How to Be Less Judgmental

It’s easy to be judgmental without knowing you are. For example, you may think you know how everyone should look, think, and act. Oftentimes, thinking you have everything figured out can give you a sense of comfort; however, being judgmental can prevent you from making new friends and trying new things. Fortunately, you can learn to be less judgmental by changing your perspective, broadening your horizons, and keeping an open mind.

EditSteps

EditChanging Your Perspective

1. Embrace positive thinking. A negative mindset can lead to judgmental thinking. Try to see the positive aspects of every situation, rather than the negatives. When you catch yourself having negative thoughts, challenge them. Then, challenge yourself to pick out something positive.^[1]
   
   • You can still be realistic while being positive. You don’t have to ignore negative aspects, just don’t focus exclusively on them.
   • It’s okay to have bad days. Forgive yourself on days when you are feeling down and negative.
   • Having a positive attitude can improve your life in many ways!
2. Separate people’s individual actions from their personality. Sometimes people will do things that you find abhorrent, such as stealing someone’s lunch money or cutting in a line. Although their actions may be wrong, it’s important not to judge them solely on one action. They likely have positive qualities that you haven’t seen yet.^[2]
   
   • Consider that their actions in that one moment may be driven by a circumstance you don’t understand. For example, they may have stolen the lunch money because they haven’t had a meal in 2 days.
3. Notice when you're judging. Nip judgments in the bud by identifying how and when you’re thinking about other people. When you catch yourself having critical thoughts about someone, ask yourself how you or they benefit from those thoughts. Then, offer a compliment instead.^[3]
   
   • For example, you might catch yourself thinking, “That girl needs to lose some weight.” Challenge that thought, asking yourself why it’s your business. Then say something nice that you noticed, such as, “You have a beautiful smile!”
4. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Every person is a unique individual with different talents, skills, personalities, and life experiences. Additionally, people are shaped by their upbringing, including where they grew up, how they were treated, and their living conditions. As you get to know people, try to imagine yourself in a similar position. Even if you may not have made the same choices, accept that they have a right to make their own decisions.^[4]
   
   • For example, a person you consider to be too needy may have grown up without a supportive parent. Similarly, a person that you believe has not applied themselves enough academically may have prioritized earning money to help support their family.
5. Find common ground. Whenever you find yourself tempted to judge someone who is different from you, look for commonalities rather than differences. We all have something in common because we’re all humans! This will help you see them in a positive light, rather than one clouded by judgment.^[5]
   
   • Casually mention a few topics until you find something that you can both talk about and be interested in. This will help you realize that people aren’t so different from you.
6. Be grateful for what you have. Appreciate the good things in your life, especially those that have helped you get to where you are in life. Celebrate your friends, family, health, opportunities, relationships, and how you grew up. Recognize that not everyone has had the same benefits that you have had, so judging them for living differently is unfair.
   
   • If you feel tempted to say something negative about someone, take a deep breath. Instead, wish them all of the luck you’ve had in life.
7. Show compassion. Being compassionate is the opposite of being judgmental. Instead of judging people and thinking bad thoughts about them, try to empathize with a person and to really try to imagine what that person is thinking or feeling. It won't be easy to go from thinking bad things about people and wanting the best for them, but this transition is possible. Focus on wanting to give people what they need and to help them out instead of wanting the worst for them.^[6]
   
   • Compassion is also one key to happiness. If you want to be a more compassionate person, then you have to have positive feelings toward people and the world.

EditBroadening Your Horizons

1. Be curious. Curiosity is a great tool for overcoming a judgmental attitude. When you would normally think judgmental thoughts, instead explore your curiosity about something you don’t understand. Let yourself see possibility instead of something wrong or different.^[7]
   
   • For example, you may see someone cut the line at the lunch counter. Instead of judging them to be a rude person, consider if they might have a pressing appointment or have a health issue.
2. Step out of your comfort zone. Actively seek out new experiences that are different from the things you normally do. At first, this may be scary, but it can also be a lot of fun! Invite a few friends to join you as you try new things.^[8] Here are some ways to step out of your comfort zone:
   
   • Use a different mode of transportation to get to work.
   • Try a cuisine that you’ve never sampled.
   • See a movie with subtitles.
   • Go to a religious service outside of your belief system.
   • Do something that scares you. Stand on top of a tall building, go mountain climbing, or eat raw fish.
3. Hang out with a diverse group of people. Making an effort to hang out with people who are different from you in many ways can help open up your mind. Whether your friends are different because of their race, culture, religion, interests, class, ideas, hobbies, careers, or whatever else, being around people who come from a variety of backgrounds and have a variety of perspectives can help you have a better sense of all of the ideas that are out in the world.
   
