South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is training for his first-ever Comrades. And, he’s learnt a lot from the utility of the word ‘tapering’ when you don’t know what else to say to the wise sages of Comrades past who seem to relish in acting as vague as a fortune cookie of fear and advice. Watch Schalk’s hilarious take on it all:

South Africa (18 May 2025) — South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is among the many rookie racers preparing to take on the upcoming Comrades Marathon for the very first time. And, amid the many lessons Schalk has learned (like how far 80kms actually is and why the word ‘tapering’ is a fast ticket to sounding like you know what you’re talking about in a group of runners), he’s also interacted with the ‘Comrades Fortune Cookies’.

A Comrades ‘Fortune Cookie’ is someone who has completed the race and proceeds to give a rookie runner vague, alarming, and somewhat riddled advice, including (but not limited to) “After halfway, you find out who you truly are.”

Schalk recently made some updates on his training, with a video dedicated entirely to the ‘Comrades Fortune Cookies’ and their scary warnings.

“They will make it their mission to put the fear of God in you. They’ll go, ‘oh is it your first Comrades?’ and you go, ‘yeah no it’s my first one, I’m very excited’. And they’ll go (with an expression as if they’ve just seen a ghost), “I remember my first one… good luck, that’s all I can say. Good luck. And then they run into a bush and disappear forever,” remarks Schalk. 

The comedian even hilariously compared these sages to Dumbledore from Harry Potter, who never really let the kid know what was actually going on but made sure to give vague warnings at a whim.

Watch: People Who Have Done the Comrades Before, Please Stop Scaring Us

Sources: Schalk Bezuidenhout 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Autumn means leaves: crunchy, orange, and, admittedly, fairly annoying. But don’t reach for those rakes and plastic bags just yet; there’s a strong argument about leaving the leaves that you might want to hear if you care about your garden.

South Africa (12 May 2025) — The colder seasons of the year are doing their thing, and several parts of the country have the leaves (and even snowfall) to prove it.

While most of our country won’t need to worry about clearing snowfall from our driveways, we will feel inclined to deal with the plethora of crunchy Autumn leaves in our wake. For some, it’s an eyesore. For others, it means that the kids will spend all afternoon ‘crunching’ and more mess. However, don’t reach for your rake and plastic bag combo just yet.

There’s a strong argument for leaving the leaves that you might want to hear if you care about your garden.

Community clean-up organisation Better Bedfordview is encouraging everyone to ‘leaf it be’, and for good reason.

As per the team, leaves are a free fertiliser that can be collected (not for the trashcan) but for your flower beds or compost heaps.

It’s a sentiment that’s echoed by many gardening authorities, including Martha Stewart.

The Pros

• Decomposing leaves become mulch, a soil enricher, and a source of nutrients!
• In rain and wind-rich areas, leaves can help prevent soil erosion
• Leaving the leaves can also give the biodiversity in your little eco-system a boost
• You’ll also give pollinators a place to ‘overwinter’ and provide shelter to some small wildlife critters

How to Make the Most of Leaf Season

• Gather leaves to be spread around trees, plants and in your flower beds (don’t pack them up tightly; make sure to leave some space around the plants)
• Or, layer them into compost heaps that you’ll use in the future
• You can also rally your community for a shared compost heap that everyone can access

Sources: Better Bedfordview; Martha Stewart 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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If you’ve always wanted to get into thrifting clothes, but haven’t yet found your rhythm, here are a few tips to help you become the nifty thrifter we know you can be!

South Africa (24 April 2025) — If you always feel like you fall short when attempting to thrift clothes, congratulations—you’ve just reached the first tier of second-hand shopping self awareness. Like any skill, becoming a nifty thrifter doesn’t just happen because you’ve decided it’s something you want to get into it. Thrifting requires a beginners’ mind, a healthy dose of patience, and (perhaps most importantly), a keen sense of observation.

I’ve been thrifting since I was a teenager, and it took me years to avoid many thrifting pitfalls, writes Good Things Guy’s Ashleigh.

So, as my love letter to budding nifty thrifters in-the-making, here are a handful of tips to keep in your back pocket on your next thrifting adventure:

Go in with a ‘grocery list’

Just as you would (hopefully) check the contents of your pantry or fridge before heading off to the shops, give your closet a good look to figure out what you actually need. Is it an accessories moment? A time to hone in on practical pieces and basics? Or are we in statement piece territory?

