This Is the Surprising Secret to a More Meaningful Life

Let’s get serious for a moment and talk about life itself. After all, even though there’s no consensus on what the meaning of life is (we like to think it involves love and kindness and lots of cat videos), we all think about it, right? Some days you feel fulfilled and purposeful, and some days you wonder why you’re here. One day you’re absolutely killing it, and the next, you’re full of doubt and big questions. Well, it turns out you may have the answers to those questions already, and they’re actually pretty darn easy to unlock.

Scientific American reports that researchers and psychologists at the University of Missouri have tested the way people find meaning in patterns and order — a concept known as coherence. These researchers tested coherence by showing their subjects different pictures of trees, some in random order and some in a seasonal pattern. They filled out a questionnaire afterwards, and their answers revealed that those who recognized the pattern found life more meaningful. Another test was done with groupings of words that were either random or semantically related, with similar results.

So how does coherence work in your everyday life? Well, it’s that exactly — what you do every day. The researchers surveyed their subjects on their daily routines and found that those who do “pretty much the same things every day” find life more meaningful.

It’s a pretty surprising outcome, isn’t it? We hear so much advice about being spontaneous and shaking things up that maybe we take our boring old habits for granted. The researchers even administered controls for mindfulness, positivity and religiousness, yet the subjects still found meaning in the seemingly mundane. Scientific American suggests that finding order and purpose in day-to-day tasks “lays the groundwork for the pursuit of larger goals.” A more coherent life leads to a greater chance of answering the tough questions about purpose, significance and life itself.

All it takes is a few baby steps to enlightenment. We’re more than up for that challenge!

What do you think? Do you find more meaning in life when you’ve stuck to your schedule? Share your routine in the comments!

Sprinkle the magic of Christmas into every seasonal activity by creating some festive Christmas nail designs! Whether you like to lean towards the traditional reds and greens or prefer to think colorfully outside the box, the polishes and Christmas nail designs below will set your mood and nail look right. Winter nails don't have to be drab – from star-studded nail art to bejeweled nail beds, we've got just the inspo for you.

Christmas Nail Colors

Amazon

essie 'Off Tropic'

You can't get your dream Christmas nail designs done without some stellar nail polishes! If your look involves a deep green, this shiny pick will help you pull it off easily. Use it to coat the entire nail for a sultry seasonal mani.

Amazon

OPI Opaque Light White & Gray Shimmer Nail Polish

With Christmas comes cold, and this nail polish screams icy. Wear it alone or apply it over a traditional Christmas color like red or green!

Amazon

OPI Infinite Shine 'Bubble Bath'

This baby pink will look gorgeous as a solid coat for Christmas-y dates and dinner parties.

Amazon

ILNP 'Ruby'

It's red. It's glittery. It's perfect for the holidays!

Amazon

Essie 'Winter Trend'

Spending Christmas with your besties or roommates? It's time for you to have your first 'Pinkmas' with the sparkly magenta nails to match!

Amazon

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri 'White on Time'

A super solid white nail polish, alongside a thin nail art brush, can be used to paint snowmen, gift wrap, or snowflakes like some of our featured Christmas nail designs depict.

Amazon

RARJSM Holographic Gel Polish

For the lazy gal manicurists, this holographic polish will make any light reflect off your nails which is the point during Christmas!

Amazon

essie 'U Wish'

Embrace the holidays with this fiery red that defies expectations of what a Christmas color should be.

Amazon

Butter London Patent Shine Nail Polish

This one color will work excellently for minimalist Christmas nail designs – use it to dot, stripe, or wear it on its own.

Amazon

Revlon 'Iced Mauve'

Sparkles are a must for Christmas, which is why we're heavily eyeing this potent pink.

Christmas Nails Inspo

Nataszija / July Ninety Six

Nifty-Gifty Gems

Use small nail gems of any color to infuse your Christmas nail designs with festive energy. We're loving red in particular because it just feels luxurious!

Brydie/Instagram

Deep Red Elegance

The bold red French tips, in combination with some art deco-inspired golden stars, can really bring your seasonal mani to the next level.

Charlotte Herberts/Instagram

Colorful Christmas Stars

Use a stencil or freehand these tiny stars in different chrome nail colors for a more jolly vibe this year.

Bryony Howell/Instagram

(Gift) Wrap It Up

A nail art brush can be used to paint on cutie little Christmas bows like this silvery one!

(via )

Oliwia Krauz/Instagram

Classic Colors

Multicolor nails are not dead – take the trend further for the holidays by crafting your look with a mix of whites, golds, greens, and reds.