   • You don't have to recruit friends of a variety of backgrounds, but you should make an effort to get to know more people who aren't exactly like you. You'll only grow from the experience.
   • Befriending someone you always thought you had nothing in common with can help you be more understanding and open-minded.
   • Let your friends know that you’re interested in attending events with them, if they’d like to invite you. Say, “It’s so cool that your family moved here from Japan. I’m really interested in Japanese culture, so I’d love it if you let me know when public events are happening.”
4. Attend an event that would normally not appeal to you. Choose an activity that you would normally think was boring, stupid, or lame. Challenge yourself to go and participate. Try to learn something new! Doing this once will let you meet more different people, understand different perspectives, and will also make you more likely to do something that will open your mind in the future.^[9]
   
   • For example, attend a poetry reading, salsa dancing class, or political rally.
   • Talk to the other people there and try to get to know them. If you feel tempted to judge them, remember how you would feel if they were judging you, especially since you’re not normally a part of their scene.
5. Travel as much as you can. Traveling can broaden your horizons and show you how other people live all over the world. If you don't have a big budget, you can travel to the next town or take a weekend trip to the next state. What's important is that you'll see that there are an infinite amount of ways to live your life and that no one person is right about what to say or do.^[10]
   
   • You can save money when traveling by staying in hostels.
   • Make a goal of traveling at least once a year. This will take you out of your comfort zone and will expose you to a variety of people.
   • You can also try armchair traveling. Pick up a travel book about a faraway location and immerse yourself. Take it further by watching a movie based on that location.
6. Spend a day with a friend's family. This will help you see that other families operate in completely different ways from yours. Even if you do a lot of things the same, you likely have some differences. This is okay!^[11]
   
   • Ask your friend to include you in a special event, such as a cultural activity or religious service. However, don’t push them to include you if they aren’t comfortable doing so.
7. Learn something from every person you meet. Every person you meet offers value for your life because they all come with lessons you can learn. Ask yourself what each person has to teach you, whether it’s knowledge, a skill, or a lesson about yourself.
   
   • For example, a person from another culture may be able to share knowledge about their practices with you. Similarly, a person who has a talent for art may be able to show you a new skill.
   • Pay it forward and share something from yourself as well. Be the first to open up and share.
8. Ask a lot of questions. This will help you better understand people and where they’re coming from. It’ll also help you expand your understanding of different backgrounds, cultures, and practices.^[12]
   
   • If you want to get to know a person for real, then you have to learn more about where they're coming from. You might ask questions like these: Do you have siblings? Where are you from? What are you studying? How do you earn a living? What do you enjoy doing on the weekend?
   • Don’t press the person to answer your questions. However, showing an interest in them may make them want to open up.

EditKeeping an Open Mind

1. Stop your addiction to being right. Every person has his own ideas about how the world should work, and many times, those ideas are in conflict. Whether or not you’re acting from an educated knowledge base, your values will still shape your viewpoint. Others are in a similar position, so accept that they may not agree with you.^[13]
   
   • The next time you engage in a debate, remember that the other person may also have a valid opinion.
   • Focus on sharing your perspective without trying to change people’s mind.
   • Remember that most situations are complicated and can't be judged on what is "right" and "wrong" -- there are many shades of gray.
2. Form your own opinions. Set aside gossip and negative information that you hear about a person, culture, etc. Challenge assumptions before making a decision about a particular person or group. Don’t let yourself be swayed by falsehoods.^[14]
   
   • Keep in mind that people have their own motives for sharing gossip or negative opinions. For example, a person may talk bad about someone because of jealousy, or they may share concerns about a foreign concept out of fear.
   • Think about times that you’ve had gossip spread about you. Would you want people judging you based on this?
3. Don’t judge people based on their appearance. While it’s true that people often dress in a way that expresses who they are, that doesn’t mean that their appearance can tell you all you need to know about a person. Similarly, there are people of all different types within different lifestyles.^[15]
   
   • For example, don’t assume that someone who has a lot of tattoos and piercings can’t also hold a professional job.
   • The next time you go out, study yourself in the mirror. What would people think of you based on your appearance on this one day? How would they be right or wrong?
4. Stop labeling people. Labels don’t tell the whole story about a person. In fact, they limit your perspective on them. Try to see each person as an individual. Learn to see past a person's appearance or the people they hang out with, and focus on getting that person's individual story before you jump to conclusions.
   
   • For example, don’t refer to people as Goths, Nerds, Jocks, etc.
5. Withhold making judgments about people. Let people tell you who they are, rather than assuming that you already know. You are only seeing a small side of each person you meet, and if they perceive you as being judgmental, that will be a very small slice. Let your perceptions about a person change as you get to know them better.^[16]
   
   • Accept people on their own terms.
   • Would it be fair for the person to judge you based on talking to you for five minutes? How much could the person really learn about you in such a short amount of time?
6. Give people another chance. Sometimes people are going to rub you the wrong way, but don’t assume the worst about them. Chances are, you’ve also had days when you didn’t put your best foot forward. Give other people the benefit of the doubt and keep negative thoughts at bay.^[17]
   
   • For example, the person may have been having a bad day when you met. Similarly, shy people may at first seem distant or stuck-up.
7. Don’t gossip about other people. Gossiping spreads ill will and makes people form judgments about one another without knowing the real story. Plus, if you develop a reputation as a gossip, people will like coming to you for juicy tidbits about other people, but they won't really be able to trust you.^[18]
   
   • The next time you open your mouth to say something negative about someone, flip it around and say something positive. Instead of saying, "Did you hear that Annie hooked up with Jason last night?" say, "Did you know that Annie is an amazing artist? You should see one of her paintings sometime!" Think about how much better you'll feel about spreading goodwill.

EditVideo

EditTips

• Remember that everyone is different, and that makes the world more interesting!

