How to Show Compassion

Even when you have the best interests of others at heart, showing compassion is not always easy. It’s a skill that takes time and effort to cultivate. One simple way to show your compassion for others is to listen and communicate with sincerity, empathy, and kindness. You can also show your compassion through actions, such as advocating for others or volunteering for good causes. In order to show true compassion, it’s important to cultivate a compassionate attitude.

[Edit]How can you show compassion?

1. Listen actively to others.
2. Give positive reinforcement whenever you can.
3. Express your emotions honestly.
4. Respect people’s boundaries.
5. Treat others the way you want to be treated.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Communicating Compassionately

1. Listen actively to others. While it may seem simple enough, listening actively and compassionately takes practice. When you’re listening to another person, give them your full attention. Put away your phone or other distractions and focus fully on what they are saying instead of thinking about how to respond. Don’t interrupt or try to offer advice unless they ask for it.^[1]
   
   • You can show the other person you’re listening by making eye contact, nodding, or using verbal cues, like “uh huh,” or “yeah.”
   • To make sure you understand what the other person is saying, try rephrasing their words and asking for clarification. For example, “It sounds like you’re struggling at school and you feel like your teachers don’t want to give you the help you need. Is that right?”
2. Offer a gentle touch if it’s appropriate. While physical touch isn’t always appropriate or wanted, it can be a very powerful tool for showing compassion and creating a human connection. If you’re talking with someone who is going through something difficult and you’re not sure whether they’d appreciate a supportive touch, ask them.
   
   • For example, you might say, “It sounds like you’re having a terrible day. Would you like a hug?” Or, “You seem really scared right now. Would it help if I held your hand?”
3. Give the person you’re talking to positive reinforcement. A few words of encouragement can go a long way towards making a difficult situation easier for someone. Show compassion by saying a few kind, supportive words to someone who needs them. Depending on the circumstances, you might focus on their strengths, their accomplishments, or their positive personality traits.
   
   • For example, if a friend is struggling to accomplish a goal, say something like, “I know it’s tough, but I’m so proud of how hard you’ve been working on this!”
4. Express your own emotions sincerely. If someone else is going through a tough time, showing your own emotions can help them understand that you really feel for them and care about what they are experiencing. Don’t be afraid to show how you are feeling with your facial expressions and reactions.
   
   • For example, if a loved one is talking to you about their grief over a recent loss, don’t be afraid to show your own sadness or let yourself shed a few tears. This will help them see that their sadness means something to you.
5. Validate the other person’s feelings. When someone is struggling with difficult emotions, denying or minimizing their feelings isn’t helpful. Even if you don’t agree with the other person’s reaction to a situation, let them know that you acknowledge their feelings and accept them as they are.
   
   • Don’t tell the other person to “get over it” or minimize their feelings by saying something like, “It’s not that bad!”
   • Instead, simply reflect their feelings. For example, say something like, “I can see you’re really angry about this.”
6. Respect other people’s wishes and boundaries. Being respectful of others is an important part of compassion. If someone asks you to keep something in confidence, don’t share it with others. If they let you know that something you’ve said or done makes them uncomfortable, acknowledge it and avoid repeating the behavior.
   
   • Always use your best judgment, however—for example, if someone tells you they're planning to hurt themselves or someone else, don’t hesitate to call emergency services or tell someone who can help. It's okay to tell a secret if it's necessary to keep someone safe.
7. Think about whether your words are compassionate before you speak. Your words can have a real impact on others, so it’s important to consider what you want to say before you express yourself. Take a few moments (or even more time, if necessary) to reflect on what you really want to say and what you hope to accomplish by saying it. Ask yourself if what you want to say follows the THINK guidelines. Is it:^[2]
   
   • True?
   • Helpful?
   • Inspiring?
   • Necessary?
   • Kind?

[Edit]Acting Compassionately

1. Treat others the way they'd like to be treated, when possible and reasonable. The Platinum Rule is one step beyond the Golden Rule—instead of treating someone how you'd want to be treated, treat them how they want to be treated. Different people have different attitudes, ideas, and desires than you do. Do your best to accommodate this.
   
