 Houston is getting what's believed to be the country's first 3D-printed two-story home. Anthony Vu/Hannah 3D printing is taking home construction to new heights. In Houston, a giant printer is building what designers say is the first 3D-printed two-story house in the U.S. The machine has been pouring a concrete mix from a nozzle, one layer at a time, in hot weather and cold, alongside a sparse on-site workforce, to create a 4,000-square-foot home. While construction 3D printing has been around for over a decade, the technology has only started to break ground in the U.S. homebuilding market over the last couple of years, said Leslie Lok, the architectural designer for the project. Several 3D-printed homes have already been built or are currently in the works across a handful of states. Lok, who co-founded the design firm Hannah, says her team aims to eventually scale up their designs to be able to efficiently 3D print multifamily homes. "This Houston project is a step towards that, being a pretty large single-family house," she said.  A mock-up of the two-story home, created by the design office Hannah. Hannah The three-bedroom home is a two-year collaboration between Hannah, Germany-based Peri 3D Construction and Cive, an engineering and construction company in Houston. Proponents of the technology say 3D printing could address a range of construction challenges, including labor shortages and building more resilient homes in the face of natural disasters. With the Houston home, the team is pushing the industrial printer to its limits to understand how it can streamline the technology, in the quest to quickly build cost-effective and well-designed homes. "In the future, it has to be fast, simple design in order to compete with other building technologies," said Hikmat Zerbe, Cive's head of structural engineering. That said, timing is not of the essence for this novel project. Zerbe calls the two-story house a "big laboratory" where colleagues will study the technology's potentials in home construction. "We are not trying to beat the clock," Zerbe said. "It's a case study. We're learning the capabilities of the machine, learning the reaction of the material under different weather conditions. We're learning how to optimize the speed of printing," he said. "When this project is completed, we should have a very good idea how to proceed in the future." After starting construction in July, the printing process is almost halfway done, he says.  The project's design puts automated construction to the test with complicated features, like built-in shelving. Anthony Vu/Hannah Concrete can better withstand strong winds and storms, but it's a pricier building material compared to, say, wood. While in the long-term the durable and low-maintenance material may save money, Zerbe says, its preparation and installation is expensive and labor intensive. But once the 3D-printing technology is improved, he says, builders may reach a point where such construction is cheaper than non-printed housing.
On the design side, Lok sees opportunity to one day offer customized features at a mass scale, without excessive labor costs. For example, she's employed 3D printing to create unique, built-in shelving for various living spaces in the Houston home. "The printer doesn't care if you print the same chair 100 times or you print 100 different chairs," she said. "This opens up the possibility of how we can actually offer customized design for the users, whether it's a single-family house or whether it's a multifamily building or apartment."  The Top 100 winners gallery of Close-up Photographer of 2022, supported by Affinity Photo 2. Over 9,000 pictures from 54 countries were entered across eleven categories.   Your mind is a software program. Here’s how to update it, explained by global political expert Ian Bremmer. Political scientist Ian Bremmer highlights the importance of strategic thinking, which he defines as "thinking about thinking." It's a process that involves analyzing macro themes, recognizing patterns, and understanding how different factors (at the country, company, and individual level) create trade-offs for leaders. Strategic thinking isn't so much about responding to headlines or current events as it is taking a long-term view, one in which you're continually revisiting your worldview and updating it when necessary. Being open-minded and curious about different perspectives, as well as comfortable with the possibility of being wrong, are important parts of the process. As an example of a great strategic thinker, one may cite Nelson Mandela for his ability to set aside personal feelings for the good of a country's long-term future. Bremmer is the founder of Eurasia Group, an organization that for 25 years has been using political science to help investors and corporate decision-makers better understand how politics impact risks and opportunities in foreign markets. About Ian Bremmer:
Ian Bremmer is president and founder of Eurasia Group, the world’s leading global research and consulting firm, and GZERO Media, a company dedicated to providing intelligent and engaging coverage of international affairs. Ian is also a frequent guest on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, the BBC, Bloomberg, and many other television stations around the world. Ian has published ten books, including the New York Times bestseller Us vs. Them: The Failure of Globalism which examines the rise of populism across the world. He also serves as the foreign affairs columnist and editor at large for Time magazine. He currently teaches at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and previously was a professor at New York University.  How different is your life, right now, from where you were 12 months ago? If it’s quite similar, then you haven’t been learning very much. To learn, by nature, is to change and evolve. In order to change and evolve, you need to regularly create peak experiences — those moments which create deep awe, gratitude, and a shift in how you see yourself and the world. When was your last peak experience? What was the last time you flexed your courage muscles? When was the last time you tried something that might not work? If you’re ready to make wild progress during 2023, you need to make some tweaks. This isn’t anything to be upset, distraught, or frustrated about. Life is, inherently, a learning experience. Life is beautiful. You get to have fun with it. One thing that is really beautiful about moving forward intensely in your future is that, simultaneously, you change your memory about the past. The past, regardless of what it has been — great or disappointing — will change in meaning as you make new decisions in your future. Your future is flexible. Your past is also flexible. What you have is now. You get to decide what you’re going to do. You get to decide how you’re going to live. Look around … No one is stopping you. Want to make a shift?  Here are 30 behaviors to get you started: 1. Wake up earlier “You’re more likely to act yourself into feeling, than feeling yourself into action.” — Dr. Jerome Bruner Dr. Stephen Covey once presided over hundreds of service missionaries as their leader. One of them was struggling intensely in his relationship with others. Rather than having the missionary focus on his relationships, Covey told the missionary to start waking up earlier, consistently. “Private victory always precedes public victory,” Covey told the missionary. If he could just start waking up a little earlier, and put first things first, then his interactions with others would change. But the missionary lacked the confidence that he could wake up early, consistently, for 30 days. Like most people, this young man was really good at lying to himself and hadn’t witnessed himself living in alignment with his own goals and words. “Start with seven days,” Covey told him. “Can you do that?” “Yes, I can do seven days.” Seven days later, the missionary looked like a different person. Confidence is the byproduct of prior performance. It doesn’t take much to reset how you feel about yourself. Start waking up a little earlier. Then do this: 2. Drink more water As soon as you wake up in the morning, drink a HUGE glass of water. Drinking water first thing in the morning actually makes you more alert and wakes you up. So, if you wake up and immediately drink like 20+ ounces of water, your morning sleepiness won’t last long. Having water on an empty stomach helps to cleanse the colon, which in turn increases the efficiency of the intestine to absorb nutrients. It also helps in flushing out toxins from your body. As we drink healthy amounts of water, we have smaller waistlines, healthier skin, and better functioning brains. 3. Write your goals down, every single morning “Assume the feeling of your wish fulfilled and observe the route that your attention follows.” — Neville Goddard After you pull yourself out of bed and drink a huge glass of water, find a spot to pull open your journal. Write your goals down. Do this every day. Do this first thing in the morning, every single day, and your life will change. How so? Your orientation toward your day reflects how you approach your day. Most people allow their environment and bodily addictions to trigger themselves into unhealthy subconscious patterns, which are then played-out every single day. First thing in the morning, they are sucked back into their smartphone. Then they go through their day, and not much different happens from the day before. This isn’t very creative, nor is it imaginative. But what happens when you start your day by writing down your goals and dreams for the future? How do you think this behavior would influence your imagination and creativity? Former United States President, Abraham Lincoln, once said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” The best way to CREATE your day is to start in a creative mode. In order to wake up in a creative mode, you must give yourself space for reflection. Writing your goals down on paper doesn’t need to take more than 2 minutes. If you’re serious about your future, it could and should take longer (like 10+). As you write your goals down, you shift your subconscious patterns. You train your brain to begin LOOKING for what you want. As Dan Sullivan has said, “Your eyes can only see what your brain is looking for.” Most people’s brains have been trained to be lazy. They haven’t proactively set their brain on a search for what they want. As a result, incredible opportunities pass them by every day unawares. But there’s more. When you visualize your future in the form of writing goals, you literally re-wire your brain and memory. While writing your goals, get yourself into an aroused emotional state. Imagine and feel what it would be like to have those goals. The more emotional the writing, the more subconsciously shifting the experience. The more emotionally arousing, the more your brain will create new neural connections. As your brain makes new neural connections, your memories, and perspective of the world changes. This is how you create a “peak-state” every morning. A peak-state is simply feeling incredibly good about where you currently are, and having complete confidence and clarity in where you’re going. A peak-state is similar to a “peak experience,” wherein you feel immense awe and gratitude for life. Your mind and brain are expanded and changed, daily. What would happen if your mind and brain changed, daily, to reflect the person you intend to become and the future you intend to inhabit? It’d be pretty amazing, right? Well, then get yourself some peak-states and experiences every morning. Within a short period of time, you’ll begin to see the world from the perspective of your goals. You won’t see the world from the perspective of your current circumstances. You’ll only see your goals and possibilities. They’ll be more real to you than your present circumstances. Your brain will see the world differently. Your behavior will be different. Your mindset and emotions will be different. You’ll feel far greater gratitude and awe for life. You’ll feel a deeper connection to yourself, God, and others. You’ll love other people more. You’ll love yourself more. You’ll love life more. Because you feel a greater connection, you’ll feel safer about life. Because you feel safer, you’ll be more imaginative and creative — and thus more willing to take risks and embrace adventure. You’ll learn stuff that is outside your comfort zone. You’ll be willing to set wildly “unrealistic” goals. Every morning, you’ll have 15–30 minutes of complete creative fun in the cave of your journal. Your morning journal then becomes the doorway to a new universe where anything is possible. You’ll write with greater and greater intensity and joy. You stop inhibiting yourself with your conscious mind and allow your subconscious mind to take-over — stream-of-consciousness writing. You stop editing yourself. You just write. And as you write, you’ll see CRAZY and AMAZING things go from your hand to your pen to your paper to your head… all from your heart. “Wow! Did I really just write that?” says your conscious mind. “Absolutely,” echoes your increasingly confident subconscious. 4. Put your phone on airplane mode more often “Efforts to deepen your focus will struggle if you don’t simultaneously wean your mind from a dependence on distraction.” — Cal Newport, Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World Time is the ultimate currency in life. But in a world of constant connection to screens, a more accurate currency is time spent not looking at screens. The amount of time you spend not looking at a screen reflects the quality of your actual life. You can use screens to entertain yourself and produce amazing work. But that work, although interesting and important, should produce a better quality of life in the real world for you. How much time do you spend away from screens on a daily basis? Perhaps more importantly, how much time do you spend staring at screens during prime-time, which is in the evenings and morning? How present are you to the world and those around you? How much time and genuine attention do you give your loved ones? How much do they feel your love? As someone who is the parent of children from a rough background, I have learned that children need to know you love them. They need to feel protected, like they matter. Research shows that parent’s habits around cellphones directly influences the emotional well-being and future habits of their children. Which means that given most people’s habits around technology, the rising generation is basically doomed to digital addiction and distraction. It doesn’t need to be this way. Children need to be taught how to control their emotions and impulses. They need to know they matter. They need to feel your love. This isn’t just true of children. It’s true of spouses and, really, all relationships. How good is your relationship with others? The answer to that question is a pretty accurate indicator of your level of happiness and purpose in life. Thomas Monson said, “Never let a goal to be solved become more important than a person to be loved.” Sadly, in the case of the world today, people not only put their goals above their loved ones, but they put mindless time-wasters and screen scrolling above their loved ones. Put your phone on airplane mode and watch as your life improves. The more present you can be in life, the more creative you’ll be, the better your mind will function, the more you’ll be able to concentrate and focus. If you give yourself space away from your notifications and distractions at night, you’ll have a far more meaningful, deep, and enjoyable life. You’ll EXPERIENCE more of the world — rather than your screen. As you give yourself space away from your notifications and distractions in the morning, you’ll have the rare but available privilege of putting yourself into a peak-state every morning, wherein you prime your mindset, emotions, and brain to operate from your ideal future. That brain priming will create peak experiences, which will allow you to feel deep awe, gratitude, and inspiration on a daily basis. Those emotions will change how you see and act in the world. You’ll live more powerfully. You’ll be less apathetic. You’ll begin taking on bigger challenges, and thus, your life will become less predictive of the past. You’ll be able to engage your mind in creative and imaginative thinking — which will change how you view yourself and the future. Your life may look and feel pretty average now. But in 365 days, you may just be embarrassed by who you are right now. Your life may start looking wildly creative, imaginative, and non-conventional. You yourself may become a unique and peculiar person — one with skills and abilities to attract amazing mentors, business partners, and friends. 5. Go on walks A.M.A.P (as much as possible) Steve Jobs, the late co-founder of Apple, was known for his walking meetings. Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg has also been seen holding meetings on foot. A recent study by Stanford researchers further explains why walking enhances creativity and insights. The study found that walking indoors or outdoors similarly boosted creative inspiration. Across the board, creativity levels were consistently and significantly higher for those walking compared to those sitting. “Many people anecdotally claim they do their best thinking when walking. We finally may be taking a step, or two, toward discovering why,” Dr. Oppezzo and Dr. Schwartz wrote in the study published this week in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition. Whether you walk in the morning, afternoon, or evening, you’ll be stunned by the creative insights and clarity that come as you give yourself space to walk. Lately, I’ve been walking between 3 and 6 miles per day in the mornings while listening to audiobooks. Wow! The amount of inspiration and insights I get during these walks often leads me to start running, so I can get back to my car and start putting all of the inspiration to work. Start walking. Your life will change, as will your health. The potent combination of writing your goals down daily and giving yourself SPACE to think will change your life. It will help you clarify your goals. It will give you the insights and ideas you need to achieve your goals. It will help you know what you need to do, right now, to make needed adjustments in your relationships and daily tasks to move forward. Not only is walking good for creativity, it’s one of the best things you can do for your longevity. In the book, The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest, Dan Buettner studied the cultures that produce the most healthy 100-year-olds. A common theme he found among these populations is that those who reach 100 years and older often have a daily habit of walking. Go on daily walks and live to be 100. 