Melou's Nails/Instagram

Let It Shine

For an understated (yet still spirited) Christmas manicure, glitter will be your go-to. We love the gradient effect that this hand has on!

Peachi Nails/Instagram

Merry & Bright

Tiny star details are sure to turn heads this Christmas! You could use any hue, but a standout gold like this one really makes your nails pop!

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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated

Losing weight doesn’t mean saying goodbye to delicious, satisfying meals – and these healthy recipes for weight loss are proof. The process of eating healthy to lose weight can seem daunting, but really, it’s all about finding dishes that are as nourishing as they are tasty. You can still chow down on stir fries and soups, ones that will actually have you looking forward to dinner.

Get ready to whip up these deliciously healthy recipes for weight loss that are anything but boring!

Jeanine Donofrio + Jack Mathews

Lemony Greens Soup

While a lot of seasonal soups can feel overly dense, this lemony greens soup is packed with plenty of nourishing veggies, lemon, and fresh dill. It gets a wonderful flavor boost from miso paste, proving that healthy recipes for weight loss can still taste great. (via Love and Lemons Every Day for Brit + Co)

Forks & Foliage

Authentic Fattoush Salad

If weight loss is your goal, you really can't go wrong with a salad. Don't make the mistake of building yourself a bland bowl, though: follow this easy recipe for Fattoush Salad that's boosted with a variety of fresh veggies and crunchy, satisfying pita chips instead! (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)

Ashley Bare

Grilled Harissa Shrimp with Chickpea-Dill Tomato Sauce

Protein lovers are gonna go crazy for this healthy shrimp dish. The best part is it only takes 30 minutes to prepare! Dinner is served. (via Brit + Co)

Lindsey Rose Johnson

Simple Walnut-Crusted Salmon

Salmon is super nutritious – it's packed with omega 3's, which can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease your risk for disease. You'll get a nice dose of protein, too, which will help you feel fuller for longer. This fish is coated in a yummy, honey mustard-infused walnut crust that turns deliciously crispy after baking. (via 100 Days of Real Food for Brit + Co)

Earthly Provisions

Farrotto with Butternut Squash

This vegan and vegetarian-friendly recipe deserves a spot in your weight loss meal plan. It's like your typical creamy risotto, but made with farro instead: a healthy grain that's loaded up with lotsa fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. (via Earthly Provisions)

Completely Delicious

Coconut Rice Veggie Bowls

Chances are, you've got a bag of jasmine rice sitting in your pantry right this very moment. Make use of it to craft these delicious rice bowls topped with green goodness. (via Completely Delicious)

A Virtual Vegan

Tofu Quinoa Stir Fry

This healthy recipe for weight loss swaps the typical rice for quinoa, and tofu for animal-based protein to make each bite a lil' bit lighter. It still tastes divine, plus it'll save you from a pricey takeout bill on the nights you really don't feel like cooking: it only takes 30 minutes to make! (via A Virtual Vegan)

Half Baked Harvest

Grilled Pesto Zucchini Stuffed with Tomatoes and Orzo

This Mediterranean-inspired dish has it all: healthy grains, fresh veg, and a huge punch of flavor, thanks to the pesto. It's a great way to make use of zucchini, especially in the summer when it's in season. (via Half Baked Harvest)

The Edgy Veg

Vegan Cauliflower Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps of any kind make great healthy recipes for weight loss, but this cauliflower version really takes the cake since it's sheet pan-friendly and totally vegan. Def adding this one to our lunch repertoire! (via The Edgy Veg)

Crowded Kitchen

Vegan Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Searching for some good, no-cook healthy recipes for weight loss? Consider your search over. This nutritious chickpea salad – packed with Mediterranean flavors, no less – is a great dish for getting all your veggies in. It also holds up well as a meal prepped lunch! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Averie Cooks

Grilled Chili Peach Chicken

Prep this 10-minute chicken to add flavor to healthy wraps, salads, and grain bowls. The mix of sweet and savory is everything. (via Averie Cooks)

The Real Food Dietitians

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

We're salivating just looking at this bowl of white chicken chili. There's truly no shortage of flavor in this protein-rich recipe! Plus, you have options: you can use the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot to make it. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Hello Little Home

Warm Farro Kale Salad

Healthy veg? Check. Tangy feta? Check. Hearty dinner? Check. This is one of those salads that doesn't necessarily feel like a salad, since it's served warm and has plenty of ingredients to fill your tummy, like cauliflower, farro, and walnuts. (via Hello Little Home)