   • For example, maybe when you were 17, you couldn't wait to move out of home and explore the world on your own. But if your 17-year-old son wants you to help him through the transition to adulthood because he's overwhelmed, then you should give him extra support.
   • The Platinum Rule won't apply in every situation. You may not always know how someone wants to be treated. Or their expectations may be unreasonable or unhealthy. (For example, just because your two-year-old wants to be the boss of the household doesn't mean she should be.) Use your best judgment.
2. Follow the Golden Rule if you can't follow the Platinum Rule. One easy way to show compassion in your actions is to follow the Golden Rule—simply treat others the way you’d like them to treat you. It’s important to stick to this rule even with people you dislike or those who do not reciprocate your kindness.^[3]
   
   • For example, even if your coworker is consistently rude and inconsiderate to you, make an effort to be polite and civil to them at all times. Greet them politely, say “please” and “thank you,” and open the door for them if their hands are full.
3. Practice random acts of kindness. Truly compassionate action is something you do in order to help others without expecting any reward or recognition. Look for opportunities in your everyday life to perform kind and helpful acts without seeking approval from others.^[4]
   
   • For example, you might shovel a neighbor’s driveway, offer to help carry someone’s groceries, or give a stranger a sincere compliment.
   • Your acts of compassion may inspire others to perform kind actions of their own.
4. Be an advocate for somebody in need. Standing up for someone who needs help is an important form of compassion. There are many ways to be an advocate, including speaking up when you see someone being mistreated or helping someone connect with resources that might not have been accessible to them.
   
   • For example, if you have a friend or family member who is dealing with a medical issue, you can be an advocate by going with them to doctor’s office visits, taking notes, and asking questions about their care.
   • Connecting with your own humanity can really help you foster empathy for other people. Try to recognize that you are a human being among other human beings on this planet, and that we all have some shared experience of being human. Try to keep that on the forefront of your mind when you're witnessing other people suffering or going through hard times.^[5]
5. Volunteer for a cause you care about. Being compassionate isn’t always about helping people one-on-one. You can also show compassion by volunteering your time or resources for larger causes. Do an online search for volunteer opportunities in your area, or reach out to charitable organizations that you care about and ask how you can help.
   
   • For example, you might volunteer to mentor kids in your area who are dealing with hardship, or spend time helping out at your local animal shelter.
   • Double-check an organization's reputation before supporting it. Some organizations, like Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Autism Speaks, cause harm and don't do as much good as you might think.
6. Model compassionate behavior for others. Studies show that compassion is contagious.^[6] By performing kind acts in front of others, you can serve as an inspiration and a role model.^[7] Set a good example for the people in your life by treating them and others with kindness and respect.
   
   • If you have kids, treating them with love, kindness, and respect will help them form a compassionate mindset that can last a lifetime. You can also set a good example for your children by treating others compassionately in their presence.
   • If you see other people in your life behaving compassionately, offer praise and encouragement. For example, “Lucy, I thought it was amazing how you stood up for Ben at school today. That took courage. I’m so proud of you.”
7. Do what you believe is right, even if others criticize you. Other people may not always agree with your compassionate choices. If someone else criticizes you for taking a compassionate action, don’t let it discourage you. You don’t need anyone else’s approval to do the right thing.^[8]
   
   • For example, if you offer to help a relative who’s struggling financially, someone else in the family may accuse you of coddling or enabling them. Say something like, “I understand your concerns, but everyone falls on hard times now and then. I think it’s really important to support Beth right now as she’s getting back on her feet.”
   • Being compassionate takes courage, especially when others don’t agree with what you’re doing.

[Edit]Cultivating a Compassionate Mindset

1. Develop self-compassion. In order to show compassion to others, you must first learn to be compassionate towards yourself. You can practice self-compassion by acknowledging and praising your strengths and accomplishments, accepting your flaws without judgment, and forgiving yourself for your mistakes.
   
   • If you struggle to treat yourself with compassion, think of the kindest person in your life. Strive to treat yourself the way they treat you.
   • Self-care is an important component of self-compassion. Caring for yourself properly can mean many things, including sleeping well, eating well, getting exercise, and doing things you enjoy.
2. Accept others’ flaws and weaknesses. Being compassionate towards somebody doesn’t mean that you have to agree with everything they do. It is important, however, to both recognize their good qualities and accept their bad ones. Remember that all people have the potential for good, even if their actions don’t always meet that potential.^[9]
   
   • While it’s okay to be critical of other people’s actions, try to avoid judging them based on your own prejudices and assumptions. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and recognize that they have their own struggles and challenges.^[10]
3. Be patient with those who are struggling. It can be terribly frustrating to watch someone make mistakes or behave in self-destructive ways, especially if it’s someone you love. However, remind yourself that in order to be truly compassionate, it’s important to offer love and kindness even if the other person doesn’t respond to it the way you’d like or continues to behave in ways you don’t agree with.^[11]
   
   • This doesn’t mean you have to put up with abuse or stay with somebody whose behavior is harmful to you emotionally or physically. Instead, focus on maintaining a loving, empathetic attitude even if you have to build stronger boundaries or completely cut ties with the person.
4. Practice mindfulness to become more compassionately aware. Being mindful can help you become more patient and more aware of what’s going on within and around you. If you find yourself feeling frustrated or upset, stop what you’re doing, breathe deeply, and try to become aware of what’s happening in your body and mind without judgment. Practicing this kind of compassionate self-awareness will help you build the skills you need to be more compassionate with other people.^[12]
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• While helping others is an important part of compassion, it’s also vital that you care for yourself. Compassion shouldn’t be about people-pleasing or accepting unfair treatment from others. Don’t be afraid to say “no” if you feel that someone else’s behavior is unacceptable or that what they are asking is unreasonable (or just more than you can handle right now).^[13]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Be Kind
• Be a Good Person
• Be Respectful
• Show Empathy
• Listen
• Validate Someone's Feelings