EditWarnings

• Being judgmental can really hurt someone's feelings, just as it would hurt your own.
• Focus on living your own life, not on dictating someone else’s.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Stop Judging and Criticizing People

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

How to Wear Swim Goggles

Steps

Method 1

Putting on and Taking off Goggles

1. 1

   Place your hands around the eye cups.

   Hold the goggles in front of you with the inner part of the lenses facing towards you. Position your thumbs next to the eye cups. Your right thumb should be next to the right cup and your left thumb next to the left cup.

   • The strap will be on the opposite side of the lenses. Use your other fingers to support it.

2. 2

   Press the lenses against your eyes.

   Move the goggles towards your face, fitting the lenses over your eyes. Make sure the eye cups cover your eyes completely, suctioning to your skin to keep water out. The eye cups should feel comfortable to wear.

   ^[1]

   • If putting on the goggles this way seems too difficult, you can slide the back strap and eye cups over your head at the same time.

3. 3

   Move the strap behind your head until it is at eye level.

   Sweep your arms over your head, pulling the strap back. Rest the strap against the back of your head. It should be even with the lenses over your eyes.

   • The strap should feel comfortable to wear. If it doesn’t, the goggles likely aren’t the right fit for you.^[2]

4. 4

   Move the goggles until they feel firm around your eyes.

   Swimming goggles are designed to create a watertight seal around your eyes. Reposition the eye cups so you can see clearly out of the lenses. The goggles should rest on your eye sockets. When the goggles feel tight against your skin, you know they won’t fall off.

   ^[3]

   • If the lenses are easy to remove or pop off your face, they aren’t positioned correctly. You may need to readjust their positioning or get goggles that fit you better.

5. 5

   Pull the head strap up to remove the goggles.

   Slide your thumbs behind your ears and underneath the back strap. Raise the strap until it is above your head. Then, bring the strap forward until the goggles pop off your eyes.

   • Avoid pulling on the eye cups. They can snap back and hit you in the face.

Method 2

Selecting Goggles by Type

1. 1

   Order prescription goggles if you have a vision problem.

   You can order prescription goggles from an eye care specialist or find premade versions at swim shops. These goggles allow you to see in the water, so you don’t need to worry about glasses or contacts.

   ^[4]

   • A good pair of goggles will let you see clearly under the water with no blurring.
   • Contacts generally should not be worn in the water due to bacteria. However, disposable contacts you throw out at the end of the day are safe to use.

2. 2

   Choose darker lenses for outdoor use.

   Goggles with darker lenses typically include UV protection as well as an anti-fog coating. They are good for blocking out sunlight in bright environments, such as on a summer day. If you swim during the middle of the day, darker lenses can be the right choice for you.

   ^[5]

   • Darker lenses are kind of like sunglasses. Similar to sunglasses, they aren’t meant for indoor use.
   • The anti-fog coating wears off over time, which can make the lenses darker.

3. 3

   Pick light-colored lenses if you swim indoors.

   Light-colored lenses let in more light, so they are a good choice for most swimming occasions. Lenses come in a few different colors that can affect how well you see the water. Wear goggles with clear lenses in poorly-lit environments.

   ^[6]

   • These goggles may also have lenses colored pink, purple, or green. However, orange lenses are the most effective at brightening up swimming areas.

4. 4

   Pick goggles with an adjustable nose piece for more comfort.

   Fitting goggles that aren’t adjustable can be difficult. Fortunately, many goggles can be tightened or loosened. The nose strap is often an elastic band you simply pull back to adjust, although this differs depending on the goggles.

   ^[7]

   • Some goggles have string nose straps that you thread between the eye cups.
   • Some goggles have clip-on nose straps you can swap out for different sizes.

5. 5

   Buy Swedish goggles for an inexpensive but adjustable option.

   Swedish goggles are an older style still popular with many swimmers. An adjustable string nose strap holds the eye cups together. The eye cups are made out of a hard plastic, but the lenses usually offer UV protection for outdoor swimming. Ordinary pairs of goggles may be more comfortable but larger and less customizable than Swedish goggles.

   ^[8]

   • Swedish goggles can cost about $20 USD for a pack of 3 with different lens shades.
   • Swedish goggles are simple, but you do need to assemble them yourself, so they may be a bad option for children.
   • The hard plastic means these goggles often hurt the first time you wear them, as well as any time you bump into something while swimming.

6. 6

   Purchase racing goggles for comfort and performance.

   Race goggles can be made in many different varieties, so you can always find a pair that fits your face. Some swimmers appreciate the comfort that allows them to focus solely on swimming. The comfort factor and manufacturing process means these goggles can get expensive. Racing goggles are smaller than ordinary goggles and may feel uncomfortable when used for long swimming sessions.

   ^[9]

   • Racing goggles can be as much as $50 USD per pair.
   • Thinner goggles with smaller lenses have less rubber in them, making them more aerodynamic. However, they can be uncomfortable when used daily.

Method 3

Testing Goggles for Fit

1. 1

   Pick goggles that match the shape of your eye sockets.

   A good pair of goggles feels unobtrusive on your face. The shape of the eye cups can be the difference between swimming freely and swimming with pain. Compare the shapes of lenses and try on different pairs of goggles before making a choice.