Go in with intention, and don’t let the cute coat hangers bulldoze you into buying pieces that won’t add value to your wardrobe.

Don’t fudge up your budget.

I am by no means trying to tell you how much you should or shouldn’t spend. However, I will advise you with a cautious eyebrow, to take whatever budget you cook up seriously. Because if you don’t go in with an idea of your monetary limitations, you could well overspend—which might put you off thrifting entirely (and no one wants that).

As thrifting is typically more affordable, people tend to get caught up in the thrill of the threads which leads to them catching big frights when they reach the till. Avoid the awkward interaction of having to put some pieces back, and just stick to a shopping amount you’re cozy with.

Roll up your sleeves.

You don’t find diamonds simply because you wondered into a cave.

When it comes to thrifting, you need to be prepared to dig through racks, stacks, and packs of clothes. Some thrift stores are very cutesty and very demure, but many (and some of the best ones) are vast and overwhelming. Patience is of the essence in either case, which is why a sub-tip all good thrifter know, is to avoid going thrifting when you’re tired or hungry.

The pay-off for your efforts will be how amazed you are at what you find simply because you choose patience over instant eye-candy.

Put on your detective cap.

When you find an item you like, don’t just look at the condition, label and size. Always check out the materials if possible, and here’s why:

1. You’ll get a good indication of how many more rodeos the piece still has in it
2. You’ll figure out quickly if a price is fair or not
3. You’ll be better informed as to how many headaches the item is going to cause you

Good finds include: natural fibres (or as close as possible), denim (for durability) and linen.

What’s on the inside counts a lot.

Don’t forget to check the garment on the inside. Check out the seams, keep an eye out for any home-mended sections, and always check if the zippers are in working condition! While a few hiccups aren’t deal breakers if you know your way around a sewing machine, it can be hugely upsetting to find out a piece you’ve just copped has problems when you don’t have the skills.

If you are keen to get started, here is a list of charity shops to star with.

Sources: GTG

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Beyond being a binge-worthy show, ‘Love on the Spectrum’ is packed with lessons on dating and relationships that are well worth taking notes from!

Global (15 April 2025) — Under the advice of a friend, I recently sat down to learn what the hype surrounding Netflix’s ‘Love on the Spectrum’ was all about.

At first, I was equal parts curious and skeptical as to how young adults ‘looking for love’ would be portrayed in the show. As any fan of reality TV knows well, things are edited, re-edited, and spliced to seem one way or another. I worried that certain tropes of Autism would be played up for the sake of ‘entertainment’ (which didn’t sit well with me) or that the show would shy away from certain topics, undercutting the Autism awareness aspect of it all.

Given that I don’t know any of the show’s participants personally, it’s impossible to say just how much was edited. However, in the camp of awareness, I will say that I was pleasantly surprised at how well the show did in delivering important messages; simply by letting the public into the lives of people that don’t often have their stories told; let alone taking us along their pursuits of connection (which in most cases was so pure).

What stuck out most to me, especially in the third season, was the refreshing dose of authenticity the show had thanks to its participants. Scripts are one thing, but those genuine bursts of excitement, curiosity and love are hard to force, which made seeing these emotions in their rawness that much more refreshing.

Following my binge-watch (I won’t reveal any spoilers), I got to thinking about how there’s so much I learned from Love on the Spectrum, and how much we all can—especially in our love lives. Where so often dating advice is premised on ‘not being too much of this or that’, ‘Love on the Spectrum’ flips many of these conventional notions entirely, and we might all just be better off to take notes from our friends on the Spectrum.

Dating Tips We Can All Take From ‘Love on the Spectrum’

Thoughtful gift giving is in

One of the sweetest parts about the show was how thoughtful the participants were in the gifts they gave each other on dates.

Whether it was Tyler giving Madison a Cinderella bracelet charm (she had told him that princesses were her special interest), or Abby gifting David a candy charcuterie board filled with all his favourite sweets, these touches of thoughtfulness were precious.

So, if you’re going on another date with the same person (even if things are still fairly new), consider adding a small, but thoughtful gift to the equation. Something as simple as a keychain with their favourite animal on it can go a long way; it shows not only that you put in more effort than simply showing up, but also that you paid attention to things they told you.