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23406/10-easy-ways-to-cultivate-compassion.html
2. ↑ https://www.inc.com/lee-colan/think-before-you-speak.html
3. ↑ https://www.inc.com/lolly-daskal/9-important-ways-that-will-make-you-treat-people-better.html
4. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23406/10-easy-ways-to-cultivate-compassion.html
5. ↑ [v161768_b01]. 9 April 2021.
6. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/the_compassionate_species
7. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/compassion/definition#how-cultivate-compassion
8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/200911/what-compassion-is
9. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/200911/what-compassion-is
10. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23406/10-easy-ways-to-cultivate-compassion.html
11. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/200911/what-compassion-is
12. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/does_mindfulness_make_you_compassionate
13. ↑ https://www.mindful.org/compassionate-boundaries-say-no-heart/

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How to Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda

Having white teeth can be a major confidence boost. Fortunately, you may not need to spend lots of money on whitening kits or professional treatments. Brushing or rinsing with baking soda could help whiten your teeth, but be aware you should use it carefully. To prevent dental erosion, brush with baking soda in moderation and avoid using too much force. Bear in mind discoloration may point to dental issues, so try to see a dentist if you haven't had a checkup in a while.

[Edit]Whitening Teeth with Baking Soda and Peroxide

Make your own toothpaste with 2 parts baking soda with 1 part 1–3% hydrogen peroxide. Brush your teeth with the paste for 1–2 minutes, and then rinse your mouth with water. Use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide once a week at most to whiten your teeth.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Brushing with a Baking Soda Paste

1. Mix baking soda and water. In a small cup, mix ¼ to ½ teaspoon (1½ to 3g) of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. A paste of about 2 parts of baking soda mixed with 1 part of water is easier to apply and more effective than baking soda alone.^[1]
   
   • Avoid making a paste with baking soda and lemon, strawberry, or any other fruit juice. Fruit juices are acidic and could erode your teeth's enamel, especially when combined with baking soda or other abrasive products.^[2]
2. Brush your teeth with the baking soda paste for 1 to 2 minutes. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the paste, and gently scrub your teeth using circular motions. Brush all around instead of scrubbing 1 spot for the entire 2 minutes. Be sure not to brush hard or you might hurt your teeth.^[3]
   
   • Alternatively, use your fingertips to gently rub your teeth with the paste. Rub in soft circles, and don’t use too much force.
   • If you have receding gums, avoid brushing the base of your teeth and around your gum line with baking soda. The substance that covers your teeth below the gums is softer than enamel and prone to damage.^[4]
3. Rinse out your mouth when you’re finished brushing. After brushing for 2 minutes, spit out the baking soda and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash. Give your toothbrush a thorough rinse as well.
   
   • Note that you shouldn’t rinse after brushing with fluoride toothpaste, as rinsing reduces fluoride’s beneficial effects. For this reason, don’t brush or rinse with baking soda right after brushing with regular toothpaste. If you need to rinse away visible residue after using regular toothpaste, use as little water as possible.
4. Repeat every other day for up to 2 weeks. At most, brush your teeth with baking soda paste every other day for 1 to 2 weeks. Then cut back to doing it just once or twice a week. Since it’s abrasive, using baking soda more frequently may damage your teeth.^[5]
   
   • Keep in mind that brushing your teeth with baking soda should not replace brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy.
   • Before brushing with baking soda, check with your dentist to see if your teeth are healthy enough for this method. Your teeth may be sensitive to abrasion, and baking soda may cause irreversible dental erosion.

[Edit]Trying Alternative Methods

1. Mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide may whiten teeth, but you need to use it with caution. To try this method, mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Brush your teeth with the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse with water.^[6]
   
   • Make sure you use hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of 3% or less. Brush with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda once a week at most.
   • Stop brushing and rinse your mouth with cool water if you feel a burning sensation. Don’t use this method if you have receding or sensitive gums, as hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation and damage exposed roots.^[7]
2. Brush your teeth with a mix of baking soda and fluoride toothpaste. Squeeze your regular toothpaste onto your toothbrush, then sprinkle a pinch of baking soda on top. Brush your teeth as you normally would for 2 minutes with soft, circular motions. Then spit and, if you need to rinse away white residue, swish your mouth with a little water.^[8]
   
