poor academic records usually face more problems in the CHW training courses. The importance of the basic educational level of CHWs, as highlighted in this study, has been also reported in previous research. Evidence shows that the CHWs inadequate education or certifications can negatively influence the communitys belief about their effective response and reaction to their needs. Besides, CHWs with higher educational levels may become convinced to quit their job after being employed [22, 2425].

In Uganda, the community had lower acceptance for people with low education levels [26]. In Brazil, having a formal educational degree boosted the acceptance of CHWs in the society, as well as peoples trust in them. Moreover, the professional activity of CHWs in cooperation with other health workers increased their social credibility [27]. A study in Bangladesh showed that less literate people did not receive the required training for their occupation, contributing to their poor functionality [2528]. However, conflicts and instability in the work environment of CHWs generally impede recruiting people with a specific level of education. This challenge is heightened in critical situations, such as the outbreak of diseases, or when there is a shortage of human resources [24, 2930].

According to studies in some countries, people do not believe that the CHWs should have a basic level of literacy, as they can receive the necessary training after employment. Evaluation of healthcare delivery by illiterate and less literate people in countries, such as Nepal, shows that these individuals receive effective and need-oriented training by their supervisors after employment [13, 31]. A study concluded that completion of primary school education should be considered as the minimum educational requirement for the CHWs to meet the care needs of underprivileged and remote communities [3233].

In Iran, the CHWs are employed by the government and are paid monthly, which is a relatively strong motive for entering this occupation and performing well [15]. The findings of this study showed that the type of employment (contractual or permanent) was an influential factor in the CHWs motivation for self-improvement and self-learning to remain in the system. The participants of this study believed that people who were hired officially and permanently had less motivation for self-improvement and delivery of quality services. However, the CHWs on contract tried to exhibit better performance to maintain their status and acquire the approval of the system. Ample evidence suggests that financial incentives are among factors improving the performance of CHWs. Today, health systems are moving in this direction to increase the CHWs motivation and durability in the system by offering them financial advantages [34].

According to national instructions, one female CHW and if required, one male CHW should be employed for every 1000 villagers. Based on the findings of this study, the participants assumed that women and married CHWs would provide more efficient services. In various countries, such as India, Brazil, Pakistan, and Nepal, which have a reputation for community-based plans, two factors, that is, female gender and being married, were the main criteria for hiring the CHWs. In these countries, community-based services focused on the family, children, and women and were tailored to the cultural framework; also, stranger men were not allowed to enter peoples homes [13].

Generally, recruitment of female CHWs is challenging in countries, such as Afghanistan, where women are not allowed to travel unattended; therefore, one woman and one man are always selected as CHWs to provide healthcare services. Similarly, in Kenya, both males and females were recruited for this purpose [13, 15, 35]. Since some services are more easily delivered by females in some countries, women are mobilized and encouraged to choose this occupation. In some underprivileged communities, the CHWs are selected among women for empowerment [30, 36].

The MOH instructions have determined a specific age range for employing the CHWs; the maximum age should not exceed 30 years. According to the codes extracted in the present study, age was recognized as an influential criterion in the effectiveness of services provided, learning ability, and capability to fulfill responsibilities and duties defined for the CHWs. Findings show that age is an important factor in hiring the CHWs in many countries, where a certain age range has been specified [13, 15].

In many countries, selection of CHWs from the community where they are expected to serve is one of the basic principles for providing community-based services; this principle has been strongly recommended by the WHO [13, 15]. In the rural regions of Iran, selection of CHWs is strictly based on the WHO recommendations (i.e., selection of CHWs from the community where the service is to be delivered); this is one of the specific criteria that candidates need to fulfill before registration. According to the instructions, if there are enough candidates (usually three people with High school diplomas) from the main village, they will be selected and hired after passing the exam and interview. And if there is not enough candidate from the main village, candidates from the neighbouring villages can register to take the exam and get hired [15].

