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Spice Up Your Relationship by Taking These 6 Steps

Relationships often start out to be fun and exciting, but many of them eventually fizzle out due to various reasons. However, you shouldn’t give up on your partner just because you’ve lost your emotional connection and feel more like roommates instead of lovers. You can always rekindle the fire in your relationship and make it stronger by taking these steps:

Schedule Dates and Trips

It’s difficult to travel or even just enjoy a dinner and movie when you’re both busy with kids, work, school, and other obligations. However, you must regularly spend quality time together to preserve your emotional connection. If you have kids, for example, hire a babysitter so you can take each other on a date to your favourite restaurant. You can also sit down and rework your weekly schedule so you’ll have enough time for each other every night after dinner and during weekends.

Improve Your Communication

Even if you’d spend many hours with each other, it won’t be enjoyable if you don’t know how to properly communicate. So, find ways to enhance your communication skills and learn how to express your emotions and discuss issues without ending up in tears and screaming matches. Start by adopting tried-and-tested communication techniques, such as doing active listening and using “I” statements. It’s also helpful to be more honest with yourself and your partner and learn to establish and respect each other’s boundaries.

Sign up for Relationship Therapy

Many couples go to therapy only when things get dire and they’re on the verge of breaking up. However, you shouldn’t wait for relationship issues to worsen before you start taking action. Instead, consider getting relationship therapy even when you and your partner are in a good place. This way, you’ll learn how to continually strengthen your relationship’s foundation and resolve problems as soon as they arise.

Start a Project Together

Doing so will help you reframe how you view your relationship and remember that you’re not just two people pitting against each other—you’re a team facing the world. Start by working on a simple project, such as learning how to cook a new recipe . Once you regain your sense of teamwork, move on to bigger projects like remodelling your kitchen or organising a fun-filled, week-long holiday.

Get More Creative in the Bedroom

Sex can get dull and repetitive if you stick to the same methods over and over again. So, to spice up your romantic life, strive to explore new things in the bedroom and find ways to boost your sexual pleasure while building a stronger bond with each other. Try different techniques and positions and see which ones resonate best with you as a couple. Also, buy quality sex toys from trusted adult shops and introduce them to your lovemaking.

Take Time for Yourself

It’s important to remind yourselves that you’re also your own person with your own dreams and desires. By spending some time apart to see your friends and enjoy your hobbies, you’ll preserve your independence and flourish as an individual. This will make your relationship feel less constrictive and help you become a better partner.

Relationships can feel dull and boring if they’re not properly nurtured by the people involved. Use these tips to stoke the fires of your relationship and make it fun and exciting again!

PJ Harvey Covers Joy Division’s ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’

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PJ Harvey has covered Joy Division‘s ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’ for the second season of the Apple TV+ series Bad Sisters. For the show’s first season, Harvey collaborated with Tim Phillips to tackle the traditional American folk song ‘Run On’ and Leonard Cohen’s ‘Who By Fire’ in 2022, and the new cover finds her re-teaming with the composer. Take a listen below.

“It was a huge pleasure to be invited to step into the studio again with Tim Phillips to create the soundtrack for ‘Bad Sisters Season 2’,” Harvey said in a statement. “Having formed friendships with Tim and Sharon on season 1, there was a level of trust and openness which was conducive to creativity. Our version of ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’ is full of the passion we hold for the original song, but also imbued with the spirit of the new series and its narrative.”

Phillips added: “I’m super excited to see the reaction to S2 of ‘Bad Sisters’ and I think audiences will love where this story goes next. It was a thrill to get back into the studio with Polly Harvey and make some new sounds, and the fact that most of the original production team returned made it even better!”

This Week’s Best New Songs: Squid, Ichiko Aoba, Kathryn Mohr, and More

Throughout the week, we update our Best New Songs playlist with the new releases that caught our attention the most, be it a single leading up to the release of an album or a newly unveiled deep cut. And each Monday, we round up the best new songs released over the past week (the eligibility period begins on Monday and ends Sunday night) in this best new music segment.