6. Clearly prioritize your life “If you have more than three priorities in your life, you have none.” — Jim Collins Your priorities are more important than your values and goals because quite literally, your priorities are where these things become real. Your priorities reflect your priorities and goals. If you are not doing something in your life, like exercise, for example, it’s not because you don’t have time. Rather, it’s because it is not a priority to you. Anything you are not currently doing on a regular basis IS NOT A PRIORITY TO YOU. If you say spirituality is a priority to you, but you rarely engage in it, then you are lying to yourself. If you say investing in your future is a priority to you, but you spend most of your time distracted on the internet, then you are lying to yourself. Your daily behaviors are a mirror — an honest assessment of your priorities in life. Your priorities reflect to both yourself and the world what you value and what you aspire towards. If you can get your priorities right, then you can generally get everything else right. So, what are your priorities? What are the things that matter more than anything to you? What do you believe in? What do you stand for? What do you want for your life? If you can’t answer these questions, then you can’t prioritize your time and your life. And as a result, you won’t have the clarity, confidence, or motivation to focus your time and attention toward building the future you desire. Get clear on your priorities and productivity becomes easy. 7. Eliminate all non-priorities (your life is a product of your standards) Writing your goals in your journal every morning helps your brain create the outcomes you’re striving to create. Writing your priorities in your journal regularly helps ensure you’re pursuing the right goals. As you hone and clarify your priorities, have the courage to eliminate all the things in your life that don’t match. No one is perfect at this. For all of us, there is a mismatch between our daily behaviors and what we want our priorities to be. It is your responsibility to spend the majority of your time on your core priorities. Only then will they actually be priorities. If you don’t think you can do this, then your subconscious hasn’t been expanded enough yet. Once you expand your subconscious, your life will reflect your priorities (more on this below). The first step is courageously eliminating everything that isn’t what you believe in or want for yourself. This act, in itself, is a profound message to yourself and others that you are serious about something. Spend all of your time on those things you value most — on those things which you believe go beyond the here-and-now. The more time you can spend on things you believe to be of infinite worth, the more powerful your daily life and behavior will be. As a rule, I only invest my time in things that add to my present experience and my future. Thus, I invest time in relationships that I plan to have forever, like with my family and friends. I invest time in my education and growth. I invest time on work I believe in. I invest in experiences that create profound memories. What do you invest time in? Is this investment making your future better than your past? 8. Become more playful and imaginative “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.” — Albert Einstein Life is meant to be a joy, not a grind. You get to be creative and playful about how you design and live your life. In fact, you are a creator. If man is made in the “image of god,” then man is, by nature, a creator. Even if you don’t believe in God, research clearly shows that imagination is linked to learning and emotional wellbeing. Moreover, the opposite is also true: the less emotionally mature a person is, the less likely they are to be imaginative and creative about themselves and their lives. Dr. Carol Dweck has produced some of the most important research in psychology in the past 50 years. The essence of her work is that many people have a “fixed” mindset about themselves, wherein they believe they can’t learn, change, and develop. Others have a “growth” mindset, wherein they believe they can change, grow, and evolve. If you have a fixed mindset, then imagination probably isn’t a big part of your life. Having imagination means you’re mentally and emotionally flexible. In order to be mentally and emotionally flexible, you need to feel protected in your relationships — particularly with your parents, your higher power if you have one, and other key people in your life. In order to be imaginative, you have to see beyond what is currently in front of you. You need to be willing to see things that may or may not be “real” or “true,” but could be. Imagination is about playing and creating — without respect to the outcome. Being imaginative about your future means you believe you can do and be things that others can’t see. You’re not interested in odds or statistics. Instead, you’re driven by curiosity and play. You’re motivated by your WHY and what’s possible. You don’t care if other people can’t see the future you can see. You’re a creator. You know you can learn and transform. You’ve done it in the past, and you’ll do it again. Like Einstein, you emphasize imagination over knowledge. 9. Create more peak experiences “Peak experiences as rare, exciting, oceanic, deeply moving, exhilarating, elevating experiences that generate an advanced form of perceiving reality, and are even mystic and magical in their effect upon the experimenter.” — Abraham Maslow Maslow said that, in order to become self-actualized as a person, you need to have a multitude of “peak-experiences.” Peak experiences are those moments where your soul is stretched such that it cannot go back to its prior dimensions. Peak experiences, by nature, are novel and new. They involve experiencing or seeing the world in a new way. In order for you to have a peak experience, you need to be open to new experiences. You need to be humble. Peak experiences are more likely to happen outside of your comfort zone. They generally involve “experiential” learning. Last week, my wife gave birth to two beautiful twin girls. They have my heart. They are gorgeous. Last week was a peak experience for me. I’m now a new person. My motivation has changed. My priorities have honed and clarified. My vision for my future has expanded. Creating peak experiences is how you change the trajectory of your life. They are those pivotal moments that are so meaningful that they serve as check-points — core memories — directing your future path. Peak experiences don’t need to be rare. They are only as rare as your courage is exercised. If you begin being courageous daily, you’ll start having more peak experiences. As you have more peak experiences, your emotional wellbeing will increase, and thus, your imagination and ability to direct and create your future will expand. But even more — through having peak experiences, your memory will change. A healthy memory is a changing memory. As you have new and powerful experiences, you’ll create new associations with your past, and thus, change the very fabric of your memories and identity. Put simply, you can and must create experiences that change your identity. As your identity changes, your future will change. Einstein wisely said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” Change can only happen by imagining a different world, and then courageously seeking new and expansive experiences. Change happens as you learn and expand your world. 10. Deepen your relationship with your parents “The parent-child connection is the most powerful mental health intervention known to mankind.” — Bessel van der Kolk In the important book, The Body Keeps The Score, Bessel van der Kolk M.D. explains that suppressed emotions and trauma lead people to unhealthy and addictive cycles. One of the most fundamental components of making a positive change in your life is developing a healthy relationship with your parents — whether they are alive or not. Your relationship with your parents is a powerful indicator of your emotional well-being as a person. It doesn’t matter how “successful” you appear on the outside, if you don’t have this key relationship established, then chances are you are an emotional wreck. Oftentimes, people have “toxic” or unhealthy parents. These parents should be viewed and treated with love and forgiveness, not spite and disdain. As you improve your own life and deepen the relationship with your parents, you often give them permission to expand and evolve themselves. They need you just as much as you need them. 11. Develop other “protection” relationships In a recent interview, Kobe Bryant told the story of his first year playing basketball at age 11. He scored zero points. He was terrible. After that season, his dad looked him in the eyes and said, “I don’t care if you scored 60 points or 0 points. I will love you no matter what.” That was exactly what Kobe needed to hear. He knew that regardless of his behavior — he was safe. His father would love him. This protection gave Kobe permission to fail. It gave him permission to take risks. The buffer of his father’s love allowed Kobe to step outside of his comfort zone — to the only place high performance can exist. If you don’t feel protected in your relationships, it can be hard to push your own boundaries. It can be hard to be free because you’re actually a slave to the relationship. This is living in an unhealthy dependent state where everything you do is based on trying to please other people. But when you feel loved and protected regardless of outcomes, then you can rise to independence and attempt things that will likely fail, often. The next season, Kobe began failing intensely and as a result, he began learning intensely. He left his comfort zone behind and began playing in the realms of creativity and imagination — where no limits were placed upon him. All he had to do was step beyond the boundaries of who he had been in the past, and step into the new role and identity emblazoned in his own imagination and fortified by his father’s love. He embraced the unknown over and over because he was willing to be free — free to see what was possible, to fail, to explore, to create. Free to become legendary. Do you have powerful protection relationships in your life? Do you feel stabilized and safe? Do you have a firm foundation that allows you the flexibility to jump way outside of your comfort zone, and yet be safe? 12. Less “avoidance-behaviors” In psychology, there are two core forms of behavior — avoidance or approach. Avoidance-behaviors are where you’re putting energy toward avoiding something from happening. Avoidance-behaviors are generally focused on risks, rather than the potential for growth. Avoidance-behaviors often happen when you don’t have protection and emotional-safety in your life. For example, Kobe Bryant’s first year playing summer basketball reflected avoidance-playing. He didnt’ feel free to fail, so he avoided failure. He was worried about his dad’s love and opinion. Therefore, he wasn’t free to be imaginative and creative. He was playing life on emotional defense because he wasn’t protected. When you feel safe and secure emotionally and spiritually, you are empowered to play life on offense — approach behavior. And approach-orientation toward life doesn’t mean you’re a reckless risk-taker. What it means is that you are willing to courageously face risks to accomplish meaningful and important goals. When the WHY is strong enough, you’ll be willing to endure any how. You’re less worried about the risks or difficulty involved because your focus is on your goals and dreams. Your priorities are clear. You’re moving forward. Nothing is going to stop you. 13. More “subconscious-enhancing” behaviors/experiences Every behavior and experience you have in your life either elevates or downgrades your subconscious mind. Your subconscious mind reflects what you perceive and experience as “normal” in the world. As Dr. David Hawkins explains in his book, Letting Go: “Our unconscious will allows us to have only what we believe we deserve. If we have a small view of ourselves, then what we deserve is poverty. And our unconscious will see to it that we have that actuality.” Every behavior signals to your subconscious what you think you deserve and what you believe about the world. When you sit and stare at your cellphone mindlessly, your subconscious structures your world around that reality. You see that behavior as “normal,” and your life then formulates itself around the quality of that behavior. But you can create “subconscious enhancing experiences.” You can have experiences that radically expand your subconscious perception of normal. You can regularly “reset” what normal life is for you. You can create a “new normal” regularly. You do this by having powerful experiences and by behaving in powerful ways. You can create experiences on a daily basis that “reset” your perception of normal. I recently decided to treat myself to a “fine-dining” experience as an experiment in subconscious resetting. I went to a really great restaurant in a different country, and just soaked-up and absorbed the experience. This is “normal,” I felt. Being surrounded by brilliant and interesting people can become normal. Engaging in powerful and important daily behaviors can become normal. Feeling inspired and living in a peak-state can be normal. Not worrying about money every day can be normal. Having transformational experiences daily can be normal. What’s crazy is that, over time, your life really will change. It may be imperceptible and subtle. But your daily life and daily experiences will be radically different than they were 2 to 3 years ago. You’ll have reset your normal world. This should happen regularly. 14. Become more emotionally flexible Your emotional flexibility represents your ability to regulate your emotions in challenging situations. How flexible are you? How adaptive are you? Do you control your emotions or do your emotions control you? Everything you want in your life is on the other side of fear. However, in order to get there, you must courageously cross that threshold and then successfully navigate the unknown of being outside of your comfort zone. Emotional flexibility, then, represents your ability to 1) step outside of your comfort zone, and 2) successfully navigate the emotional craziness of the unknown. The only way to become more emotionally flexible is to practice. To regularly expose yourself directly to what you fear and avoid. To move forward. You must be more courageous. You must try stuff that might not work. You must be bolder. Then, as you experience the emotional shock of the unknown, you need to get better at moving forward toward your goals — regardless of how you feel in the moment. This doesn’t mean you suppress your emotions. Nor does it mean you ignore them. Instead, you appreciate and acknowledge your emotions as a real factor in your situation. Then you allow those emotions to be a part of your experience and you continue to direct your focus on your goals, not the perceived risks or threats you think may happen. This is being approach-oriented. This is being courageous. This is how you shatter unhealthy emotional patterns. This is how you shatter subconscious blocks. This is how you re-write your memories and heal your past traumas and blocks. By proactively creating your future, you simultaneously heal your past. You need to shock your system. To quote Napoleon Hill, “A good shock often helps the brain that has been atrophied by habit.” 15. Focus on 90-day sprints rather than New Years’ Resolutions New Years’ Resolutions don’t work. Think we know that by now. So what’s a better method? A better method is setting 90-day sprint goals. Every 90 days, you review the previous 90 days, then you set new goals for the next 90 days. Every 90 days, you reset and re-assess. Some epic questions you could ask yourself every 90 days come from Dan Sullivan, who has coached more successful entrepreneurs than anyone on the planet: “Winning Achievements? Looking back over the past quarter, what are the things that make you the proudest about what you have achieved?” “What’s Hot? When you look at everything that’s going on today, which areas of focus and progress are making you the most confident?” “Bigger and Better? Now, looking ahead at the next quarter, what new things are giving you the greatest sense of excitement?” “What are the five new ‘jumps’ you can now achieve that will make your next 90 days a great quarter regardless of what else happens?” Every 90 days, you should have a celebration for the progress you’ve made. You should focus on results rather than time spent. Every 90 days, you should see clear and tangible progress toward your goals. Every 90 days, you should be able to observe changes in your environment, income, and life. Every 90 days, your life should increasingly reflect your highest priorities. You can do this. Forget New Years’ Resolutions. 90-day sprints, then recovery breaks, are much better. They’re more sustainable. They’re more action-oriented. They allow you quicker feedback and more energy, results, and excitement. 16. Rest more “Recovery never stops.” — Mike Mancias, LeBron James’ performance coach Recovery is productivity. Sleep is for geniuses. Rest isn’t just sleeping. It’s taking breaks. It’s focusing on short spurts of intense activity, followed by long breaks filled with fun and engaging experiences. How imaginative are you about the design of your life? In his TED talk, Stefan Sagmeister shares his unique story of how he focuses on “recovery.” He’s a famous designer in New York. Every seventh year, he closes his studio and spends a full year traveling the world and “not working.” Yet, during this recovery time, he gets more creative insights and inspiration to fill the next six years. If you apply this principle to your daily life, you can have far more creativity and inspiration in your life. Proactively give yourself quality time away from your work. The better quality your life is away from work, the more effective and creative you’ll be while you’re at work. This concept is known as “psychological detachment from work.” Research has found that people who psychologically detach from work experience: Less work-related fatigue and procrastination Far greater engagement at work, which is defined as vigor, dedication, and absorption (i.e., “flow”) Greater work-life balance, which directly relates to quality of life Greater marital satisfaction Greater mental health 17. Think more “I’m talking about deliberately setting aside distraction-free time in a distraction-free space to do absolutely nothing other than think.” — Greg McKeown, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less One of the reasons you need to give yourself time in the morning and evening is simply to allow yourself the space to think. How much time do you spend just thinking daily? Another reason to walk regularly is to provide time to think. The more time you have to think deeply about your life, your goals, and your priorities, the better decisions you’ll make regarding those things. While I’m walking — even if I’m listening to audiobooks — I’m also thinking about my life and goals. In fact, I’m often getting so many ideas that I need to carry a notepad with me to capture the ideas. In large measure, the quality of your thinking determines the quality of your life. Most people have the same recurring thoughts, every single day. In fact, 95% of a person’s thoughts each day are the same thoughts as yesterday. This is a horribly ineffective use of the creative brain. If you’re constantly upgrading your life and learning new things, then your thoughts will continually be changing, expanding, and connecting. You’ll become a creative genius. You’ll more fully enjoy life. You’ll achieve your goals more quickly because you’ll learn how to turn your thoughts into reality. You won’t get stuck for years in the same repetitive thought patterns. Give yourself time to think. Record your thoughts. Get better at training the garden of your mind. What you plant, you will reap. 18. Give more “Life gives to the giver and takes from the taker.” — Joe Polish One of the most powerful mental transitions a person can make is going from taker to giver. As a parent of five children, I can attest that, primarily, these children are focused on getting. Without question, they give a lot of love. But for the most part, they are interested in their own survival and needs. Becoming self-actualized as a person means you’ve developed the inner and outer confidence to have your own needs met. You can then dedicate the rest of your life to contributing to the world at large and transforming lives. Darren Hardy, the author of the Compound Effect, has said, “A person’s life can generally be measured by the size of the problems they are trying to solve.” What size of problems are you solving in the world? How much do you really want to contribute? Are you still primarily focused on what you can get out of life, or what you can give? When it comes to powerful relationships, you will not be able to develop them from a transactional-approach, wherein you’re trying to get everything you can from the relationship. Joe Polish is the founder of GENIUS NETWORK, considered by many to be the top-tier of entrepreneurial masterminds. He has a list of “rules” that he expects of those whom he interacts with. He calls it his “Magic Rapport Formula.” The principles of his formula are the following: Focus on how you will help them reduce their suffering Invest time, money, and energy on relationships Be the type of person they would always answer the phone for Be useful, grateful, and valuable Treat others how you would love to be treated Avoid formalities, be fun and memorable, not boring Appreciate people Give value on the spot Get as close to in-person as you can You must evolve beyond your small-mindedness to a transformational-relationship approach, wherein you are entirely focused on giving, gratitude, and growth. 