One of the challenges of DBTC managers and supervisors was that candidates coming from the main village did not obtain the required credit score in the written entrance exam (i.e., selection of incompetent people). Moreover, the present findings showed that inflexible adherence to the core instructions of MOH, besides the restricted selection of candidates from the main village, hindered the employment of qualified people from nearby villages or other areas. Overall, it is important to explore the perceptions of stakeholders, including the managers and supervisors of DBTCs (as service providers) and the society (as a service demander). The managers stated that employing incompetent people caused many workers to be either fired from their job due to poor performance or resign themselves; this turnover imposed high costs on the system and led to the waste of resources. Supervisors also complained about the difficulty of teaching people with low capabilities.

Evaluation of common peoples perception showed that they did not care if the selected CHW was a native of the village or not. Instead, they preferred highly literate and skilled people for employment to support them and respond to their needs; substantial evidence from different countries supports this finding. According to previous research, the CHWs, by participating in the community they serve, can mobilize the community to improve a wide range of health practices. However, this goal is only achievable when the community has a positive attitude toward the CHWs and accepts them. Studies show that many parameters can affect the social acceptance of CHWs. The priority of these factors may vary in different societies, depending on the cultural, economic, and climatic conditions. The critical importance of this parameter lies in the acceptance of CHWs by the community where they serve, besides increasing the motivation, responsiveness, and accountability of the CHWs [24, 37]. A report from Ghana and Rwanda indicated that being chosen by the community boosted the CHWs sense of responsibility, motivation, and pride when fulfilling their roles [3839].

However, outcomes vary from one country to another, as selection does not always proceed according to the instructions. The results of an ethnographic study by Rafiq et al. in Tanzania, investigating the relationship between professional outcomes and the CHWs personal and social identity, showed that distinguishing personal identity from professional identity was difficult in CHWs working in rural regions. This study also demonstrated that the CHWs personal identity sometimes prevented them from talking about issues related to family planning and sexual health [40]. Moreover, the findings of a study from Kenya revealed that CHWs, selected by the community, as well as those whose selection was not related to the community, showed similar adherence to the instructions [41]. Besides, reports from India and Ethiopia indicated that the CHWs were selected without seeking the communitys opinion; however, in Uganda, some community members preferred non-natives as CHWs [4243].

The results of the present study revealed that people sometimes avoided sharing their physical and psychological problems with native CHWs due to concerns over confidentiality issues, fear of information disclosure, and social stigma. Several studies from different countries reported problems when hiring natives in places where there was stigma over a certain disease, for example, AIDS in African countries. Therefore, it is preferable to employ non-native CHWs for these people and sometimes for male immigrants [33, 4445].

Discrimination in offering services and paying special attention to relatives by native CHWs were among factors that challenged the communitys trust in them; nevertheless, findings are controversial. Some studies carried out in different countries have reported the positive effects of kinship ties on the professional roles of CHWs working in rural communities. Other studies in Nigeria and South Africa have also confirmed the central role of kinship and self-identity in the positive and trusting relationship nurtured between the CHWs and the community where they work [33, 46]. The results of an ethnographic study in Tanzania also revealed that the use of kinship terms, such as father and mother for male and female CHWs, could facilitate the interaction between personal and shared roles and professional duties to build trust and a sense of ownership in health-related programs [40].

On the other hand, the communitys participation in the selection of CHWs can also cause several problems. When the selection process is not transparent, there may be misinterpretations in supporting certain groups, which can hurt the community emotionally and make them lose the spirit of cooperation. When the selection of CHWs is managed by traditional kinship structures, despite the increased social participation and effectiveness of interventions in the kinship group, it can lead to the exclusion of other community groups and discrimination against them. Conflicting findings have been reported in Uganda and India [47, 48].

Based on previous findings, local hiring and increased access to health services may not always yield desirable outcomes. Many factors related to both suppliers and demanders should be addressed to achieve equity. According to previous studies, deprived and underprivileged groups are usually less capable of adhering to the CHWs recommendations due to economic and non-economic reasons [37, 45, 49].