   • For example, if your eyes are rounded, you may want to test out goggles with rounded lenses.
   • If your eyes are almond-shaped, you can choose goggles with narrower lenses.

2. 2

   Press the eye cups against your eyes to test the suction.

   Avoid putting the strap on your head while doing this. Position the lenses over your eyes, pressing them firmly against your face. If the goggles fit properly, they should stick to your skin for a few seconds before popping off.

   ^[10]

   • Goggles that fall off immediately are the wrong shape for you.
   • If only 1 eye cup sticks in place, the goggles could be an acceptable fit. Test other pairs of goggles first before deciding on a purchase.

3. 3

   Choose deeper goggles if your eyelashes hit the lenses.

   This can be very distracting and uncomfortable while swimming. Blink your eyes while the goggles are over them. If this feels uncomfortable to you, you need more spacious lenses.

   ^[11]

   • Goggles with deeper lenses protrude away from your eyes, giving them more space.

4. 4

   Test the back strap for comfort.

   Once you have a pair of goggles that fit you, put them on normally. Position the strap against the back of your head so it is level with the eye cups. A good strap will be tight against your head but still feel comfortable to wear.

   ^[12]

   • If the strap hurts to wear, gives you headaches, or causes cloudy vision, the goggles are not a good fit.

5. 5

   Adjust the nose strap by pulling on it.

   The nose strap, which is the string or band between the eye cups, also needs to feel comfortable against your skin. Many goggles have adjustable nose straps, which can be tightened by pulling on the strap’s ends. Loosen the strap by pushing the ends towards the eye cups.

   ^[13]

   • If the nose strap feels uncomfortable, look for a different pair of goggles that fit you better.
   • Not all goggles have adjustable nose straps. If the goggles fit you well, adjustable straps are not a necessity.

Tips

• The strap can be the biggest problem. A tight strap pinches your skin, but a loose strap allows water to get underneath the lenses.
• Children’s goggles often have an age range listed on them, but this doesn’t matter. Only the fit of the goggles and their comfort level is important.
• Shop around for goggles. If a pair doesn’t feel quite right, keep looking until you find something better.
• Check the return policy before buying goggles. Most stores will accept returns if you decide the goggles don’t fit you properly.

Warnings

• Wearing contacts in a pool is not recommended. To avoid bacterial infection, either purchase prescription goggles or change your contacts daily.

Made Recently

Loading...

Did you try these steps?

Upload a picture for other readers to see.

Upload error

Article Info

Featured Article

Categories: Basic Swimming Techniques

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 199 times.

Did this article help you?

 

How to Keep Your Lips Moist

Expert Reviewed

Three Methods:Hydrating Your Lips NaturallyUsing Protective ProductsAvoiding Harmful HabitsCommunity Q&A

Dry, cracked lips can be unattractive, not to mention painful. Fortunately, keeping your lips healthy and full is as simple as knowing which products to use and ditching a few bad habits. Drinking more water, using hydrating lipsticks and balms, and exfoliating periodically can all help preserve a plump pucker. In the meantime, limit your exposure to dry conditions and avoid licking your lips to keep them from losing moisture as quickly.

Steps

Method 1

Hydrating Your Lips Naturally

1. 1

   Drink more water.

   One of the best ways to defend against dry, damaged lips is to make sure you’re hydrated from the inside out. Aim to get at least 2 liters (about 8 glasses) a day. As an added bonus, loading up on water will also make your lips appear more full.

   ^[1]

   • Carry a water bottle or thermos with you so you’ll have something to sip on all day long.
   • Proper hydration isn’t just good for your lips—it makes you healthier in almost every conceivable way.^[2]
   • Decaffeinated coffee, decaffeinated tea, juice, and other beverages can also help you meet your daily hydration goals. Steer clear of caffeinated beverages and drinks that are high in sodium because these will dry out your lips.

2. 2

   Turn on a humidifier.

   Humidifiers introduce moisture to the surrounding environment, which can be a major plus if it’s as dry inside as it is outside where you live. Just switch your unit on and leave it running for a few hours a day. Chances are, you’ll notice an improvement in the condition of your lips in no time.

   ^[3]

   • A humidifier may run you anywhere from $50-80, but the benefits it can offer can make it worth the price.

3. 3

   Rub on some all-natural almond oil, coconut oil, or shea butter.

   Scoop up a small amount of oil on your fingertip and smear it directly onto your lips. Fatty oils make great natural conditioners, as they moisten, soften, and give lips a healthy glisten. For best results, apply a little oil 2-3 times a day.

   ^[4]

   • Almond oil is hypoallergenic, which means it’s safe to use from head to toe on all skin types.^[5]
   • The high amounts of vitamins A and E found in organic oils have age-fighting properties that may actually make your lips look younger with continued use. To take advantage of higher concentrations, you could even try using pure vitamin E oil.^[6]

4. 4

   Use cucumber to restore vital moisture.

   Cut a ripe cucumber into thin slices and place one over each lip while you’re lying down, or use them to dab your lips. It will only take a few minutes for your lips to absorb the hydrating, nutrient-infused juices, but their effects will last all day.

   ^[7]

   • Cucumber treatments can make a fast and effective addition to your nightly skincare routine.
   • Topical application of the fruit can also help ease the discomfort of chapped or sunburned lips.^[8]

Method 2

Using Protective Products

1. 1

   Look for lip balms that protect against drying.