On this week’s list, we have Superheaven’s crushing, dynamic first new song in nine years, ‘Long Gone’; fantasy of a broken heart’s delightfully poppy yet mesmerizing ‘Found You Again’, featuring Jordana; FKA twigs’ latest Eusexua single, ‘Drums of Death’, which is anchored by Koreless’ glitchy (and gritty) production; Julia Holter’s enchanting and oddly restless ‘The Laugh Is in the Eyes’; Squid’s paranoid and propulsive ‘Crispy Skin’, which draws inspiration from Agustina Bazterrica’s dystopian novel Tender Is the Flesh, where cannibalism becomes the norm; Kathryn Mohr’s ‘Driven’, a hypnotic crawl of a song that will appeal to fans of Grouper and Midwife; Tyler Bussey’s latest Thank You Thank You single, the gorgeous instrumental ‘After You Gave Me This’, on which he’s joined by 10 musicians; and Ichiko Aoba’s tender, wondrous ‘Luciférine’, which leads the Japanese folk artist’s upcoming album.

Best New Songs: November 18, 2024

Superheaven, ‘Long Gone’

fantasy of a broken heart feat. Jordana, ‘Found You Again’

FKA twigs, ‘Drums of Death’

Julia Holter, ‘The Laugh Is in the Eyes’

Song of the Week: Squid, ‘Crispy Skin’

Kathryn Mohr, ‘Driven’

Thank You Thank You, ‘After You Gave Me This’

Ichiko Aoba, ‘Luciférine’

Finding Companions Around the World as a Digital Nomad: Adventure Without Loneliness

Let’s be real: being a digital nomad is a wild ride. You’re exploring new countries, dodging 9-to-5 schedules, and basking in the freedom of working anywhere with WiFi (or a coffee shop that pretends to have it). But all that jet-setting can get lonely, even in the coolest corners of the world. Sure, there’s Tinder… if you love spending hours trying to look like you have a six-pack, a private jet, and a pet tiger. But what if you just want someone real to share a meal with in Bangkok or explore a festival in Rio—minus the guessing games?

This is where a site like TheJohnDude.com comes in. It’s like a GPS for finding companions across 50+ countries, so digital nomads never have to feel alone while out there living their best (and sometimes chaotic) life. But before we jump into why directories like this are a lifesaver, let’s rewind a bit.

The Digital Nomad Revolution: From Laptop Dreams to Pandemic Reality

The digital nomad lifestyle started picking up steam in the 2010s. Fueled by better tech, faster WiFi, and the collective desire to escape open office plans (those fluorescent lights… ugh), people began working from beaches, mountains, and, let’s be honest, occasionally their beds. Then COVID hit, and suddenly millions realized they could work just as well from their living room—or from anywhere, really.

Countries like Thailand, Portugal, and Colombia became digital nomad hotspots, full of affordable living, great food, and friendly communities. But despite the Insta-worthy scenery, being a digital nomad isn’t all smoothie bowls and hammock selfies. When you’re constantly on the move, it’s hard to find lasting connections. Enter companion directories like TheJohnDude—a straightforward way to find company wherever you are, minus the swiping and Tinder Olympics.

5 Tips for Finding Companions (Without the Games)

Ready to skip the Tinder circus and meet people without pretending you have a yacht? Here’s how to make finding a companion as easy as ordering your next overpriced matcha.

1. Ditch the “Flex Life” Routine

We all know the Tinder drill: look like you live in a luxury penthouse, throw in a picture with a Lamborghini, and maybe a subtle shot of you doing something “badass” like skydiving or hugging a tiger (Andrew Tate would be proud). But here’s the beauty of companion directories: they don’t care about your carefully curated persona. You’re free to be your sweatpants-wearing, snack-loving self because, spoiler, there’s no need to impress. Just visit a site like TheJohnDude and find companions ready to make memories without the resume.