Some findings suggest that selection of CHWs from communities living in suburb and remote areas can improve access to health services. Also, according to previous reviews, selection and employment of low-educated CHWs from communities with low literacy levels or poor people in poor communities can improve access to health services and lead to the fair distribution of these services. Moreover, home visits can be helpful for people who are prevented from visiting health centers due to cultural obstacles. The engagement of traditional healers can help provide services to groups with certain cultural traditions [45, 49].

Based on the findings of the current study at the macro level and exploration of concepts and codes extracted at the micro level, it is obvious that the societys expectations of service providers are increasing, the importance of attention to the health of villagers, being supportive, providing high-quality services, and CHWs ability to provide new and diverse services. The participants also believed that CHWs with higher levels of literacy and capability could perform better in establishing vertical equity and mobilizing at formal levels [37]. The present findings about CHWs indicate the expansion of professionalization, increased service quality in scale and variety, transforming roles, and coping with unpredictable situations [24]. In recent years, professionalization has expanded due to increased interactions between communities and health systems and increasing demands for diverse, high-quality, and up-to-date services, provided by more professional individuals [50, 52,53,54,55].

For health programs to be effective, selection and employment of CHWs should be tailored to the societys needs and underlying conditions. Even in a single country, the criteria for selecting CHWs may vary from one place to another. Therefore, CHW recruitment programs are recommended in various regions for comparison to optimize relevant policies; otherwise, challenges are unavoidable. Therefore, it is important for managers to show flexibility to upgrade and expand the CHW recruitment strategies [13, 33].

Iran is a country with great diversity in terms of climatic, geographic, cultural, social, and economic conditions in different areas. In some regions of the country, villages are far from cities and other villages, while in some regions, cities and villages are interconnected; therefore, people living in different regions may have variable access to facilities. The present study was conducted in Golestan Province in north of Iran; therefore, generalization of the findings to other parts of the country with different backgrounds may be challenging. It is necessary to modify the CHW selection and recruitment criteria in a way that guarantees the employment of most suitable individuals who can fulfill the assigned roles, address the communitys needs and demands at the place of service, and minimize depreciation in the system.

One of the limitations of this study was the small number of samples. Although, based on the current guidelines sample size for qualitative studies is varied. Data saturation is a significant measure to determine a sufficient sample size in qualitative studies. Given that each study has a unique characteristic and the saturation point can vary, it is also possible that no data is truly saturated. In any case, the study should be carried out with more samples to discover the dimensions of the subject [56].

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As part of its commitment to reduce drowning rates and keep kids safe in and around the water, the Muskegon YMCA is increasing access to swim instruction and water safety for children from underserved communities in the Muskegon area.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fatal drowning is the second-leading cause of death for children ages one to 14 years old. In ethnically diverse communities, the youth drowning rate is two to three times higher than the national average, according to a USA Swimming study. Additionally, 64 percent of African-American children, 45 percent of latino children, and 40 percent of Caucasian children have no or low swimming ability.

Educating children on how to be safe around water is just as important as teaching them to look both ways before they cross the street, says Andi Switzer, Youth Program Director at the Muskegon Y. The Y teaches children of all ages and backgrounds that water should be fun, not feared, and this practice not only saves lives, it builds confidence.

The Y believes this is especially true following 2020s COVID-19 shutdowns. In a typical year, the Muskegon Y teaches 1,100 third-graders in their Safety Around Water programthis decreased to 200 students in 2020. We know there are children in our community who are now more at risk due to the need to maintain social distancing in 2020 and we want to make every effort we can to reach those kids this year, says Switzer. In order to fill this gap, the Muskegon Y is providing their Safety Around Water program to fourth-graders who were unable to participate in the program as a result of COVID.

The Muskegon Y has been a leader in providing swim lessons and water safety in the community for more than 20 years. The Y continues to help youth and adults experience the joy and benefits of swimming, so they can be healthy, confident and secure in the water. There are a variety of programs offered, including Safety Around Water, SPLASH water safety lessons for families, and the Muskegon Y Swim Team.

In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, children can increase their physical activity by swimming. Swimming motivates children to strive for self-improvement, teaches goal orientation and cultivates a positive mental attitude and high self-esteem. It also teaches life lessons of sport and sportsmanship, so that children can learn how to work well with teammates and coaches and how to deal with winning and losingskills that last a lifetime.

