Wednesday, April 24, 2019

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Use the Law of Attraction

Posted: 24 Apr 2019 05:00 PM PDT

The law of attraction suggests that you can attract positive or negative things into your life through your thoughts and actions. It relies on the theory that everything is made up of energy, so the type of energy you put out will come back to you. If you're ready to use the law of attraction to tell the universe what you want, start by creating a positive mindset. Then, take action toward your goals and confront your setbacks with a good attitude.

EditSteps

EditCreating a Positive Mindset

  1. Focus on what you want in your life, not what you're lacking. Don't think about your old, broken down car. Instead, picture yourself driving a new car. This puts the focus on what you want to bring into your life, rather than what you want to eliminate. It sends the message to the universe that you expect good things to happen![1]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • The idea behind this is that what you're thinking about is what you want in your life. So if you think, "I wish I had a car that didn't break down all the time," you're still focusing on your old car, not a new one.
    • As another example, think to yourself, "I'm studying hard to get a good grade," rather than, "I hope I don't fail this semester."
  2. Phrase your desires using positive terms. It's important to avoid phrases that rely on negative words like "no" or "not" to state what you want, such as "I don't want to lose my job." Similarly, include the words for what you want to avoid attracting the wrong thing. For instance, "I don't want to lose" sends out the word "lose," while "I want to win" sends out the word "win."[2]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Visualize your dreams coming true. Close your eyes and picture yourself living the life you want. Imagine doing your dream job, showing off your talents, or sliding into your new car. Do this everyday to solidify your intentions and bring them one step closer to reality.[3]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Always picture yourself being successful. For example, imagine yourself getting a promotion at work, not just going about your day-to-day activities. You don't want to just get the job; you want to excel at it.
  4. Express gratitude for what you already have. Appreciating the good things in your life helps you feel better about your life, which supports your positive mindset. List the things you're grateful for aloud, or write them in a gratitude journal. Additionally, thank people for the good things they add to your life.[4]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, write 3 things you're grateful for every morning before you get out of bed. This helps you start your day in a good mood.
  5. Meditate at least 5 minutes a day to lower your stress levels. Stress is a normal part of life, but too much can be overwhelming. Relieve your daily stresses with a short meditation that will relax both your mind and body. For a simple meditation, sit in a comfortable position, then close your eyes. Focus on your breathing, letting your thoughts come and go.[5]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • You can find guided meditations online or through an app like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer.
  6. Replace your worries with thoughts about how things could go right. Worrying can make you manifest what you're trying to avoid.[6] When worries happen, challenge them by questioning how likely they are to happen. Then, think about what has happened in the past when you worried. Next, consider how bad the worst case scenario would be if your worried thoughts actually happened. You'll likely realize it's not that big of a deal in the long-run.[7]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, let's say you're worried you'll embarrass yourself during a presentation. How likely is that to happen? Has it happened before? If you did mess up, would it really matter? Would you still think about it a year later? You'll likely recognize your worry isn't really a big deal.
    • It also helps to think about what your life might be like in 5 or 10 years. Will the thing you're worried about even matter then? Probably not. For example, you might worry about failing a test, but you likely won't even remember the test in 5 years.
  7. Give yourself time to learn how to stay positive because it can be hard. At first, it will be hard for you to keep your thoughts positive. It's natural for negative thoughts to come back to you. However, you can help yourself focus on the positive by intentionally confronting negative thoughts. Acknowledge them, dismiss them, then replace them with something positive. With practice, you can become more positive over time.[8]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, you might catch yourself thinking, "I keep working so hard, but I don't seem to be getting anywhere." Stop yourself for a moment and think about why you're having this thought. Then, list the positive things you've experienced while working on this goal, such as learning new things or having new experiences. Finally, choose to see something positive in the situation. You might tell yourself, "I'm getting better over time, and I'm proud of my progress."

