This Woman Lived 100 Days Without Fear and Is Inspiring Us to Do the Same

Ashley Macey
Jun 19, 2017

While we all strive to embrace our confident, take-no-prisoners alter egos, it can definitely seem impossible to find the courage to face what scares us most. This was certainly the case for Michelle Poler, who came face-to-face with some of her biggest fears when she chose to pack up her belongings and move to New York as a young twentysomething student. But instead of running home and giving up on her adventure, Poler decided to embrace her new environment and challenge herself to live 100 Days Without Fear. After asking her Facebook friends to help her brainstorm a list of frightening tasks, Poler set about conquering one new fear every single day for 100 days — and, as you may have expected, her courageous experiment went VIRAL. We recently got the opportunity to sit down with the amazing lady herself to learn more about her #girlboss journey to fearlessness and get the inside scoop on how we can all learn to live a braver life.

B+C: What inspired you to attempt to conquer 100 fears in 100 days?

MP: Living in NY is what made me realize I needed to face my fears head-on. After moving here I knew this city was not for the fearful, so trying to stay in my comfort zone was practically impossible. I was missing out on once-in-a-lifetime experiences because of my many fears. But moving to NY has always been my dream; I couldn’t allow my fears to get in the way for another day. Also, it was a school project, so I took that as an opportunity to build a branded experience, since I was doing a masters in branding at SVA. I challenged myself to brand an emotion: FEAR.

B+C: Was it difficult to find so many unique things that challenged you?

MP: Finding the 100 challenges was the hardest part. Good thing I decided to ask my 1,000+ Facebook friends for their help. Everybody started suggesting things I should do, but I only added to my list the ones I was really afraid of, like posing nude, singing in public, giving a speech (which is now my career), crashing a wedding, holding a tarantula, and skydiving, among others. Once the project went viral, I started receiving thousands of emails a day with ideas to face my fears, and that made it *way* easier. By far the funniest suggestion I got was to submit myself as a painter at the Bodypainting Day in NYC. My model/canvas was a 70-year old dude, completely naked, that I had to cover with paint and do art on him (I’m not a painter BTW). I wrote the word “fearless” all across his body and afterwards we became good Facebook friends. I faced that challenge in the middle of the street in front of my husband, my brother, and my in-laws. You have to see the video.

B+C: We know it’s probably hard to choose, but which fear would you say was the most difficult to overcome?

MP: It is definitely hard to choose one. Some were emotionally challenging; others were physically challenging. If I had to choose one emotional fear, it would have to be giving my TEDx Talk, which was fear 100. But the decision to face that fear is what marked the beginning of my speaking career. It also allowed me to share my story with the world and inspire hundreds of thousands to go after their own fears. Thanks to that, I now get paid to inspire audiences around the world. I couldn’t ask for a better job! In fact, I’m at the airport coming back home to NY after speaking at Microsoft Israel as I answer these questions.

B+C: What was the biggest thing you’ve learned from this experience?

MP: I learned that every fear, which I used to perceive as an obstacle, is actually an opportunity. So every time I feel the fear, I take that as a sign that I should go for it. I learned how to differentiate comfort from growth when making decisions. The growth choices are always the ones that gets us uncomfortable but are also the ones that will take us further. On the other hand, the comfortable choices we make will only take us back into safety. So if we want to grow, we must be willing to get uncomfortable. It goes like this:

Should I start a poscast?

Nah, I’m really bad at interviewing people.

Hmm… Am I afraid of it?

Heck yeah, what if I’m terrible at it?

Then I should totally start a podcast.

(You can now find the Hello Fears Podcast on iTunes.)

B+C: Now that you’re on the other side of the challenge, how are you incorporating what you learned in those 100 days into your everyday life?

MP: My project became a lifestyle. I don’t keep count of the fears that I face now — I just say yes as much as possible and dare to try new things on a daily basis. Something that has helped me quite a lot this year is my 2017 New Year’s resolution: to fail. By turning my fear into my goal, I’ve been able to make bolder decisions throughout the year and take bigger risks. If things go right, awesome; if not, at least I’m fulfilling my resolution, and I have a new story to share in my presentations. I always get the question, “Can you share a story about a time you failed?” I still don’t have a good answer for that.

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▪️029▪️Today one of my best friends called me to tell me how courageous she felt when she asked for a raise at work. She has no idea if she will get it or not, but whatever the outcome is, she feels at peace with herself for at least asking exactly for what she wanted and deserved. Know your worth and have the courage to let others know. Only then, you will get what you need and if you don't, at least you know you tried. Failing is failing to try. Also, don't doubt yourself. The more determined you are the better 💪🏼👏🏻! #courageis #the100dayproject #100dayproject #day29

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B+C: You’ve recently started a new 100-day challenge (wow, you go, girl!) called Courage Is. Can you explain what inspired you to tackle the topic of courage?

MP: Ever since I finished my 100-day project two years ago, I started noticing courageous actions that either I or people around me were doing. Some people don’t even know how courageous they are, but as a fearful person myself, I get to recognize those acts. I realized that courage is contagious very early in the game. On that note, I created this new 100-day project that highlights daily acts of courage. The idea is for those who can relate to the action to feel proud of themselves and acknowledge their own courage, and for those who can’t relate to it, to give it a thought and maybe even a chance. I see these illustrated posts as daily reminders for people to get out of their comfort zone. Also, I am not an illustrator, so making the decision to illustrate 100 posts was a fear I decided to face. I cannot begin to tell you how happy this project makes me on a daily basis. Plus, I see the impact that it’s been having on my followers. The more vulnerable I get, the more others can relate to it, like the therapy post I recently uploaded where I talked about the panic attacks I started getting after I got married and realized my life was too comfortable for a 24-year-old girl.