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Turkey Hummus Wrap with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Got some leftover turkey from Thanksgiving? Use up what's left by making these easy, healthy, and delicious lunch wraps. With turkey and hummus, your meal will be bulked up with a good amount of protein to keep you feelin' full throughout the day. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Tortilla soup will never not be comforting AF. This iteration is super healthy since it calls for low-sodium chicken broth and tons of veg. You can easily use a rotisserie chicken for this to help speed up the cooking process. The best part? You're gonna have plenty of leftovers to eat on. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

The First Mess

Sweet Potato & Broccoli Rabe Sheet Pan Dinner with Ginger Peanut Sauce

Sheet pan meals are simply amazing, saving you considerable time prepping dinner (and cleaning up after it). We love how colorful this recipe is! The zingy ginger-peanut sauce truly makes it a standout in terms of healthy recipes for weight loss. (via The First Mess)

Feel Good Foodie

Kale Pear Salad with Candied Walnuts

Though you might feel a bit hesitant to start mixing in sweeter ingredients with something that's typically savory (like a salad), this dish packed with dried cranberries, candied walnuts, and tangy blue cheese will definitely change your mind. Load up a big bowl for yourself to soak in all the fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins it has to offer! (via Feel Good Foodie)

A Spicy Perspective

Teriyaki BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Because, truly, what's more fun than eating your dinner off of a stick? These shrimp skewers are light, yet flavorful. Pair 'em with some brown rice to incorporate a healthy grain and complete the meal. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Takes Two Eggs

Easy Japchae

Japchae (AKA Korean glass noodle stir fry) hosts a whole rainbow of veggies, protein-ful egg, and small pieces of tender beef to fill you up. With this recipe, you'll be cheffing it up just like your local takeout joint in no time. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Barley & Sage

Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous

CAVA, who?! These Greek chicken bowls present some pretty hot competition for one of our fave food chains. They're healthy and filling, plus totally customizable in terms of the toppings. (via Barley & Sage)

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If you were on the internet at all this summer, then you're probably familiar with all the It Ends With Us cast drama. The rumored rift between director and star Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively didn't come to light until after the movie released, but Justin just revealed some brand new information that totally reframes the whole film: he almost suffered a "breakdown" while filming.

Justin Baldoni has been vocal about taking the role of Ryle, who abuses Blake Lively's Lily throughout the film, really seriously, but his latest interview with the How to Fail podcast reveals the effect of the character went way farther than anyone knew.

Keep reading to see why starring as Ryle Kincaid opposite Blake Lively in It Ends With Usaffected Justin Baldoni's mental health.

Justin Baldoni says Ryle Kincaid was "very hard" to get rid of.

Sony Pictures Releasing

When host Elizabeth Day asks about how he decompressed after playing Ryle, Justin admits the character was harder to shake than he anticipated. "That was very hard and honestly, that took a few months," he says. "I had dreams as him for a while, and it lived in my body, but I think for the most part, he's out."

And while starring in such a role is difficult on its own, he also had the job of directing the scenes he was in! "Directing is a very lonely job, I'll just be very candid," he says. "Because you are kind of at the top of this totem pole. In your moments of quiet, everybody has a thousand questions for you and also nobody wants to disturb you and you don't really have many people to talk to and you can't necessarily share your anxiety or your nervousness about something because you're also the leader."

His scenes as Ryle involved everything from romantic scenes with Blake Lively to a physical fight with Brandon Sklenar, and there were times he had to go "shake it out" away from the rest of the cast.

Justin Baldoni almost had a breakdown after filming a scene with Blake Lively.

"I've done a lot of somatic therapy so there were times when I was actually just shaking," he says. "There's a moment in the movie where Ryle finds Lily's phone and he finds a phone number and he's very jealous and he's heartbroken and he's angry and he doesn't harm her but you can see in his eyes how dangerous he is. After that scene, I had a near breakdown."

Despite the fact he plays such a "dangerous" character, Justin quickly became the most beloved cast member after the movie's release. Fans became suspicious whey they realized Blake Lively, Brandon Sklenar, and Jenny Slate didn't follow the director on Instagram (and avoided talking about him in interviews)...and then the internet came to the conclusion there was a major rift between the director and the cast (which hasn't technically been confirmed by anyone who's rumored to be involved).

Justin spent the movie's press run raising awareness for domestic violence support, while the internet quickly criticized how Blake Lively treated the film like a lighthearted rom-com, using the opportunity to promote her haircare line.