   • As with a baking soda and water paste, brush with baking soda and toothpaste in moderation. Try it every other day for 1 to 2 weeks at first, then brush with baking soda once or twice a week at most.
   • You can also purchase a toothpaste that already contains baking soda. In the United States, look for a product that carries the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal of Acceptance, and use it as directed.^[9]
   • If you have sensitive teeth or dental erosion, avoid using toothpaste that contains baking soda or is branded as whitening products.^[10]
3. Gargle with a baking soda and water rinse. Combine 1 teaspoon (6 g) of baking soda and of water in a glass, then stir the mixture until the baking soda is evenly distributed. Take a sip, gargle for about 30 seconds, then spit out the mixture. Repeat the steps until you’ve finished the entire glass.^[11]
   
   • The baking soda rinse won't erode your teeth, so it's safe to gargle with it daily.
   • Gargling with a baking soda rinse whitens your teeth indirectly. Baking soda neutralizes acids, so it helps fight dental erosion caused by acidic foods and beverages. It can also help fight bacteria that cause decay and promote good bacteria that create a protective layer on your teeth.^[12]

[Edit]Reader Videos

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Avoid brushing your gums with baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.
• Remember not to brush with a mix of baking soda and lemon juice or other acidic substances.
• Don't brush a single area of your mouth for too long. Divide 1 to 1 ½ minute evenly among your top teeth, then brush your bottom teeth for a total of 1 to 1 ½ minute.

[Edit]Warnings

• See a dentist if you’re concerned about whitening your teeth. Stains or discoloration may be signs of problems that require professional dental care.^[13]
• Don’t brush your teeth with baking soda or abrasive toothpaste if you have sensitive teeth, which may indicate dental erosion. Brushing with abrasive products will just make matters worse.^[14]
• Avoid brushing with baking soda or hydrogen peroxide if you have braces or a permanent retainer.^[15]
• To prevent uneven coloration or damage to your dental work, don’t use hydrogen peroxide or at-home bleaching kits if you have crowns, caps, or veneers.^[16]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Have Great Teeth
• Brush Teeth Without Toothpaste
• Brush Your Teeth
• Get Your Children to Brush Their Teeth
• Care for Your Teeth
• Deal With Dental Devices
• Remove Popcorn from Your Teeth

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(17)30811-5/fulltext
2. ↑ https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/natural-teeth-whitening/
3. ↑ https://now.tufts.edu/articles/what-causes-discolored-teeth-and-there-any-way-cure-or-prevent-staining
4. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-whiten-teeth/
5. ↑ https://now.tufts.edu/articles/what-causes-discolored-teeth-and-there-any-way-cure-or-prevent-staining
6. ↑ https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(17)30811-5/fulltext
7. ↑ https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/patients-families/health-matters/june-2016/diy-teeth-whitening-too-good-to-be-true.aspx
8. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29056186/
9. ↑ https://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance
10. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dental-erosion
11. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dental-erosion
12. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sore-throat-remedies-that-actually-work/
13. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10958-tooth-discoloration
14. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10954-teeth-sensitivity
15. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10899-teeth-retainer
16. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/healthy.html

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How to Make Cloud Slime

Cloud slime is a unique type of slime with a fluffy texture, similar to that of kinetic sand. The key ingredient is something called "Instant Snow," but if you can't get any of that, you can use the absorbent powder from inside a diaper or crushed-up Styrofoam. If you want fluffy cloud slime, then adding shaving cream to the glue base will do the trick!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making Basic Cloud Slime

1. Pour of white school glue into a bowl. Most bottles of school glue contain about 4 ounces (120 mL), which is exactly what you need! Don't use clear school glue, because it won't look very cloud-like.^[1]
   
   • Even though most slime recipes require water, you actually don’t need to add any here.
   • For more interesting-looking slime, add 1 to 2 drops of blue food coloring into it.
2. Add of liquid starch. This is your activating ingredient, which you can find in the laundry aisle of just about any store. You can also use a different activating ingredient, such as 1 tablespoon (15 mL) saline solution or of borax water.^[2][3]
   
   
   • If you’re using saline solution, ensure that it contains boric acid and sodium borate. You’ll also have to stir 1/4 teaspoon (2.7 g) of baking soda into the glue first.
   • To prepare borax water, mix 1/4 teaspoon (2 g) of borax into of warm water.
   • You can find borax in the laundry aisle of a grocery store as well.
3. Stir the starch into the slime, then add more if it feels too sticky. Use a spoon to stir the starch completely into the slime. If the slime is too sticky and oozy, add more starch 1 tablespoon (15 mL) at a time until you get the texture you want.^[4]
   