EditTaking Action

  1. Create a vision board for the life you want. Cut out words and pictures from a magazine, print out images, or use photographs to create a collage of what you want. Hang your collage in your living space where you can see it every day. Then, look to your vision board for daily inspiration to work toward your goal.[9]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 8.jpg
    • For example, you might include photos of a house you like, the car you want, the job title you want, and a couple in love.
    • Remember, a vision board is not a magic wand. To get what you want, you'll need to do something to get it.
  2. Do one small task every day to work toward your goal. Start by setting a goal to spend 15 minutes a day pursuing your goal. Then, work your way up from there. To keep track of your progress, make a list of small steps you need to take toward your goal, then check them off when you do them. These small actions will help you produce big results![10]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 9.jpg
  3. Hold yourself accountable for the work you put into your goals. Set expectations for yourself, and acknowledge when you don't meet them. Then, examine why you struggled to keep up with your expectations and decide if changes need to be made. Similarly, reward yourself for the hard work you put into your goals.[11]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 10.jpg
    • For example, let's say you made a goal to spend an hour working toward your goal every day, but you only followed through on the first day. Accept that you didn't do the work, but also consider if you need to scale back. Maybe try 15 minutes a day to see if you can meet that goal.
  4. Ask for the things you need and want from others. This is the only way for them to know what you expect from them. No one can read your mind, so you have to tell people what you're thinking. Be direct and honest about what you need and want, and you might just get it.[12]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 11.jpg
    • Let's say you want to hang out with your friend. Instead of saying, "I wish I had plans this weekend," say, "Hey, do you want to see a movie on Friday night?"
    • If you need your roommate to help out more around your home, don't say, "I wish this place were cleaner." Say, "Could you put your dirty clothes in the hamper and keep your personal belongings out of the common area?"
  5. Use positive self-talk to motivate yourself to take action. It's normal to have negative thoughts about yourself, but this can hold you back. When you catch yourself thinking negatively, question that thought and replace it with a positive thought. Additionally, repeat your favorite positive mantra to yourself throughout the day to keep yourself on track.[13]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 12.jpg
    • Let's say you catch yourself thinking, "I'll never be that good at public speaking." Question this thought by pointing out that everyone starts somewhere and practice brings improvement. Then, tell yourself, "I am improving at public speaking every time I do it."
    • Throughout your day, repeat a positive mantra to yourself, such as, "I'm living my dreams," "I'm a success," or "I radiate joy."

EditResponding to Setbacks

  1. Recognize you're not to blame for accidents, illnesses, or events beyond your control. Everyone experiences hardships at one time or another. This might include losing a job, coping with a medical issue, or suffering an injury. Don't blame yourself when these things happen because they happen to everyone.[14]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 13.jpg
    • Let's say someone crashed into your car while you were driving. This is an accident, and you didn't cause it. Don't blame yourself!
    • No one can have a perfect life without hardship, even while using a tool like the law of attraction.
  2. Focus on changing your response to hardships rather than avoiding them. You can't stop all bad things from happening, as this isn't possible. However, you can choose to have a better reaction to them. Instead of getting upset, accept hardships as part of life. Then, reach out to people who care about you to get support.[15]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 14.jpg
    • For example, let's say you lost a job you really wanted. Instead of dwelling on the loss, accept that this time it wasn't meant to be. Then, think about how you can use this experience to do better next time.
  3. Look for the lesson or silver lining in obstacles or hardships, when you're ready. This helps you see something good that the hardship brought into your life. When you're ready, reflect on what happened to see how you grew as a person. Similarly, consider how your experience can enable you to help others.[16]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 15.jpg
    • Don't push yourself to look for the lesson or silver lining before you're ready.
    • For instance, failing a class might have taught you how to be a better student, and going through a bad breakup might teach you what you want in a relationship.
  4. Take control after a setback or hardship to boost your confidence. Facing an obstacle can shake your confidence and break your positive mindset, but regaining control give you back your power. Start by listing the actions you can take to move forward. Then, do one small thing to help you move in the right direction.[17]
    Use the Law of Attraction Step 16.jpg
    • For example, let's say you lost your job. Instead of dwelling on it, update your resume and go through job listings. While you apply for new jobs, take a free online class to help boost your job skills.