A source told People that Blake Lively felt "surprised," "vulnerable and upset"about the response to the film's press, while Justin's Jane the Virgin costar Gina Rodriguez came to Justin's defense and told People in September that "sweet, sweet soul" Justin is "my brother forever. Forever and ever."

"You know what?" Justin says. "[Gina's comments] came at a very special time for me and that meant a lot. She really showed up for me. That was really sweet...She's a sweetheart. She's family forever."

Read up on what Brandon Sklenar said about a potential It Starts With Us sequel movie.

Cameron Diaz's home exchange in Nancy Meyers' The Holiday is a cozy girl's dreamy holiday escape. And while Jude Law totally crushed our dreams by telling us that house isn't actually real, I found an IRL home that's totally just as good. This charming cottage is straight out of a storybook, with stacks of books, a literal crackling fireplace, and vintage-style furniture that beg you to curl up with a cup of tea. Cue this 1923 sbtorybook cottage in Los Angeles. Kirsten Blazek of LA-based a1000xbetter leaned into her warm and cozy side and embraced whimsical wallpapers and comfy furniture when restoring the '90s-era remodel back to its original charm, while also making sure it made sense for a modern, young family.

See the quaint, Nancy Meyers-inspired cottage remodel here!

1. Rich, Warm Colors

Michael P.H. Clifford

Kirsten chose a cohesive color palette throughout the home to give the overall feeling of warmth. The home features classic prints, curated art, and furniture that nods to the home’s past.

2. Luxe, Comfy Furniture

Michael P.H. Clifford

Furnishings from home decor shops like Soho Home, Arhaus, and Maiden Home, paired with bold Morris & Co wallpaper and vintage rugs creates a warm, cozy, and inviting space. Think cottagecore but elevated!

3. Larger-Than-Life Bookshelves

Michael P.H. Clifford

Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves frame the outdoors and give the home an old-world English cottage feel.

4. 1920s-Inspired Decor

Michael P.H. Clifford

But it's this bath that stopped me in my tracks. So stunning! The home hails from the roaring '20s and elements like unlacquered brass hardware, natural stone countertops, and a B&W silent film print make subtle calls to that era. I adore the scalloped backsplash.

5. Whimsical Wallpaper

Michael P.H. Clifford

"We wanted to choose a wallpaper for the child bedroom that was also whimsical but had a level of sophistication that meant it wouldn’t feel too young as the years progressed," says Kirsten.

6. Cozy Lamps

Michael P.H. Clifford

The Lawns Prospect Park Mural Wallpaper was the starting point for Kirsten's other choices in the room that include a vintage bed and table lamps from Amazon.

7. Vintage-Inspired Lighting

Michael P.H. Clifford

Vintage-style sconces and handmade ceramic tile in the master bathroom echo the past in a freshly designed bathroom. Love the idea of a table lamp here too.

8. Antique Furniture Accents

Michael P.H. Clifford

Kirsten chose an arched alcove around the bath with a tall vintage chair. "The alcove adds depth and interest to the room and felt aligned with the intrinsic architecture in the home," she says. What a happy ending!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

It seems like Christmas cookie recipes take center stage around the holidays, but they’re not the only sweet treat you can indulge in this year. Sure, there’s some adorable desserts you can make with the kiddos and there’s always no-bake options for the lazy hostess (no shame!), but why not swap the cookies for some candy? You could easily resort to the ever-versatile candy cane, but there’s more to it than that. These easy Christmas candy recipes will leave your guests licking their lips and wondering how you found the time to put together such fabulous homemade treats.

Peppermint & Candy Cane Christmas Candy Recipes

Amanda Wilens

White Cupcakes with Peppermint Buttercream Frosting

Don't settle for regular buttercream frosting this year. Spice things up with this peppermint buttercream frosting that'll be perfect for the cupcakes you plan to serve for dessert. (via Amanda Wilens)

Sugar Apron

Peppermint Bark

Get into those good peppermint mocha feels with this easy holiday bark! (via Sugar Apron)

The Endless Meal

Peppermint Bark Brownies

If you know your family can't get enough of peppermint bark, consider making this chocolate dessert as a backup. (via The Endless Meal)

Barley & Sage

Peppermint Macarons with White Chocolate Ganache

This sophisticated twist on one of the most beloved French pastries is genius! (via Barley & Sage)

Princess Pinky Girl

Peppermint Candy Spoons

These spoons are ready to stir! When you want a fun treat for your hot chocolate or coffee, these spoons hit the spot. (via Princess Pinky Girl)