Unapologetically authentic, always

There’s a loud irony in the typical world of dating. You’re trying to connect with someone, but you’re too afraid to be yourself. Following that skewed logic, people forge faux connections, and it’s oftentimes all uphill from there (just watch 27 Dresses again, feel frustrated at Tess, and you’ll get the picture).

Authenticity should always be front and centre when you’re connecting with someone new, and something the participants handled like pros, no matter how nervous they were. In fact, explaining nerves was a part of their authenticity. Tanner made a point of mentioning to his dates that he ‘didn’t have anything to say’ at certain points on their adventures, not to be rude, but to simply explain his moments of silence.

While we don’t all need to share every thought on a date, there is something to be said about allowing people the experience of our own self-honesty. So, don’t go eating food you don’t like to impress someone, or pretending to love a type of music you can’t stand (you’ll thank yourself down the line when you’re spared listening to heavy metal for the rest of your relationship because you claimed to be a huge fan on that first date).

Asking for permission is the vibe

There was something so commendable about the way participants handled asking permission when it came to any kind of physical touch. From hand-holding to first kisses, each made sure the other was okay and comfortable with the idea of new forms of closeness, and it’s certainly something many neurotypicals could learn from.

Leading people on isn’t cute

I loved how participants made their intentions known. So many times in the show ‘honesty is the best policy’ was said, and most importantly, communicated.

Rejection stings for anyone. But it’s a lot easier to get over a first date brand of connection than a whole confusing situationship or relationship built on nothing more than one party hoping to not hurt the other’s feelings.

Even when it’s tough (as it was for James in letting one of his dates know there wouldn’t be a second date), being up-front speaks volumes about character.

Sources: GTG

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Dating Tips We Can All Take From ‘Love on the Spectrum’  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A month into 2025, many of us are still figuring out which New Year’s Resolutions we even want to take on. And, with many resolutions focused on the personal element of our lives, what about the professional part? Forget the lengthy lists of resolutions; here are four simple ways to be a better version of the workplace you in 2025:

South Africa (31 January 2025) — With one month of 2025 already done and dusted, many of us have had to stop and catch our breath in fear we might just blink and realise it’s November already. With so many resolutions focusing on the personal parts of our lives, it’s easy to forget that our professional selves might need a little makeover, too.

If January is all about getting back into the swing of things (especially in our professional worlds), then February offers the perfect opportunity to focus on refreshing the professional mindset.

The good news is that you don’t have to sit constructing the world’s longest list of resolutions to make change.

As Penquin’s co-managing director, Mandy Davis knows a thing or two about guiding not only herself but also others. As such, she is sharing a helpful take on how to tackle the year ahead, your best professional-self edition!

Don’t Just Set Goals for the Sake of It

Goal-setting in January is almost a tradition, but according to Mandy, it shouldn’t be about ticking boxes for the sake of it.

“Without clear goals, it’s easy to get stuck in the daily grind without making meaningful progress,” she says.

Goal-setting starts with asking the right questions. ’Where do you want to be?’ or ‘What’s going to move the needle?’ and ‘What is the needle you need to move?’.

When your goals are clear, so too become the steps you need to take. 

Lock in on a New Mindset

The start of the year is a prime time to take stock of not just what you’re doing but how you’re doing it, AKA mindfulness.

“Are you leading with curiosity? Are you open to new ways of thinking? Are you genuinely listening to your team and clients?” Mandy asks.

Refreshing your mindset also means keeping a finger on the pulse of your industry.

“AI, consumer trends, data-led decision-making—it’s all evolving fast. The people who thrive aren’t just reacting to change; they’re shaping how they adapt to it.”

Charting a Roadmap for Success

Success isn’t linear, and Mandy is quick to point this out.

“It’s a series of adjustments along the way. Start with the big picture—where do you want to go? Then break it down into tangible steps. And don’t forget to check in regularly.”

However, flexibility is key. Practical, adaptable steps will often take you much further than rigid blueprint maps.

“Stay focused, but don’t be afraid to shift gears when opportunities—or challenges—arise,” shares Mandy.

Keep a Fresh Perspective

Your mindset sets the tone for your actions, and your perspective helps you keep yourself in check.

“If you approach the year stuck in old habits, you’ll get the same results. But if you bring fresh energy, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge yourself, opportunities will pop up everywhere.”

