LPT: Use virtual credit cards, not physical credit cards
Capital One Credit Cards (and others I believe) allow you to create unlimited credit card numbers (+exp/cvv) that point to your account that you can use on different websites/companies. That way if they get hacked, you only need to delete the virtual card and you don't have to change your CC# in a million places.
Those virtual cards can also be blocked! I use them everywhere so if a strange charge comes through, I'll know what company was at fault and it's also handy for shady companies that you want to make sure you can cancel no matter what.
https://redd.it/1m0ul2e
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Turn off notifications for any text message from people not on your contacts
Why should you be interrupted in the middle of a busy day with a scam text message claiming that you owe unpaid tolls or that a package could not be delivered or that someone is really interested in your CV?
Scammers don’t deserve your attention.
https://redd.it/1m0oxk1
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: To break a doomscrolling habit, move all your social media apps into a folder labeled “Waste of Time.” It creates just enough friction to make you pause.
https://redd.it/1m0jbba
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: “To live a creative life, we must lose the fear of getting it wrong.” This line hit me hard yesterday.
I was reading a book last night and came across this sentence:
“To live a creative life, we must lose the fear of getting it wrong.”
It stopped me in that very moment.
I realized so much of my work whether marketing campaigns, writing, even problem-solving in business gets watered down by this fear. The fear of being wrong, looking stupid, wasting time or money.
It’s funny how often “safe” ideas are actually the riskiest because they’re forgettable.
This line made me want to start deliberately embracing wrong turns, experiments, and even public failures more often.
https://redd.it/1m0f7b5
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Saying to someone "there's a twist at the end of the move/tv show/book but I won't spoil what it is" is STILL A SPOILER!
The point of a twist is that it's unexpected. Knowing a twist it coming gives away the ending and changes the experience from what the creator intended.
https://redd.it/1lzycsv
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Know someone that just had a baby? Make them ready to bake food.
Baby shower items aside, the greatest gift we received (besides a healthy child) as new parents was stuff we could just throw in the oven and eat. A family friend brought us a few casseroles and Shepard's pie, and we didn't have to think about food for a week. It was so thoughtful I thought I'd just pass it on as an idea for others because you're just exhausted after being in the hospital.
https://redd.it/1lzvwtm
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: When someone gets interrupted while telling a story, invite them to continue after the interruption is over with an, “as you were saying about (x)” or something similar. It can be uncomfortable for the person to start back up and this makes them feel like you valued their words.
https://redd.it/1lzs46f
@r_lifeprotips
LPT swish a little water at the end of a can of cat food and give them that too
swishing a little water around at the end of a can of cat food helps get the last little bit of food in there, makes for cleaner recycling, and helps your cat stay hydrated.
you can also put the lid into the can to help avoid sharp edges at the recycling facility.
maybe this is obvious but i didn't really think to do this until recently!
https://redd.it/1lzom5j
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Use virtual credit cards for all online subscriptions
Stops surprise renewals, and protect your real cards. I only use Privacy at the moment. Has a lot of new features.
Create virtual cards using:
Privacy.com (https://privacy.com)
Revolut.com (https://www.revolut.com)
Wise if outside the US (https://wise.com/gb/card/)
There are many different ones.
Each subscription gets its own card, or assign it by merchant. Want to cancel? Just pause or close the virtual card.
https://redd.it/1lzlfa0
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Ask “How are you, really?” sometimes. People answer differently when they know you care.
https://redd.it/1lzg5tw
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Keep fresh herbs from going bad by freezing them in olive oil
Chop fresh herbs (like basil, parsley or cilantro), put them in an ice cube tray and top with olive oil before freezing.
The oil keeps the herbs green and flavorful and you can toss the cubes straight into a hot pan or soup.
Saves money, reduces waste and your food tastes way better with “fresh” herbs anytime!
https://redd.it/1lz9g79
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: if your knees hurt while cycling up hill, your seat is too low
https://redd.it/1lza9ek
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Train your brain like a muscle if you actually want better self esteem
This might sound like cheesy self-help but it seriously works if you commit to it.
Self esteem isn't some random feeling, it's basically how you judge yourself day to day. That judgment comes from your thoughts which create emotions which lead to actions.
Here’s the tip that changed the game for me
Whenever you catch a negative thought like “I’m such a failure” or “I always mess things up” stop for a sec, notice it, and say the opposite out loud with confidence. Even better if you make it kind of funny.
Something like
“Okay drama queen, I’m not a failure, I’m just tired and need a snack.”
That trains your brain to stop taking your own BS so seriously.
And yeah you’re gonna forget to do it. That’s why having a little physical reminder helps. Like wearing a bracelet or carrying a small object that triggers the thought “hey be nicer to yourself.”