19. Invest more in yourself Although a religious example, this next story is incredibly instructive and fascinating. George Q. Cannon was a leader of the Latter-Day Saint Church some time ago. As a young and impoverished man, he approached his tithing practice in a unique way. Tithing, in that faith, is Biblical and encourages members to pay 10% of their income. But George was highly imaginative in how he paid his tithing. Rather than paying retroactively, wherein he paid 10% of what he earned, he decided to pay 10% of what he intended to earn in his future. In a talk, Dr. Wendy Watson further expounded on this story: When his bishop commented on the large amount of tithing poor young George was paying, George said something like: “Oh bishop, I’m not paying tithing on what I make. I’m paying tithing on what I want to make.” And the very next year George earned exactly the amount of money he had paid tithing on the year before! George Q. Cannon was not transactional in his religious approach to tithing. He was transformational. He didn’t see tithing as a cost, but an investment in himself and his relationship with his faith. Whether you are spiritually-minded or not, the implications of this story are psychologically instructive. How was he able to turn his financial investments into upgraded skills and mindsets? Rather than acting from your present circumstances, you act from your future circumstances. Rather than living from the present or past, you can “assume the feeling of your wish fulfilled.” This is one of the reasons to write down your goals daily — it allows you to live as though your desired future is already a concrete fact. But this is also another reason to invest money in yourself, your relationships, your priorities, and your future. When you invest in something, you upgrade your subconscious mindset around that thing. Essentially, you’re saying to yourself — I can be, do, and have more than I currently am. This is why imagination is so key. In George Cannon’s case, he invested in his relationship with his God, which led to a 10X transformation. Investment is always a more powerful mindset than seeing things as a cost. 20. Invest more in others “Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.” — Margaret Mead You love what you invest yourself in. You love who you invest yourself in. Wrote William Shakespeare, “They do not love that do not show their love.” Love comes after investment — emotional, time, financial, etc. — when it comes to relationships. Love is a powerful force, but it is not so much a feeling as it is a “verb.” Love is an action. The ensuing feelings we often call “love” is really connection — something which is quite rare these days. The more you invest of yourself in others, the more connected you’ll be to them. The more you invest yourself in humanity, the more you’ll care about this entire planet. And the more you’ll see that people are important, every single person. 21. Invest more in organizations/causes you believe in “For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue, and it only does so as the unintended side effect of one’s personal dedication to a cause greater than oneself or as the by-product of one’s surrender to a person other than oneself.” — Viktor E. Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning What are you deeply committed to? What do you truly believe in? Do you even know? Success and happiness are unintended “side-effects” that come from being dedicated to something you truly believe in. Success and happiness are unintended “side-effects” that come from being intensely invested in someone else’s success and happiness. If you’re still trying to find happiness for yourself, you’ll be searching for a long time, and likely in all the wrong places. Hence, for most people, happiness is an elusive illusion leaving them chasing. As the Indian author and educator Ruskin Bond said, “Happiness is an elusive state of mind not to be gained by clumsy pursuit. It is given to those who do not sue for it: to be unconcerned about the desired good is probably the only way to possess it.” 22. Focus on progress over “time” “The faster you move, the slower time passes, the longer you live.” — Peter H. Diamandis Time, as we understand it, is an arbitrary construct. In physics, time is not the passing of minutes on a clock. Rather, time is the velocity and distance traveled by a particular object. Light travels at approximately 186,282 miles per second (299,792 km per second). Therefore, a light-year is 5.88 trillion miles (9.5 trillion km). The earth is 238,900 miles from the Moon. Therefore, the Moon is about 1.3 light-seconds away. The earth is 92.96 million miles from the Sun. Therefore, the Sun is a little over 8 light-minutes away. The earth is 33.9 million miles (54.6 million kilometers) from Mars. Therefore, Mars is 187 light-seconds, or 3.11 light-minutes away. Each of these are a measure of “distance.” Recent research in the science journal “Astronomy & Astrophysics,” shows that our Milky Way galaxy may be bigger than we previously imagined. Specifically, our spiral galaxy’s vast rotating disk of stars spans at least 170,000 light-years, and possibly up to 200,000 light-years. If you could drive across at an averaged 60 miles an hour, it would take more than 2 trillion years — which is around 150 times greater than the age of the universe, estimated to be about 13.8 billion years. The point of all of this is to say, “time” is not time as we understand it. Time is actually a measurement of distance. According to Einstein’s relativity theory, the faster an object moves through space, the slower time goes. At the speed of light, time stops altogether. In the Christopher Nolan film, Interstellar, there is a beautiful scene that depicts the reality of “time dilation” — the stretching and constricting of time. The astronauts enter the orbit of a planet in a different galaxy moving enormously faster than the orbit of our earth. In fact, the planet is moving so fast that for every hour they spend on that planet, seven years pass by on earth. As a result, they need to move quickly, because if they lose a few hours then everyone they know back home will be history. The “experience” of time is the same for everyone — regardless of how fast you’re traveling. But the reality of time is based on distance traveled. Why are we talking about this? Because you shouldn’t measure your life based on how long something takes. Instead, you should measure your life based on how far you go. Time is a distance. From this perspective, you could travel the same distance in a single day that many people travel in their entire lives. And without question, most people are simply trying to pass away the time. Because they aren’t making tangible progress toward any meaningful goals, time flies by. They are simply “working for the weekend,” because the rest of their week is almost too painful to endure. Why is it too painful to endure? Because they aren’t actually making any meaningful progress. But if you start being courageous and powerfully honest with yourself, you can move farther as a person in a day than you have in potentially years or decades. If you make acting courageously a way of life, you can start traveling so fast that — as a few hours pass by for you, years or decades have occurred for those around you. The faster you move in the desired direction, the slower time will move for you. 23. Focus on purpose over process “When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure.” — Marilyn Strathern Time relativity is a reason to focus on results over “process.” Many people argue that you should focus solely on the “process” and ignore the results you get in life. But, the world doesn’t really work this way. The world works based on outcomes and results. At the end of the month, you’re still going to have to pay your rent — regardless of how masterful your “process” is. According to Dan Sullivan, there are two types of people: those who get results and those who have reasons for not getting results. Don’t be a person with reasons. Ironically, one of the most common “reasons” people say they aren’t getting results is because they don’t care about them, but instead, only care about the “process.” Even though Alabama Football says their only focus is “the process,” you better believe Nick Saban is upset if they don’t win. The process is a means to an end — the goal you’re trying to accomplish. The goal determines the process, not the other way around. In the book, So Good They Can’t Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love, Dr. Cal Newport explains that many young people mistakenly seek a life of “passion.” According to Newport, people seek a job they are “passionate” about because they are self-absorbed. They’re only thinking of themselves. Instead of seeking “passion,” Newport recommends you go through the laborious process of developing rare skills and abilities for the purpose of helping other people. In other words, become incredibly useful to others and society at large. Rather than seeking passion directly, passion is an unintended byproduct of doing something well. When you’ve invested yourself into something, you love that thing. But most people want instant gratification. They want cheap love. They don’t want to earn something. An obsession and focus on “process” is equivalent to an obsession and focus on “passion.” It’s entirely focused on the self. Instead, you should have something important and meaningful you’re attempting to accomplish. As the saying goes, “When the WHY is strong enough, you’ll figure out the HOW.” The process should be fluid. As Tony Robbins said, “Stay committed to your decisions but stay flexible in your approach.” If you’re truly committed to something, then you’ll do whatever it takes to get that thing — regardless of whether or not you “enjoy” the process. For you, the work is too important not to do. You’re not committed to any specific approach — you’re only committed to achieving what you believe needs to be done. According to Albert Einstein, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results.” If you’re not currently successful at what you’re doing, then you’re probably going to have to change your process. Unless of course, you really don’t care about the results. Then you can keep doing what you’re doing. But don’t get mad if things don’t change. 24. Focus on skills over passion “Passion comes after you put in the hard work to become excellent at something valuable, not before. In other words, what you do for a living is much less important than how you do it.” — Cal Newport Rather than looking for your passion or looking for that perfect “process,” decide what you either want to do, or believe you should do, and then go about getting that thing. The steeper the learning curve, the better. In the book, The Art of Learning: A Journey in the Pursuit of Excellence, Josh Waitzkin tells the story of how he become a world champion in Tai Chi. When given unsupervised practice time, Waizkin observed that most others in his Tai Chi class would naturally practice with those at their same skill-level or slightly worse. This was done in many ways out of ego, because who wants to lose? It’s more fun to beat someone when given the opportunity. Waitzkin took the opposite approach, and applied a principle he termed, “investing in failure.” He would purposefully practice with people far more skilled than he was. In so doing, he would get the crap kicked out of him, over and over. However, this process — rooted in his desire to advance himself — compressed and quickened Waitzkin’s skill development. He could experience first-hand the abilities of those often years ahead of him. The mirror neurons in his brain allowed him to quickly mimic, match, and counter his superior competitors. Thus, he progressed much faster than others in his class. How steep is your current learning curve? How fast are you learning? How much are you failing? Are you avoiding failure and loss? If so, what does that say about your imagination for yourself? If you’re avoiding failure and loss, what does that say about the depth of your WHY? It’s been said that you do not “rise to the occasion,” but instead, “fall to the level of your preparation.” But how do you effectively “prepare” yourself? How could I properly “prepare” myself to immediately go from zero to three kids when my wife and I became foster parents? I could have spent years reading books, going to seminars, and learning everything I could to “prepare” myself for parenting. And I’m sure a lot of that stuff would have been helpful. But instead, we simply threw ourselves into the fire of learning. Did we fall flat on our face several times? Absolutely! We still do, especially now that we have five kids! But experiential learning is far more powerful than abstract learning. The best form of “preparation” is by rising to an occasion. The fastest way to learn something is when the stakes are high. When the situation is set up so that you’re getting immediate feedback on your performance. When it really matters that you adjust and figure stuff out. According to “The Pygmalion Effect” in psychology, human beings actually do rise or fall according to the demands and expectations of the situation. Therefore, if you really want to develop skills and abilities, don’t wait until you’re ready to start. Those who become successful always start long before they feel ready. They live in an approach-manner, rather than an avoidance-manner. Rather than trying to accumulate an enormous amount of information BEFORE acting, they take action first, and then based on the intensity of the feedback they receive, they THEN have the clarity to acquire the right information to properly move forward. Put simply, you are never pre-qualified to do something great. It is the act of doing the thing that qualifies and transforms you. 25. Focus on relationships over money “It pays to be nice to the people you meet on the way up, for they are the same people you meet on the way down.” — Wilson Mizner When you decide you really want to be successful, then you realize that you must develop meaningful and important relationships. Life is about “who” you know, more than “what” you know. In other words, you could have all the skills and abilities in the world, but if you can’t work well with people, your chances of success are far diminished. However, if you have skills and learn how to use those skills to help the right people, your success will skyrocket. 26. Focus on family over surface-level friendships “You leave home to seek your fortune and, when you get it, you go home and share it with your family.” — Anita Baker “Families are the compass that guides us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter.” — Brad Henry “No other success can compensate for failure in the home.” — J.E. McCulloch There is some wild research on how children develop emotional maturity and flexibility in life — and it depends very much on the care they get from their parents. In the book, Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers, Gabor Maté M.D. explains the negative psychological consequences that happen when children emotionally attach to peers, rather than parents. When children and adolescents build their deepest emotional attachments with their peers, then they become obsessed with that attachment. This attachment can lead them to become less creative, imaginative, and flexible in their lives. Put simply, you need deep and healthy bonds with family. If you don’t have a family, then build one. Said bestselling author, Ryan Holiday: For all the productivity and success advice I’ve read, shaped and marketed for dozens of authors in the last decade, I’ve never really seen someone come out and say: Find yourself a spouse who complements and supports you and makes you better. Instead, we’re supposed to believe that relationships tie people down, that they are the death knell for creativity and ambition.” 27. Focus on creativity over consumption “When you can do a common thing in an uncommon way; you will command the attention of the world.” — George Washington Carver “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” — Maya Angelou “If it doesn’t sell; it isn’t creative.” — David Ogilvy “The principal mark of genius is not perfection but originality, the opening of new frontiers.” — Arthur Koestler “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.” — Brené Brown True creativity takes courage. It takes courage because creativity in it’s most honest and pure form is what Seth Godin calls, “Emotional labor.” Creativity is transformational because it involves imagination and attempting something that could fail. It involves unveiling a certain side of yourself to others in attempts of creating a connection. Creativity heals and transforms former wounds, making you a far more capable and powerful person. It’s fascinating, but research has shown that creativity can help people overcome addictions. Addiction is an unhealthy attempt to resolve suppressed trauma and pain. The only way out of suppressed emotion is through courageously moving forward in life. When you create something, you go deep into an emotional place and release it in a new form. This creative act can shift your memories and emotions, allowing them to become healthy and changed. Creativity not only transforms your emotional life, but it can also transform your financial life. Professionals create, while the masses consume. Everything you’ve ever bought or used was created by someone else. What are you creating? 