   Keep an eye out for products formulated with nourishing additives like shea butter, vitamin E, and coconut and jojoba oil. These ingredients reinforce the natural barrier on your lip skin to block out external drying agents and prevent moisture loss.

   ^[9]

   • A quality hydrating balm will also leave your lips feeling softer, smoother, and less sensitive to wind and cold.
   • Skip lip treatments containing camphor or menthol, which will only aggravate dry skin even more and could sting your lips if they are irritated.^[10]

2. 2

   Pick up an exfoliating lip scrub.

   Exfoliating removes dead, flaky skin, leaving only the healthiest tissue behind. Get in the habit of exfoliating your lips every few days, or whenever they’re in need. This will be especially important late in the year, when cold weather wreaks havoc on healthy lips.

   ^[11]

   • Exfoliating scrubs are available in most places where beauty and skincare items are sold.
   • For a more do-it-yourself approach, try making your own scrub using ingredients like sea salt, brown sugar, honey, and olive or coconut oil.^[12]

3. 3

   Slather on a sunblock for your lips.

   You may not realize it, but your lips are just as vulnerable to sunburn as the rest of your extremities. Luckily, there are a wide variety of lipsticks and balms with built-in sun protection on the market these days. Be sure to apply your product liberally before heading to the beach or going for an afternoon stroll.

   ^[13]

   • Reapply your lip-block every few hours as directed. You should find complete instructions for use on the label.
   • Sun-screening lip products can offer valuable protection as strong as 15 SPF.

4. 4

   Apply hydrating products after using matte lipsticks.

   In order to remain in place for as long as they do, matte lipsticks have to dry out the surface they stick to. To prevent your lips from becoming a desert, it's best stick to hydrating lipsticks whenever possible, or alternate between the two to restore missing moisture between wears.

   ^[14]

   • Shea butter, vitamin E, coconut and jojoba oil are among the best ingredients for pampering lips that have been dehydrated by matte lipsticks.
   • If you just can’t bring yourself to leave the house without your matte lipstick, spread a thin coat of conditioner onto your lips before putting it on to provide a defensive buffer.^[15]

Method 3

Avoiding Harmful Habits

1. 1

   Stop licking your lips.

   Wetting your lips with the tip of your tongue may seem to make a difference in the short term, but it’s really doing more harm than good. Over time, the digestive enzymes found in your saliva will eat through the protective barrier on sensitive lip skin.

   ^[16]

   • Keep some hydrating lipstick or balm within arm’s reach. You’ll be less tempted to lick your lips if you’ve recently applied a fresh coat.^[17]
   • Stick to unflavored lip balms because flavored lip balms may cause you to lick your lips.

2. 2

   Watch out for spicy or acidic foods.

   There’s enough acidity in a plate of hot wings or a glass of orange juice to have a nearly instantaneous drying effect on your lips. If you eat or drink enough, it can cause them to become cracked and sore. Greasy foods are the worst culprits, since they tend to form a residue that can be hard to wipe away.

   ^[18]

   • Whenever possible, use utensils like straws or a forks, and eat carefully to make sure as little food makes contact with the area around your mouth as possible.^[19]
   • Lip conditioners made with natural ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera can be useful for soothing irritated lips.

3. 3

   Breathe through your nose.

   If you’re not already, start inhaling and exhaling through your nose rather than your mouth. The movement of all that air around your lips can dry them out in a hurry. Keeping your mouth shut is also less likely to mess up your lipstick than opening and closing it constantly.

   ^[20]

   • If you have no choice but to huff and puff while exercising, open your mouth a little wider so that you’re not blowing the air over your pursed lips.
   • Mouth breathing is a good behavior to curb, as it comes with a host of other negative consequences, including cottonmouth, teeth grinding, and drool-drenched pillows. Yuck!^[21]
   • If you cannot seem to stop mouth-breathing, then make an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT). You may have a deviated septum.

4. 4

   Cover up when it’s cold out.

   Winter weather is notoriously tough on lips. If you have no choice but to brave the elements, pack a scarf or high-collared coat that you can pull up over the bottom half of your face. Not only will it keep your lips off-limits, it will also make you stay warm and comfortable.

   ^[22]

   • It’s especially important to bundle up when you’re walking into frigid winds or have to be outside for long periods.

Community Q&A

Add New Question

• What are some natural way to keep lips moist?

  Magdalen Ketchum

  Apply coconut oil or olive oil to them.

• My lips swell up when I wake up. What should I do?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Apply homemade moisturizer during nights ,example- ghee, rose water, aloe vera etc. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Is EOS good for keeping my lips moist?

  Ahiru2001

  I mean, it's a lip balm, but it also has a LOT of chemicals that are really bad for your lips. You might find that it dries your lips out more over time.

• I chew my lips and it turns black some times. What should I do?

  Ahiru2001

  It sounds like an old habit. Try chewing gum or something similar to keep you from biting your lip.

• What should I do to get rid of a habit of using lip guard too much?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Apply Vitamin E to your lips at night, then avoid using lip guard during the day. The Vitamin E will keep your lips moisturized all day.

• Is Blistex okay for my lips?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Blistex is fine and is one of the best moisturizing brands for your lips. Burt's Bees is also very good.