   • Set the slime aside while you prepare the instant snow.
   • Don't add more than of liquid starch. If you add more than that, the slime will turn hard and rubbery.
   • If the slime is still too stringy, wait for 3 to 5 minutes. This will give the ingredients time to bind together.
4. Prepare of instant snow according to the instructions. Purchase a can of instant snow online or from a craft store (during the holiday season, only). Read the instructions on the can to find out how much snow powder and water you should use, then mix them together.^[5][6]
   
   
   • Instant snow is not the same thing as the fake spray-on snow or the plastic-like, flakey stuff that comes in bags.
   • If you can't find instant snow, pour water into a diaper, wait for it to expand, then cut it open and pull the instant snow out.^[7]
   • Alternatively, use your hands or a grater to crush enough white Styrofoam to fill up . Try to make it as fine as possible.^[8]
5. Knead the prepared instant snow into the slime. Pour the snow onto the slime, then fold the edges of the slime over the snow. Knead the slime to mix the snow into it. Start with about of instant snow first, then add more if desired.^[9][10]
   
   
   • The more snow you add, the firmer your slime will be.^[11]
   • If your slime is still too gooey after this, add a few drops of liquid starch into it.
   • If you have snow left over, allow it to dry out first, then return it to the can.
6. Store the slime in a plastic container or ziplock bag when you aren't playing with it.^[12] How long this slime keeps its texture depends on what you put into it. If you used instant snow or the absorbent powder from a diaper, you may notice a difference in texture after a few days. If you used crushed Styrofoam, it should keep for at least a week.
   
   • Instant snow dries out after a couple of hours/days. Since it's already mixed into your slime, it probably won't dry out completely, but your slime may harden a bit.

[Edit]Making Fluffy Cloud Slime

1. Pour of school glue into a bowl. If you can, use white school glue, as it will look more cloud-like.^[13] Clear school glue is a good alternative; the addition of the shaving cream will help make the slime opaque.^[14]
   
   • For more interesting slime, add 2 to 3 drops of blue food coloring.
2. Fold of white shaving cream into the glue. Measure out the shaving cream and add it to the bowl. Next, gently stir it into the glue with a rubber spatula. Make sure that you use the actual foaming kind of shaving cream and not the gel kind; otherwise, the slime won't be fluffy.^[15]
   
   
   • Men's shaving cream would be the best choice, because its white color is the most cloud-like.
   • Women's shaving cream often comes tinted pink or purple, which isn't very cloud-like. Avoid this—unless, of course, you want a pink or purple cloud!
3. Stir up to of liquid starch into the glue. Add the starch into the glue 1 tablespoon (15 mL) at a time until you get the texture you want; stir the slime well after each addition of starch that you add.^[16]
   
   
   • Set the slime aside while you prepare the instant snow. This will also give the slime more time to achieve a less-icky texture.
   • If you just want to make fluffy slime, you are done! Adding instant snow or crushed Styrofoam will help give it more texture, but that’s all.^[17]
   • Most grocery stores carry liquid starch in the laundry aisle.
4. Prepare of instant snow following the instructions on the can. Buy a can of "Instant Snow" or "Instant Sno". You can find it online or at a craft store during the holiday season. Read the instructions on the back of the can to find out how to prepare the snow, then measure out .^[18]
   
   
   • Instant Snow is different from fake spray-on snow or the fake, powdery snow that comes in a bag.
   • If you can't find instant snow, pour water into a diaper, then wait for it to expand. Cut the diaper open and pull the snow out. It's more or less the same thing!^[19]
   • Another option is to crush some white Styrofoam into a fine powder with your fingers or a grater. Use enough to fill .^[20]
5. Knead the instant snow into the slime. If the snow is clumpy, fluff it up with your hands first. Measure out of instant snow, then add it to the slime. Fold the edges of the slime over the snow, then knead it in.^[21]
   
   
   • Let any leftover snow dry out, then return it to the can.
6. Put the slime into a sealed container when you're done playing with it. Because this slime contains shaving cream, it will start to lose its texture after a couple of hours to a couple of days. It may still be slimy and cloud-like afterwards, but it just won't be fluffy anymore.
   
   • Slime made from Styrofoam will keep its texture much longer than slime made from instant snow. This is because instant snow dries out over time.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Make a scented cloud by adding add a drop or two of essential oil or candy flavoring.^[22]
• Instant snow expands up to 100 times its size, so a little bit goes a long way. It might be easier to make a small batch, then measure out what you need from it.
• If you added too much activator into your slime and made it too rubbery, knead 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of water into the slime until it turns gooey again.^[23]
• Instead of adding food coloring to the glue, consider stirring it into the water for the instant snow!
• Instant snow is made from sodium polyacrylate polymer. It's the same powder used in super-absorbent diapers!
• You can add the instant snow powder into the slime without activating it. Add it in while it is still dry, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you get the texture you want.^[24]
• If your slime is not stretchy enough, you can add lotion to the slime.
• The more shaving foam you use, the fluffier the slime will be.