28. Focus on growth over status Most people, if they are honest with themselves, want “success” because of some form of status it will give them. They won’t admit this to you, but deep down, the status is what matters. It is for this reason that success is generally short-lived for most people. Once they achieve a certain degree of status, their motivation for doing the work goes away. When your focus is on status, your job becomes to create and maintain that status. This is particularly common in today’s social media world where everyone is attempting to be famous for one thing or another. Growth often comes at the expense of status. In order to keep growing, you’ll need to risk the status and success of your past for something new and better. The reason most writers will never succeed is that ultimately, what they really want is status. Yet, deep down, they also feel this strange belief that they need to be “pure” to their art, so they don’t want to do it for money. People who go on to become successful at something are not afraid of success. They aren’t afraid of making money. But money inherently isn’t interesting to them. They are fascinated by growth and pushing their own boundaries. They can never actually quantify “success” because, for them, that very idea is continuously changing. They’ve never arrived, and they never intend to arrive. They don’t care about their previous achievements. They don’t care about their status. Do they have a status? Of course! When growth is your focus, status generally comes. But that status doesn’t matter. There’s no attachment to it. And there’s certainly no fear about losing that status. People seeking growth are willing to embrace the unknown. They’re willing to fail. They’re willing to attempt stuff that may not work. Actually, when true growth — seeing how far you can actually go — is your only true measure of success, then you’re willing to risk everything you’ve previously built to attempt what you want or believe you should do. 29. Focus on learning over entertainment “Change is the end result of all true learning.” — Leo Buscaglia “While I thought that I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die.” — Leonardo da Vinci “If you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You’re doing things you’ve never done before, and more importantly, you’re doing something.” — Neil Gaiman “You don’t learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over.” — Richard Branson I started this article by saying that you could change your whole life in a single year. 2019 could be your year to transform your life. But you cannot change your life without learning something new. Because the process of change forces you to adapt. If you strive to make big leaps in your life, you’ll be forced out of your shell of comfort. By very nature of being out of that shell, you’ll experience a great deal of stress. If you acquire emotional flexibility by properly handling those emotions, then you’ll transform yourself You’ll change your relationship with your emotions. You’ll change your memories and your past. You’ll also transform your brain and your very biology. If you’re not embarrassed by the person you were 12 months ago, then you didn’t learn much. Rather than asking yourself “How long could this take?,” a more interesting question is, “How far could you go?” How far could you go in a single year? The faster you move, the slower time passes. In the next 12 months, you could learn and do more than many people do in their entire lives. According to Jean-Jacques Rousseau, “The person who has lived the most is not the one with the most years but the one with the richest experiences.” Transformational experiences are those “peak experiences” that alter your life. How many peak experiences have you had in the past 12 months? How many peak experiences are you going to have in the next 12 months? How many mornings are you going to wake up and immediately put yourself into a peak state? 30. Focus on investment over cost “The cynic knows the price of everything and the value of nothing.” — Oscar Wilde Nothing is a cost. Everything is an investment. And the more you look at life as an investment, the more you’ll focus on what you can give rather than what you can get. This is what blows my mind about most people: they aren’t willing to invest in themselves. They see things like education, mentorships, mastermind groups, and other similar things as a “cost.” In other words, they don’t believe they are worth it. However, when your mindset shifts from “cost,” to “investment,” then you start investing big time in yourself, your skills, your relationships, your environment, and the other things that are important to you. When you come from the perspective of investment, you are totally open. When you come from the perspective of cost, you are closed off. Investment is how George Q. Cannon saw his tithing. Perhaps most people see it as a cost. Investment transforms. Cost doesn’t. Do you see yourself as a cost or an investment? Do you see your relationships as a cost or an investment? Do you see your work as a cost or an investment? When you shift to investment, you begin to experience 10X thinking. You begin to stretch your subconscious mindset about what you can have and be and do. You come to realize that you as a person are incredibly flexible and fluid. In other words, you can change and transform. Investing in yourself shatters unhealthy subconscious patterns and courageously places yourself in a higher and more elevated plane, wherein you can rise to new occasions. Are you going to invest big in yourself in 2023? Are you going to focus on giving, gratitude, and growth? Are you going to be transformational? Are you going to go 10X in 2023? Have you ever gone 10X before? You can do this when you start investing in yourself. When you stop seeing yourself as a cost.   A new study from WalletHub suggests the Garden State may be one of the happiest places in the entire country. In overall happiness, New Jersey ranked …  Are you always looking for the coolest underrated places in New Jersey? We’ve got a quick list for you that highlights some of our favorite hidden gem spots! How many have you visited so far?  1. Highlands Natural Pool, Ringwood This natural spring-fed pool in New Jersey is one of the best places to cool off on a hot summer day. Come relax in the mountains and soak your stresses away!  2. Allaire's Dinosaur Forest The only Dinosaur Forest in New Jersey is right here in Allaire State Park. Explore this fascinating public art project and meet a whole bunch of your favorite dinos up close!  3. Sterling Hill Mining Museum Talk about underrated places in New Jersey! The Sterling Hill Mining Museum is a true hidden gem. Who knew you could take a mine tour in New Jersey?  4. Sayen House and Gardens If you want to take an easy trail that transports you to another world, walk around Sayen Gardens. This garden park in Hamilton is one of the most underrated places in New Jersey.  5. Big Snow American Dream, the Meadowlands The only Indoor Ski Slope in North America is right here in the Meadowlands. Big Snow is located at the American Dream Mall and it's a blast for experienced and novice skiers. Those new to the sport will find the gentle slope and small crowd size helpful when learning how to stop and turn, and more experienced skiers can use the excellent lift-to-slope-time ratio to run drills, practice new skills, or try out park features. Did we highlight a spot that you love? If you haven’t visited the places listed above, you’ve got to clear your calendar and get exploring! Address: Highlands natural pool, 180 Snake Den Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456 Address: Allaire State Park, 4265 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ 07727 Address: Sterling Hill Mining Museum, 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ 07439 Address: Sayen House and Gardens, 155 Hughes Dr, Hamilton Square, NJ 08690 Address: Big SNOW American Dream, 1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073  Much of the success of plant based meat startups depended not on vegetarians and vegans, who only make up a small slice of the consumer market, but on omnivores and self-described “flexitarians,” who were looking to plant-based alternatives for the sake of their health and the environment. But it looks like flexitarians’ attitudes are changing. Inflation, supply chain issues and dwindling customer satisfaction has brought startup investment into plant-based meat to a standstill. Funding went from almost $2 billion in 2021 to around $800 million in 2022, according to Crunchbase data. And these challenges are likely to continue in 2023 as startups work to find ways to deliver healthy plant-based meat products at a reasonable price. While the outlook for plant-based meat is dismal, the far quieter cell-grown meat industry saw some good news in 2022. California-based Upside Foods got word from the Food and Drug Administration in November that its lab-grown chicken is safe to eat. For the first time in years, funding for plant-based and cultivated meat has nearly reached dollar parity. But investors aren’t putting all their eggs into a new basket. It’s clear that meat alternatives have not delivered on their promises to consumers. “A lot of meat consumption is emotional,” said Lisa Feria, CEO of food venture firm Stray Dog Capital. “And a lot of the plant-based consumption and purchase is rational.”  An unforgiving market
In November, plant-based meat giant Beyond Meat shared some sobering news during its quarterly earnings call: The company posted net revenue of $82.5 million and losses of $101.7 million. The company said it would lower the amount of product it manufactured and revisit its marketing strategy to only certain consumers. It’s a sharp descent for a company that went public in 2019 to nearly double its share price. Other plant-based meat startups face the same reality, and new innovations in the sector will face more frostbite from the venture market than before. “In the past two or three years, a lot of plant-based food companies got funded that should not have gotten funded,” Feria said. “So part of what you’re seeing in the market is an adjustment to that. The products are repetitive and not really great.” According to a 2021 Good Food Institute report, health is the primary driver for plant-based meat purchases. But it turns out these early movers in ultraprocessed plant-based meat weren’t, on the whole, that much healthier than the real thing. Nor were they any tastier, or cheaper. The cost of manufacturing these products has gone up 60% to 70%, and distribution costs have spiked as a result. Everything from plant-based cream cheese to plant-based eggs to plant-based meat have seen shelf prices soar. The GFI report found that more than 60% of consumers would eat more plant-based meat if it was cheaper or less processed. All of this contributed to the sector’s economic decline in 2022. “There was a lot of initial purchase and interest in plant-based meat products, but not as much repeat purchase as was expected,” Matthew Walker, managing director of agriculture-focused firm S2G Ventures, said in an email. “You have a consumer that purchased a product at a premium price and may not have felt that the taste, mouthfeel, or nutrition sufficiently justified making that product a staple item on their grocery list.” Tall order for 2023 Plant-based meat startups will face a difficult task this year: to create products that taste just as good as (if not better than) the incumbent, while also being healthier and cheaper. “The strategy we see as top of mind involves those solutions that make plant-based meats perform better for the consumer, have cleaner labels, and introduce nutritional benefits that go beyond the ‘halo effect’ that this recent wave of products enjoyed but seems to have declined,” Walker said. Cultivated meat, which uses stem cells to grow proteins streaked with fat and tendons in petri dishes, has emerged as a possible alternative for those discerning flexitarians. But we won’t see them on the grocery shelves any time soon. The industry is still working out how to scale its products in expensive labs. Singapore became the first country to approve cultured meat for sale in 2020 with Eat Just’s lab-grown chicken. (The startup has raised $225 million since then.) And following the FDA’s “safe to eat” letter for a lab-grown chicken startup, the U.S. is on its way to seeing cultivated meat reach small-scale distribution levels, like how Impossible Foods opened in a few select restaurants. But investors are hesitant to promise too much too fast. Studies show that consumers will be far less forgiving of cultivated meat than they were of plant-based meat. “[For plant-based meat], I’m going to give some space for that because I want a trade off, which is nutrition and health,” Feria said. “When it comes to [cultivated] meat, because you’re trying to deliver the same product you have to deliver the same experience or better.” Article written by Keerthi Vedantam Illustration: Dom Guzman  Health is one of the most important things to take care of if you want to live a long and happy life. However, this doesn’t mean extreme dieting or strenuous exercise every day. Good health is about finding the right balance between healthy habits and fun. While having strong knowledge of healthcare and how to look after yourself is an advantage, you don’t need to be an expert to be healthy. If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge on staying healthy and the healthcare industry, you can find lots of courses online. Healthcare leadership courses online give you a better understanding of how the industry works, allowing you to develop your career within healthcare. This is a great way of putting your passion for health to good use. However, you can still be healthy without working in healthcare. Here are some of the most important things you should know about health.  It’s important to be proactive
Being proactive means taking measures to prevent a situation from occurring. It’s the opposite of being reactive, where you only respond once a situation has occurred. Proactivity is the single most important thing you can do for your own personal health. By being proactive, you can help prevent healthcare issues before they happen and control any issues if they do occur. Rather than simply hoping you don’t get ill, being proactive will mean you’re always trying to improve your health and working to stay healthy. You should take regular cholesterol tests, check your blood pressure and check yourself for any lumps or bumps. If you’re worried about anything, you can speak to a doctor to get it checked. Additionally, if you have a family history of certain conditions, you should be extra careful with your health. Setting the right habits Being healthy doesn’t have to mean big changes to your lifestyle. The easiest and simplest way to stay healthy is to set the right habits that allow you to be consistent. Over time, you can increase these if necessary, but sometimes it’s much easier to start off with small changes. Make sure your habits include getting enough sleep, the right amount of exercise and eating nutritious foods. Although setting habits can be hard at first, it will soon become second nature. If you have trouble remembering certain things, you can write down notes to yourself or use certain apps that make setting habits easier. You can also pair some habits with things you do naturally. For example, if you normally shower each morning, you can make sure you do a few minutes of exercise before getting your shower. Look After Your Mental Health Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety can cause serious issues and have a major impact on people’s lives. If you want to live healthily and happily, you need to take care of both. Improving your physical health can have a positive impact on your mental health, but you should also ensure you’re enjoying your leisure time and getting enough time to relax. Getting outdoors can also have a significant impact on mental health. In the modern world, many people don’t get to enjoy nature much, spending their time indoors working or watching shows and movies. Spending a few hours in nature a week has a proven impact on mental well-being, and it’s a great way to exercise too. Aside from this, you can work on reducing your stress and trying meditation and other relaxation techniques to stay in control of your mind and mental well-being.  There are so many unique hotels in New Jersey, it would be nearly impossible to make a comprehensive list of “best places” that didn’t go on forever. From our luxury hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts, we’ve got it all when it comes to lodging. Certain places stand out because they’ve got something special.
1. Bungalow Hotel, Long Branch A hip boutique hotel, Bungalow Hotel was named one of the chicest in the country by Elle Magazine. You'll love the spacious rooms and modern decor. The Pier Village location is ideal for summer beach trips and holiday shopping weekends. Designed and decorated by a duo of architects, the entire building is a work of art.  2. Element, Ewing Element is another modern masterpiece, with an eco-friendly twist - the building is LEED Silver Certified. Amenities include an indoor poor, fitness center, free bike rentals, an electric car charging station, complimentary breakfast and evening reception. The hotel is conveniently located near Princeton and Trenton.
3. Grand Cascades Lodge, Vernon Grand Cascades Lodge is New Jersey's ultimate year-round getaway. The AAA 4-diamond resort is located right in the heart of Mountain Creek, which offers skiing, tubing, mountain biking and a water park. The property itself features several golf courses, fishing, award-winning dining, access to a massive indoor athletic center, and the magnificent biosphere indoor pool complex. You'll also find a spa and planned activities including murder mystery dinners.
4. Southern Mansion, Cape May Cape May is often seen as a summer destination, but it's just as charming during the holiday season. Should you visit, The Southern Mansion is the place to be. It offers the utmost in luxury and southern hospitality. With authentic vintage furnishings, you'll feel as if you've stepped back in time. If you're planning a December stay, be sure to check out the Christmas craft fair and the Dickens Victorian Christmas Extravaganza  5. Chelsea Pub and Inn, Atlantic City A historic hotel, Chelsea Pub and Inn lacks the glitz and glamour of the boardwalk hotels, but makes up for it in charm. Bring your pets, play pool at the bar, or borrow one of the many board games available! You're just minutes from shopping and nightlife, yet somehow so far away from it all. You'll love the homey atmosphere, hot breakfast and complimentary cocktail. You'll also love the prices.
6. The Woolverton Inn Bed & Breakfast, Stockton The rooms at Woolverton Inn Bed and Breakfast are lovely, but the cottages are incredible. The Audubon Cottage, pictured, features a fireplace and double whirlpool tub. Called one of the most romantic getaways in the country by the Washingtonian, consider adding a spa package to your couples getaway. Breakfast and afternoon refreshments are included and not to be missed. The seasonal specials are spectacular.
7. Whistling Swan Inn, Stanhope What makes Whistling Swan Inn unique? The affordable elopement packages and authentic tea parties. Have your dream wedding with up to six guests for under $1500, including a two night honeymoon! The Inn is also well-known for its authentic tea parties including beautiful antique bone china tea accoutrements, one-of-a-kind teapots, linens, and silverware, dainty fresh-cut sandwiches, scrumptious home-made scones, savory bites, and customized desserts for just $21.95 per guest. Enjoy antique shopping in nearby Andover.
8. Icona, Diamond Beach The ultimate luxury beach getaway, book your stay now for the best rates. A resort, Icona offers incredible amenities including surf lessons, fitness classes on the beach, an oceanfront bar and galley kitchens in every room and suite. Rent a bike or enjoy a massage by the water - the options are endless. Don't worry about the crowds, this beach is private
9. Feather Nest Inn, Cherry Hill A quirky couples hotel, Feather Nest Inn offers themed suites with jacuzzis and fire places! Ideal for an offbeat anniversary getaway, this is your chance to stay in Tahiti, Treasure Island, a tree house, or cave - there are 12 themed suites to choose from. It's a bit dated, but definitely unique. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and champagne on Friday and Saturday evenings.