Eventually your brain gets used to it. Then switch the object so your brain doesn’t tune it out.
It’s not about motivation or hype. It’s a mental workout. Do it often and you’ll start seeing your self-esteem shift for real.
Hope this helps someone out there.
https://redd.it/1lz75bi
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: If you want to appear more confident in conversations, ask follow-up questions instead of trying to impress with your own stories.
Two years ago, I realized I had become "that guy" in conversations. You know, the one who's just waiting for their turn to talk. Someone would mention they went to Japan, and I'd immediately jump in: "Oh I went there too! Actually..." And I'd launch into my story for 10 minutes.
I thought that's how you connected with people. Show them you had things in common.
Then I went to a party where I watched this guy who was clearly the center of attention. But weirdly, he talked very little about himself. Instead, he asked questions like "What was that temple you visited like?" or "What struck you most about being there?"
I decided to test his approach.
Here's what happened:
When you ask real follow-up questions, people literally light up. They feel heard, understood, interesting. And you? You discover fascinating things about others instead of reciting your own résumé.
The crazy thing is, people walk away from these conversations thinking YOU were fascinating. Even though you mostly just listened. They associate the pleasure they had talking about themselves... with you.
Unexpected bonus: you actually remember more about people. When you actively listen instead of preparing your next response, you create real connections. People remember you as "the person who really listened to me."
Now my rule is: for every story I tell, I ask at least two questions about what the other person just said. My conversations have become so much richer.
So if you want to appear more confident and charismatic, stop trying to impress and start being genuinely curious about others. It's counterintuitive, but it works.
https://redd.it/1lz2nrg
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: If you freelance or DoorDash/Uber/etc., keep a folder labeled “Write-Offs” in your Notes app all year long.
You’ll forget what you spent unless you log it immediately.
If you’re a gig worker, log every work-related purchase in a simple note labeled “Write-Offs.”
Include: car washes, phone mounts, meals during long shifts, mileage, batteries, etc.
Come tax season, it could save you hundreds.
Check what the IRS says: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work
https://redd.it/1lyyne5
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Take all the pictures of your pet, fill your whole phone with them
When it's time to to say goodbye, you'll look back at them all and realize how much they were a part of your life. Time flies and we take for granted the moments, even the small ones, that come and go and don't appreciate. A random selfie with a Snapchat filter, them sleeping, them watching you use the toilet, a blurry picture of them looking at you -- when they're gone and all you have are memories, sometimes moments you forget happen feel like new again. And love your pet every day. Love love love love them and when it's time to cross the rainbow bridge, find comfort in knowing you showed them love every single day. I put my dog to sleep yesterday, he was adopted as a senior 4 years ago. Time flew by and looking back at the pictures, I didn't realize how many moments we fit into 4 years. I'm so glad I took all these pictures -- most of these moments slipped through my memory and I'm glad I have them to look back on.
https://redd.it/1m0rxty
@r_lifeprotips
LPT use focused breathing to get rid of muscles spasms
If you're like me and get muscle twitching or muscle spasms on a regular basis, try to use focused breathing to eliminate them. A handful of deep breath cycles usually does the trick.
https://redd.it/1m0myjc
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: If you wear glasses or sunglasses and notice a speck on your glasses at a sandy area, blow on your glasses first otherwise the coarse sand will scratch up your lens if you use something to wipe it off.
https://redd.it/1m0fmse
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Anything to do with your bank is not so pressing that you cannot hang up and call their official number or visit a branch.
Beyond all of the usual advice you see about scams, you can handle any financial crisis on your own terms. Suspicious activity on your card? Just call the number on the back and someone will be happy to help you. Someone trying to steal all your money? Call your local bank branch or visit your institutions website - they'll have a number you can call. You're not being a bother by checking that your money is safe.
Don't let someone who contacted you have control of your information.
https://redd.it/1lzyntc
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: If you're stuck in a creative rut, impose weird limitations on yourself instead of trying to think outside the box.
Last year, I had to build a website and I was completely blocked. Like nothing was coming at all. I kept telling myself to be creative but that just made it worse.
Then out of frustration I decided to limit myself to only circles and blue. That's it.
And then... boom. Ideas started flowing. Weirdly, having fewer options made me more creative.
Here's the thing:
Your brain loves solving puzzles but freaks out when there are too many choices. If you say make something cool, it crashes. If you say make something cool but only with triangles, it suddenly wakes up.
The dumber the limitation, the better it works. Write a story without using the letter e. Cook with only what's in your fridge right now. Make a PowerPoint where every slide has to be a question.
Now I apply this everywhere. At work, for personal projects, even picking my playlist. I set myself a ridiculous rule and magically everything unlocks.