[Edit]Warnings

• Small children need to be supervised around instant snow. The product expands when it comes in contact with fluids, and can be harmful if ingested.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Making Basic Cloud Slime

• white school glue
• of liquid starch
• Instant Snow
• Water
• Bowls
• Spoons
• Measuring cups
• Food coloring (optional)

[Edit]Making Fluffy Cloud Slime

• of white school glue
• of white shaving cream
• of liquid starch
• Instant snow
• Water
• Bowls
• Spoons
• Measuring cups
• Food coloring (optional)

[Edit]Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about slime, check out our in-depth with [v163236_b01].

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/cloud-slime-recipe/
2. ↑ [v163236_b01]. 19 December 2024.
3. ↑ https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/cloud-slime-recipe/
4. ↑ https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/cloud-slime-recipe/
5. ↑ [v163236_b01]. 19 December 2024.
6. ↑ https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/cloud-slime-recipe/
7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pOX0v8s9pI&t=2m9s
8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHJx4cL9a5o&t=36s
9. ↑ [v163236_b01]. 19 December 2024.
10. ↑ https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/cloud-slime-recipe/
11. ↑ [v163236_b01]. 19 December 2024.
12. ↑ [v163236_b01]. 19 December 2024.
13. ↑ https://tatertotsandjello.com/how-to-make-fluffy-cloud-slime
14. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqZxxB6hNLg
15. ↑ https://tatertotsandjello.com/how-to-make-fluffy-cloud-slime
16. ↑ https://tatertotsandjello.com/how-to-make-fluffy-cloud-slime
17. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqZxxB6hNLg
18. ↑ https://tatertotsandjello.com/how-to-make-fluffy-cloud-slime
19. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pOX0v8s9pI&t=2m9s
20. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHJx4cL9a5o&t=36s
21. ↑ https://tatertotsandjello.com/how-to-make-fluffy-cloud-slime
22. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKS4Z4FinTI&t=4m15s
23. ↑ https://tatertotsandjello.com/3-ingredient-safe-puffy-slime-recipe
24. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7qkBd_75SA&t=2m15s

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How to Deal with Problems at Work

Work problems can cause a lot of stress in your life. Since so much of your time is spent in the workplace, it’s important to resolve them to preserve your mental and emotional health. Whether you do your work remotely, in an office setting, or anywhere in between, you can approach work problems professionally to start solving them right away.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Coworker Conflicts

1. Be polite and direct when addressing an issue. Don’t beat around the bush when you have a problem with your coworker. It is usually easier to address the problem as soon as it comes up, rather than stew over it or get someone else involved.^[1]
   
   • Be informal about it the first time you address the person. You could say, “Hey, Jack, I’ve been noticing that you’ve been returning the truck almost on empty lately. Could you remember to bring it back with a full tank next time?”
   • If the behavior continues after you have informally addressed your concern, you may need to ask your supervisor to intervene. Follow your company’s rules on handling employee conflict resolution.
2. Use “I” language to avoid blaming your coworkers. It’s important to express yourself in a respectful manner. When discussing issues with a coworker, don’t make them feel defensive when you speak to them. You can do this by using “I” statements. The other person hears your reactions to the situation, not your accusations.^[2]
   
   • Instead of saying, “We are always waiting on you to get your portion of the work done,” you could say, “When the work isn’t in on time, I get worried that we’re going to miss our deadline. It would be helpful if everyone could meet their deadlines on the agreed-upon day.”
3. Find a support network at work. You spend a lot of time with the same group of people at work; why not get to know some of them better? Try to make some good connections with others, and develop a network of friends who can help you through your work (and life) frustrations.^[3]
   
   • Spend your lunch break with your coworkers and get to know them better away from work.
   • Spend a few minutes chatting with your coworkers each day.
   • Invite them to get together after work for dinner or drinks.
4. Keep records of any ongoing problems you may have with a coworker. If you are dealing with a coworker bullying or harassing you, be sure you are keeping track of all incidents with that person. Record the date, time, what happened, and if there were any witnesses.
   
   • Be sure to find out what your employer’s protocol is in dealing with coworker conflict, bullying, and/or harassment. Your employee handbook or human resources representative would be a good source of information.
   • Research laws protecting your rights when you are being bullied or harassed by a coworker.
5. Escalate the situation by going to your boss if you need to. You may or may not get along well with your supervisor, but keep the lines of communication open between the two of you as best you can. Remember that it is part of your boss’ responsibility to ensure that you are in an environment that enables you to get your work done, so don’t feel like you need to keep concerns from them.^[4]
   
   • If you are having a difficult time communicating and getting along with your boss, you may wish to bring your concerns to your HR department. You could say, “Ms. Jones, I’m coming to you because I’ve been having some problems working with Mr. Roberts lately. I’m hoping you can help me figure out what to do.”