B+C: If you could say one thing to a young woman who is putting off doing something she really wants to do because she’s too afraid, what would it be?

MP: Precisely because of that thought, I launched a new YouTube series called Dear Younger Self. I certainly can’t go back and do things all over again, but I can talk to young women all over so they can do things right — choosing to be brave instead of comfortable. One quote that helped me see life differently is from Confucius: “We all have two lives. The second one begins when we realize we only have one.” I started living my second life at 27; I wish I could’ve started earlier. So I would tell that to anyone who is too afraid to take action. I’d say, start living your second life, which requires you realizing that we cannot allow our fears to get in the way of our dreams and that the only time we fail is the time we fail to try, because otherwise we would be allowing our doubts to kill our dreams. Finally, I would ask that person who is afraid to do what she really wants to do: What is the BEST that could happen if you take action? In order to put growth into motion, we must focus on the rewards, not the risks like we are wired to do.

Do you have any hacks to help us be more courageous every day? Tweet us by mentioning @BritandCo.

(Photos via Stephanie Geddes)

PlantYou’s Food Hacks Can Save You Over $1K On Groceries

It's no secret that groceries feel more expensive than ever right now, and compounded by the fact the average American home throws away 322 cups of food a year, I'm determined to use up every bit of the food, sauces, and other cooking basics I buy. That's how I found Carleigh Bodrug. Her PlantYou page, and her Scrappy Cooking series (plus her new cookbook!), makes creating delicious recipes easier, and more fun, than ever.

What is scrappy cooking?

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"Scrappy Cooking is the concept of transforming the world’s most commonly wasted foods into delicious recipes — and starting is as easy as chopping up a broccoli stem into a stir-fry," she tells me over email. "Seriously, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Look at the plants you have that you bring into your home every week, and see if there are ways to repurpose them."

With the help of Carleigh's Instagram page, I turned some broccoli stems into French fries and used up the last of my peanut butter for a noodle salad sauce. If you want to turn your groceries into a one-of-a-kind meal but aren't sure where to start, Carleigh recommends looking at every single aspect of the plant.

"Whenever I bring a plant into my home, I think about what part of the plant is discarded, and then I research whether or not it’s safe to consume (this part is important)!" she says. "Once I identify it’s edible, that’s where the fun begins. A great example of this is something like celery, which I buy often. I was discarding the celery leaves for years, only to find out they taste almost exactly like parsley and make a great base for a tabouleh style salad."

Is PlantYou vegan?

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Yes, a lot of PlantYou's recipes are vegan, and they're all plant-based! Some of Carleigh's favorite recipes include mocha chocolate granola with spent coffee grounds, "chips" made out of beet greens, and pickle juice as a marinade (which is something I learned Chick-Fil-A does!). These recipes might sound intimidating or time-consuming, but that's exactly why Carleigh's PlantYou social media exists.

I can speak from experience that the videos are easy to both understand and put into practice. (Plus, the recipes are super versatile, because "when you’re cooking with just plants, if you screw something up, you can almost always fix it!"). But there are a few steps that always make these scrappy processes easier.

"The low hanging fruit to reducing food waste in your kitchen actually starts before you grocery shop," Carleigh says. "I always recommend people sit down for an hour one day a week, and make a really basic meal plan, outlining what they plan to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Then, before they head to the store, shop their fridge and pantry to avoid duplicate buying. Now it’s time to compile a shopping list, and only buy what you have a plan for! Done right, this will take care of 80 percent of your food waste."

What can I buy to save money on food?

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In addition to meal prepping (check out our favorite apps to reduce food waste, too!), the PlantYou chef + author recommends having a few recipes that use up a bunch of ingredients in one go. "It’s really important to lean on staple recipes that allow you to 'clean out the fridge,' which is really what my new Scrappy cookbook is about," Carleigh Bodrug says. "I wanted to arm people with great base recipes (like stews, curries and stir fries), where they can interchange the vegetables and produce items they have on hand every week to reduce waste and save money."

"By using up leftovers, repurposing ingredients, and being more mindful about the food you’re bringing into your home, you'll notice a decrease in your grocery bill," she continues. "The average American family of four wastes over $1700 worth of groceries per year — which is like a phone bill every month! Not only does being Scrappy benefit your wallet, but it also feels great knowing you're making healthier choices and contributing to a more sustainable planet."

Okay, so you know what you want to eat, and you've budgeted for groceries, what now? "I look for ingredients that are versatile and can be used in multiple recipes to minimize waste," Carleigh says. "Quality, longevity, and sustainability are key factors in my purchasing decisions."

What is the proper way to store food?

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After you've whipped up recipes like the Fiesta Fries below, it's important to store them properly to ensure they're fresh for as long as possible. "Use quality food storage and meal prep containers, and keep fruits and vegetables separate to prevent them from spoiling," Carleigh tells me. "Different types of food will require different conditions for optimum long-term storage. This applies to fresh produce, as well as dry and canned foods."

We all have days we don't want to cook (PlantYou's Carleigh Bodrug included), which is the perfect opportunity to support a local business. "On days when I don't feel like cooking, I usually rely on quick and easy options like smoothie bombs from my freezer, which are in my new cookbook," she says. "I also often have homemade soup ready to go that I’ve made in advance or have frozen in the freezer. Sometimes, my husband and I opt for ordering in from local restaurants in our small town in Ontario, especially on Friday nights after a long work week. It's a convenient way to support our favorite vegan small businesses while enjoying a hassle-free meal."

PlantYou's Fiesta Fries — Delicious Loaded Fries You Can Make Today!