To learn more about the Muskegon Ys swim programs, please contact Andi Switzer at 231.722.9622 x204 or aswitzer@muskegonymca.org.

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Muskegon YMCA increasing access to its learn-to-swim programs - shorelinemedia.net

Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, have transformed the world of digital art, music, and other creative sectors. However, as technology advances, it is being explored in new and innovative ways which include the areas of meditation and personal transformation. People have become more interested in meditation and mindfulness practices in recent years as they seek ways to reduce stress and improve their mental and emotional well-being. Many meditation and mindfulness applications and platforms have emerged to meet the demand as technology has advanced.

However, one application for NFT technology could be the development of a more secure and transparent system for exchanging digital content related to meditation and personal growth. NFTs might ensure compliance by utilising blockchain technology.

So how might this work in practice?

One way could be to create NFTs representing guided meditations, affirmations, or other transformative experiences. These NFTs could be sold on a marketplace, allowing creators to monetize their work and buyers to own a unique digital asset. For example, an NFT could represent a guided meditation that is designed to help people reduce stress and anxiety. The NFT could be purchased and then redeemed for access to the meditation, which could be delivered via an app or website. The buyer would have full ownership of the NFT, which would be a unique and non-replicable digital asset.

Another potential use of NFT technology for meditation and mindfulness is to create a marketplace for digital content related to personal development. This could include everything from guided meditations to courses on self-improvement, all of which would be represented by unique NFTs.

By using NFTs, creators could protect their content from being copied or shared without permission, while also ensuring that buyers have a clear understanding of their ownership rights. This could create a more secure and transparent marketplace for digital content, making it easier for creators to monetize their work and for buyers to access high-quality content.

NFTs could help to establish a more equitable system for creators of meditation and personal growth content. Currently, many creators rely on subscription models or advertising revenue to monetize their work, which can be difficult to sustain for a longer period of time.

With NFTs, creators could sell their content directly to buyers, without the need for a middleman. Also, the use of NFTs could allow creators to create limited edition or exclusive content, which could be sold at a premium. This could create a new revenue stream for creators and allow buyers to own unique and valuable digital assets.

There are also potential challenges and limitations to using NFTs in the context of meditation and personal growth. For example, there is a risk that the technology could be used to promote low-quality or even harmful content, which could undermine the credibility of the emerging industry as a whole. With careful regulation and responsible use of the technology, NFTs could have a positive impact on the world of meditation and personal growth.

Creating a more secure and transparent marketplace for digital content could help empower creators and buyers alike, creating a more equitable and sustainable industry over the long term.

The use of NFT technology for meditation and transformation is an exciting area that is still in its infancy. As technology evolves and more creators and buyers enter the space, it will be interesting to see how NFTs are used to shape the future of the industry.

(The author is the Founder and Research Scientist at Sensorium)

Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP Network Pvt. Ltd. Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions. Cryptocurrency is not a legal tender and is subject to market risks. Readers are advised to seek expert advice and read offer document(s) along with related important literature on the subject carefully before making any kind of investment whatsoever. Cryptocurrency market predictions are speculative and any investment made shall be at the sole cost and risk of the readers.

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NFT For Meditation? How Non-Fungible Tokens Can Transform Wellness Experiences - ABP Live

A concoction of f-words, Gen-Z lingo, and the usual hows and whysthe titles of self-help books are eye-catching, much like their vibrant hardbound covers. These hardbacks sell like hot cakes at bookstores. Consider this: according to market data, the estimated worth of the self-improvement market is $16.6 billion in the US alone. Titles like Get Your Sh!t Together by Sarah Knight who is also the author of The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F**k, or Mark Mansons The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck have many takers, with the latter going insanely viral on social media in 2016. Back home in India, with the start-up boom and the rise of venture capitalism, entrepreneurs who shot to fame are now coming up with self-help books to teach young entrepreneurs the ins and outs of scaling a business in the Indian economy.

The controversies that Ashneer Grover addressed in the book grabbed headlines and piqued India Incs interest as opposed to the business advice he offered.