[Edit]Job Duties and Advancement

1. Talk to your boss if you’re doing extra work that you didn't sign on for. Sometimes the job you have is different from the job you applied for. If you are finding yourself taking on additional responsibility, or are doing tasks you do not feel qualified for, bring your concerns to your supervisor. Find a copy of the job description you were hired for and bring it to your boss to talk about it.^[5]
   
   • You could say, “Here is a copy of my job description, and here is all the work I am currently doing. I think we need to talk about the expectations for my position.”
   • You could use your additional responsibilities as leverage for a pay raise. You could say, “I think if you expect me to continue to do these additional responsibilities, it may be wise to talk about an increased salary.”
2. Look for additional training opportunities to advance your position. If you feel your job performance would improve with additional training or classes, be proactive in seeking out training you feel would be beneficial. Look for training within your company or in your community (perhaps in a community college or a university extension class), and bring the opportunity to your supervisor’s attention.^[6]
   
   • You could say, “I found this coding workshop that’s going on at the local college next month. I think this is exactly the kind of course I need to help take my performance to the next level and help me gain a greater understanding of my position. Would the company be able to sponsor me to attend this workshop? Here is the information on it.”
   • You could consider seeking out a mentor within your company to help you better understand your role.
3. Be open to feedback from your boss. Sometimes work problems can develop when you get little or no feedback on your performance. Take the initiative and ask your boss if they’d be willing to have a conversation with you on how you are doing in your position. Set a meeting for you and your boss to talk, and give them a sense of what you’d like to talk about.^[7]
   
   • For example, you could say, “I was curious to know how you felt about my performance over the last few months. I think I’ve been taking on more responsibilities, and I wanted to get some feedback on what I’ve done well and what needs improvement.”
   • Don’t beat yourself up over a bad performance review. Look at it as a learning opportunity, asking lots of questions so you can best understand how you can make changes. You could say, “I appreciate you bringing these concerns to my attention. Do you have any suggestions as to what I can do to improve my next review?”
4. Look into filing a complaint if you're being taken advantage of. If you feel you are being treated unfairly and your problem has not been solved or addressed, you can take steps to have the problem identified through a more formal procedure. If complaint procedures are not spelled out in your employee handbook, find out through management or HR what steps you need to take.^[8]
   
   • You could say, “John, I’ve taken all of the steps in the employee handbook to follow the chain of command at work, but my concerns are still not being addressed. I want to find out how to file a formal complaint within the company.”
   • If you feel you are being harassed or discriminated against, for example, it may be beneficial to you to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (if you live in the United States). Find out more at https://www.eeoc.gov/filing-charge-discrimination.

[Edit]Stress Management

1. Talk to your manager if you're feeling overwhelmed. Tell your supervisor if you think that you’ve been given too much work. Let them know that you’re feeling overwhelmed, and ask how you can prioritize better.^[9]
   
   • You could say, “Mike, I appreciate being a valued team member, but I am drowning in all this work right now. I’m working late and not seeing my kids. What can we do to make this workload easier to manage?”
2. Talk to a supervisor in private if you’re dealing with a personal problem. If you find stress from your personal life creeping into your work life, be upfront with your supervisor without going into too many details. A good supervisor will likely appreciate knowing what is going on.^[10]
   
   • Wait for an opportunity to talk to your supervisor alone and let them know what’s up. You could say, “I just wanted to let you know that I’ve got some issues I'm dealing with at home. I'm handling it, but there may be a few days when I need to come in late next week.”
   • Keep in mind that you're not obligated to disclose health information, but you may need to be a bit more forthcoming if you are dealing with an ongoing health problem. For example, you might say, “I’ve been told by my doctor that I am going to need surgery. I'll need to take a few days off next month to recover. I’ll let you know the exact days as soon as everything is scheduled.”
3. Eat well both at home and on the job so you have plenty of energy. Avoid going out for fast food over lunch, and pack a healthy lunch instead. You’ll save money as well as improve your health. Putting healthy food in your body will help better regulate your moods and manage stress.^[11]
   
   • Pack a salad in a jar filled with vegetables and protein to get a big serving of veggies and help you avoid the late-afternoon sugar cravings.
   • Make healthy snack choices if you need a bite to eat. Consider almonds, cheese sticks, or vegetables with hummus.
   • Avoid foods that send your blood sugar soaring and then crashing, like sugary treats and refined carbohydrates. You will feel even worse.
   • Coffee and caffeinated beverages are a mainstay of the office, but too much can leave you feeling anxious and stressed. Limit your intake.
   • Drink plenty of water during your workday so you don't get dehydrated.
4. Exercise, stretch, or get up and move around on your breaks. Not only is this good for your physical health, but it is also good for your mental health as well. You could try stretching, taking a quick walk, or doing a quick workout routine on your lunch break.^[12]
   
   • If you work a sedentary/desk job, get up from your desk at regular intervals to walk around for a few minutes. It will help you refocus and feel more energized and productive.
5. Get around 8 hours of sleep per night so you're ready to face each day. Make sure you are getting to bed at a reasonable hour. Sleep deprivation makes emotional regulation more difficult, causing increased irritability and stress.^[13]
   
   • Do something relaxing before bed. Avoid catching up on work email or anything stressful. Try reading for pleasure, taking a bath, or drinking chamomile tea.
   • Avoid screens an hour before bedtime. The glow from the screen can stimulate wakefulness, making it harder to fall asleep.