So if you're struggling with something creative, stop looking for inspiration. Find yourself a stupid constraint and watch what happens.
https://redd.it/1lzxpch
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: set a location based reminder for hotel access codes
You can set reminders that send you push notifications when arriving somewhere, use that for hotels and airbnbs that send you a pin to access a physical key or door a couple of days before arrival. Bonus: if you stay for more than one arrival, it will send it to you on each arrival.
https://redd.it/1lztwsn
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: No Spend Months
Every so often we will do a "no spend month." Currently doing a No Spend July after having an expensive June. It isn't strictly "no spend" but what we'll do is cut down substantially on discretionary spending where we can. No buying clothes, gadgets or gizmos, random Amazon buy, eating out, etc. (Super nice that we did it during Prime Day! Didn't buy a bunch of random junk we don't really need.) Its mainly a one month mindset shift to "how can I do this while spending as little as possible?" We do it when grocery shopping for the month too. We try to make cheap meals and use up what we may have stockpiled in the pantry or freezer. We end up saving a surprising amount of money in the months we do it and, typically, the mindset will bleed into the following months too which is nice.
I'll add that I know we're fortunate people to be able to even do this. For many, this mindset is just life
https://redd.it/1lzr8s2
@r_lifeprotips
LPT : seriously start making smoothies.
Ok this is more so for the people who don’t get hungry early in the morning (like me). I usually don’t want to eat anything but I know I will drink something, so I started making smoothies. Mine
Usually consist of plain Greek yogurt, your fruits of choice, milk, kale, and little bit of protein powder. Easy way to have a breakfast without actually eating something in the “normal” way
Edit : I litterally posted this not that long ago and apparently people hate it 😭 if it doesn’t work FOR YOU then just don’t do it? It works for me and for other people!
https://redd.it/1lznlzk
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: If you ever feel awkward networking, start by asking people about themselves.
People love talking about their work, goals, or experiences. Instead of trying to sell yourself ask genuine questions it builds rapport naturally and you will come across as a great listener. You will often get useful information too
https://redd.it/1lzf1qb
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: Talk to a friend today. They might not be having a good time and you might just make their day better.
https://redd.it/1lzfmnd
@r_lifeprotips
LPT - When Washing Silicone Containers, Fill With Hot Water And Soak Before Drying
As a SAHM, I have many silicone reusable dishes in my kitchen: toddler pouches, stasher bags, kids plates, hakka pumps - the works. Even silicone ice cube trays and jello molds.
When I wash them with just soap and water, often the flavors of whatever was in the dishes hangs around, especially with ice cube trays. Either that, or soap sticks around in the porous material.
To reduce this issue, I have taken to, after washing with soap and water and rinsing the dishes, filling them up with really hot water and just letting them sit undisturbed for maybe 5 minutes. I let the dishes soak, then rinse them with cold water. Idk if that last step is necessary though.
If you soak the dishes, it helps release any lingering soap or flavors from the silicone!
https://redd.it/1lzb800
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: remove and clean the detergent-drawer in your front loading washing machine
If you have a front loading washing machine, you should be able to fully remove the detergent drawer. You just need to locate and depress the latch that keeps it from sliding all the way out.
Once it's out, you can more easily scrub and rinse away any black mold on the drawer. There's probably also mold in the cavity that holds the drawer which you can wipe clean too.
https://redd.it/1lz6ln5
@r_lifeprotips
LPT When you're overwhelmed, list only the next 3 things to do — not everything.
This keeps your brain from panicking about the whole mountain. Focusing on the next step helps you gain momentum and calm your nerves.
https://redd.it/1lz5mvv
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: If you're bad at saying "no" and always feel guilty after, try replacing "I can't" with "I've already committed", it sets a boundary without inviting negotiation.
A lot of us agree to things we don’t actually want to do, just because we feel bad saying no. And then we end up overthinking it for hours or days. Instead of saying “I can’t” (which often sounds like there’s room to push), say “I’ve already committed to something else.” It sounds firm but polite, and people are less likely to question it. It also helps to have a reason ready in case someone does ask. It doesn’t have to be anything deep, even something like “I’ve set aside that time to recharge” or “I’ve got some personal errands” works fine. The goal isn’t to lie, but to protect your time without guilt.
It’s a small shift, but it really helps protect both your boundaries and your peace of mind.
https://redd.it/1lz07kt
@r_lifeprotips
LPT: When booking hotels, search on Google Maps instead of hotel websites, it shows all rates side by side.
Google aggregates rates from all major platforms (Expedia, Hotels.com, direct).
Type “hotels in city” into Google Maps, hit search and change the view to map.
You’ll see prices from 5+ sites and sometimes $20+ cheaper than going direct.
Try it now: https://www.google.com/maps
https://redd.it/1lyxz6e
@r_lifeprotips