• My lips are super dried out, and I've been trying everything. What do I do?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Try rose salve by C.O Bigelow!! They sell it at Bath and Body Works, and it works wonders.

Ask a Question

Tips

• Feel free to apply lip balm as often as you think is necessary. The key to maintaining moist lips is prevention.
• Stash hydrating lip products in a multitude of places, like your bedside table, purse, locker, or the glove compartment of your car, so you’ll always have a ready supply on hand.
• If your problem is severely chapped lips, you may need to switch to medicated products containing ceramides. These waxy molecules can help build back up your lips’ natural protective barrier.

Warnings

• Chronic dry lips could be caused by an allergic reaction to chemicals in toothpastes, chewing gum (cinnamon gum can burn your mouth), fragrances, and other beauty and hygiene products. If none of the methods you’ve tried have worked for you, it may be a good idea to visit a dermatologist.

Article Info

Featured Article

Categories: Lip Health

In other languages:

Italiano: Mantenere le Labbra Idratate, Português: Manter os Lábios Hidratados

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 77,964 times.

Did this article help you?

 

How to Decorate Large Windows

Expert Reviewed

Two Methods:Selecting a Decorative ElementChoosing a Pattern or ColorCommunity Q&A

If you have large windows that you want to decorate, there are lots of different options to choose from that will help enhance your window space. Choose from decorative elements such as regular drapes, valences, or roman shades to decide how much light you'd like to let in through the windows. Next, you can think about how much you want your windows to stand out and what type of fabrics or colors will help you achieve your desired look.

Steps

Method 1

Selecting a Decorative Element

1. 1

   Treat multiple windows as one by framing them with drapes.

   To create a grand visual, look at your multiple windows as one large window. Hang the drapes so they run in a horizontal line along the top of the windows—the drapes will fall towards the floor on the far left and far right side of the window section. Use hooks to hold the drapes, or

   put the drapes on a rod

   if all of the window frames are even.

   ^[1]

   • Use a level to ensure the hooks are even before installing them.
   • Draw a line or dot with a pencil where you'd like the screw to go into the wall to hold the hooks.
   • Install the hooks by holding each one steady and drilling in the screws—it's likely that the hooks will come with their own hardware.
   • To make your window look grand and visually appealing, hang a curtain rod 1 foot (0.30 m) above the top of the window.

2. 2

   Hang sheer curtains from a rod for a delicate and soft effect.

   Sheer curtains are super easy to install—all you have to do is hang them across a rod and they’re ready to go. The sheer quality will allow the room to be lit by sunlight while also creating an opaque view through the curtains. These are great for summertime as they have a light, flowy look and feel.

   ^[2]

   • Select white sheer curtains to make the room lighter.
   • Opt for sheer curtains with a colored tint in them for a more dramatic look.
   • You can choose a rod that comes with its own attachments to make installing it against the wall super easy, or you can pick out a simple rod and choose your own hooks.

3. 3

   Try out a valance to allow light in while adding detail.

   A valance is a single piece of fabric that hangs from the top of the window. It only covers a small portion of the window. Many valances come with their own mounting hardware and directions since their designs can be very different.

   ^[3]

   • Imagine drapes that go all the way across your window, except with the bottom four-fifths cut off—this is what a valance looks like.
   • Valances come in different patterns and materials, giving you a wide variety to choose from.
   • Hang a valance by using a level to make even marks where the brackets should go, following the specific instructions related to your chosen valance to screw the brackets into the wall.
   • Valances also come in boxed form (also called a cornice) for a more formal feel. They look like a window box at the top of the window.

4. 4

   Add a window scarf for elegant draping.

   A window scarf is whimsical, but doesn’t provide privacy. Wrap the window scarf loosely around a rod above your window, similar to how you would twist streamers horizontally for a party. This adds a nice decorative effect, and each end of the scarf can be used to shield a little bit of light at each end of the window.

   ^[4]

   • Window scarves can be bought at a home goods store or online, or you can make them out of your own material. You could use a long scarf or tapestry, if desired.
   • You can create as many or few loops around the rod as you'd like.
   • Simply drape the window scarf around the rod in loose coils, letting the ends of the scarf run down the side of each window evenly.

5. 5

   Use a roman shade for easy-to-use curtains.

   A roman shade allows you to choose how much light you let in through the window horizontally. If you’re trying to decorate multiple windows, you can have a separate roman shade for each window, or you can use one large roman shade for all of the windows combined.

   ^[5]

   • Roman shades are made from fabric, woven wood, or bamboo. Some have a cord while others are cordless, which is ideal for a seamless look.
   • Roman shades are usually lifted up and let down using a string hanging from the top of the shade.
   • Install a roman shade by choosing where you'd like it to be mounted, using a level to make even marks where the brackets should go, and screwing the brackets into place using a screwdriver.
   • You can pick out roman shades that are already designed, or you can have them custom-made to your specifications.

6. 6

   Install hooks at the corners of oddly-shaped windows for unique drapery.

   If your window has odd slants or unique angles, hang the drapes so that they go along the lines as opposed to covering them up. Use simple drapes of a solid color to make the window the main focal point.

   ^[6]

   • Use hooks to attach the drapes then twist them around each hook so that they stay in place, if desired.
   • Drill a hole for each hook using a bit that is the same size as the hook, then screw the hook into the hole.
   • If your windows are uniquely- or oddly-shaped, consider getting custom-made window treatments.