[Edit]Remote Working

1. Set up your computer and Wi-Fi to meet your needs. If you have to talk via video chat often, make sure you have a quality webcam and good lighting. Double check your Wi-Fi speed to make sure it’s running well, and set up your computer monitor at eye level so you don’t have to hunch or strain to see your screen.^[14]
   
   • Try putting your router and modem as close to your computer as possible for the fastest Wi-Fi speeds.
   • If you think your internet is slow, try running a speed test on a website like M-Lab or Ookla. They’ll be able to tell you how fast your internet is running and what you might need to fix if it’s slow.
2. Create a dedicated workspace in a quiet spot so you can focus. Set up an area of your home with your computer and anything else you need to do your job. Make sure it’s an out-of-the-way location without a ton of distractions so you can work efficiently throughout the day.^[15]
   
   • Keep your work area away from the TV so you aren’t tempted to watch anything while you work.
   • Ideally, you would set up your workspace in a home office or spare bedroom so you can shut the door while you’re working.
3. Talk with your coworkers over video chat to stay connected. Sending instant messages and emails are fine, but it can feel a little bit lonely. Try to check in with your coworkers and chat about other things, like what you did that weekend or what you’re doing later, before moving on to work stuff.^[16]
   
   • You could all meet up 10 minutes before a scheduled meeting to chat about random stuff that doesn’t have to do with work.
   • Ask questions like, “So what did you all do this weekend?” or, “How are your kids doing?”
4. Ask for help if you’re stuck or having problems completing tasks. When you work from home, it can sometimes feel like you’re doing your job all by yourself. Don’t be afraid to message or email your coworkers or boss for clarifications if you need to.^[17]
   
   • It might be helpful to have a weekly or monthly check-in with your team or boss to make sure you’re on the right track.
   • You can also ask questions during team meetings over video chat.
5. Establish boundaries with the people you live with. Working remotely is still a job, even if you’re home all day. Be sure to let your family members or roommates know that you’ll need a moderate level of peace and quiet throughout the day while you’re working.^[18]
   
   • You could say something like, “I know I’m home, but from 8 to 4 everyday I’m actually working. If you need something, please knock first in case I’m in a meeting.”
   • If working from home is too challenging or distracting, try going to a coffee shop or a library that has free Wi-Fi.
6. Avoid working after hours to prevent burnout. If you have set hours, make sure you shut down your computer and step away from your desk once you’re done. Working long, irregular hours can lead to burnout, and it might make you resentful of your job.^[19]
   
   • It’s much easier to extend your workday when you’re just sitting at home. If you’re having trouble shutting down for the day, try setting an alarm on your phone.

[Edit]How Can You Manage Conflict Between Employees?

[Edit]Tips

• If you’re having trouble with any of your coworkers, consider talking to your Human Resources department.

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/conflict-with-coworker
2. ↑ https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/workplace-wellness-avoiding-conflicts-coworkers
3. ↑ https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/manage-social-support
4. ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/conflict-with-coworker
5. ↑ https://hbr.org/2017/01/how-to-tell-your-boss-you-have-too-much-work
6. ↑ https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/how-to-get-ahead-at-work
7. ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/receiving-and-giving-feedback
8. ↑ https://www.acas.org.uk/grievance-procedure-step-by-step
9. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-in-the-workplace.htm
10. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-in-the-workplace.htm
11. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/healthy-eating.htm
12. ↑ https://ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/HealthAndWellness/Ergonomics/Pages/exercises.aspx
13. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/
14. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/18/technology/personaltech/working-from-home-problems-solutions.html
15. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/biofeedback-and-mindfulness-in-everyday-life/202003/77-strategies-for-working-from-home-during
16. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/biofeedback-and-mindfulness-in-everyday-life/202003/77-strategies-for-working-from-home-during
17. ↑ https://knowledge.insead.edu/leadership-organisations/the-three-main-challenges-of-remote-working-13651
18. ↑ https://knowledge.insead.edu/leadership-organisations/the-three-main-challenges-of-remote-working-13651
19. ↑ https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/challenges-to-managing-virtual-teams-and-how-to-overcome-them/

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