Mandy also points out that a refreshed mindset doesn’t just benefit you—it inspires those around you. “When you show up with clarity and energy, it creates a ripple effect. That’s how you build momentum.”

Her ultimate advice is to stay curious, embrace change, and never get too comfortable. After all, growth comes from challenging yourself, seeing feedback as an opportunity, and constantly looking for better ways to do things.

“The new year is a great time to reset, but the real magic is in how you show up every day,” Mandy concludes.

Sources: Supplied—Penquin 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post New Year, Better You: How to Refresh Your Professional Mindset! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden recently honoured its dedicated retirees who have collectively given 150 years to the garden! Their efforts have helped shape Kirstenbosch to become the adored space it is today.

Cape Town, South Africa (24 January 2025) — Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden bid a beautiful farewell to a team of heroes, Kirstenbosch retirees, who have collectively given over a century to the garden adored by the world.

It was a bitter-sweet farewell in the way occasions like this tend to be—a goodbye on the one hand and a remarkable reflection of service on the other.

Kirstenbosch’s Long Service Awards for the retirees saw a heartfelt tribute given to four individuals who have given so much of their lives to the natural sanctuary for 150 years altogether. They are Natalie Fredericks, Nazeem Davids, Graham Duncan and Trevor Solomons. Together, their niches of work have helped shape Kirstenbosch into the breathtaking, safe and inspiring sanctuary it is today. Their stories are a testament to dedicating oneself to more than just oneself, to leaving behind a footprint of positivity and achievements that can and will be learnt from and built on in the years to come.

Natalie Fredericks: A Journey Back Home

In June of 1984, Natalie Fredericks joined the Kirstenbosch team. For her, it was a homecoming as she returned back to the place her family had been once removed from under apartheid.

“It felt like being home again, surrounded by memories of my childhood playground,” Natalie reflected.

Natalie was the Head of Information at the garden. A leader and an essential part of the garden’s growth, Natalie’s proudest moment was meeting the late President Nelson Mandela.

“It was a privilege to meet someone who embodied unity, much like Kirstenbosch brings people from all over the world together.”

In her own leadership journey, Natalie’s philosophy centred around the power of teamwork.

“A leader is as strong as the team, and the team is as strong as the leader.”—Natalie Fredericks.

Nazeem Davids: The Plant Protector

Nazeem spent 33 years with Kirstenbosch. Affectionately known as ‘The Plant Protector’, Nazeem worked his way through the ranks and retired as a Specialist Plant Propagator responsible for the cultivation of one of the most popular plant groups at the garden and in South Africa: the Pelargoniums (sometimes incorrectly referred to as the Geraniums).

His most cherished and recent project had to do with the care and long-term maintenance of confiscated plant collections. This is a sanctuary that boasts over 4,500 plants that were once part of illegal trade.

Nazeem’s advice to the next generation is a recipe for growth:

“Work beyond your scope. Expose yourself to everything; that’s how you grow.”

Nazeem hopes to spend retirement teaching gardening through an outreach program in Mitchells Plain.

Graham Duncan: The Bulb Specialist

Graham Duncan boasts a forty-five-and-a-half-year tenure at Kirstenbosch. His is a legacy of passion and precision!

Graham may have ended his career at the garden as a specialist horticulturalist, but he was once just a humble volunteer. Since 1979, Graham has built the garden’s bulb collection to become the world’s largest, with over 500 species. Not to mention, his expertise has been shared all over the world in different publications.

Graham’s advice (both for horticultural pursuits and life) is all about patience.

“Some plants take over a decade to flower from seed, and the reward is worth the wait.”

Trevor Solomons: The Guardian of Safety

Trevor Solomons joined Kirstenbosch in 1981, the beginning of decades focused on safety. One mission saw Trevor tackle crime in the surrounding mountain areas. It went on to result in over 16 years of safety and peace for the region and remains one of his proudest achievements.

Straightforward yet compassionate, Trevor’s advice to the young is to listen to those who know more and take pride in one’s work. The retired Security Supervisor has plans to uplift the youth by steering them away from crime and drugs with his newfound time off.

He hopes the garden remains a safe space of pride and inspiration for all the generations to come.

“To the retirees, we say thank you,” said Kirstenbosch Garden Manager Werner Voigt. “Your stories enrich the garden’s legacy and inspire us all to nurture not just plants but the connections that make our world bloom.”