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Ingredients:

  • 6 medium-size Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced to desired size, around 1/2 to 3/4 inch recommended
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 cups Vegan Ground Beef or your favorite vegan ground beef substitute
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, pinto beans, or red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 yellow or red onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons water or extra-virgin olive oil

Suggested Toppings:

  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced Handful of fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup Sunflower Cream Sauce

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F, and line a baking sheet with a reusable baking mat or parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine the sliced potatoes with the garlic powder and salt and toss until coated.
  3. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and roast for 35 minutes, or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
  4. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, combine the ground “beef” with the black beans, onion, red bell pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and the water. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until the onion starts to turn translucent.
  5. Assemble on a serving platter with the fries on the bottom, topped with the ground beef mixture and your desired toppings.

Excerpted from PlantYou: Scrappy Cooking: 140+ Plant-Based Zero-Waste Recipes That Are Good for You, Your Wallet, and the Planet by Carleigh Bodrug. Copyright © 2024. Available from Hachette Go, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, Inc.

Carleigh Bodrug is the CEO and Founder of PlantYou, a New York Times Bestselling cookbook author and self-taught plant-based chef, famous for her simple take on low-waste and vegan recipes. Boasting over ten million followers between her social channels, Carleigh has gripped social media with her simple and delicious low-waste recipes that make plants the star of the show.

Her latest book, PlantYou: Scrappy Cooking: 140+ Plant-Based Zero-Waste Recipes That Are Good for You, Your Wallet, and the Planet, is out NOW!

Check out our Weekend Scroll for more delicious recipes!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via SB Creative Studio

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Every Question About Gilmore Girls, Answered

At this point in my life, I have what could be considered an encyclopedic knowledge ofGilmore Girls. I can discuss plot points, TV moments, and The Battle Of Rory's Boyfriends to academic extents — but there is always more to talk about! If you've also got Gilmore Girls on the brain, then keep scrolling for some of your top Gilmore Girls questions, answered.

Why is season 7 of Gilmore Girls so different?

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Gilmore Girls season 7 has a different tone to the rest of the show for one simple reason: creators and writers Dan & Amy Sherman-Palladino weren't involved in the production of the show. They were so heavily involved in previous seasons that it makes sense their absence would be felt!

What happens at the end of Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life?

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After we said goodbye to Rory, Lorelai, and the rest of Stars Hollow, Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life allowed us to see all our favorite characters again — and then shocked us with its final four words. In a full circle moment, the show ends with Lorelai and Rory sitting on the steps of the town gazebo with their coffees before Rory asks, "Mom?" "Yeah," Lorelai says. "I'm pregnant."

Is there going to be a season 2 of Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life?

Image via Netflix

While there hasn't been an official confirmation for Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life season 2, fans and cast members alike are hoping we'll return to Stars Hollow again. "If that came up again, I love that character so much and I love Amy," Lauren Graham tells Collider. "I will work with her, any time. It would just be a matter of responsibility to the fans and what we could give them that's deserving of their devotion."

Where can I rewatch Gilmore Girls?

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You can stream Gilmore Girls on Netflix now. That means you can rewatch the show from the comfort of your own home (or bed), which is perfect!

Who did Lorelai Gilmore end up with?

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After years of feeling torn between Rory's father Christopher and her best friend Luke, Lorelai ended Gilmore Girls in a relationship with Luke. But if you ask me, the most important relationship is the one between Lorelai and Rory, which is still going strong by the end of the series!

What happened to Emily Gilmore?

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While Emily Gilmore seems a little intimidating at the beginning of the series, she definitely has a heart of gold. When A Year In The Life opens, we learn her husband Richard has passed away, and Emily balances healing from her grief while also exploring the independence she's never had before.

Where can I buy Gilmore Girls gifts?

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Whether you're hunting for a white cable knit sweater like Rory's iconic pullover or you're headed to the bookstore to try her reading list for yourself, you can find Gilmore Girls gifts everywhere from the Hallmark store to Amazon.

Where is the Gilmore Girls cast now?

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The cast of Gilmore Girls has been busy since the show wrapped! You can see Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson on Sullivan's Crossing, while Lauren Graham recently published Have I Told You This Already? Alexis Bledel is in talks to star in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 3, while Milo Ventimiglia just got married! I love seeing this cast thrive.

Why is Gilmore Girls season 5 controversial?

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

If there's one Gilmore Girls season that's gone down in infamy, it's Gilmore Girls season 5. There are a few (very controversial) reasons it strikes a cord with fans, including but not limited to, Rory dating a recently divorced Deanafter their affair in season 4, stealing a yacht with Logan, and deciding to drop out of Yale. This sounds like a quarter-life crisis if I've ever seen one.

Who is the father of Rory's baby?

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Gilmore Girlsleft us on a huge cliffhanger when Rory Gilmore revealed she was pregnant, and thanks to costume supervisor Valerie Campbell, we know that the father of Rory's baby is her college boyfriend Logan Huntzberger.

Where is Stars Hollow located in real life?

Featured image via Taryn Elliott/Pexels.

You can visit Stars Hollow IRL by taking a trip to Washington, Connecticut. The town made Amy Sherman-Palladino feel so at home that she used it as inspo for Gilmore Girls!

Does Lane Kim have a baby?

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

Yes, Lane ends up having twins by the end of Gilmore Girls. Amy Sherman-Palladino actually revealed this was a plot point she didn't like from Gilmore Girls season 7. "I would’ve preferred that Lane not have kids, only because it would’ve given us more options," she tells TV Line. "The one thing you couldn’t do with Lane and Zack is have them be sh—tty parents. So them having kids sort of dictated them still living in Stars Hollow. It changed things ever so slightly. They’re still rock and rollers. They’re still the cool parents."

