Today’s Solutions: December 20, 2025

Lifestyle

Alongside taking care of other people and the planet, make sure you take good care of yourself. The Lifestyle section at the Optimist Daily has solutions for everyday wellbeing on topics like food, beauty, fashion, and the latest trends. Curious about caring for houseplants, eating plant-based, or parenting tips? It’s all in there.

Man leaving the office

Employment data shows the real story behind the “Great Resignation”

A record number of American workers are leaving their jobs in what has been dubbed the “Great Resignation.” While the pandemic has pushed many workers to rethink the role of work in their lives, employment research tells a more nuanced story than mainstream media. The General Social Survey Read More...

young student pumps hand sanitizer into his hands

Why hand sanitizer dries out your skin (and what to do about it)

Hand sanitizer greets us at the entrance of gyms, convenience stores, offices, and has become the centerpiece of tables at restaurants. It’s become an essential accessory that everyone wants to have on hand (no pun intended) and is even more important as we head out in public more often. While Read More...

Peperomia plant indoors

These houseplants don’t like winter, but here’s how to keep them alive

Most houseplants enter a period of dormancy in the winter, especially if you live in a colder climate. You might notice that plants begin to drop leaves or dry up in winter, and three plants, in particular, are especially finicky about cold, dark weather. Here are some tips for keeping those picky Read More...

Ethnic woman nervously looks at her phone

How to cancel plans last minute in the least offensive way possible

We all have those weeks where we jam pack our schedule with plans and responsibilities, only to come to the day realizing you don't have enough energy, time, or money to realistically follow through. If you can relate to this awkward situation and have struggled with how you should cancel plans Read More...

Gay rights march in Tokyo

Tokyo becomes biggest city in Japan to recognize same-sex partnerships

In March of this year, we shared the news that in Sapporo, Japan, the district court ruled that the government’s failure to recognize same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, which was viewed as a symbolic victory and a huge step forward for the LGBTQ+ community in Japan. Now, more steps have Read More...

African music star Chimano

Kenyan LGBTQ community salutes singer Chimano for coming out

Back in 2019, LGBTQ+ rights campaigners challenged the Kenyan High Court to overturn a law that bans gay sex and makes it punishable by up to 14 years in prison. While they were unsuccessful, attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community have been softening within the country itself, especially among the Read More...

Indian grandfather sits with grandchild on the couch while eating cake

Saga becomes first UK firm to offer grandparental leave

The insurance firm and cruise ship operator for individuals over 50, Saga, has made a radical move to offer its staff a week of paid grandparental leave—the first in the UK to do so. The firm also promises to open its nursery to grandchildren to support those of their staff who are already Read More...

colorful condoms against pink backdrop

8 Innovations that can revolutionize sexual health

The way humans are approaching sexual health is constantly evolving and advancing. Here are eight designs focused on contraception and sexual equity that are challenging how we see and experience sexual health. Grass fiber condoms by the University of Queensland If you are an individual with a Read More...

Decorating holiday themed cookies

How to store holiday cookies so you can enjoy them for as long as possible

For many of us, the holidays mean lots of quality time with friends and family… and lots of time eating delicious meals and desserts. That said, eating all the holiday cookies at once can be a huge (and rather unhealthy) challenge. Instead, keep your cookies as fresh as possible for as long as Read More...

Adaptable

Book Excerpt: ‘Adaptable’ーHow to Lead with Curiosity, Pivot with Purpose, and Thrive through Change

“The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it.” - Kalpana Chawla What would happen if each time you failed you tried just one more time? What if you applied to one more job? Ran one more mile? Read More...