7. 7

   Paint the trim of the windows to draw attention to their shape.

   Instead of adding curtains or covering up the window, paint the trim of the window with a color of your choosing. Opt for a bold color to make the window stand out, or use a color present in the room to complement your decor.

   ^[7]

   • Put down strips of painter's tape along the wall on the edges closest to the trim to make sure you don't get paint anywhere you don't want it.
   • Use a brush with a smaller width than your trim to ensure you can paint the details, and use at least 2 coats of paint, letting the first coat dry before adding a second.
   • Put down a drop cloth beneath the window to make sure you don't get paint on the floor.

Method 2

Choosing a Pattern or Color

1. 1

   Complement outdoor colors by choosing a similar shade for your drapes.

   If your window shows a view of a forested backyard with lots of trees, you might consider hanging drapes that are a similar green shade as the trees. Choose colors that complement the outdoors, helping to blur the line between inside and outside.

   ^[8]

   • If your window overlooks a skyline, you could use drapes that are the same color as the sky, or even a shade of the sunset.
   • With this look, your windows will seem to disappear as the focus point is the outside view.

2. 2

   Go with a whimsical print for a lively look.

   To make your curtains stand out, select a fabric with a creative or abstract design. It could be a fabric with animals on it, symbols, patterns, or another type of loose design.

   ^[9]

   • For example, if you’re trying to choose drapes for your child’s bedroom, pick out a fabric with zoo animals, the ABCs, or their favorite book characters on it.
   • You can use curtains to easily and inexpensively change the style of any room.

3. 3

   Choose a ruffled curtain for a feminine look.

   A ruffled curtain, either of a sheer material or solid fabric, is a great option if you’re trying to give your room a more dainty and soft look.

   Hang the ruffled curtain on a rod

   , or install nicely-designed hooks on each side of the window to hang them on.

   ^[10]

   • Use a level to measure where the hooks should go if using them, and install them using a drill and screws designed for the hooks.

4. 4

   Accent a bold-colored item in the room to create a focal point.

   If you have an item in the room that’s already the focal point, create curtains or drapes of the same color. This will give the room a bold and inviting look and will make choosing a color super easy.

   ^[11]

   • For example, if there’s a large painting in the room of the ocean, consider getting drapes that are the same color as the waves.

5. 5

   Pick out lively curtains to frame your windows.

   A bold color will create a focal point for your room if you don’t already have one. This works especially well for rooms with mostly neutral-colored items in them, but can be a great contrast for other bold-colored items.

   ^[12]

   • Go for bold colors such as red, royal blue, pink, green, or bright yellow.

6. 6

   Opt for soft neutrals when picking out drapes for a light and airy feel.

   Soft colors will make the room appear lighter and more open. Aim for colors such as white, light gray, or tan to create this effect.

   ^[13]

7. 7

   Select a woven fabric for blinds to create an organic feel.

   Blinds made out of a woven fabric, such as woven wood, create a natural look while letting in lots of light. Choose an organic material to create blinds that you can easily adjust to let in certain amounts of light.

   ^[14]

   • You could also use wood and buy or create shutters for your windows.
   • Choosing fabrics made of neutral colors will reinforce the organic aesthetic.

8. 8

   Draw attention to the windows by selecting striped drapes.

   Choose drapes that have stripes covering them—the stripes could be wide or super thin, whichever size you like best. Choose stripes of a bold color to make them the focal point of the room, or choose a more neutral contrast to allow them to blend in more.

   ^[15]

   • For a nautical option, pick out wide blue stripes against a white background.
   • Choose thin tan and white stripes for a more neutral look.

Tips

• Measure your window thoroughly beforehand to ensure you buy the right size drapes, or if you're getting them custom-made.
• Window treatments collect dust and should be regularly cleaned or washed.
• If you want to block out light or insulate your windows, you can do so by layering window treatments. For instance, use both a Roman shade and curtains for added comfort.
• Pull the drapes to one side to choose how much light to let in.
• If your windows are particularly large or have a spectacular view, they may not need any type of curtains or drapes—leave the window as it is to allow the view to speak for itself.
• Wash your curtains every month, so that your curtains can be free of dust.

Made Recently

Loading...

Did you try these steps?

Upload a picture for other readers to see.

Upload error

Article Info

Featured Article

Categories: Home Decorating

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 398 times.

Did this article help you?

 

How to Deal With Nosy Family Members Asking when You're Starting a Family

Expert Reviewed

Three Methods:Deflecting the QuestionGiving Indirect AnswersTelling the TruthCommunity Q&A

Everyone is asking you when you're going to have a family, and it's starting to get a little annoying. When it's family members asking you this question, it's a little tougher since you may feel like you owe them a response. However, it's up to you and your partner to decide when you want to discuss your family plans. If you're not ready, try deflecting the question or giving an indirect response. In the end, you could also just tell the truth, which will likely put an end to the questions.

Steps

Method 1

Deflecting the Question

1. 1

   Change the subject when someone brings the topic of you having babies up.

   Head off the question early on by moving on to a different subject. It may seem abrupt, but if you do it enough times, your family will get the idea that you don't want to talk about having babies.