Case in point: BharatPe co-founder and former Shark Tank India judge Ashneer Grovers debut book Doglapan, in which the businessman shares his personal experiences as a serial entrepreneur, or Emcure top honcho Namita Thapars The Dolphin and the Shark, where the pharma czarina chronicles Emcures early days, while narrating anecdotes from Shark Tank Indias sets.

Admittedly, Grovers Doglapan delivers what it promisedthat is, his take on entrepreneurship and life. But it was mostly the controversies he addressed in the book that grabbed headlines and piqued India Incs interest as opposed to the business advice he had to offer.

Or consider Do Epic Shit by Ankur Warikoo, yet another Amazon bestseller where a start-up guru shares gyan on business, life, success, failure and the usual humdrum. At what point do self-help books stop being improvement guides and become a brand-building exercise for star entrepreneurs?

More importantly, can self-help books be considered improvement guides in the first place?

One of the many Amazon bestsellers where a start-up guru shares gyaan on business, life, success, failure and the usual humdrum.

To put things in context, BharatPe has sued Grover and his wife, Madhuri Jain, for Rs.88 crore on the charge of swindling the company. How fair is it for super-rich entrepreneurs to advise the working class on scaling business and, perhaps unknowingly, sell them a false hope of upward social mobility? What impact is it likely to have on the mental health of budding entrepreneurs? Mehezabin Dordi, a Delhi-based clinical psychologist, says: Self-help books are not created equal. Neither do they have the same impact on all readers, all of whom have different personal experiences and ideas.

Dordi believes that self-help books which help readers tackle mental health issuesfor example, Jay Shettys Think Like a Monk which claims to help folks become less anxious selvesoften urge readers to avoid or dismiss their problems. Ideally, they should be addressing the deep-rooted psychological concerns that the reader may have. Imagine you have a cracked wall which you know needs to be broken down and built again. Self-help books quickly apply a nice coat of paint on it and pretend everything is okay. The reader, too, is convinced, thanks to the placebo effect. Except that after a short while, the issue resurfaces.

Dordi says, Suppression of emotions is never healthy. It is important to scientifically validate the advice offered by self-help authors.

Dordi, whose practice is in Mumbais Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, believes the failure of readers to better themselves or meet their own expectations is a double whammy and is likely to worsen their mental health, leading to a vicious cycle.

Self-help books often have eye-catching titles.

In fact, a 2015 study on self-help books by the University of Montreal in Canada showed that people who read self-help books may be more sensitive to stress and show higher depressive symptoms. So why do people who read self-help books feel they are moving on the right path, even if that feeling is short-lived? The reason is the placebo effect.

Dordi explains: A lot of behavioural and emotional challenges that readers face come from severe mental health issues that perhaps go undiagnosed. Some readers do not realise that these challenges require long-term care and they instead go for a quick fix, which seems to work for a short while, thanks to the placebo effect. The reader has the illusion of having things under control, giving them a feeling of short-term accomplishment.

Another important concern with self-help literature that warrants a discussion is the responsibility of the self-help author towards the reader and society. After all, advice, if not taken in the right spirit, can be disastrous. Dordi, for one, thinks that readers have a greater responsibility here than the authors.

The responsibility lies with the reader to check the credentials of the author and verify the sources. It is their responsibility to confirm the accuracy of the advice, use Google search, and read up on the literature available online. Readers of self-help books must also have a certain level of self-acceptance and self-awareness while setting goals based on self-help books, she says.

Dordi also raised a rather pertinent point on the contradictions within the self-help genre. One self-help book gives you a recipe of looking at life in a certain way and another one gives you the exact opposite. The reader often ends up even more confused than they were in the first place.

Beyond the obvious contradictions, self-help books also sell a dream of upward social mobility to the working class, urging them to hustle hard, and even promote toxic positivity. How does this impact the well-being of the reader? Dordi says: Readers of self-help books need to accept that it is okay to make mistakes and that they will not always have answers to all questions. To put it simply, while reading the self-help book of a millionaire, readers must realise that everyone cannot become a millionaire by reading a book.