EditTips

  • The law of attraction is not the same as making wishes to the universe. You are simply focusing your attention on putting out positive energy so you'll attract more positive energy.
  • Trigger good feelings by listening to your favorite song, enjoying your hobbies, or hanging out with friends. This will help you stay positive.
  • Start by focusing on small, easy to measure goals so you can see how the law of attraction works. For example, you might focus on earning a good grade in your class or attaining a new pet. That way, you'll be able to measure the results.
  • Be patient because change takes time. If you let yourself get frustrated, you'll being sending negative thoughts out to the universe, which will make it take even longer to get what you want.

EditWarnings

  • Avoid worrying, as this sends a message to the universe that you expect bad things to happen. Instead, picture a positive future for yourself.
  • Don't focus on a particular person or thing. For instance, don't try to make someone fall in love with you. Instead, draw in a healthy, satisfying relationship with someone you're meant to be with.
  • Don't blame yourself for your hardships! You are not to blame for health issues or the actions of others.

EditQuick Summary

EditReferences


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How to Photograph a Painting

Posted: 24 Apr 2019 09:00 AM PDT

Capturing the beauty of a painting in a photograph is a quick and easy process. For best results, take the painting out of the frame, place it on a blank wall, and then place your camera and tripod in front of the painting. Optimise your camera for the shot and then use the timer to take the shot. These methods are appropriate for all kinds of paintings, including water-colour, oil, and acrylic. Use your beautiful photographs for websites, fliers, or for your own memories.

EditSteps

EditSetting up for the Shot

  1. Remove the painting from the frame, if possible. The glass or perspex in frames causes reflections and glare in photographs. This can make it difficult to see the details and colours in your painting. Place your frame in a safe place whilst you take the shot to ensure that the photo gives the truest representation of the painting.[1]
    Photograph a Painting Step 1.jpg
    • If possible, wait until after you have photographed your painting to varnish it, as varnish also creates reflections and glare. If your painting is already varnished, simply follow the rest of the steps to optimise the quality of the photo.
    • If you are unable to remove the painting from the frame, follow the rest of the steps to minimise the glare.
  2. Place your art on a blank wall to photograph it. A blank background helps to make the painting the central focus of the photograph. Place sticky-tak on the back corners of your art and stick it on the wall. Try to make it as straight as you can so that it looks even in the photographs.[2]
    Photograph a Painting Step 2.jpg
    • If you don't have any stick-tak, place a large piece of white board or cardstock onto an easel and then lean the painting on top of it.
    • If you are having trouble getting your painting straight, use a bubble level to help get it even.[3]
  3. Put your camera on a tripod. This is one of the best ways to ensure that the photographs are of high quality, as photos lose a bit of resolution when they are taken by hand due to the slight movement that occurs. Attach the camera to a tripod to ensure the camera is perfectly still when you take the picture.[4]
    Photograph a Painting Step 3.jpg
    • If you don't have a tripod, use a stack of books or boxes instead. Ensure that they are really stable so that you don't risk your camera falling off. This is also a great option if you are taking the photo on your smartphone.
  4. Align the camera so that the painting fills 90% of the viewfinder. It is important that the photograph is in the middle of the viewfinder, otherwise, the photo may not show the painting proportionately or accurately to scale. Position the tripod and camera in the middle of the painting and then move them back until the painting fills about 90% of the screen.[5]
    Photograph a Painting Step 4.jpg
    • Avoid leaving too much blank space in the photograph, as this makes the painting harder to see and will reduce the resolution of the image if you have to crop it later.
    • If your painting has a portrait layout, you will need to rotate your camera 90 degrees in order for the painting to fill 90% of the screen.