Did Paris Geller attend Harvard?

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

No, Paris Geller did not get into Harvard, which is a plot point that still divides fans. After all, Paris was brilliant, why wouldn't she have gotten in?! Paris and Rory both went to Yale, and actually ended up rooming together.

What happened to Rory Gilmore?

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By the time we see Rory Gilmore in Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life, she's become a freelance journalist who travels around the world for work. After some encouragement from Jess, Rory also ends up writing a book about her life with Lorelai, titled Gilmore Girls.

Who was Rory Gilmore's best boyfriend?

Image via Netflix

This is the age-old question that will divide Gilmore Girls fans for the rest of time!! While everyone has a different answer (Logan! Jess! Dean! Actually..who picks Dean?), Matt Czuchry himself recently revealed that he thinks there's NO right answer. “I think [all three of Rory Gilmore's boyfriends have] strengths and weaknesses, like we all do,” he says on The Talk. “And I think that the fun of the show is that you’ve got these characters who are flawed and had these great pieces and everybody debates who’s best for Rory because they feel different about their strengths and weaknesses that might match up.”

What's your favorite season of Gilmore Girls? I'm a tried and true season 3 fan (because of Jess, of course), but I will always rewatch the pilot before I watch anything else. Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture news!

Lead image via WB/The CW

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Kim Kardashian Can’t Watch Herself On AHS: Delicate And The Reason Is So Relatable

Fans who were left on the edge of their seats after watching the first part of AHS: Delicate last year won't have to wait longer for part two! Emma Roberts and Kim Kardashian are gearing up to pick up where their characters left off, and sinister twists are about to get much darker. While we know the focus revolves around their interactions, we can't wait to see how Gilmore Girls star Matt Czuchry fits into what's sure to be a big reveal.

Read on for a mini recap of part one of AHS: Delicateand learn all the juicy details about part two!

Recap of Kim Kardashian's involvement in AHS: Delicate

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Kim Kardashian as 'Siobhan' in "American Horror Story: Delicate"

As good as Kim Kardashian is as the icy publicist Siobhan on AHS: Delicate, don't expect her to watch herself onscreen. She appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live yesterday and explained why she hasn't seen herself in clips of the show when Jimmy Kimmel played and unsettling one.

Her character can be seen intimidating a fertility doctor to do her bidding as she pierces the top of his neck with a long orange fingernail. She smiled before saying "It's so funny, I can't watch it back," and then added, "I get so nervous."

She even talked about the difference between filming for TV and working as an actual actress. She said, "I called my sisters and I go, 'Guys. You — not to say you'd ever want to get into acting — but you are so lucky you can wake up and just, we can sit in bed and film, and you don't have to get up...like there is no schedule."

However, it seems like the budding actress took her new schedule in stride because Star Trek actor and AHS co-star Zachary Quinto applauded Kardashian’s acting chops.

“I did a cameo on this season of ‘American Horror Story’ and I got to meet her,” the actor told People. “She was so lovely and warm and, really, I don’t think she needs my advice.” Quinto added, sharing that Kardashian, was “really in her element” on set and he was “really impressed by her spirit and her openness…I really look forward to seeing this season because I think she’s gonna do a wonderful job.”

Recap of AHS: Delicate Part 1

Image via FX Networks

The first part of AHS: Delicate premiered on FX September 20, 2023 and centered around actress Anna Victoria Alcott's desire to become a mother. Played by Emma Roberts, viewers watched as her husband Dexter Harding (played by Matt Czuchry) was supportive of her IVF procedure so the couple could conceive their first child. Despite the previous struggles, the procedure is a success and the happy couple learn they have a baby on the way.

However, things go horribly wrong when Anna starts being followed and eventually experiences a violent miscarriage during her first trimester. Somehow the baby actually survives, but Anna still experiences a series of strange hallucinations and events. From losing her hair to vomiting a foreign object, she starts to wonder if something is wrong with her baby. There's also the fact that she told her publicist Siobhan (played by Kim Kardashian) that she'd do anything to remain at the top of the her career.

What's revealed is that a baby cult does exist and Dexter's dead first wife knew all about it. However, the cult still looks at him as a threat so it's only a matter of time before they close in.

If you need a refresher, catch up on the first part of AHS: Delicate on Hulu and be sure to check out the eery trailer for a look at part two! Also, get your hands on a copy of Danielle Valentine’s novel Delicate Condition to see how the story truly unfolds.

Watch The Official Trailer For AHS: Delicate Part 2

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American Horror Story: Delicate Part Two | Official Trailer - Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian | FX

We suspected Siobhan may have a darker role than Anna thinks and the trailer confirms it. As Anna gets further along in her pregnancy, it's hinted that her growing baby may not be 'normal' and there's nothing she'll be able to do about it.

We're crossing our fingers for Anna and Dexter, but the baby cult may have the final say in AHS: Delicate Part 2.

The first portion of AHS: Delicate Part 2 premiered on FX April 3, 2024, but the series will come to a close beginning April 24. All we can say is things are about to get extremely bumpy 👀.

What do you think will happen during the final moments of AHS: Delicate Part 2? Let us know in the comments!

Stay updated on the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.
Header image via FX Networks
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9 Annoying Airplane Habits You’re Probably Guilty Of (& How To Avoid Them)

Planning summer vacationhas me thinking about stylish duffel bags and small rolling suitcases so much that I almost forgot about all the lack of airplane etiquette that comes with traveling. I've briefly mentioned an overzealous passenger who swore an overhead bin space belonged to him before, but that's not the only weird and downright inconsiderate behavior that can happen during a flight.