Of course, one cannot deny the push that self-help books receive from capitalism, which can be best described as a self-fulfilling prophecy. The moment readers start seeking emotional fulfilment instead of success, capitalism steps in and renews their desire to transcend their social class and climb up the ladder. Dordi agrees with the notion that the desire to acquire wealth and materialistic things can push one towards self-help literature.

However, she also thinks that self-help books by billionaires should not all be painted with the same brush. There are, obviously, self-help books which get it right, books which inform and educate readers. Some of them are written by rich entrepreneurs. On a parting note, Dordi adds that self-help books are self-enhancement tools, not self-replacement books. We need to take self-help books with a pinch of salt.

A couple of continents away, London-based self-help author and psychotherapist Charlotte Fox Weber talks about her book What We Want: A Journey Through Twelve of Our Deepest Desires, which takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and seeking the purpose of life. Asked about her thoughts on self-help literature, Weber said: Self-help is a category that should also be called self-destructionit helps us get better if we understand the darkness within us [and destroy it]. Confronting the dark side of human beings is essential for understanding how we can live richer lives.

Being a psychotherapist, Weber acknowledges the need to address negative feelings and make space to discover them first and eventually accept them. Being honest about gratitude, for instance, requires facing the ways you dont feel grateful. Cultivating playfulness and creativity and love means looking at the oppositesthe writers block, the loss, and the sorrow. Making space for darkness is more comforting and is therefore needed to move towards betterment, Weber says.

Asked about which self-help books one should avoid, Weber says, Books that promote instant fixes end up wasting time. Avoid them. On billionaires lecturing the working class on hard work and hustle, Weber says: Its a form of deception when someone immensely privileged overlooks the factors for opportunity. Its punishing to suggest that its each persons responsibility to determine lifes fate. Whats equally harmful is oversimplifying possibilities and suggesting that hard work determines everything to come in life.

On the self-help books one could read, Weber says: Books that are honest and illuminating about suffering as well as joy can uplift far more than self-help books that push for reductive approaches. She, too, recommends books which are honest and provide long-term solutions.

Beyond billionaires, motivational gurus and start-up honchos whose self-help books are popular in the Indian subcontinent, many self-help books overseas are playing a key role in helping people manage their lives better, sans the toxic positivity.

Sallyann Beresford is a UK-based publisher and a self-help author who writes books which support pregnant women and enable them to have a positive birthing experience. An antenatal teacher by profession, Sallyann Beresfords self-help books Labour of Love and The Art of Giving Birth aim to educate couples to help them feel more confident about their ability to conceive naturally while also urging women to take ownership of decisions surrounding their pregnancy.

Beresford is aware of her limitations as a writer. My birth planning journals help by looking at mindset and physical abilities to maximise the chance of achieving a natural birth. This might not suit all pregnant women, she says.

Elaborating on the nuances of the self-help genre, Beresford says: Some self-help books may be internalised by the reader and they could feel overwhelmed by the recommendations given. Inevitably the purpose of self-help books is to recognise what you might need to change in order to reach your full potentialbut that potential will mean something different to each reader.

Back home in India, Chintan Girish Modi, a journalist and book reviewer, thinks self-help books might be beneficial, after all. Some readers want to learn how to manage stress, others want to get over their social awkwardness. Some want to learn a new skill but dont have the money to sign up for it. So they go for self-help books. I prefer to see self-help in this light, he says, rather than assuming that all of them promote toxic positivity, hustling or productivity. People who pick them seem to have a genuine desire to transform their life circumstances or at least their approach to what life throws at them. They are willing to try new strategies and ideas instead of giving up on life. His empathetic take on the self-help conundrum is based on the belief that everyone needs support, and that support can look different for each person. Whether its going to a therapist or a life coach, having regular meetings with a mentor, nurturing a spiritual practice, or applying what one learns from a book that seems beneficial.

Deepansh Duggal is a writer based in New Delhi. He writes on cinema, culture, and mental health issues.

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ESSAY | Self-help books: Of little help? - Frontline