10. Chimney Hill Estate, Lambertville Enjoy a luxurious stay located on a working alpaca farm, just minutes from charming downtown Lambertville. You'll enjoy spacious rooms with period furnishings, a complimentary breakfast and delicious baked goods. You can even schedule a tour to meet the Alpacas when staying at Chimney Hill Estate.
11. Summer Nites, North Wildwood You're going to flip for this 50s themed bed and breakfast - it's the hippest place in town. You feel me, daddy-o? All jokes aside, Summer Nites is a great place to stay and one you certainly won't forget. Guests will enjoy the unique box car diner complete with 1953 Seeburg Jukebox, pool table and vintage game room, and authentic 50s memorabilia. The perfect time to visit, other than a summer night? The 1950s themed New Year's party is sure to be a blast, and Elvis Weekend in April is always a hit. Address: Bungalow Hotel, 50 Laird St, Long Branch, NJ 07740 Address: Element Ewing Princeton, 1000 Sam Weinroth Rd, Ewing Township, NJ 08628 Address: Grand Cascades Lodge, 3 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ 07419 Address: The Southern Mansion, 720 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204 Address: Chelsea Inn, 8 S Morris Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 Address: Woolverton Inn, 6 Woolverton Rd, Stockton, NJ 08559 Address: Whistling Swan Inn, 110 Main St, Stanhope, NJ 07874 Address: ICONA Diamond Beach, 9701 Atlantic Ave, Diamond Beach, NJ 08260 Address: Feather Nest Inn, 703 Hampton Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Address: 207 Goat Hill Rd, Lambertville, NJ 08530 Address: Summer Nites, 2110 Atlantic Ave, North Wildwood, NJ 08260  When you think of a vacation in New Jersey, you probably think of the Jersey Shore. If you are looking for a quieter option, you have to try Lake Hopatcong. Lake Hopatcong is New Jersey’s largest lake, and there is no end to the fun your family can have here. The scenery around Lake Hopatcong is stunning. No matter what time of year you visit, the scenery around Lake Hopatcong is stunning. You can rent a boat or bring your own to head out onto the water and take in the sights.  Spend some time at Hopatcong State Park. Hopatcong State Park is a beautiful place to go have a picnic with your family, go for a swim in the lake, and enjoy all of the nature around you.  Take an easy hike through the State Park. The trails in the Hopatcong State Park are easy, flat hikes. The whole family will be able to enjoy a relaxing stroll through the park.  You have to spend a day on the beach. The Hopatcong State Park has a beautiful beach for swimming and spending the day in the sand. The beach has everything you need, including concessions.  The Lake Hopatcong area has plenty of lodging options. The Whistling Swan Inn is a popular bed and breakfast near Lake Hopatcong. The Inn has kept it's stunning Victorian charm and has all the amenities you could want.  You'll love the endless dining options around Lake Hopatcong. The Windlass is a popular waterfront restaurant in Lake Hopatcong. This historic restaurant has been running for several generations and is open year-round.  Plan your trip for any season. Lake Hopatcong is stunning no matter the season. You'll find a variety of activities for the family any time of the year, and the changing scenery is always sure to please. Have you ever visited Lake Hopatcong? What’s your favorite thing to do? Address: Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, USA Address: 45 Nolans Point Park Rd, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849, USA Address: 110 Main St, Stanhope, NJ 07874, USA  We could all use a little R&R, especially as autumn ramps up. Try these ideas to get out of the house for fun and restorative mini vacations.
Last year, my husband and I signed our daughter up for summer camp in Michigan but neglected to plan a vacation for ourselves. In figuring out the logistics of transporting a teenager across two states and around one Great Lake, however, we saw our opportunity for a sojourn of our own: Put her on a plane to camp, then drive to pick her up — and sneak in a microgetaway for ourselves during the journey from point A to point B. So, we loaded up our trail bikes and headed for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP). We booked two nights at a historic inn not far from our midtrip destination: Grand Island National Recreation Area, a half-mile ferry ride on Lake Superior from the UP’s north shore. At that point, it was time for a microgetaway — one glorious day of biking through old-growth hardwoods along weather-worn cliffs, with turquoise and cerulean extending to the horizon. Perhaps because it was so micro, I remember almost every hour of that adventure with my sweetie. What if we all did more of this sort of thing? Getaways don’t need to be full vacations to be meaningful: Maybe we shift our mindsets around vacations altogether and start looking for smaller, more frequent opportunities to refresh, restore, and recreate. Consider these ideas. All’s Fair at the FairsSummer’s end is rife with last-ditch hurrahs (and huzzahs), so if fairs and festivals are your thing, you probably won’t have to look far. Some of the nation’s biggest state fairs, including those in Texas, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, and Massachusetts (the Big E showcases all six New England states), take place in late summer or early fall, so go enjoy food-on-a-stick for a day or a week. If medieval costumes and jousting excite the imagination, hop online and find a Renaissance Festival near you. Don’t forget end-of-season art fairs, music festivals, and film festivals. (Check out www.festivalnet.com to search for events by date and location.) Look for cultural celebrations in your community as well; September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month, and there may be events where you can celebrate, learn, and enjoy amazing food. Favorites for FoodiesHarvest season (hint: that’s now) is ideal for getaways that get you in touch with the sources of your food. Pack up the kids and head to a nearby U-pick farm for an afternoon in an apple orchard or pumpkin patch. Gather friends for a weekend of wine, cider, or kombucha tasting. Or take a foraging class and learn what’s in season in your neck of the woods. (Check out www.eattheplanet.org for foraging-based tours around the country.) Explore your town’s farm-to-table restaurants. Venture to a nearby pizza farm (trending in the Midwest and picking up steam in other parts of the country), where you can bask in a bucolic environment while noshing on a pie made from local ingredients. Or explore www.farmstayus.com to find a weekend farm vacation. Have Hobby, Will TravelHow do you spend your free time? Pair your hobby with a quick getaway. Once a railroad town on the prairie, Hamilton, Mo., is now a mecca for quilters, boasting 12 quilting-centric shops that are all owned by the same family, whose Missouri Star Quilt Company transformed the community. It also features a quilt museum, restaurants and lodging, and the world’s largest spool of thread. Whether you’re a knitter, woodworker, poet, or vintage-car lover, there’s a retreat or convention or other destination for you. Love antiques? Sketch out an itinerary to visit small-town antique shops. Avid reader? Look up book-lover tours in your favorite city. Go fly-fishing. Scout out record stores, vintage shops, or yoga studios whenever you’re in a new town — because even a business trip could double as a microgetaway if you keep your eyes open. Fall Is for Nature LoversBreak out your fleece and flannel and get outside. Crisp fall air is around the corner, and if you plan it right, you can spend your weekends chasing fall foliage — heading north for early oranges and following the color cascade as it marches south. Speaking of heading south, grab a pair of binoculars and find a nearby bird-migration hot spot to behold the mass exodus. Favorite viewing destinations include Cape May Point in New Jersey, famous for raptor sightings; Horicon National Wildlife Refuge in Wisconsin, where you might see a dozen or more duck species alone; and Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Texas, where hundreds of species pass on their way to Central and South America. State and national parks, forests, and grasslands beckon this time of year — they’re less crowded, especially once school begins, and you’ll soon find cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. Pitch a tent or rent a cabin and spend a day or a weekend exploring. You can lace up for a hike to a waterfall or other geological points of interest or hit the singletrack on a mountain bike. Drive the scenic routes. At night, lie back on a blanket and watch the stars. Check out www.nps.gov for information on national parks, and www.fs.usda.gov for national forests and grasslands. For on-the-go maps of hiking trails, try the AllTrails app. Go Small and Stay HomeIf you need a quick change of scenery but can’t venture far, try booking a night at a local hotel. Get up the next day and explore your own town’s museums and galleries — the ones you haven’t visited yet. Sign up for a walking tour and learn fun facts you can share with your next out-of-town guests. If your town boasts an arboretum, zoo, or aquarium, appreciate it with the eyes of a tourist. Take in a concert. Unwind at a day spa. You can go even smaller with the nano-getaway: Grab a lawn chair, leave your phone at home, and head to a nearby park or the banks of a neighborhood pond. Breathe. In a pinch, you can even go virtual: During the pandemic, online retreats and virtual tours filled in where travel had to leave off, and many offerings are still available. Check out Airbnb Experiences, Amazon Explore, and Flyover Zone for digital excursions that at least give you a taste for what you’ll do once you can truly get away. This article originally appeared as “Make Your Own (Micro-) Getaway” in the September 2022 issue of Experience Life.  State Line Lookout, Alpine, NJ 07624 The park's backdrop is the beautiful Palisades Cliffs and its trails provide hikers with not only natural beauty but incredible views of the New York City skyline. Trails are open 30 minutes before sunrise - 30 minutes after sunset. New Jersey is home to a wide range of fantastic hiking trails, ranging from beginner-friendly loops to expert level endeavors. The trail featured today is closer to the latter. While it’s not incredibly long, coming in at just 4.3 miles, the Giant Stairs hike at Palisades Interstate Park is quite a challenging adventure. Are you up for it?  Palisades Interstate Park is a Jersey gem that runs north from Fort Lee along the Bergen County coast and up to Rockland County, New York.  The park's backdrop is the beautiful Palisades Cliffs and its trails provide hikers with not only natural beauty but incredible views of the New York City skyline. Trails are open 30 minutes before sunrise - 30 minutes after sunset.  While there are several trails to choose from, suitable for varying skill levels, adventurers will want to explore the Great Stairs.  The 4.3-mile trail is considered difficult due to the rock outcroppings. You'll need to hike nearly a mile over large boulders. This is the largest rock scramble in New Jersey!  You'll find the trail head near the State Line Cafe parking lot. Start by following the Long Path, marked in teal.  You'll come across a scenic overlook and head down towards the water. You'll pass a waterfall (depending on recent rain) and some rope swings on your journey. You can find a detailed description of the hiking trail and necessary directions at NJHiking.com. You can also find park and trail maps at NJPalisades.org. The Giant Stairs Hike is not suitable for young children or pets but it’s perfect for experienced hikers looking for a thrill. The scenery is spectacular from the State Line Lookout alone and, when the cafe opens again, it’s a perfect spot to get a post-hike snack. To get a sneak peek of what you can expect should you desire to traverse this trail, check out the short (but very sweet!) video below by Unboring Exploring.  There are lots of great hiking trails with waterfalls in New Jersey. However, have you ever wondered, “Are there any easy-access waterfalls near me?” Well, we’ve got some great news: the answer is yes! It’s true, there are some unbelievable New Jersey waterfalls hiding in plain sight – no hiking required!  1. Buttermilk Falls, Stokes State Forest This impressive cascade has a developed viewing area right off the parking lot and is wheelchair accessible. For even better views, there are stairs up to an elevated platform. Read more about this waterfall on the New Jersey State Park Service website.  2. Crystal Springs Resort, Sussex County The biosphere complex at Crystal Springs Resort is New Jersey's very own slice of paradise. You'll feel as if you're in the tropics year-round at this indoor/outdoor pool, which offers a variety of waterfalls - each more impressive than the next. The above video just begins to do it justice. Read more about this waterfall on the Crystal Springs Resort website.  3. Great Falls, Paterson Part of Great Falls National Park, these powerful falls can be admired by anyone. For a unique perspective, you can view the falls from the footbridge crossing the Passaic River. Read more about this waterfall on the National Park Service website.  4. Bass Pro Shops, Atlantic City Atlantic City does everything bigger and better, so it should come as no surprise that there is a stunning 2-story waterfall hidden away here. What is surprising, though, is that these magnificent falls are located not among the glitz and glamour of the boardwalk, but in a sporting goods store. Visit Bass Pro Shops on Christopher Columbus Boulevard for to see the breathtaking display. Read more about this waterfall on the Bass Pro Shops website.  5. Little Falls, Little Falls Located in the center of town, Little Falls is not so little. Created by a dam, these falls are quite impressive. Read more about this waterfall on the Township of Little Falls website.  6. Tinton Falls, Tinton Falls Though these may not be the biggest falls, they sure are lovely. They're also the highest elevated falls along the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Check them out from the overlook at 741 Tinton Avenue. Read more about this waterfall on the Tinton Falls website. 7. Great Falls, Hillsborough There are several spectacular waterfalls in Duke Farms, Great Falls being one of the most impressive. While you CAN hike (or bike) to these falls, they are also just a short walk from the tram stop. Read more about this waterfall on the Duke Farms website.  8. Lambertville Falls, Lambertville This easily accessible waterfall is created by a canal lock, and visitors can even cross a footbridge over the falls for an interesting perspective. Read more about this waterfall on the Lambertville website. Address: Mountain Road, Mountain Rd, Walpack Township, NJ, USA Address: Crystal Springs Resort, 1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ 07419, USA Address: Great Falls, Paterson, NJ, USA Address: Little Falls, NJ, USA Address: Tinton Falls, NJ, USA Address: 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, USA Address: Lambertville, NJ 08530, USA Address: 30 Christopher Columbus Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA  When you think of New Jersey, you think of people. Lots and lots of people. However, there are towns across the great Garden State that are shockingly small. What's so great about the "Great Garden State?" Where do I start? Roadside farm stands, dynamite diners, the finest wineries and craft breweries, cuisine that make other states envious, diversity, four seasons, the beaches and the boardwalks, the list goes on and on. I think we get stuck in our bubble and forget that there are parts of Jersey that are "off the beaten path," and many most likely like it that way. For example, I live in Toms River. I love it here, but it's always busy in Toms River. When I want to escape but not have to go far, I just hang a right on Route 37 and enter a little gem called Island Heights. Every time I'm in Island Heights, I feel like I'm on vacation. It's a cute little town with lots of charm and amazing views of the Toms River. Not all of these towns you'll see on this list are small in size. This go around we're focusing on population. There are actually towns in our state that have official populations in the single digits. Many of these towns will be new to you. They were new to me. Others are well known but have very few people living there for good reason. You'll see why.
FAR HILLS Located in Somerset County, Far Hills is 5 square miles and has a population of 927.
HI-NELLA - With a population of 867, this Camden County town is 0.231 square miles.
ROOSEVELT - Monmouth County's Roosevelt is 1.920 square miles and has a population of 854.
BLOOMSBURY - Just shy of 1 square mile, Bloomsbury sits in beautiful Hunterdon County and has a population of 846.
STONE HARBOR - This popular South Jersey shore town has 822 year round residents.
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP There are a couple of Washington Townships in New Jersey. This one is in Burlington County. While it's large in size at over 100 square miles, the population is a small 815.
INTERLAKEN A hidden gem in Monmouth County, this coastal town is 0.3 square miles and boasts a population of 801.
WRIGHTSTOWN Consisting of lots of farmland, Wrightstown in Burlington County has a population of 785
BRANCHVILLE - Located in far North Jersey, Branchville is home to 783 folks.