2. Say Goodbye to Guessing Games

With traditional dating apps, you’re left wondering: Are they looking for something serious? Casual? Just here for the free cocktails? Companion directories cut out the ambiguity. The expectations are upfront, and you know you’re on the same page. So no more guessing if that cryptic “open to possibilities” means they want a relationship or just want you to pay for dinner.

3. No More “Perfect Profile” Pressure

Let’s face it—creating the perfect profile on dating apps is exhausting. The lighting, the angles, the strategic pet photo (because everyone loves dogs, right?). With directories like TheJohnDude, you can skip the profile perfectionism. You’re there to meet companions who are ready for real, spontaneous connections. If you can type, you’re good to go.

4. Be Where You Are—Literally

As a digital nomad, you’re constantly on the move. With traditional dating apps, you match with someone and find out they live five cities over. With companion directories, you can find people where you are, in real-time. In Buenos Aires? Great, meet someone for empanadas and a sunset walk. Heading to Bali? Line up a surf buddy or just someone to share a coffee with after a long workday. It’s all about finding people in the here and now.

5. Embrace the Freedom to Focus on Fun

Dating apps are filled with “I’m looking for someone who loves adventure and hates drama.” (Spoiler: everyone hates drama.) But real life isn’t always that clean-cut. With companion directories, you’re signing up for exactly what you’re after. There’s no pressure to be “The Perfect Date” or convince someone that you’re ready to climb Everest with them. Just live the adventure, focus on enjoying yourself, and let the rest flow.

Why Companion Directories Are Essential for Digital Nomads

The beauty of being a digital nomad is the freedom to live on your own terms, to travel without timelines, and to enjoy every experience fully. Companion directories like The John Dude align perfectly with this lifestyle. They give you access to connections wherever you are, without the dating app drama. It’s like knowing there’s always a friendly face to meet up with, whether you’re in the bustling streets of Bangkok, chilling in Medellín, or sipping wine in Lisbon.

With TheJohnDude, you’re not just finding someone to hang out with—you’re gaining a companion who gets it. Someone who understands that your life is a balance of work, travel, and living out loud. Whether you’re looking for a tour guide, a dinner date, or someone to share an epic night out, there’s no need to feel alone in your travels. TheJohnDude is your ticket to meaningful companionship, wherever your journey takes you.

Finally Live the Nomad Life Without the Lonely Nights

Being a digital nomad is a lifestyle of adventure, independence, and freedom. But even the most fearless explorers need a little companionship. So, instead of swiping endlessly or competing with Lamborghini selfies, use sites like The John Dude to find real, engaging connections on your terms. Skip the games, enjoy the moment, and make every city feel like home—even if just for a while.

In the end, life is too short for waiting around. If you’re a digital nomad ready to dive into the world with a companion by your side, TheJohnDude has got your back. Here’s to adventures, freedom, and never having to eat alone again.

The Power of Style: How Dressing Sharp Can Change How People Perceive You

Your style speaks volumes before words ever can. It’s a visual handshake, an introduction before you speak, and works on subconscious planes very powerfully in how people perceive you. There is nothing vain in dressing sharp; it simply means placing the best version of yourself out into the world. Whether it’s a boardroom or dinner with friends, your outfit can frame the story others create about you. In this blog, we will explore how a well-curated wardrobe raises your self-image bar and leaves a lasting impression. From the psychology behind sharp dressing to practical tips on refining your style, consider this your guide to extracting the power of your clothes.

The Psychology of First Impressions

Clothing as a Language

An instant opinion, perhaps just by sight alone, is made on several subjects within merely a few seconds. This maybe isn’t fair; however, it is instinctive to make almost instantaneous visual judgments about other people. What you wear is saying a lot about you, or at least saying what you want it to say. A well-dressed person exudes confidence, competence, and attention to every detail long before he says one word. These subconscious associations are the reason doors will open to job opportunities or friendships. The psychology at play here is something called “enclothed cognition,” which ensures that clothes have an impact not just on how others perceive you but also on how you view yourself. Wear a well-tailored suit or a freshly ironed shirt, and you’re bound to feel in command, even when the heat is on. And that self-assurance? It oozes out of you.