EditUsing the Best Settings to Take the Shot

  1. Set your camera to the f8 aperture setting. A higher aperture, such as f8, creates a smaller depth of focus which makes the image look clear and detailed. Move the wheel next to the shutter button to the f8 position. This wheel will generally have "+" and "-" buttons beside it. Look through the viewfinder or on the screen to check the aperture number. The number will change as you move the aperture wheel.[6]
    Photograph a Painting Step 5.jpg
    • If your camera won't let you change the aperture, ensure that the camera is on the manual setting. Do this by rotating the dial on the top of your camera to the "m" position.
    • If you are taking the photo on a smartphone, tap the painting on the screen to auto-focus the image. This has a similar effect increasing the aperture settings.
  2. Adjust your ISO to 100. The ISO affects how much light is in your photo. Higher ISO levels create bright photos and low ISO levels create dark photos. An ISO of 100 is generally appropriate for photographs taken inside or in studios on cloudy days. Use the ISO settings to change the ISO to 100.[7]
    Photograph a Painting Step 6.jpg
    • If you are taking the photo in a dark room, increase the ISO level. If you are in a really bright room, decrease the ISO level. Experiment with different levels until your photos reflect how the painting looks in real life.
    • Read your cameras instructions manual if you are having difficulty locating your ISO settings, as they vary between cameras.
    • If you are using a smartphone, tap on the painting on your screen. This automatically sets the camera to the correct ISO level and can help to minimise the glare in the photo.
  3. Take the photo indoors in a room with windows on a cloudy day, if possible. Cloudy days reduce the amount of glare and gives even, natural lighting. Avoid shooting in direct sunlight as this can cause the camera to capture the colours in your painting inaccurately. If possible, shoot the photos in the middle of the day to avoid the shadows that come with the low light in the evenings and mornings.[8]
    Photograph a Painting Step 7.jpg
    • If you have to photograph a painting in a room that doesn't have windows, leave the ceiling lights on and position extra lights under the painting at a 45-degree angle to avoid as much glare as possible.
    • Whilst it is preferable to photograph paintings with natural light, if you are taking a picture at a museum, simply take the photo with the existing lighting.
  4. Adjust the white balance settings on your camera to the cloudy mode. The white balance affects the colour temperature of your image. If it is on the wrong setting, your image may look too orange or too blue. If you are shooting on a cloudy day, set the camera to the cloudy option in the camera settings.[9]
    Photograph a Painting Step 8.jpg
    • If you are shooting with artificial light, use the studio or inside option.
    • If you are taking the photo with your smartphone, the camera will most likely automatically adjust the white balance for you.
  5. Turn off the flash. A flash will overexpose the colours of your painting and will make it difficult to see the details in the image. Hold down the flash mechanism to stop it from popping up or turn the flash off in the camera settings.[10]
    Photograph a Painting Step 9.jpg
    • If the camera displays any warnings about low-light, simply ignore them and leave the flash off.
    • If you are using a smartphone, either turn off the flash in the camera settings or hold your finger over the flash to block it from hitting the painting. This helps to minimise the glare in your smartphone image.
  6. Set the camera to auto-focus. Auto-focus is one of the easiest and most effective ways to get a clear and glare-free image. Adjust the camera to auto-focus in the camera settings. This gives the camera permission to chose the best depth of focus for the shot, which helps to avoid fuzzy pictures.[11]
    Photograph a Painting Step 10.jpg
    • If you are using a smartphone, the auto-focus setting will already be operating.
  7. Take the photo with a self-timer to make the shot perfectly still. The motion of pushing down the shutter button can slightly shake the camera and make the image a little fuzzy. For optimal image quality, place the camera on self-timer mode in the camera settings. This will cause it to take a photo by itself after the specified time.[12]
    Photograph a Painting Step 11.jpg
    • Set the self-timer for at least 3 seconds to give it a chance to stop wobbling after you have touched it.

EditWarnings

  • Don't take photographs in museums if there are signs warning against it. Breaking the rules can result in fines or penalties.