DEAL This upscale Monmouth County beach town is a popular summer destination for many. However, it only has 783 year round residents.
GREENWICH TOWNSHIP Made mostly of wetlands and farmlands near the Delaware River, Greenwich Township has a population of 712.
ROCKY HILL Just over a half a square mile, Somerset County's Rocky Hill is home to 688.
BARNEGAT LIGHT A popular destination for many with Old Barney as an attraction, Barnegat Light only has a population of 587.
ANDOVER BOROUGH - Only 587 people live in this small Sussex County town.
WEST WILDWOOD - We've all heard of Wildwood, but off shoot West Wildwood is home to only 566.
ROCKLEIGH - 1 square mile in Bergen County and a population of 534
FIELDSBORO Fieldsboro is part of Burlington County - population 531.
STOCKTON Don't confuse this town with the school. This town of 520 is in Hunterdon County.
CORBIN CITY Even though Atlantic County's Corbin City is 7.7 square miles, it is only home to 500.
SHILOH Home to many produce farms, Cumberland County's Shiloh has a population of 497.
ALLENHURST When one thinks of Monmouth County shore towns, rarely does Allenhurst come to mind. It's probably better than way. Population: 489
MILLSTONE Not to be confused with Monmouth County's Millstone, this one is in Somerset County. Population: 420.
HARVEY CEDARS In the summertime, the population of Harvey Cedars in in the tens of thousands. Year round it's only 342.
CAPE MAY POINT Located at the tip of the Cape May Peninsula, and home to the Cape May Lighthouse, Cape May Point has 279 residents.
MANTOLOKING This upper class Ocean County shore town has a year round population of 257.
LOCH ARBOUR Monmouth County's Loch Arbour is a tucked away beach town with a year round population of 183.
TETERBORO When you hear Teterboro, usually one thing comes to mind. Airport. That why this Bergen County town only has a population of 69.
PINE VALLEY Famous for its controversial golf course, Pine Valley is pretty much all golf course. Only 11 people live there.
WALPACK TOWNSHIP It's hard to believe there is a town in New Jersey with a population of 6. Welcome to Sussex's Walpack Township.
TAVISTOCK
How can the tiniest town in New Jersey be 5 square miles? Easy, it's a golf course with 5 people living on it. How this qualifies as a town is beyond us.  Whether you're selling your home for the first time or you're an experienced guru who knows all the tricks of the trade, there are a myriad of ways in which sellers can increase the value of their home before the appraiser arrives. (bring out that checklist of to-dos). And no, we're not talking about your impeccable staging, the fresh coat of paint on the exterior or the Marie Kondo-like organization in your closets and pantry. While the scent of fresh-from-the-oven cookies may dazzle buyers during showings, this one minor-yet-critical detail might be the culprit that's lowering the value of your home. The One Kitchen Color to Avoid A recent Zillow study found that homes with bright red kitchens sell for $1,500 less than other colors. Don't fret just yet! A full gut renovation of your kitchen may not be needed to get a great offer, but it doesn't hurt to add a few upgrades here and there, including a fresh coat of paint (more on that in a sec). Buyers are attempting to envision their life when they walk through your home, and sometimes the imagination is deterred by the details like personal taste, clutter or family photographs. Real estate brokers know that most people experience difficulties seeing the bigger picture, so if you want to get the biggest bang for your buck, it's critical to present your home in a way that can resonate with all buyers. Other colors to avoid? On top of X-ing bright reds, steer clear of bright green, bright yellow and pink. Zillow's study found that kitchens painted these colors hurt buyers' intentions to purchase and overall decrease the likelihood of offers. The biggest takeaway here: Red and other bright colors might read too loud for buyers' taste.  The Kitchen Color That Increases Value
Instead of a red kitchen, try white. White brings a fresh, bright palette to the kitchen and is the most attractive for potential homeowners. In fact, it was found that light, neutral colors will increase interest in a property as well as potential offers. Buyers are able to visualize themselves in the home with their own furniture and hopeful memories without getting taken aback by personal taste preferences. A neutral palette also makes a space appear more open and spacious, allowing the house to sell itself. If white may be too bland for your taste, try an off-white or light yellow. Still not able to give up color? The study found that dark gray, dark red and dark green sparked a similar increase in buyer interest. Who knows, a quick white paint job just might be the trick that will have them saying, "Let's make an offer!" That and, well...cookies of course. RELATED: THE ONE TIKTOK HACK THAT ADDS VALUE TO YOUR HOME, ACCORDING TO A DESIGNER Many tourists use Jersey City as a gateway to the glorious Statue of Liberty. But did you know there's so much more to see? Less than a kilometer away from New York, Jersey City offers endless amounts of culture and entertainment. To help plan your upcoming trip, we have compiled a list of the best things to do in Jersey City, New Jersey:  Take a Trip Back in Time Through the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal. The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal played an essential role in the history of immigration within Jersey City. The terminal serves as a gateway to two of the most popular tourist attractions: the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Ferries are only available from the terminal.  Go on a Cruise Along the Hudson River Jersey City is one of the best places to take a cruise. Situated close to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Hudson River and its gentle waters make an excellent cruising destination. Many sailing companies organize these cruises and present various choices for which sights to see. One of the most popular cruises is the one that includes the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Many of the cruises run for 90 minutes, providing tourists with enough time to see these unmissable sights while also giving them the opportunity to spend the day exploring. We recommend taking a cruise where you can catch the sunset on the river horizon; it makes for the most stunning photos.  Learn More About the Past at Ellis Island Immigration Museum Immigrants played an important role in shaping Jersey City's history. From the 1800s to the 1900s, there was an influx of people coming to the city from many different locations around the globe. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum was built to allow others to learn about the history of immigrants within America.  Visit the Van Vorst Park Van Vorst Park is one of the premier historic tourist locations in the city. It's located in the downtown part of the city where there are plenty of other destinations relevant to history. While you are exploring and hunting for food in the crowded downtown location, do drop in for a visit to Van Vorst Park. The area was named after the park planners, Cornelius Van Vorst and Peter Henderson. The park is vast, extending over 1.8 acres of land, and has been around almost 200 years. Many come here for a relaxing stroll and admire the architecture, which dates back to the 19th century.  Go on a Food Tour and Sample Jersey City's Local Cuisine Jersey City is all about delicious cuisine. Every neighborhood within the area has a different local favorite. Due to this, Jersey City invites tourists to try at least one of their many available food tours. You can learn about the city's local culture and many delicacies on these tours. With the opportunity to visit six of the best restaurants in town, the tour covers all areas, from formal dining to street food. From sandwiches and burgers to craft beers, the tours give travelers an unmissable culinary experience. These tours are perfect for those who love Italian food as they often take you to experience some of the most luxurious Italian restaurants within the city.  Take Photos With the Famous Colgate Clock. The Colgate Clock, first constructed in 1924, has been around for almost a century. Since then, the clock has become a tourist attraction, and many know it as the Big Ben of Jersey City. With a height of 50 feet, the clock overlooks the waters of Jersey City, and many tourists come to take pictures.  Shop for Vintage Goods at Another Man's Treasure Vintage Store Another Man's Treasure Vintage Store has been home to clothing and accessories boasting the original Jersey style for the longest time. The store has been around for decades and has invited countless customers to come and browse amongst their unique pieces. With pieces dating as far back as the 1920s, they offer some of the rarest fashion accessories, including dresses and jewelry.  Snap Some Pictures of the Apple Tree House Jersey City has its fair share of historic old houses. Many come to admire the designs and structures of such authentic properties. Additionally, history lovers come to find out about the intriguing history and character the houses offer. The Apple Tree House, previously known as the Wagenen House, has an interesting tale. Figures such as George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette planned different strategies on the grounds of their property.  Check Out the Newkirk House There is no shortage of historical houses in Jersey City. If you're on the lookout for architectural gems, you'll find a lot of them in this city—take the Newkirk House, for example. Boasting Dutch-style architecture, the Newkirk House that dates back to 1690 still stands proudly. With its rich history, it has become a tourist attraction where many come to take pictures. There once was a restaurant situated inside the house; however, nowadays, people admire the exterior.  Get Your Spirits High at Corgi Spirits For vodka and gin lovers, this place is a must-visit. Corgi Spirits serves a variety of homemade specialty gin and vodka, which are famous throughout the city. This is the perfect place to come to unwind with friends. One of its most popular menu items is the Earl Grey Gin. For those who prefer cocktails, Corgi Spirits offers a range of cocktails for prices that go as low as $8 during happy hour.  Take a Walk Around Lincoln Park. Want to see one of the city's original parks? Come and take a walk around Lincoln Park, which is perfect for up the sun and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Located in the heart of the city, the park is around 250 acres and has many historical tales related to it. The Hackensack River is also nearby, meaning visitors get to see beautiful views from the park. There are many hiking trails inside the park for those who love long walks or hikes.  Try Gourmet Ice Cream at Milk Sugar Love Milk Sugar Love is one of the most popular ice cream parlors in the area, offering customers a variety of gourmet flavors suitable for all dietary requirements. All ingredients used are of the highest quality and are prepared with local organic milk. Milk Sugar Love's available menu items are constantly rotating, meaning new flavors are always added to their extensive menu. Whether you crave classic vanilla or fancy trying something different, like matcha, they're guaranteed to have something for you.  Stroll around Liberty State Park Located in the heart of New York City, Liberty State Park has more than 1,200 acres. With water on three sides, it is one of the city's most popular attractions. Strolling around the spectacular and breathtakingly beautiful Liberty State Park is one of the best free things to do in Jersey City. It has a beautiful waterfront view, several seats, a playground for children, boat launches, picnic spots, and many more places of interest. This picture-perfect park is a great place to spend time with loved ones and have a good time. Take a walk, relax on a seat and take in the sights, pack a picnic, or whatever else your heart desires—all for free. You may also go boating, fishing, on a cruise, visit a scientific museum, and so much more for a relatively low fee.  Honor War Veterans at Empty Sky Memorial To honor the 749 New Jerseyans who were killed during the September 11 attacks, the Empty Sky Memorial was dedicated in September 2011. Visit the Empty Sky Memorial while in Jersey City as one of the city's major tourist attractions. Stunning stainless steel twin walls etched with the 749 names of the dead flank this impressive memorial's rich vegetation. Pay honor and respect to the innocent victims of the World Trade Center bombings on September 11, 2001.  Have a Retail Therapy at Newport Centre Located in Newport, Rhode Island, Newport Mall is one of the city's most popular retail destinations. This three-story mall features more than 167 retail establishments, as well as a variety of additional amenities. A spectacular shopping binge is definitely in order if you ask me. This mall is a must-see if you're ever in the area! Nearby Sears, JCPenney, and Macy's are only the beginning of what you'll find at this massive retail area. The Newport Centre is the perfect place to go shopping with your pals. Choose from hundreds of retailers, like Adidas, Sephora, Forever 21, Coach, and many more. A movie or a meal awaits you after shopping.  Bring Your Kids to Liberty Science Center Since its inception in 1993, Liberty Scientific Center has been a pioneer in science education in Jersey City. The planetarium, the state's most technologically sophisticated and most prominent, is the principal attraction here. This incredible science museum is a must-see in Jersey City if you want to have a memorable outing that is instructive and entertaining for the whole family. It has an excellent planetarium, a café, a gift shop, educational programs, exciting events, and a lot more to keep you entertained. You will even get a chance to see beekeepers extracting honey in one of the natural exhibits.
 See the World-Famous Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty is one of the most visited tourist spots in the world. It would be an absolute shame if you came to the city next door and didn't take a chance to visit this infamous tourist attraction. Ferries and cruises are two of the best options to see the statue. Additionally, different types of ticket packages are available for the Statue of Liberty. Some offer photo opportunities, while others offer more in-depth tours that let visitors explore the inside of the monument and the museum. Final Thoughts Jersey City is so much more than just one of New York's neighboring cities. It has its own charm and brims with historical suites, mouth-watering cuisine, and photo op-worthy attractions. Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Jersey City helps narrow down some of the best places to visit on your trip!  Divine Park, Spring Lake New Jersey is the nation’s most densely populated state. And somehow, it’s a state teeming with small towns — New Jersey’s least-publicized asset. Which make for the perfect spring road trip, especially at a time when we want and need to get out of the house and get some fresh air. There’s no better time for a weekend getaway than now — good weather, less crowds, little traffic. The small towns on this list are not necessarily there because they are super shopping and eating destinations. They’re just great places to escape the rat race (or whatever it is you’re running away from). Perfect for (socially distanced) day trips or weekend getaways, these towns are packed with history, tradition, charm and congeniality. Definitions of “small town” vary — all my towns, with one exception, have populations under 15,000. So you won’t see such worthy places as Westfield, Cranford and Ridgewood on this list. Some of these towns, such as Ocean Grove and Crosswicks, are sections of municipalities. This is an expansion of a list I first did in 2015, when I picked 10 towns, and 2017, when I picked 25 towns. Quite a few towns on the 2017 list moved up, moved down or fell off the list. This, after all, is a ranking, and thus subject to re-evaluation. Again, this is not a ranking of the best downtowns, but the best small towns to live in. All the towns here have one thing in common: I could move into any of them tomorrow.
32. StillwaterStillwater Township, population 4,200, comprises three villages: Middleville, Swartswood and Stillwater, the latter the home of the Stillwater General Store. George Dallas Garris used his mustering-out pay from the Civil War to open the store in 1871, across the street from where it sits today. The store’s latest owner, Dean Voris, has renovated the building, which will now be called the Geo. D. Garris General Store. The store and village are an evocative slice of rural Americana in the nation’s most densely populated state. And New Jersey is rich with general stores. 31. Island Heights It’s the Jersey Shore town many have never heard of, much less visited. Minutes from frenetic Seaside Heights and tucked along the Toms River almost as an afterthought, Island Heights was formed — like Ocean Grove — as a religious camp meeting/summer resort in the late 1800s. The Pennsylvania Railroad once ran through town, but today the loudest noise you’ll hear is probably your own breathing. There’s no public beach, no boardwalk, no rides, just peace and quiet. Must-stops: the Corner Deli, Playa Bowls and the Cottage Museum. 30. Atlantic HighlandsBayfront setting. Vibrant restaurant and cafe scene. One of the state’s best breweries (Carton). Ferry to New York City. What more could you want? Atlantic Highlands, not to be confused with next-door-neighbor Highlands, is an architectural treasure house, with Victorian, Queen Anne and Colonial Revival homes. Take a guided walk starting at the Strauss Mansion through the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society. Must-stop: Mount Mitchill, the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic Seaboard.
27. Maywood Maywood claims the best shopping district in Bergen County, and “a small town feel that you just can’t find anywhere else” in the state’s most populous county. I won’t disagree. Pleasant Avenue is home to several personal favorites — Uncle Paulie’s, a Peruvian restaurant, and Seafood Gourmet. Maywood was incorporated as a borough on June 30, 1894 at the height of the Boroughitis phenomenon then sweeping through Bergen County and the United States.