It's just a solid reminder that all the personal prep in the world can't keep other people from getting in the way. There's always at least one person who seems to think you want their feet propped up by you, and we can't forget about the person who's impatient to get to their seat as if there aren't other passengers on the plane. To avoid making the mistake of being inconsiderate or careless, I'm sharing a list of 9 offensive things to avoid while flying. And with that, welcome to Airplane Etiquette 101!

Airplane Etiquette Lessons:

Photo by Palu Malerba/PEXELS

1. Don't Complain That Someone Gets To Board Before You

When you're booking your flight, you usually can choose your seat assignments based on the ticket that you're purchasing. You're usually placed in different boarding groups as a result so please don't think someone is out to get you if you're placed in groups 4-6. All this means is that you purchased an Economy ticket that's placed you in a middle or aisle seat, or you may not have a boarding number.

Assuming someone shouldn't board before you based on their appearance or your annoyance isn't going to change what's on the ticket you purchased.

Image via Polina Zimmerman/Pexels

2. Don't Worry About Why Someone's Flying First Class

This one feels self-explanatory, but here goes: It's not anyone's business why someone is flying first class. Their job could've purchased the ticket, or they may have felt like splurging for once. It's not up to us to look at someone, judge their appearance, and say things like, "They just let anyone fly first class these days."

It's classist and — not to mention — childish.

Image via Lukas Souza/Unsplash

3. Just Cooperate With The Flight Attendants, OK?

We've all been on a flight where at least one person decides they're not going to listen to the flight attendants onboard. This usually looks like refusing to temporarily turn off their cell phones, having their headphones in during important demonstrations and announcements, or being told to calm down if there's ranting involved.

They want to make sure everyone will be safe, including you.

Image via Gustavo Fring/Pexels

4. Never Make Snide Comments About Parents Traveling With Kids

At the same time, being an asshole to parents who are traveling with kids just because you "really don't like kids" isn't going to earn you brownie points. This idea that children shouldn't be in public spaces when I'm sure someone travelled with us is wildly hypocritical and whiny.

A child may end up crying because their ears are popping or the plane is experiencing some turbulence. I highly doubt that they took one look at you and decided you were going to be the person they wanted to piss off.

Photo by Payton Butler/Dupe Photos

5. Please Stop Repeatedly Elbowing Your Seat Mate

Respecting someone's personal space is one of the greatest forms of respect in public. You could be waiting to board the plane or you can be sitting in your assigned seat or you can feel comfortable one you're sitting down. Whatever the case may, continuously elbowing the passenger next to you isn't going to go over well.

Photo by Jason Toevs/PEXELS

6. Don't Open The Window Cover If The Person Actually Sitting By It Closed It

This really boils down to respecting someone's personal space. If the person sitting by the window has it closed, ask them if they mind opening it. Please don't reach over them to open it yourself because it shows a disregard for their personal space and, possibly, their preference.

This used to happen to me all the time when I was younger until I finally asked someone what they were doing. It's amazing how startled people are when you ask them a simple question because some people genuinely don't believe they're doing anything wrong.

Photo by Rafly Alfaridzy/Unsplash

7. Stop Blowing Your Nose Loudly In Your Seat Mate's Ear

The first time I flew to California, I wondered how I was going to survive being on a plane for five hours. I figured I'd be okay with reading a couple of books and taking a nap. While I did read, the nap didn't happen thanks to the person sitting next to me.

This person blew their nose the entire flight and balled up their countless napkins before placing them near my elbow. I couldn't even use my armrest because they insisted on elbowing me throughout the flight. Take it from someone who's been subject to this, don't be this person. It's really aggravating.

The solution? Just make your way to the bathroom and blow your nose to your heart's content. That way, you're not bothering the people around you, plus there's a trash can right there for your leftover tissues!

Photo by Polina Zimmerman/PEXELS

8. Absolutely NO Burping Or Passing Gas — Especially Without Saying Excuse Me Afterwards

Sigh. Please, just don't. If your body has to release gas, the least you can do is say "Excuse me," when seating on a plane that contains over 200 people. It's not like you can open a window to get rid of the scent that may come along with your body's gas so people will be aware of it if it's particularly, well, smelly.

Much like the tissue situation, just take a trip to the bathroom and handle things alone, in a closed room, away from other people.

Photo by Suhyeon Choi/Unsplash

9. No More Rushing People When It's Time To Deplane

Again, there are other passengers on the plane, so everyone will have to wait to exit it. It'll eventually happen, but rushing other people isn't going to make you leave any quicker. You may actually get a few dirty looks or hear some choice words if you're not careful. Please just sit back, relax, and make your move when it's actually your turn.

What do you think are some offensive things people can do while flying? Let us know in the comments!

Lead image via Ashley Diego/Dupe Photos

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Your May Horoscope Is Here–See What's In Store For Your Sign

In May 2024, a unique opportunity for personal growth and transformation awaits. As the communication Mercury regains momentum after last month’s retrograde and we emerge from the eclipse season, a new chapter is about to begin. This is your chance to gather the scattered pieces and rebuild a stronger, more enlightened version of yourself. Taurus season continues beckoning us to review our comforts, values, love stories, and finances. Although we live in uncertain times, note that no external source can dim your light as long as you remain heart-centered and in flow with your happiness.