Sources: Email Submission 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Nothing disrupts the joy festive functions are supposed to bring quite like those family members who simply can’t handle their eggnog. But is there a way to minimise alcohol-related risks in a way that doesn’t dampen spirits? Psychological Counsellor Meandrie Bridges fills us in.

South Africa (08 December 2024) — The merry season is synonymous with joy, generosity and cherished traditions. Families reunite, friends reconnect. And somewhere amid it all, we let our hair down and indulge a little. But, it’s also a time when some people take indulgence a little too far, and before we know it, the festive functions we meticulously planned turn into memories our families only dare to speak about.

There’s nothing that says ‘coal under your Christmas tree’ quite like a guest who can’t handle their drink. Before you know it, they’re fighting with anyone who will humour them and threatening to drive home under the influence. It’s something that many take far more lightly than they should. After all, the festive period has proven time and time again to be one of South Africa’s most dangerous times to be on the road.

Cue Psychological Counsellor Meandrie Bridges. As someone dedicated to providing holistic support to individuals seeking to improve their mental health and well-being, Meandrie knows well just how much trouble these out-of-hand festive functions can cause. Is there a way to manage it all?

The answer is yes!

According to Meandrie, here’s how to run a tighter ship and manage alcohol abuse during festive functions:

Before and During the Gathering

Set Clear Expectations

Discuss boundaries and expectations with family members ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Designate a Sober Host/Champion

Choose someone responsible for ensuring everyone’s safety while remaining sober throughout the event.

Plan Activities

Organise fun activities that don’t involve substance use, such as games or outdoor adventures, to keep everyone engaged and connected.

During the Gathering

Monitor Alcohol Use

Keep an eye on the amount of alcohol being consumed and step in if needed to prevent escalation.

Offer a Variety of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Provide tasty, non-alcoholic options and encourage guests to drink them.

Watch for Signs of Impairment

Be alert to signs like slurred speech, stumbling, or aggressive behaviour, and intervene early to prevent further issues.

Intervene Early

If someone shows signs of impairment, address the situation before it escalates, offering support where necessary.

Sources: Email Submission 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Students across the country are fighting a common enemy, and its name is examxiety (exam anxiety). Here’s how to tackle the beast with full colours—whether it’s your first exam or your final!

South Africa (05 November 2024) — From matrics sweating through finals to youngsters just getting their first taste of the study season, there’s one common enemy holding a big chunk of students back from getting the grades they should get. Its name, dare we speak it? Examxiety.

‘Examxiety’, though it might not be an official word, is a very real thing. A combination of anxiety and exams (AKA test anxiety), it’s the unsung force that makes minds feel frozen, tummies turn and twist, and, in many cases, grades shrink.

While regular stress is one thing, “examxiety” is an entirely different beast. Like performance anxiety, it offers a disproportionate response to the fear of failure, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy in the process.

Examxiety can manifest in different ways:

• Freezing up and not being able to access the information in one’s mind (getting stuck in between flight or fight)
• Being unable to focus on or comprehend questions like a camera lens stuck in a blur
• Getting physically ill (nausea, shaking or even having a panic attack)
• Uprooting sleep cycles

All of the above can catch someone in a vicious cycle that prohibits them from flourishing in their next exam. And because most exams are so closely packed together, there’s hardly enough time to recover from the first ordeal!

But (thankfully) the story doesn’t end there. While we might not have the answers to those tests, we do have some tips for managing the self-test that is examxiety:

Control What You Can and Recognise What You Can’t!

Things like getting to the test early, giving yourself extra time before you write (not to cram, but to decompress), avoiding conversations about the test if possible and making sure you have a good meal (with enough time for it to digest properly so you don’t have to worry about any stomach noises in-test) are all small, but super helpful ways to remind yourself that you’re a person first and a student second.

Recognising what you can control versus what you can’t helps you avoid any other typical stress-factors that can aggravate examxiety; giving you a sense of being in charge in a time where you can easily feel the opposite.

Make a list if you have to, take no prisoners and remember to be as disciplined with your stress dos and don’ts as you are with your studies.

Separate Yourself from Your Mind

When experiencing something mentally painful, it’s important to put things into perspective. Recognising examxiety as a mental experience—nothing more or less—can help you identify outside of it!