25. Hammonton This Atlantic County town is slowly getting on the tourist radar, with a diverse mix of restaurants — pizzerias, Mexican restaurants, wine bar and cafes. Penza’s Pies at The Red Barn makes delicious, fruit-loaded pies. Pick your own blueberries at DeMeo Farms or Blueberry Bill Farms. Hammonton is, after all, “the blueberry capital of the world.” 24. Sparta Sparta, formed in 1845 from portions of Byram, Hardyston, Frankford and since-defunct Newton Township, is known for its private lake communities — 11 in all. Man-made Lake Mohawk, with its meandering boardwalk and Alpine-style buildings, is a big draw. Sussex County’s best bakery, Cafe Pierrot, can be found in Sparta, along with Andre’s Lakeside Dining, Krogh’s Restaurant & Brew Pub, Tanti Baci and the Mohawk House.
21. Belvidere Quick, name the Warren County seat. No, not Phillipsburg. Nope, not Hackettstown. Tiny Belvidere, where the Delaware and Pequest rivers meet. Incorporated in 1845, Belvidere boasts a 19th century historic district, alone worth the visit. Thisilldous Eatery, open nearly 40 years, is a locals hangout. Departing staff get the traditional pie-in-the-face. The highlight of the town’s social calendar: Victorian Days, normally held in early September. 20. Collingswood The Camden County town has become a popular destination in recent years, and you can thank the Mob — in part, anyway. Angelo Lutz, former Merlino family associate, runs the Kitchen Consigliere, an Italian restaurant in the center of town. The commercial strip is the longest of any town on this list, with a heady mix of hip and old-school shops, stores and restaurants. Try the excellent Italian fare at Zeppoli. Sample the 50 kinds of olive oil at Blue Moon or dig the retro cool at The Pop Shop. The Painted Cottage, down an alley, specializes in vintage painted furniture. The fabulous Scottish Rite Auditorium is also in town.
18. Walpack Center No one lives in Walpack Center (about 10 people live in Walpack Township, of which it is part), but that’s exactly its charm. It’s the prettiest town no one lives in that you’ll ever visit, a haunting reminder of the ill-fated Tocks Island project, when the government spent $100 million to buy homes in the area, evicting 8,000 people, for a dam that was never built. The National Park Service now owns all the buildings in Walpack Center except the school, which serves as town hall. The only building open on a regular basis (although not currently due to COVID-19) is the local museum. Two miles away is beautiful Buttermilk Falls. The town that time forgot is well worth a visit any time of year. 17. Pitman Pitman, like Ocean Grove, was founded as a summer religious camp. It was named after the Rev. Charles Pitman. The community, according to Barbara Westergaard in the indispensable New Jersey A Guide to the State, was laid out in the shape of a wheel, with an auditorium as the hub, and 160 small cottages radiating from the center. Today, Pitman is a lively little town, with Broadway the main drag and the Broadway Theatre, built in the early 1920s, a retro wonder. There are two craft breweries (Kelly Green and Human Village), a first-rate ice cream shop (Alaura Kitchen); an excellent pizzeria (Mannino’s); Nine Thai, replacing Thai Burger Cafe; and a creme puff shop (Chloe’s Creme Puffs).
10. Crosswicks Crosswicks claims to be the birthplace of Taylor pork roll — John Taylor, a descendant of Crosswicks settlers, made his soon-to-be-famous ham for a local market — but that’s not why it’s on this list. The village, part of Chesterfield Township, is a charming step back in time, with 100 or so historic houses and buildings. Check out the cannonball, fired during a battle with Hessian troops in 1778, still embedded in the wall of the Crosswicks Friends Meeting. The town library is in the former fire department, and the Crosswicks Inn, which opened as a tavern in 1681, is now a pizzeria (and a good one, Osteria Procaccini). 9. West Cape May No, not Cape May, but sleepy West Cape May, where 1,020 people live at the end of Jersey. Drive down Sunset Boulevard, past the Chattel House Village series of shops (Exit Zero Magazine, The Bird House), past the Nature Conservancy’s South Cape Meadows (weekly guided bird walks) to Sunset Beach in Lower, home of an evening flag-lowering ceremony and the state’s spookiest attraction — the concrete ship Atlantus, which sank in 1926. Just down the road, also in Lower: The Bread Lady — Elizabeth Degener — and her Enfin Farms roadside stand on Sunset Boulevard. One more stop: Willow Creek Winery.
4. Cranbury Cranbury, one of the state’s best-preserved 19th century villages, scarcely seems to have changed, with its tree-lined Main Street and well-maintained homes. Teddy’s Restaurant, open since 1973, is where the locals eat, and a cone at Gil & Bert’s Ice Cream (re-opens April 9) is a summer night tradition. One other thing to love about this town: no parking meters.
This article originally appeared on NJ.com. written & contributed By Peter Genovese
 Jersey City may be one of the most underrated and overlooked places in the state. All too often, anyone looking for a city getaway near New York will head to the Big Apple itself, or book a room in Hoboken. You don’t need to spend your life’s savings in Manhattan for a weekend of city-fueled fun. Come spend some time in Jersey City. This underrated city tucked away in north Jersey is home to history, art, cuisine, and so much more.  Downtown, you'll find all sorts of historic landmarks. The Stanley Theater was the second largest in the country when it opened in 1928. In 1983, it was purchased by the Watchtower Society to be used as an Assembly Hall for Jehovah's Witnesses. This church group keeps the theater in pristine condition.  You'll also find a ton of street art. Jersey City is known for having murals around just about every corner. It gives the city a real sense of charm and culture.  Your first stop ought to be White Mana Diner for a burger. This legendary roadside diner has been serving up some of the best burgers in New Jersey since 1946.  If you want to see a performance, concert, or other event, check the schedule at the Loew's Jersey Theater. This historic venue is absolutely beautiful and frequently hosts events and concerts featuring world-class talent.  For a slightly more chaotic experience, you should take a peek at White Eagle Hall. This legendary punk-rock venue features local rockers like the Bouncing Souls and international acts like Frank Turner, who all know how to get a crowd going. It's one of the best small concert venues in New Jersey.  Spend some time at Liberty State Park to enjoy fresh air and beautiful views of the city.  The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal is one of the most beautiful buildings in the state, and you can explore it when you visit Liberty State Park.  Be sure to plan a meal at Laico's, a longstanding Jersey City restaurant that serves
some of the best Italian dishes in the state. The food here is always outstanding, and the portions are more than big enough to share. And hey if you somehow get bored in Jersey City… well, you’re just a short PATH ride from New York. Article by Kim Magaraci From "Only in your state" New Jersey has plenty of towns that are overflowing with antiques; Lambertville, Red Bank and Cape May are a few favorites. They’ve got amazing antique shops all over town but if you prefer that your shops are confined to a more consolidated area (convenient if you prefer walking over driving), Mullica Hill has the street for you!  Mullica Hill is a lovely little town in Gloucester County Occupying over 3 square miles, the town has approximately 4,000 residents. There aren't many cities nearby, though you can get to Philadelphia in around 35 minutes with the right traffic. It's about 30 minutes from Haddonfield and Vineland, two of the larger towns nearby. Though it's loaded with history, it isn't exactly overflowing with loads to do. One might call it sleepy, but there's still reason to visit....Main Street is antique central! Read on for a few of our favorite shops.  The Parsonage - 31 S. Main Street This two-story antique shop is currently celebrating their one-year anniversary. They've got a sizable inventory, all sorts of household items, a helpful staff, reasonable prices and themed rooms! Visitors rave about how organized this shop is, and about the friendly owner, Barbara.  Canary Row- 33 S. Main Street Open Thursday-Sunday or by appointment, they have plenty to offer. You'll find housewares, rustic decor, a sizable retro record collection, books, bottles, art, and more. Easy to navigate, all sorts of treasures are waiting to be found.  Yellow Garage Antiques - 66 S. Main Street This massive (6,500 square feet) shop is home to 35 different dealers. You'll find antiques from 1850, 1950...all different time periods. There's jewelry, medical oddities, furniture, art...we just love the variety. A former bus garage, this shop got its start in 1996 and has been a local favorite ever since. They specialize in old painted surfaces, blue decorated stoneware, 18th and 19th Century American country and formal furniture and accessories. The Yellow Garage has been recognized as an award winning antiques destination over the years, including the "Best of South Jersey Magazine", "Best of Gloucester County", and "Best of the Mid-Atlantic". The Yellow Garage has also been a supplier of stage props to the film industry.  Old Mill Antique Mall - 1 S. Main Street
This charming antique mall is located in a historic old mill, built prior to the American Revolution. In 1967, the building was transformed into an antique shop and it has been thriving ever since. You'll find 23 dealers on two floors, selling everything from typewriters and telephones to glassware and medals. Every vendor carefully chooses their selection, so you can expect quality. Article by Kristen from "Only in your State"  This small city offers safety, spectacular schools, a wide variety of dining options, endless entertainment and so much more. I’m absolutely enamored by its charm, and I’m not the only one who feels this way. Financial website, WalletHub, recently named this Central New Jersey neighborhood “Overall Best” in their ranking of over 1200 smaller-sized cities throughout the United States. Other accolades include being named the “Best College Town To Live In” by SmartAsset and having one of the top-ranked high schools in the nation. So, which city is it? Princeton. Home to the best college in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report, Princeton is located in Mercer county, right in the center of our state. The population is approximately 30,000, and it is both one of the oldest and newest towns in New Jersey. How is that possible? Though Princeton predates the Revolutionary War, it was established in its current state in 2013 when Princeton Township and the Borough of Princeton merged. Here are just a few reasons why everyone should love Princeton. 1. Safety According to neighborhood insights website, City-Data, the crime rate in Princeton is half the national average. Violent crime is very rare, and the crime rate has only been going down over the years. (Photo: A view of Princeton snapped from Fine Hall.)  2. Schools Princeton University students have SAT scores that are about 700 points higher than the national average. Notable alumni include Michelle Obama, Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Samuel Alito, David Duchovny, General David Petraeus and F. Scott Fitzgerald. The university students aren't the only ones with smarts - Princeton High School has an Advanced Placement Test pass rate of 92%, compared to the national average of 12.5% (according to US News). The high school is pictured, above.
3. Shopping Nassau Street, pictured, is one of Princeton's main shopping areas. You'll find several big name brands here including Lululemon and Polo Ralph Lauren, along with smaller boutiques and charming cafes. Palmer Square, located just off Nassau street, is the heart of downtown. You'll find dozens of shops here, each more charming than the next. Check out Bucks County Dry Goods, The Farmhouse Store and The Papery of Princeton to find great gifts and home goods.  4. Art You'll find the famed Princeton University Art Museum, Morven Museum & Gardens, Cranbury Station Gallery, the Arts Council of Princeton, and Lewis Center for the Arts here. Princeton University Art Museum has a collection of over 92,000 works in a variety of mediums dating back hundreds of years. The Arts Council of Princeton offers classes, workshops and a wide range of performances.  5. Architecture Princeton University offers some of the most beautiful buildings you'll ever see, but the entire town is filled with charm. Enthusiasts of Gothic Architecture will not be disappointed.
6. Attractions In addition to the aforementioned attractions, visitors can enjoy tours of Drumthwacket - the governor's mansion. Built in 1835, this is one of three governor's mansions in the country located outside of the state's capital. If outdoor adventure is more your style Princeton is home to Herrontown Woods Arboretum and portions of the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park. Activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, canoeing and kayaking.  7. Dining Whatever you're craving, you'll find it in Princeton. Enjoy a sizable selection of eateries including popular picks like Blue Point Grill, Seasons 52, Agricola Eatery, Witherspoon Grill and The Peacock Inn.  8. History
The Battle of Princeton was fought and won here in 1777. You can still visit the battlefield and monument. More importantly, Princeton's Nassau Hall (pictured) served as the US capitol building for four months in 1783. The Treaty of Paris was signed here, ending the Revolutionary War. There are countless other reasons to love Princeton. If you’re lucky enough to live downtown, you’ll find walkability unmatched by many other cities of the size; the area has an impressive WalkScore of 95/100. Princeton was also named by Money Magazine as one of the top towns to live and work in the United States. It is undoubtedly the best city in America, and it’s right here in New Jersey. Take that, New York. (Kidding. Kind of.) Article by Kristen from "Only in your state"  I’m no stranger to fasting—I find a quarterly juice fast helps hit the reset button if I’ve been indulging a little too much (if you’re going to try a juice cleanse, I love my Breville Juice Fountain Plus), and I’ve even tried a three-day water fast as a way to try and treat a particularly bad skin condition (but that’s another story). While I recognize that fasting isn’t an option for many people, for me, someone who works from home and is relatively healthy, they work well.I happily accepted a 16-hour intermittent fasting assignment—look up anything about intermittent fasting and you’ll find a laundry list of benefits, from mental clarity and concentration to an increase in natural energy.