Key Astrological Dates Of Taurus Season In May 2024

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  • 5/1 Venus square Pluto
  • 5/7 Sun sextile Saturn
  • 5/8 New Moon in Taurus
  • 5/13 Sun conjunct Uranus
  • 5/15 Mercury enters Taurus
  • 5/17 Mercury square Pluto
  • 5/18 Venus conjunct Uranus, Sun conjunct Jupiter
  • 5/20 Gemini Season Begins
  • 5/23 Full Moon in Sagittarius, Venus enters Gemini
  • 5/26 Jupiter enters Gemini

What To Expect In Your May Horoscope For 2024

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We enter this month with an intense exchange between Venus and Pluto. As they form a square on the 1st, it can manifest as power and control issues between love and values. This is the moment to embrace change involving your desires. The split between wanting stability with Venus in Taurus and the radical energy of Pluto in Aquarius can lead to a powerful transformation in your love story while opening the path to realizing your worth. There is a part of you or the relationship itself that needs to evolve to attract a healthier outcome. Hold still, and don’t react. Just observe your environment. Take this as a sign to reevaluate your priorities in your relationship and everything else that can deflect you from living authentically. On the 7th, things will lighten up as the Sun is in a supportive position with Saturn, the planet of structure and stability. Clarity will set as the Sun lets you see your life direction while Saturn supports your future ventures. This will all unfold in time for the new moon in Taurus to happen on the 8th. Finally, we are officially out of the eclipse mist and equipped to potentially set a different course to invoke success. The best part is that this new moon energy will be grounding and quiet, giving you the space to set clear intentions to support your needs instead of what you want. Remember that your “wants” will only take you so far, while honoring your needs will attract a better flow.

On the 13th, a day filled with potential breakthroughs awaits. The Sun will merge with Uranus, the rebel planet, invoking themes of innovation and freedom from the old constraints. This can manifest in your desire to change or break from the usual routine. Transparency and honest discussions will open that door for you. This day can be filled with serendipitous events as you trust in yourself and try something new. It's an amazing opportunity to begin brainstorming ideas or troubleshooting what is holding you back from living the life you want.

Our thinking process will slow down when Mercury, the communication planet, enters Taurus on the 15th. Our conversations will be more down-to-earth and intentional. The way to master this planetary transit these next few weeks is to become simpler and more organized. Focusing on one thing at a time will grant you the desired results.

Focusing initially on this recent Mercury shift will be tricky as it squares off to Pluto on the 17th, staging a distress signal involving the FOMO. Pluto in Aquarius adds traction in the desire to evolve and look ahead to what’s next. At the same time, Mercury in Taurus promotes grounding and the desire to build solidity with our ideas. This planetary square can be gritty, leading to communication blunders or an inner mental conflict leading to a self-limiting belief. Let go and know that masterpieces of any kind were not created overnight. You are on the right path, and as long as you have self-acceptance, everything will fall into place as it should.

Your Astrological Forecast Continued For May 2024 Horoscopes

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Expect an overflow of changes and certainty on the 18th with the celestial bodies of the Sun, Venus, Jupiter, and Uranus in the sign of Taurus. Taurus is the sign that desires stability, finances, love, and sensuality. This day will highlight all these themes, pulling you into making the necessary decisions involving love and self-security. Your love story from earlier this month will continue today as Venus joins Uranus, igniting a new flow in your relationships and shifting your narrative. What part of your love life needs reinvention? This is the day you will get answers about its direction and what you can do to attract the changes you want. The Sun merging with Jupiter will ignite an unfamiliar wave of optimism and the desire to take a leap professionally or romantically. This is also a great day to begin a new project or relationship or renew your vows.

Now expect the fun to start as Gemini season begins on the 20th! Your hard work this month will pay off, and there will be a new wave of confidence or inspiration to expand your outlets involving your ideas. Remember that curiosity is vital to fully embracing this air season. Be like Alice in Wonderland and jump into the rabbit hole of possibility.

What’s more, this upcoming Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd will ignite fuel to your fire involving what needs to be done for you to break free from the mundane. It is time to reflect on your past perspective and old beliefs and release them once and for all. This May 2024 full moon will be ceremonial as you will feel a surge of optimism and feel comfortable with letting go. The best part of this day is that Venus will also enter Gemini, infusing the collective with a central focus on the betterment of humanity. While also learning the importance of embracing a love of all shades and shapes. This will be a positive phase in your life experience, and celebrating this milestone in your personal development with those who share your values will grant you that dash of magic you need.

We conclude this month with a momentous event. Jupiter, the planet of expansion and optimism, enters the sign of Gemini on the 26th and will remain in this sign for the following year. Moving forward, we are not being led by blind faith. We will embrace ideas and conventional thinking. Listening carefully and being open-minded to others' insights will ignite even more inspiration than you ever thought possible. Setting aside the conforms and old doctrines of what worked before will push you ahead of the curve.

Read Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs For Your May Horoscope For 2024

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Aries

Get ready to claim your power and momentum. After last month's solar eclipse, you are more than equipped to take charge of a matter on the back burner. On the 1st, Venus crossing paths with Pluto intensely can throw a curveball involving plans that involve networks or friendships. Remember to hold steady and not stress the results. Everything falls into place when you remain centered and calm. A second wind approaches when the New Moon in Taurus happens on the 8th extending you an opportunity to revamp your finances while powering up your self-esteem. Begin an abundance practice or begin a new mood board to help you get started while enabling you to hold onto your long-term vision. When Gemini Season begins on the 20th, this is your opportunity to share your ideas and strengthen your connections in your immediate environment. It is more lighthearted and joyful. These next three weeks will be creative and fertile–take advantage, and you might make a masterpiece. Witness a spiritual breakthrough and celebrate your past lessons involving your life experiences as the Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd prompts you to reflect on your future direction. Practically, this is the moment to finish that book, launch your podcast, or make an aspiration of yours finite and see through to its completion.