Perception vs. Reality

While style is not what makes you worthy, it does shape a person’s perception of you. Picture two people applying for the same job. One shows up in a nicely fitted blazer, while the other wears casual clothing. Both may be qualified, but sometimes that well-dressed candidate is the one who makes the most impact. It’s not just a question of looking good but rather making all your outward externals come into line with your ambitions and values. The reality is that man is attracted by something that looks pretty, and sharp dressing is often interpreted as trying to show regard for the occasion.

Fashion for Increasing Confidence – The Mirror Effect

The way of dressing can have a direct impact on how feelings about the self are constructed. When time is spent on how one looks, something is told to oneself: you are worth your time and attention. A type of regard for one’s self and appearance often leads to increased confidence, which may result in differences in the way one walks through life. If you walk into a room feeling prepared and put together, your posture improves, your handshake gets firmer, and you converse more freely. Interestingly, style isn’t about following every trend; it’s about finding out what works for you. Perhaps it is a signature colour palette or classic cuts that become your thing. Owning your personal style is a means of self-expression that breeds inner assurance. And when you feel good in your clothes, it shows.

Style as Armor

From presentations to first dates, life is full of moments when this extra layer of confidence comes in handy. Sharp dressing can be a kind of psychological armour, helping you take on challenges head-on. Think of it this way: when you’ve taken the time to really refine what you’re wearing, you’re most likely to walk into something and feel like you’re ready to conquer it. That energy is palpable and can flip the script, essentially, on any dynamic in your favour.

Amplifying Impressions – The Social Significance of Wearing Smart

Drawing Respect and Attention

The way you look can often be a determinant of the way respect and attention are accorded to you. In professional milieus, dressing smart may give meaning to authority and expertise by encouraging other professionals and clients to take you more seriously. It is not about wearing the most expensive suit in the room but some assurance that your attire speaks volumes to show professionalism and care. In the same way, this could apply to any social setting. Usually, the well-dressed person ends up being the talk of any gathering. For sure, people would always be attached to those who looked put together since it speaks a lot about a given level of organisation and self-discipline. Your style becomes, in a way, the silent leader that sets up the tone for how you want to be treated.

Building Connections with Style

That one signature accessory or that particularly sharp jacket usually gets compliments and conversations going. These little interactions could lead to deeper connections on a personal and professional level. People who appreciate your fashion sense appreciate the fact that you can put yourself across intentionally, too. In other words, your style can be used as a network tool that opens up the possibility of genuine relationships. For instance, blogs like Men’s Flair fashion blog go into minute detail about men’s fashion and give helpful tips on how to own your style for maximum effect.

Practical Tips for Refining Your Style

Invest in Timeless Pieces

Building a sharp wardrobe doesn’t have to mean a complete makeover of your whole closet in one night. Start with the basics: a well-fitted blazer, tailored trousers, and quality shoes. Naturally, these are the pieces that will enable you to make use of various combinations for different situations. Invest in timeless styles that won’t fall out of fashion and bank on quality instead of quantity. A few well-made items can make a far greater difference than having an overcrowded wardrobe full of passing fads. Fit is everything. Even the most expensive suit does not look any good if it doesn’t fit properly. Never be afraid to get things tailored in order to have fitting clothes, as if they had been tailored for you.

Paying Attention to Detail

It is all in the details: accessories such as a watch, a pocket square, or an ultra-sleek belt can add dimension to an outfit, telling the world who you are without screaming it. Grooming is second to everything: clean shoes, ironed shirts, hair. It’s the little things that truly make an impact. Remember, style is not about perfection; it is about authenticity. Style is about using clothes as a tool for articulating who you are and where you’re going. Take your time; play around and have fun with your personal style. It is an investment in yourself that pays off in dividends in both self-confidence and the respect of the world.