For example, if you were taking your test with an injured leg, you wouldn’t think about your leg being injured the whole time. You know that your leg is a part of you, and the pain it’s going through is just an experience—not your leg’s identity. Similarly, separate yourself from your mind and your mind from examxiety.

When you do this, examxiety seems much smaller than it did at first and much more manageable.

When You Freeze, Remember to Breathe

Breathwork is essential when it comes to managing any form of anxiety! While you might not be able to tackle some breathing methods in a test setting, one you can do when you start to feel yourself freezing up is the box breathing method:

• Inhale for four seconds (slowly)
• Hold for four (slowly)
• Exhale for four (extra slowly)
• Hold again for four

In case of a really bad panic punch, take the deepest breath you can. Just when you think your lungs are as full as they can be, take another smaller breath (without exhaling from the first big breath) to calm down almost instantly.

Presence Over Panic

If you start to panic, force yourself to be present and unclog yourself from getting stuck.

If you think you have enough time, tackle the 5-4-3-2-1 method by identifying:

• Five things you can see
• Four that you can touch
• Three that you can hear
• Two that you can smell
• One that you can taste.

If you only have time to do one sensory activity, pick the one that seems easiest. For example, look for five items that are blue, or see if you can hear five different sounds.

The important thing here is to remember that even if this takes you an extra two minutes or so, those are two productive minutes that are helping you get back to the present as opposed to five or ten minutes unproductively frozen.

Replace Harsh Words with Constructive Criticism

When a tough exam is done and dusted, it’s easy to spend countless hours haunted by it. This can make for a lot of negative or harsh self-talk that can set an uneasy foundation for the next test.

Instead, remember that you control your self-story and your perspective on any given situation.

With this in mind, you can replace harsh words that hinder you with constructive ones that empower you.

“I bet I failed” can become “I discovered something I struggle with that I can work on.”

“It was easy for everyone but me” can become “I might be able to learn something from my friends.”

When you see every ‘shortcoming’ as a lesson, you create a new narrative and roadmap for next time. And that’s a mindset that matters far more than any exam!

Sources: GTG

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post 5 Tips for Managing “Examxiety” Like an Expert! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

We’re nearing all vibes summery and bright, so let’s make sure we’re prepared for a cool pet summer! Here are the top ways to keep our fur-babies as calm and chilled as we hope our holiday plans will be:

South Africa (03 November 2024) — When summer comes round, so do better vibes and all the best reasons to enjoy time outside. But, with Climate Change and Global Warming to consider in our summer planning, it’s safe to say that we won’t be preparing for fun in the sun as we once knew it.

While humans have a lot more resources at our disposal to keep cool, pets don’t. So, for all the fur-parents in our readership, we’re sharing top tips on keeping pets calm, cool and collected this summer in all ways simple. Never mind hot girl summer, this is cool pet summer!

Hydration Please!

The enemy of cool pet summer is dehydration. Keep the vibes immaculate by making sure your pet always has access to fresh, cool water. This means ensuring their water bowls are covered by shade and making sure you’re refilling the bowls frequently in the same way many of us hope our cocktail glasses will be refilled frequently.

Exercise During Peak Heat isn’t Cute

We know, we know. Your pet’s working on their summer body. But unfortunately for even the most active animal, over-doing exercise on a particularly hot day just isn’t a good idea.

Be the personal trainer your pet will love by ensuring they exercise during the cooler parts of the day. Replace those midday walks with evening strolls (or any time when the weather is cooler) and make sure that when you do walk, the road or pavement has cooled down (you don’t want a pet with heat-impacted paws or heat stroke).

Shady Baby

Your pet needs to have a cool and shaded spot to chill. You wouldn’t brave the beach for hours without some form of shade, so you can’t expect your pet to be fine chilling outside with nowhere to cool down.

Similarly, pets who spend a lot of time indoors need to have ventilation. And in case anyone needed a reminder, never leave your pet in a parked car even if it’s just for a few minutes!

Be the Eyes and Ears of Cool Pet Summer

Even if you’re doing everything right, you still need to keep your eyes alert and ears perked for signs of heatstroke. Some indicators include excessive panting, drooling vomiting or lethargy.

If you become aware that something is off, ensure you move your pet to a nice cool place immediately and get veterinary help ASAP.

A Cool Cut

We all want to look our best during summer. But for your pet, regular grooming has more merit than just looking aesthetic.

Regular grooming is key to helping your pet beat the heat; especially for long-haired breeds.