Taurus

Happy birthday, Taurus! As your season unfolds, you'll feel confident and truly in your element. The New Moon in your sign on May 8th extends a fresh start in how you present yourself to the world, signaling a moment of self-renewal and how you will share your radiance with the world by sharing your gifts. A pivotal moment arrives on the 13th when the Sun aligns with Uranus in your sign, marking a bold move aligned with your passions. However, be mindful of impulsivity during this exciting time. On the 18th, when Venus joins Uranus in your identity and self-expression sector, your love life receives an unexpected boost of support. This contagious energy invites you to leap and confidently achieve your wants. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on May 23rd illuminates your 8th, urging you to release past fears and confront them head-on. This period offers opportunities to settle debts and receive unexpected financial blessings. It's also a time to deepen the intimacy with a partner or yourself.

Gemini

Prepare for a journey of growth and transformation. As the month begins with Venus square Pluto on the 1st, you'll feel pressured to confront your limiting beliefs head-on. This intense transit catalyzes the importance of staying true to yourself, empowering you to embrace your rebellious spirit and make your mark on the world. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th plants a seed of innovation deep within your subconscious, allowing you to realign with new dreams and aspirations that resonate deeply with your soul. As Gemini season begins on the 20th, you'll feel renewed energy and perspective, infusing you with a fresh outlook on life and how you wish to share your ideas to the world. Despite Mercury, your ruling planet, being in Taurus, this grounding influence provides you with the stability you need to make tangible progress toward your goals. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd will illuminate your love life and partnerships, urging you to take your connections to the next level. Reflect on what needs to evolve within yourself to create space for deeper, more fulfilling relationships. Embrace this opportunity for growth and transformation as you navigate the workings of love and self-discovery.

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Cancer

Your focus turns towards your networks and friendships. The Sun sextile Saturn on the 7th presents an opportunity to ground your ideas and turn them into reality with the support of your current connections. With confidence and determination, you can contextualize and bring your passions to life, making it an ideal time to pitch ideas or seek career opportunities. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th, highlighting the sector of friendships and networks, energizes you with motivation and grit to renew your aspirations and long-term dreams. This lunar event empowers you to set new goals and strengthen your bonds with like-minded individuals who share your vision for the future. However, beware of potential miscommunications and blunders on the 17th, as Mercury squares Pluto. Emotions may run high, particularly in professional networks or friendships, leading to unforeseen arguments if not handled carefully. Stay mindful of your feelings and strive for open, honest communication to gracefully navigate this transit. As the Full Moon illuminates your health and daily life sector on the 23rd, it invokes the need to prioritize your physical well-being and letting go of old habits. Take this opportunity to care for your body and release any burdens weighing you down daily. Revive your mind-body-spirit connection through release work, allowing yourself to let go of what no longer serves you in your immediate surroundings.

Leo

All eyes are on you and your next move in the career and public life. The month kicks off with Venus square Pluto on the 1st, increasing pressure in your romantic or professional partnerships. This clash of beliefs regarding structure and risk may challenge you, but trust your inner voice to navigate any decisions. Impulsive actions should take a back seat during this intense period. The New Moon on the 8th allows you to plant a new seed regarding your career vision. Whether you're ready to go public with an idea or strive for tangible results, this is the moment to elevate your manifestation game and set your intentions for success. The 18th initiates a significant moment for you as Venus conjuncts Uranus. This could potentially bring a career advancement or a shift in status, such as marriage or its dissolution. As long as you grow, your love can strengthen. Embrace the unexpected as you navigate this transformative period in your life. As the Full Moon on the 23rd illuminates your romantic life, children, and creative pursuits, something within you is ready to be birthed into existence. Whether it's a boost in self-esteem, the completion of a project, or even news of pregnancy, receive the potential for new beginnings. If family planning is on your mind, this lunar phase offers favorable energy to start your journey.

Virgo

Your focus shifts toward spirituality, dreams, and belief systems as you contemplate and reflect. With Venus square Pluto on the 1st, you may experience a shakeup in your process of the mind-body connection, prompting you to confront mental conflicts and past fears head-on. Mastering this ability to combat inner turmoil will pave the way for growth and expansion as you understand how your thoughts shape your reality. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th brings fresh air, allowing you to make heartfelt wishes and set intentions aligned with your true desires. Whether launching a passion project or setting a new course for your dreams, this lunar event empowers you to manifest your aspirations confidently. There's also a boost of support in manifesting future love or renewing present partnerships. On the 18th, as Venus conjuncts Uranus, expect unexpected changes in your life situation, whether it's a new romantic relationship blossoming or your dream project taking shape. It's a period of excitement as you witness your paradigm shift unexpectedly. As the Full Moon in Sagittarius illuminates your home and family sector, it's time to reevaluate your emotional needs and address unresolved issues with loved ones. Whether you decide to move, renovate, or let go of the past, this lunar event will allow you to express your vulnerability and create a sense of emotional clarity. Embrace this clearance as you witness your dreams come alive in your inner and outer worlds.

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Libra

The focus turns inward as you invest time in inner work, seeking to align with your true path and live authentically. It begins with Venus square Pluto on the 1st, a pressure-filled transit that urges you to prioritize your happiness over others' expectations. While this may feel uncomfortable, especially in your partnerships, it's essential to clear out any lingering resentment and nurture the unseen aspects of life, including fears, intimacy, finances, and resources. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th provides a fresh start, allowing you to set intentions for how you want to show up in your intimate connections and be more intentional in your life. As Gemini Season begins, you'll feel light and optimism in your love life. Clarity and inspiration guide you towards passion-filled pursuits, encouraging you to align more closely with your heart and take chances in dating or exploring new depths in partnerships. However, the Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd may bring challenges in communication and mental overwhelm. It's important to prioritize tasks and avoid diving headfirst into new endeavors. Take the time to reflect on what truly aligns with your heart and reach resolutions where miscommunications occurred. This busy period calls for careful consideration of your priorities, ensuring that you conclude rather than start anew for now.