Watch Charli XCX Perform ‘360’ and ‘Sympathy Is a Knife’ on ‘SNL’

Charli XCX pulled double duty as the host and musical guest on the latest episode of Saturday Night Live. She performed two tracks from her album Brat: ‘360’ and ‘Sympathy Is a Knife’. Watch it happen below.

Charli XCX last appeared on SNL in March of 2022, when she played two songs from her previous record Crash. This was her third appearance as musical guest and first time as host, and in her opening monologue, the British singer introduced herself by talking about playing her first rave when she was 15, her love of AutoTune, and what being brat is really about.

Charli then starred in a sketch called ‘Babymoon’, a sequel to the one where her ‘Sympathy Is a Knife’ remix collaborator Ariana Grande sang her version of Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Espresso’ as a bridesmaid alongside cast members Sarah Sherman, Heidi Gardner, and Ego Nwodim. This time, they continued the storyline with Chappell Roan’s ‘Hot to Go!’, changing the chorus to the name of the guy whose baby the bride may or not be carrying. She also teamed up with Lonely Island for a new song, ‘Here I Go’, about white people in suburban neighborhoods calling the cops.

Elsewhere in the episode, the singer delivered a Troye Sivan impression in ‘Wicked Auditions’ (with Bowen Yang reprising his impression of Charli), did some funny ad reads on ‘Banger Boyz’, starred as a commercial acting teacher’s favorite pupil, took part in a couple of Thanskgiving-themed sketches, and was accused by her friends of hooking up with Shrek after seeing Shrek on Broadway.

Charli XCX has a few more dates on the UK leg of her Brat tour before heading to New Zealand in February. In June, she’s set to co-headline Barcelona’s Primavera Sound festival with Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan.

2024 ECI Awards Final Judging Successfully Held in Shanghai

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Shanghai, China –The final judging session of the 2024 ECI Awards was successfully held at the Zhendao Center in Shanghai’s Big Data Industrial Base. This prestigious international event, dedicated to recognizing groundbreaking achievements in the digital economy, brought together leading experts and industry pioneers from fields such as technology, business, arts, and academia to evaluate and celebrate transformative innovations that are shaping the future.

Established in 2014 by the International Entrepreneurship, Creativity & Innovation Association (IECIA), the ECI Awards are the first global accolades in the digital economy to adopt “The Effectiveness of Innovation” as their primary evaluation standard. Often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Digital Economy Innovation,” the awards honor projects and initiatives that showcase exceptional innovation across multiple dimensions, including technology, business impact, sustainability, and social responsibility. Over the years, the ECI Awards have gained prominence not only for highlighting commercial success but also for emphasizing the role of human-centered design and global cooperation in driving sustainable progress.

This year’s awards spanned a diverse range of categories, including artificial intelligence applications, metaverse technology, marketing innovation, digital public welfare, and sustainable development. Each shortlisted project underwent a rigorous evaluation process, focusing on its innovative approach, market performance, and societal impact. The final judging session served as a platform not only for awarding the best projects but also for fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue and inspiring collaboration among participants from around the world.

As one of the invited final judges, Ning Jiang shared his thoughts with reporters, stating, “This year’s entries demonstrate a remarkable balance between technological advancement and human values. Innovation is not just about technical breakthroughs; it’s also about understanding and addressing societal needs. The projects we reviewed this year provide valuable insights into how innovation can achieve meaningful impact beyond commerce.”

Jiang, the chairman of Aries Advertising and the founder of the Shanghai Longshang Art Institution, is a leading figure in the integration of art and business. Known for his extensive experience in branding strategy and public art promotion, Jiang has collaborated on numerous high-profile projects across luxury real estate, premium brands, and cultural institutions. His participation as a judge brought a unique perspective to the evaluation process, emphasizing the interplay between creativity and practical solutions.