   ^[1]

   • For instance, if someone hints about you having a family, you could say, "Did you hear that Aunt Rachel has a new grandchild? She is so adorable!"
   • Alternatively, launch into a discussion about celebrity baby bumps. Ask your Aunt Jenny if she really thinks that Jennifer Aniston is pregnant or just gaining weight. Turn the tables with something funny and light to take the focus off of you.

2. 2

   Move away from the conversation when babies come up.

   Before your family gets a chance to ask the question, make an excuse to get up and do something else. Take this step as soon as the topic of babies comes up, so you can avoid being asked about the prospect of having a family.

   ^[2]

   • For instance, you could say, "Excuse me, I need to step outside for a moment."

3. 3

   Say you'd rather not respond to that question.

   Sometimes, you need to set kind but gentle boundaries with your family members. Let them know that you would rather not answer that question, and then move on with the conversation.

   ^[3]

   • You could say, "Thank you for asking, but I'd rather not talk about that right now."
   • Alternatively, try, "I know you're just interested in my family, but my partner and I have decided not to talk about that until we make a firm decision about when we're ready to have a family."

4. 4

   Present a united front with your partner.

   Plan out ahead of time with your partner what you will say. That way, you won't end up with family members who feel slighted because you told them you wouldn't discuss the situation, while your partner is giving out details to other family members.

   • Generally, it's best to err on the side of privacy. That is, maybe one of you wants to discuss your family planning openly with family members outside your relationship, while the other one wants to keep quiet. In that case, it's probably best to yield to the person who wants more privacy.

Method 2

Giving Indirect Answers

1. 1

   Tell the person the question makes you feel uncomfortable.

   This method helps you get your feelings across, which makes it easier for the other person to understand. By saying the question makes you uncomfortable, you close the door on similar conversations in the future.

   ^[4]

   • For example, you might say, "I appreciate that you want to know when we'll have new babies in the family. However, that's a personal matter between me and my partner, and frankly, the question makes me a little uncomfortable."

2. 2

   Pick a vague but socially acceptable answer to give to family members.

   You don't have to be committal when someone asks you this question. Choose a vague response that you can give each time someone asks so you don't have to think about what to say. Give it enough times, and your family members will back off.

   • You might say, "Oh, we'll start a family when we're ready."
   • Alternatively, try, "That's a few years down the road for us."

3. 3

   Answer the question by noting that you already are a family.

   This method works well if you aren't sure you're going to have kids. It lets the family member know that you see yourself as complete already, and that they should stop asking questions about when you're going to start a family.

   ^[5]

   • For instance, you can say, "We already see ourselves as a family. We have our jobs and our cats, and we love helping out with our nieces and nephews!"

4. 4

   Tell your family members that you will let them know when you're ready.

   Your family members just want to feel included, and most of them just want to see a new baby in the family. By telling them you'll let them know, you're saying you want to include them, but you're just not ready yet.

   ^[6]

   • For example, you might say, "I know you're excited about having babies in the family. However, we're not quite ready yet. When we decide we're ready to have a family, you'll be the first to know."

Method 3

Telling the Truth

1. 1

   Announce your intentions to your family before gatherings. If you're worried about being cornered at a family event, talk to family members individually beforehand. Explain to them your situation regarding children. Answer any specific questions they may have before you meet up with the whole family.

2. 2

   Say you're having fertility problems.

   Sometimes, a direct approach is the best way to get people to stop asking questions. Of course, you should only give this answer if you actually are having fertility problems and you feel comfortable saying that. Often, family members will back off once you establish that you're having trouble.

   ^[7]

   • For instance, you could say, "Well, actually, we're trying to have a family now, but biological children may not be in our cards. In a year or 2, we may decide to adopt."

3. 3

   Let the person know circumstances aren't right yet.

   Whether you don't have room for a family or you don't have the money to have a baby right now, tell your family about the situation in a polite way. That lets them know you will be ready someday, but you're not going to have a baby anytime soon.

   ^[8]

   • For example, you could say, "I know you're ready for babies in the family, but truthfully, we aren't ready financially to have a child. We don't want to have a child until we can fully support them."

4. 4

   Let them know you're working on your relationship first.

   Many couples want to make sure they've created a steady relationship before having kids. You can say that to a family member to let them know it could be a few years.

   • For instance, you might say, "You know, we're going to wait a few years before we have kids. We want to make sure our relationship is rock solid before we bring kids into it."

5. 5

   Be upfront about not having kids.

   If you plan to never have kids, it's best to upfront about that. It may be a disappointment, but your family will have more time to get over it if you tell them now.

   ^[9]

   • For example, you could say, "Well, the truth is, we love our family as it is. We don't think we need kids to complete it, so we've decided we aren't having kids."

Community Q&A

Add New Question

• My family doesn't seem to understand that my wife and I don't want kids. What do we need to do?

  wikiHow Contributor

  There are several different directions you could go with this. My opinion is the straightforward, blunt approach, but in a language they understand. Ask if they can imagine life without their kids, then explain that is how you feel about imagining your life with kids.

Ask a Question

Tips

• Leave the room and regain your composure if the badgering is getting to you.
• Be patient. Mostly, your family members just want to know when they'll get to spoil a cute baby.

Article Info

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 65,038 times.

Did this article help you?