Scorpio

This month shines on your romantic and business partnerships as you navigate moments of renewal and growth. Whether finally calling someone bae or healing from a recent breakup, this period prompts a deep reflection on your beliefs surrounding connections and staying true to your vision. The month begins with Venus square Pluto on the 1st, adding intensity as you confront unresolved issues rooted in your family dynamics that influence your approach to relationships. This is a time for conscious awareness and understanding, recognizing that the past does not define who you are or what you deserve in love. On the 8th, the New Moon in Taurus marks a new phase in your love story, offering opportunities to create a fresh path in existing or new partnerships. Manifest your desires on this day, but take the time to reflect on what you truly want and need in relationships. As Venus conjuncts Uranus on the 18th, expect a twist of fate or serendipitous encounter that guides you toward the right partner or life path. Trust the Universe and allow your energy to align with your desired reality. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd provides a chance to tie up loose ends regarding finances and develop a healthier relationship with money. Take this opportunity to understand the root causes of any financial patterns, whether excessive spending or frugality and create space for abundance and stability in your life. Assess what is missing in your life to make meaningful connections and cultivate lasting prosperity.

Sagittarius

The focus turns to your health and well-being, prompting you to engage in release work and eliminate toxic surroundings or situations from your life. Whether it's a change in the workplace or establishing boundaries, now is the time to energetically and physically pinpoint your needs. When Venus squares Pluto on the 1st this will be a pivotal moment for you to realize the root cause of your mental conflict while also developing better skills involving your long term aspirations. Starting over or learning something new will place you ahead of the curve and ensure success. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th will help you revive your body by establishing a new exercise routine or wellness practice. With Taurus' stability, consistency is key to attracting the desired outcome. Redecorating your surroundings or clearing your work desk can bring abundance and clarity to your core needs. As Gemini season begins, it's a chance to revitalize your relationships and discuss their direction. This period is favorable for romantic pursuits or forming new business connections. On the 23rd, the Full Moon in your sign puts you in the spotlight, urging you to embrace your true self and share your story with those who resonate with your values. It's a time of evolution and growth as you step into a more authentic life path and make peace with what you need to let go involving your old self.

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Capricorn

As someone driven by ambition, this is a period for you to reflect on what truly fulfills you and embrace the idea of having fun. The Venus square Pluto on the 1st prompts you to examine your self-esteem as you navigate this new course in life. It's essential to shift your focus from the need for status to the joy in relationships and heartfelt connections. By aligning with the heart, you deepen your bonds with others and ignite inspiration for creative pursuits. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th offers an opportunity to plant a new seed in your love life or creative endeavors. This is a favorable time to set intentions and perform manifestation work, whether attracting a future love partner or beginning a new creative venture. Embrace this energy to ignite a new phase filled with love, joy, and creativity. As Gemini Season begins, the focus shifts to the organization and daily rituals, prompting discussions about what truly brings you joy rather than simply what makes sense. Consider starting a somatic healing or meditation practice to help navigate these changes with ease. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd invites you to look inward and declutter your subconscious realms. While your dream life may be vivid and stimulating...journaling, meditating, and relaxation techniques can help you identify and release any emotional baggage or limiting beliefs. Embrace this opportunity to clear the path for personal growth and transformation.

Aquarius

The focus will be on your family and home life, prompting you to reflect on your emotional security and find comfort in slowing down. With Venus square Pluto on the 1st, pressure arises regarding your place within the home and defining your sense of security. This transit encourages you to let go of outdated outlooks and make room for deeper emotional connections with family. The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th offers a fresh start in your home dynamics. It allows you to renew your perception of family values and perhaps even consider a move or set new roots for generational healing. This is an ideal time to turn over a new leaf and embrace positive changes in your home life. When Gemini Season begins, expect to dive deeper into your true passion pursuits. While the new moon in Taurus may prompt a need to slow down and reflect, Gemini Season brings a new vision and energy to your creative process. Embracing a lighthearted approach, like a child, can lead to breakthroughs and fresh insights. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd encourages you to tie up loose ends in your friendships as you explore new ideas and possibilities. This lunar event extends a chance to reconnect with old friends, seek resolution, or pick up where you left off. Through this healing process and understanding, you'll gain clarity on your aspirations and begin to see the bigger picture of your place in the world.

Pisces

This month, your mind is buzzing with ideas and while igniting endless discussions with those in your immediate surroundings. It's a stimulating period that can enforce the need to learn a new skill or share your ideas with others to witness your dream come alive. The new moon in Taurus on the 8th opens up endless possibilities for sharing your vision and setting intentions related to your passions. By immersing yourself in your local community and remaining receptive to information from all sides, you'll find yourself increasingly inspired in the long run. On the 18th, Venus conjuncts Uranus, bringing unexpected brilliance and otherworldly ideas your way. While this transit may feel overwhelming, jotting down your stream of consciousness can help you make sense of it later. Be open to initiating outings, as they may lead to romantic connections, but be mindful of potential situationships. Trust your intuition to navigate any curveballs Uranus may throw your way. This period will be essential for you to learn the importance of asserting boundaries and holding true to your beliefs. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 23rd closes a chapter in your career. This lunar event may bring a promotion or signal the need to move on to something that brings you fulfillment. Take stock of where you are in your career path and assess opportunities for progression to help you maintain confidence and clarity moving forward.

What do you think of your May horoscope for 2024? Maybe it’s written in the stars, or maybe it’s... just a coincidence. Our resident astrologer is weighing in on *all* of YOUR big questions, from your career and personal development to your wellness and love life. Fill out this form to get the expert advice you’ve been dreaming of in an upcoming astrology feature!

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