The ECI Awards have built a reputation for their emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, in addition to recognizing technical and commercial achievements. This year’s final judging session once again underscored the awards’ role as a global platform for innovation and collaboration. Participants and judges engaged in meaningful discussions about the future of the digital economy, exploring how groundbreaking ideas can bridge the gap between technological advancement and societal progress.

With the conclusion of the 2024 ECI Awards final judging, a selection of truly impactful and forward-thinking projects has emerged as winners. These innovators are poised to gain greater recognition and support through this platform, inspiring them to continue merging technology with human values. The ECI Awards remain committed to fostering a global network of innovation and collaboration, connecting the world to a future of sustainable progress and boundless possibilities.

Jack White Releases New Song ‘You Got Me Searching’

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Jack White has released a new track, ‘You Got Me Searching’, which is billed as a B-side from his latest album No Name. Listen to it below.

The former White Stripes guitarist dropped No Name, his sixth studio record, earlier this year. The record was secretly shared with Third Man Records customers before being officially released on August 2.

 

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Elton John and Brandi Carlile Join Forces on New Song ‘Never Too Late’

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Elton John and Brandi Carlile have teamed up for a new single, ‘Never Too Late’. The song, which was co-written with Bernie Taupin and producer Andrew Watt, appears on the upcoming Disney+ documentary Elton John: Never Too Late. Check it out below.

“I found the early cut of the documentary that went on to become Elton John: Never Too Late so moving,” Carlile said in a press release. “It was really amazing to see historic footage of Elton and the trajectory of his life. But as fantastic and as beautiful as everything was that we were all witnessing as fans, his life was also pretty lonely and difficult at times. And I thought that the documentary illustrated a really important sentiment, because he might not have ever found his serenity and his peace, but he did find it, and he found it later in life. And it is never too late — too late to find the love of your life, or to start a family, or to change your mind about anything.”

John commented: “When Brandi told me she was so inspired by the early cut of the documentary that she wanted us to to co-write a new song for it, I was thrilled. I’ve known for a long time how great she was but still, reading her lyrics and co-writing with her on the music was deeply moving. Especially given how personal it is to see, seeing my life on the screen, she just perfectly captured the essence of the documentary and why I stopped touring to spend more time with my family. I’m constantly astonished by her craft; she can channel my voice in a way only Bernie has managed to do before. I know Bernie helped guide Brandi on that. The standard of her musicianship, her songwriting, her passion for what she does are sensational. She truly is one of the greatest there is.”

Directed by R.J. Cutler and David Furnish, Elton John: Never Too Late will stream on Disney+ on December 13.

Sam Fender Shares New War On Drugs-Produced Single ‘People Watching’

Sam Fender has shared ‘People Watching’, his first new music in two years. It’s the title track from his upcoming album, which will arrive on February 21 via Polydor Records. The English rocker co-produced the new track with the War on Drugs’ Adam Granduciel. Check it out below.

Talking about the story behind the single in an Instagram post on November 7, Fender said: “‘People Watching’ is about somebody that was like a surrogate mother to me and passed away last November. I was by her side at the end, slept on a chair next to her. It’s about what was going through my head, to and from that place and home.”

He added: “It’s kind of ironic because she was the one that gave me the confidence to go on stage, and always used to be like ‘why haven’t you mentioned my name in your acceptance speech’. But now an entire song (and album) connects to her. I hope that wherever she is now she’s looking down saying ‘about time kid’.

People Watching will serve as a follow-up to 2021’s Seventeen Going Under. Along with Granduciel, Fender worked on the LP with longtime collaborators Dean Thompson, Joe Atkinson, and producer Markus Dravs.

People Watching Cover Artwork:

People Watching Tracklist:

1. People Watching
2. Nostalgia’s Lie
3. Chin Up
4. Wild Long Lie
5. Arm’s Length
6. Crumbling Empire
7. Little Bit Closer
8. Rein Me In
9. TV Dinner
10. Something Heavy
11. Remember My Name