But, before you grab the scissors, get professional advice from a groomer or vet. This is because certain breed’s coats actually act as protection against sunburn.

Prevent the Haters (Parasites)

Fleas, ticks and other parasites aren’t afraid to get out and about during summer and many of them are making a beeline for your pet. Get your vet’s advice and make sure you’ve got their stamp of approval on parasite prevention products.

Sources: Info Supplied by FOUR PAWS 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post 6 Top Tips for a Cool Pet Summer! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Both smoking and vaping are harmful, but understanding the dangers and focusing on your personal reasons, making a firm decision, and taking action can help you successfully quit and improve your health and well-being.

Johannesburg, South Africa (15 July 2024) – Smoking has long been a known health hazard, leading to all sorts of nasty diseases. While traditional cigarettes are infamous for their damage, vaping has popped up as a modern alternative, often seen as the safer option.

But let’s be real: both smoking and vaping are pretty harmful. Understanding these dangers is important, but so is the journey of quitting. It’s been 15 years since I ditched smoking and almost a year since I gave up vaping.

How did I do it?

Well, for me, quitting boiled down to three key steps: the why, the decision, and the doing.

The Why

Figuring out “the why” gives you a strong, personal reason for quitting. It turns the idea of quitting into a clear, purpose-driven mission, boosting your motivation and resilience, making long-term success more likely.

The Decision

Making the decision to stop smoking is the first big step. It changes a vague wish into a solid goal, laying the foundation for your quitting journey.

The Doing

This is where all your planning and motivation come into play. It’s the moment you put your plan into action, experiencing, adjusting to, and ultimately overcoming the challenges of quitting.

My Journey with Smoking

I gave up smoking 15 years ago, and it’s something I’m really proud of. But it started in a place I now look back on with a bit of embarrassment. I began smoking in high school because I thought it was cool. This idea of coolness quickly turned into an addiction, and soon, I was smoking a pack a day, sometimes more.

The turning point came gradually. I started to hate the taste, the smell, and the whole experience. Toward the end, I would light a cigarette, take a few puffs, and then put it out, unable to finish it. I realised I no longer enjoyed smoking—if I ever truly had. One morning, I woke up and decided: I’m done with this.

And just like that, I stopped.

My Journey with Vaping

But then vaping came along. At first, it was just a social thing, but it quickly turned into a daily habit. I found myself vaping constantly, all day, every day. This went on for almost two years until last year when something weird started happening.

I felt severe anxiety, amplified imposter syndrome, and a loss of composure, especially on stage when delivering Keynotes.

After some reflection, I figured out the cause: vaping.

The habit and nicotine intake were messing with my nervous system and brain. I decided to stop. While on holiday last year, I picked a day to be my last with vaping. I spent that day vaping one last time, and the next day, I tossed all my vapes and never looked back. Amazingly, my anxiety disappeared within days.

Tips for Those Looking to Quit

Quitting is a personal journey, and while the why, decision, and doing were key steps for me, you might need some extra support, so here are 5 tips to getting it done!

1. Find Your Own Why

Understanding your personal reasons for quitting can provide strong motivation. Whether it’s for your health, to set a good example for loved ones, or to save money, having a clear “why” can keep you focused and determined.

2. Set a Quit Date

Choose a specific day to quit and mark it on your calendar. This gives you a target to prepare for and makes your commitment feel more concrete. Stick to your quit date no matter what.

3. Seek Support

Don’t go it alone. Tell your friends, family, and coworkers about your plan to quit and ask for their support. Join a support group or seek out online communities where you can share your experiences and gain encouragement.

4. Replace Smoking with Healthier Habits

Identify your smoking triggers and find alternative activities to replace smoking. Chew gum, eat healthy snacks, or take a walk when you feel the urge to smoke. Keeping your hands and mouth busy can help you resist cravings.

5. Use Quit-Smoking Aids

Consider using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products like patches, gum, or lozenges. There are also prescription medications that can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider to find the best option for you.

Remember, your why, decision, and doing might start at different times, but you will get there. Quitting smoking or vaping is a journey worth taking for your health, well-being, and peace of mind.

You’ve got this!

Sources: Brent Lindeque | Good Things Guy 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post My Journey to Quit Smoking and Vaping: How I Did It and Why You Can Too appeared first on Good Things Guy.