EditTips

  • Check your photo once you have taken it to make sure that you are happy with it.
  • For professional shots, place LED lights on the ground on either side of painting and point them towards the art at a 45-degree angle. This helps to accentuate the 3D nature of the painting.[13]
  • Any lens can be used to take the photo; however, the lenses on DSLR cameras will tend to take higher quality photos than smartphone lenses.[14]

EditReferences


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How to Wear Sock Boots

Posted: 24 Apr 2019 01:00 AM PDT

Sock boots are all the rage these days. They're comfortable, versatile and add a touch of high-fashion to any outfit. You can typically find sock boots in fabrics like suede, leather, neoprene, and, you guessed it: sock material. These trendy boots come in a variety of styles from chunky heeled to tall, so chances are, there's a sock boot out there that's a perfect match to your personal style sense and wardrobe.

EditSteps

EditChoosing Sock Boots

  1. Go for a neutral color so you can wear them with anything. Sock boots come in an array of colors, but if you want to make sure that you get the most wear out of your boots, buy them in a classic black, brown or nude color. That way, you won't have to worry about your colorful outfits clashing with your equally colorful sock boots.[1]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 1.jpg
  2. Choose sock boots in bright or unique colors to add an exciting accent to your outfit. Sometimes color is a good thing! If you wear a lot of neutral tones, you might end up getting a lot of wear out of a bold, colorful sock boot. A brightly hued sock boot would become the focal point of your outfit and act as a cool contrast to the more subtle shades of your clothing. Look for sock boots in jewel tones for a playful fall look and powdery pastels for summer outfits.[2]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 2.jpg
    • Red would be a great choice. It's a favorite on fashion runways and tends to pair well with both black and white.
  3. Choose a heel that you're comfortable walking in. Some people can rock a high heel no problem, while others do better in a lower heel. If you don't have a lot of experience walking in high heels, then opting for a lower heel (under 2 inches) will be your best bet.[3]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 3.jpg
    • If your heart is set on wearing sky-high heels then look for sock boots that have a bit of a "platform" on the forefoot area. This will allow you to have the silhouette of a higher heel while still being able to walk with confidence.[4]
    • Avoid awkward stepping by always leading with the heel.
  4. Try refined fabrics for a classier look. Sock boots can be worn to dressier affairs, especially if you buy them in rich fabrics like velvet or suede. Pairing a velvet sock boot with a tulle skirt would be an unforgettable evening look. Just keep in mind that these types of sock boots will usually be pricier than those made from faux leather or neoprene.
    Wear Sock Boots Step 4.jpg
    • In order to clean your velvet or suede boots, brush with a soft-bristled shoe brush daily in the direction of the fibers.[5]
    • Avoid wearing your velvet or suede sock boots in snowy or wet weather.
  5. Choose sock boots that fit comfortably around your calves. Unlike other types of mid-calf boots like cowboy boots and snow boots, sock boots are meant to be pulled on just like a sock. When you try on your sock boots at the store, make sure the opening of the boot fits snuggly around your calves.
    Wear Sock Boots Step 5.jpg
    • There shouldn't be any "slouching" around the calves unless that's the intended style. They should be tight and flush to your calves, just like a sock!
  6. Try an open-toed sock boot for a summery look. Sock boots can be worn year-round, even in the summer months. Opt for a peep-toe sock boot in pastel or nude shade to wear with summer dresses, skirts, and even shorts. These types of sock boots are especially flattering when worn under a maxi skirt.[6]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 6.jpg
    • Paint your nails with nail polish for a surprise pop of color that peeks out of your sock boot.