So, considering how good I feel after a juice fast, I figured next-level intermittent fasting would be a welcomed change of pace from my current carb-heavy quarantine diet—and I was right. Day 1: Wait, does coffee count? My partner and I usually eat dinner quite late in the evening, which means I’ll spend most of my working day without food for fuel. I haven’t eaten since 10 p.m. last night, so I won’t be able to have my first meal until 2 p.m. this afternoon. I usually eat a late lunch anyways, so that’s fine… but… I really, really want a cup of coffee. I end up guzzling water until 2 p.m. and break my fast with a cup of coffee and a scone. It’s strange but I’m not very hungry despite my initial hunger upon waking up. Day 2: What about just a little smoothie? I woke up today feeling a little lighter, I immediately drank three glasses of water, which helped keep my mind off of missing breakfast for a little while. My partner offered me a sip of his smoothie which I was extremely tempted to accept, but I held out. I read that even the smallest nibble of food ruins any benefits of fasting—and makes you even more hungry than before. By 2 p.m. I’m more than ready for my first meal. I don’t even stop for coffee, I went straight for the leftover pasta my partner and I made the night before and probably ate more than my fair share. Day 3: Since when is water so satisfying? I slept a little later than normal today and woke up feeling pretty refreshed, even without my morning coffee. Interestingly, my face felt less puffy and my usual inflammation due to autoimmune issues was noticeably down. I drank two glasses of water and for the first time didn’t feel like I needed a snack to start the day. By 2 p.m., I was feeling hungry, but not famished. I think my body had finally started adjusting to this new eating schedule. I made myself a protein smoothie in my Magic Bullet Blender (which has been a godsend during this pandemic), and had a piece of toast, which was more than enough. Day 4: Wait, it’s already 2 p.m.? My partner woke me up with a cup of coffee in bed, clearly forgetting that I’ve been fasting all week! The smell of dark roast was intoxicating and, I’m not going to lie, I snuck a little sip before putting it in the fridge to make iced coffee with later (sorry, not sorry). I honestly don’t think it had much of an effect though. I drank my usual three glasses of water and actually had lunch at 2:30 p.m. when my partner reminded me to check the time. I was definitely hungry, but for the first time I wasn’t watching the clock waiting to break my fast. I had half a smoothie and some toast. Day 5: Clear skin, clear mind. By the last day, I’ve become hooked on intermittent fasting and will certainly be continuing practicing this ritual for the foreseeable future, even if it means losing out on breakfast food! Not only do I feel lighter and less bogged down when I wake up, I’ve also noticed a big change in my skin and my general inflammation levels. I’ve struggled with psoriasis for about five years now and my skin has never looked as good as it does now. The only lifestyle change I’ve added to my arsenal (I take a lot of vitamins, guzzle celery juice, and try to avoid gluten), was this 16-hour fast. While it might be harder to stick with once daily life continues after COVID-19, I think the health benefits I’m seeing in my body is worth it (and it’s only been a week!).  If you’re thinking about moving to New Jersey, living in the shadow of what many consider the world’s greatest city can prove to be a good thing. With an increased interest in telecommuting and getting more square footage for less money, many city dwellers are now looking for the amenities that come with a suburban setting. With New Jersey, you can get those benefits while still keeping the bustling excitement of the Big Apple or Philadelphia within reach. Good schools are another major draw for families thinking about living in New Jersey. In 2021, New Jersey’s public school system was named the best in the country for its pre-K through high school education by U.S. News and World Report. It doesn’t get any better than that. But if you only know the state by what you see along the turnpike or I-95, it’s hard to figure out where to start looking for the best places to live in New Jersey. Fortunately, the state is only 150 miles long and 50 miles wide, so it’s not unrealistic to plan a weekend driving tour to get a good feel for the Garden State. To help with your planning, we’ve gathered a list of cities and small towns organized by New Jersey’s main regions, and we’ve included median home prices and other basics you need to know.  BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN NORTH JERSEY — ELIZABETH, FRANKLIN, AND JERSEY CITY Home to many New York City commuters, North Jersey’s specific regional boundaries are loosely defined, and the area is greatly influenced by the Big Apple. With its close proximity to the city, people are moving to North Jersey to find the best of city and country life. Some of the most beautiful cityscape views in the country provide a spectacular backdrop for those who call this part of the state home. North Jersey is also a significant cultural hub and is home to the New Jersey State Opera, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, and the New Jersey Ballet Company. The North Jersey swamps Bruce sang about now make a great place for nature lovers to explore. Many organizations have helped clean up the pollution that plagued the area for years, and now it’s a perfect place for excursions and eco cruises.  ELIZABETH Popular for city commuters due to its two train stations and proximity to the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike, Elizabeth is the fourth largest city in the state with a population of 128,000. Residents here are extremely diverse, representing 50 countries and 37 languages. The average age is 34.5 years, and a full 70% of Elizabeth’s residents are renters. The median home value is $356,092, a 13.5% increase between February 2020 and March 2021, according to Zillow. With an exceptionally diverse population representing 50 countries, Elizabeth offers you the opportunity to taste cuisines from just about anywhere around the world. In the mood for Columbian fare? Try Parador Rojo. Looking for a fusion of Asian flavors? Head over to Noodle Fan. You may be tempted to move to Elizabeth just for the food  (Source: @theabrusciteam via Instagram) FRANKLIN If you’re looking for a more rural, outdoorsy feel, plan a home-shopping stop in the borough of Franklin, where there are lots of parks and green areas. With a population of just 5,000, Franklin is known as the “Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World” for its mining history, as many of its minerals have fluorescent properties. Located about 54 miles northwest of NYC, Franklin is just minutes from thousands of acres of farmland. With a median home price in the $200,000s (Realtor.com), Franklin provides a nice balance for those who prefer a quieter way of living that still gives them access to city life.  (Source: @jerseycity_homes via Instagram) JERSEY CITY Nicknamed “Wall Street West,” Jersey City is home to several additional second offices of companies headquartered in NYC and is one of the top U.S. cities for commuters. The second most populous city in the Garden State after Newark, Jersey City’s population is about 262,000. Many New Yorkers have moved to Jersey City to find a lower cost of living. However, the median home value is $546,406 (a 7% jump from February 2020 and March 2021), which is well above New Jersey’s overall median value of $387,105. But it’s still a good $100K less than NYC’s median home value of $649,490. Jersey City is about as close as you can get to NYC and still remain outside the city limits. With an eastern waterfront that faces the Hudson River, it offers glorious waterfront views. This bustling city is home to Liberty State Park, which is as large as Central Park and provides panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. Named the most ethnically diverse city in the U.S. by Wallethub in 2021, Jersey City prides itself on being every bit as inclusive and culturally fascinating as NYC. A popular culinary destination with tastes from around the world, it’s home to Razza, which makes the best New York pizza according to The New York TImes. You’ll also find the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere at Jersey City’s Liberty Science Center.  New Brunswick BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN CENTRAL JERSEY: TRENTON, NEW BRUNSWICK, AND PERTH AMBOY Home to the state capital of Trenton, Central Jersey covers the area from Bridgewater to Toms River. Like North Jersey, it’s a popular place to live because of its close proximity to New York and other cities. Central Jersey is literally the crossroads of the Garden State, where the New Jersey Turnpike and Golden State Parkway meet. If you’re thinking about relocating to Central Jersey, there are a variety of cities and towns here with diverse offerings for housing, dining, entertainment, and recreation. Central Jersey is known for its gorgeous county parks that provide its inhabitants with many locations for outdoor fun and relaxation.  Source: @nextburb via Instagram) TRENTON Located on the Delaware River across from Pennsylvania, Trenton is the capital city of New Jersey. Its metro area’s population is around 400,000, with a median age of 34. An affordable city with a median home price of $213,538 (up 15.5% from February 2020 to March 2021), Trenton is just 28 miles northeast of Philadelphia and 55 miles southwest of NYC. An ethnically diverse and lively city with a rich Revolutionary war history, Trenton also offers access to water sports and wildlife. Home to the Taylor roll (a scrumptious ham, egg, and cheese concoction) and tomato pie, Trenton is also considered to be the “Crossroads of the Revolution.” George Washington and his troops made their famous Delaware River crossing here in 1776.  Source: @tverdovhousing via Instagram) NEW BRUNSWICK With a population of 56,000 and a median home price of $322,275 (an increase of 11.1% from February 2020 to March 2021), New Brunswick is the home of Rutgers University. This medium sized city is located on the banks of the Raritan River. With two train stations and many bus lines, the Big Apple is only an hour from New Brunswick, which is 40 miles southwest of Times Square. Johnson & Johnson is headquartered here, as well as the Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center.  (Source: @perthamboy.waterfront via Instagram) PERTH AMBOY This small city of about 51,000 restored its waterfront to capitalize on spectacular views of Raritan Bay and Staten Island with a promenade, marina, restaurants and historic landmarks. Perth Amboy is one of the more affordable NYC suburbs, just 21 miles away and offering a median home value of $331,269 (an increase of 12.2% from February 2020 to March 2021). Homes range in architectural styles, from Victorian to mid-century Ranch. An increasing number of artists have been relocating here, and developers are hoping to attract more residents with a multimillion-dollar redevelopment of its 1920s train station. Other popular Central Jersey towns include:
 BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN SOUTH JERSEY AND THE JERSEY SHORE: MANALAPAN, BRICK, AND MEDFORD Forget what you’ve seen on MTV. Some would argue the Jersey Shore and South Jersey are the Garden State’s best assets. With over a hundred miles of coastline, the state’s Atlantic coast has long been a popular beach vacation getaway, but more and more people have decided to move to the Jersey Shore to live year round. Its small town access to live music, boardwalks, and amusement parks make the region a fun place to live for people of all ages and backgrounds.  (Source: Melissa DeSantis Real Estate via Facebook) MANALAPAN TOWNSHIP Manalapan Township made it to #4 on Coldwell Banker’s list of top 10 places to live in New Jersey. Now that more people have the flexibility to work from home, buyers from New York City have flocked to the area. Just 15 minutes from the New Jersey beaches and 45 minutes from NYC, Manalapan’s average home sales price leapt from $425,000 to $525,000 between August 2019 and August 2020. Lower interest rates overall and New Jersey’s lower tax rates relative to New York make the township even more attractive for those looking to leave the big city behind.  BRICK With a population consisting of mostly young professionals and retirees, Brick offers a family-friendly environment less than 15 miles from the beach as well as convenient access to NYC, Philadelphia, and Atlantic City. If you’re looking for an area of New Jersey with peaceful streets and a slower-paced feel, then you might want to consider making your home in Brick. The median home value is $331,294, a 16% increase between February 2020 and March 2021. Out of its population of 75,342, 85% are homeowners, while only 15% rent. Residents of Brick love its Mantoloking Bridge County Park, with its 70-foot-long pier, boardwalk, picnic area, and gazebo.  (Source: Bob Meyer Communities via Facebook) MEDFORD
For those thinking of moving to the South Jersey region between the Jersey Shore and Philadelphia, Medford offers a bucolic setting that’s a hub for culture and business. With a population of only 23,033, Medford has managed to avoid overcrowding. There’s even land still available for you to build your dream home in Medford, if you find a suburban setting with an historic Main Street full of quaint shops and restaurants appealing. The median home value is $419,148, a rise of 16.1% between February 2020 and March 2021. Other notable South Jersey options include:
Article by: LB Gabriel is a freelance writer and frequent PODS blog contributor. When she’s not on a deadline, you can find her on a tennis court or golf course. 5 interior-design trends that will start to disappear by 2022, and 6 you'll see everywhere4/22/2022  Industrial looks are getting overshadowed by natural elements.
 Open-floor plans have proved less functional than divided spaces. Having one big space for your kitchen and living room isn't as comfortable anymore as it may have once been. Open-floor plans once soared in popularity in the interior-design world, but Zac Houghton, a construction expert and the CEO of the home-improvement company Loftera, told Insider the trend may taper off. "Many people learned the hard way during the pandemic that perhaps your kitchen, home office, dining area, great room, and living room should not all be the same," he said. "Ultimately, lack of privacy leads to a lack of functionality." Those with open spaces may look to find ways to add some separation through wall dividers and other forms of privacy.  Fast furniture will be less of a fad. Shopping for cheap, semiquality pieces of furniture that can be built quickly at home won't be as popular going forward, Thomas Vibe, the founder of the countertop-design and -installation company Stone Wizards, said. "I think we'll also be seeing less fast furniture in the coming years. Our rooms now see daily multifunctional use, and people are customizing them to provide flexible and adaptive living spaces," he said. "I see clients opting for better pieces that have a greater purpose beyond quality for the sake of longevity."  Open shelving will likely be replaced. Everything on the shelves can end up disorganized. Open shelving had a major moment, but it might be coming to an end. Andra DelMonico, a home-design writer for Trendey, said, "Over the past couple of years, people have spent more time at home and really used their kitchens. "It has become painfully obvious that open shelving doesn't work and just ends up looking cluttered and messy, while also lacking the storage capacity of cabinets." Instead, she told Insider, a combination of upper cabinets and decorative shelving will pave the way next year.  Exposed kitchen hoods are decreasing in popularity. They don't provide the cleanest look. Beautiful and stylish kitchen hoods have become a staple in many kitchens, but we may start to see less of the trend, Adam Meshberg, the founder and CEO of Meshberg Group, an architecture and interior-design firm, said. "Traditional restaurant-style kitchen hoods will continue to disappear in 2022 as residents opt for the cleaner and concealed look," he said. "Kitchen hoods will now be low profile and flushed with the rest of kitchen cabinetry."  Gray is nearing the end of its decade of popularity. Neutral grays are falling out of favor. Neutrals like white, beige, and gray have all been popular colors throughout the home. But gray, in particular, seems to be phasing out the quickest. "Color schemes come and go but typically have a popularity lifeline of about a decade. Gray is coming to the end of its decade," DelMonico told Insider. "People are growing tired of neutral colors like white, beige, and gray." She added that while gray color schemes were once popular for their universally appealing, modern look — especially in kitchens — we should expect to see more bold and dramatic colors for cabinets and backsplashes next year  On the other hand, florals are having a major moment. You can add floral elements to your home with wallpapers. Right now, florals are taking center stage, Mark Cutler and Nichole Schulze, the founders of the design firm Cutlerschulze, said. "Florals are having a moment, in many different forms — certainly in wallpaper, which continues to be a strong need. Also, though, in more and more fabrics, floral motifs are occurring," they told Insider. "The reason, we believe, is that people are seeking out joy, and nothing delivers so readily as flowers, color, and pattern."  Black accents will likely soar in popularity. Black accents can make things pop. When it comes to some of the smaller home details, we can expect black to make a breakthrough. "The color to watch in 2022 for all home accents is black," Autumn Stankovsky, an interior designer at Floor360, told Insider. "We'll see black window frames, trim, doors, cabinet hardware, faucets, and door frames." Black is often sleek and modern-looking. Plus, it matches many other colors, which makes it an easy pick.  Round shapes are becoming a hot choice. Round shapes can be incorporated through furniture, lighting, and decor. Different shapes contribute to different themes and vibes, and Houghton told Insider we could expect to see more round ones throughout the home. "We will be seeing more rounded shapes in furniture, lighting, and home decor in the upcoming year," he said. "Rounded, organic shapes add softness to a design and give a space a more soothing ambience."  Nature-inspired interiors may become the norm. Shades of green and natural materials can achieve this trend. DelMonico told Insider that homeowners were trying to find more ways to bring nature indoors. "Now that people have embraced the outdoor-living lifestyle, they realize they can't spend 24/7 outside," she said. "The simplest approach we've seen is by using more shades of green in home decor. This could be with paint or fabrics." DelMonico added that flora- and fauna-patterned fabrics are gaining popularity and that you could enhance the trend with natural materials and live plants.  Wallpaper is still having its moment. Wallpaper was popular for much of 2021. You can find just about any color and style of wallpaper for your home, and it's an easy way to decorate your walls without permanently committing to anything. Wallpaper is going to continue to increase in popularity, with grass cloth specifically having its biggest surge since its heyday in the 1960s and 1970s," Kim Turner, a designer at Kim Turner Design and the advancement director at Dwell With Dignity, told Insider. She added, "This is driven not only by the fact that it is a natural and eco-friendly material but that it complements almost any design style."  Green is a hot new color for 2022.
Green is going to be big in 2022. Color palettes are an essential part of interior design, and there's one hue that's gaining steam, Claire Zinnecker, the founder of Claire Zinnecker Design, said. "We have been trapped in our homes for so long that people are itching to have a change of scenery within their personal spaces," she said. "The green renaissance will be in full swing by 2022, whether in paint or decor." The designer added that many people were craving a sense of calm in their homes, which can be achieved by incorporating neutral, soft shades of green. This article first appeared on INSIDER. Written by Alyssa Towns Swantkoski |
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