EditWearing Your Sock Boots with Casual Outfits

  1. Balance out a bulky sweater or jacket with the slim look of a sock boot. Sock boots can give the illusion of thinner, longer legs, especially when you contrast the skin-tight sock boots with a bulky, over-sized sweater or coat. One way to pull this look off well is to wear your sock boots with a one-piece jumpsuit and a baggy jean jacket over the top.[7]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 7.jpg
    • Wear a baggy midi skirt to up the "bulkiness" of your silhouette. This will add even more contrast to the slim and tight sock boots.
  2. Wear your sock boots with a sweater dress for a cozy look. The sleek, clean look of a sock boot can add a touch of class to an otherwise low-maintenance dress. The snug look of the sock boots add a "cozy" factor to your overall outfit and will offset the bagginess of the sweater dress drawing attention to the line of your legs.[8]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 8.jpg
    • Cinch your sweater dress with a belt to create a flared shape. This will provide more of a contrast to the slim sock boots.
    • Wear sock boots made from sweater material for a fun, cozy look.
  3. Pair your sock boots with wide leg jeans. Due to their sock-like nature, sock boots lend themselves well to being worn under wide leg jeans as opposed to being worn over tighter, skinnier ones. A brightly colored sock boot worn under wide leg jeans and a blouse is a perfect, everyday outfit.[9]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 9.jpg
    • Sock boots also pair well with long skirts.
  4. Layer a colorful sock underneath your sock boot. Add an extra layer of color and texture by wearing a sock that's slightly higher than your sock boot. This is a great way to jazz up plain black or brown sock boots. It's a good idea to match the sock to another piece of your outfit like your skirt or shirt. [10]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 10.jpg
    • Go for a colorful sock. A black or white sock peeking out of your boot might look like you just forgot to pull down your socks!

EditWearing Your Sock Boots with Dressy Outfits

  1. Match your sock boots to your outfit for a high-statement monochromatic look. This style was all the rage in the '60s. If you want a more "vintage" look, pair your sock boots with a dress or jumpsuit that's identical (or close to identical) to the color of your sock boots. This look is super fun for a night out on the town with friends.[11]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 11.jpg
    • Try a midi-length tube dress to get that 60's look down pat.
  2. Wear your sock boots with a mini skirt to show off your legs. Sock boots are known to accentuate the legs so if your goal is to up the sex factor and show off your sculpted physique then try a tight miniskirt with some equally tight sock boots. The cut of the boots will draw the eye right to your beautiful legs. This is a perfect look for the dance floor or a date night[12]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 12.jpg
    • For some extra sex appeal, throw a floor length coat overtop and let your legs peek out as you walk.
    • Wear some lace or fishnet tights to bring even more attention to your legs.
  3. Wear your sock boots with a ballerina-style skirt. For a fun, flirty evening look, try pairing your sock boots with a pastel ballerina skirt made of tulle or crinoline. The soft, clean lines of a sock boot go perfectly with the delicate shape of a light and airy ballerina skirt. This look is perfect for a classy event, cocktail party or wedding[13]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 13.jpg
    • A sock boot made of velvet or soft fabric would pair well with this "barely there" skirt.
  4. Try wearing thigh-high sock boots for a bolder look. Sock boots come in lots of different heights, including thigh-length. Pair some black thigh-high sock boots with a leather skirt and a sleeveless turtleneck for a serious, sexy look. This style is perfect for a concert or a night out at the club.[14]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 14.jpg
    • Thigh-high sock boots also go great under a long, statement trench coat.
  5. Wear your sock boots at work. Sock boots can be appropriate for work, depending on how you wear them. Pairing a black sock boot under a neutral-toned wide-leg dress pant is a great way to add a little "fashion" to your work outfit while still looking professional and put together. The streamlined look of a sock boot is pretty ideal for an indoor office environment.[15]
    Wear Sock Boots Step 15.jpg
    • Go with a classic leather or suede sock boot for work as softer, flashier materials like suede and wool might come off as too casual or on the other side of the spectrum, too dressy.

EditTips

  • A sock boot with a pointed toe will make your legs look longer than a rounded or square toe.
  • A block or chunky heel will be easier to walk in than a thinner stiletto or kitten heel

EditReferences


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