Cakescottage

Candy Cane Oreo Truffles

You’ll love how easy it is to make these little gems. With just four ingredients, they’ll be perfect for any and all parties this time of year. (via Cakescottage)

Barley & Sage

Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti

Let the warm and sweet smells of chocolate peppermint biscotti fill your home on Christmas Eve. (via Barley & Sage)

Pink Owl Kitchen

Chocolate Chunk Peppermint Skillet Blondie

Did you know you could make a mouth-watering peppermint blondie in a skillet? Well, now you do. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Two Peas & Their Pod

White Chocolate Peppermint Pretzels

Peppermint pretzels you say? Count our taste buds in! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Chocolate & Peanut Butter Recipes

Chef Bai

Raw Chocolate Truffles

All they had to say was 'chocolate'. Pop the ingredients in a food processor and watch all the magic happen. (via Chef Bai)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Mini Oreo Cheesecakes

Make this bite-sized Christmas candy recipe as a teaser to the main event after dinner. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Brown Eyed Baker

Peanut Butter Pretzel Truffles

Is there anything peanut butter can’t do? PB takes these truffles from great to absolutely decadent. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Chocolate With Grace

Buckeyes (Peanut Butter Balls)

If you’re in Ohio during the holidays, you’ll see these sweet Buckeyes all over the place (the Buckeye is the state tree of Ohio and its nuts look like these treats). This dessert will be delicious, no matter where you are celebrating this season. (via Chocolate With Grace)

One Little Project

Peanut Butter Cup Christmas Trees

These trees are so cute, you’ll want your own little forest of them. Plus, they take minimal prep and you can put them together with the little ones. (via One Little Project)

Half Baked Harvest

Frozen Chocolate Peanut Butter Yogurt Cups

This is one of those Christmas candy recipes that'll make you wonder if we have an obsession with peanut butter. Hint: the answer is yes! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Healthy Green Kitchen

Swiss Meringue Kisses

Almost better than the real thing, these crumbly, airy and melt-in-your-mouth kisses are something everyone will love. Make a double or triple batch, though, because they’ll go fast. (via Healthy Green Kitchen)

How Sweet Eats

Mallo Cups

Chocolate, marshmallow and coconut couldn’t possibly make a better combo. These little cups are dreamy any time of year, but are especially yummy around the holidays. (via How Sweet Eats)

Tablespoon

Green Ombre Christmas Fudge

This stylish fudge will look fab on your dessert table during the holidays. (via Tablespoon)

Chef in Training

Almond Rocca

Rocca rocks, for sure! Almonds, chocolate and a toffee-like crunch are ideal for serving or giving as gifts. (via Chef in Training)

Grab A Plate

Chocolate Bark With Pistachios and Sea Salt

This treat couldn’t be easier to make, and it’s perfect for gift giving. Pro tip: try it with different nuts or crushed candy canes for a twist. (via Grab A Plate)

Christmas Candy Recipes with a Twist

A Spicy Perspective

Easy Ginger Candy

These candies bring a spicy yet sweet bite. Try this crystallized ginger recipe to snack on this winter. (via A Spicy Perspective)

The Cookie Writer

Candied Citrus Peels

Fruity and fabulous is how we describe these citrus-based sweets. They’re simple and definitely scrumptious. (via The Cookie Writer)

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Cream Cheese Mints

This candy is super easy to make and only needs a few ingredients. That’s totally welcome during this busy time of year, isn’t it? (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

Tablespoon

Icicle Candy

If all icicles were this sweet and colorful, you might not mind the harsh winter weather. Even if you’re living in a warmer state (lucky you!), you’ll appreciate these pretty candies. (via Tablespoon)

Bakerella

Goodie Goodie Gumpdrops

You’ll really mean it when you say 'goodie' gumdrops. These colorful, chewy treats will take you straight back to Grandma’s house. (via Bakerella)

Amanda Wilens

Christmas Tree Meringues

We are obsessed with these cute bites! Customize this recipe with your fave colors and toppings. (via Amanda Wilens)

A Spicy Perspective

Fluffy Divinity

This classic southern treat is an amazing addition to any holiday snack tray. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Smitten Kitchen

Springy Fluffy Marshmallows

Can you imagine homemade marshmallows floating in your boozy hot chocolate? Spruce up your regular hot drink and top with these sweet bites. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Caramel Recipes

Salt & Lavender

Homemade Caramels

These sweet candies are ultra-satisfying when you make them at home. (via Salt & Lavender)

Garnish and Glaze

Polar Bear Paws

Reminiscent of Payday candies, this easy, cheap version will leave you with more cash for buying gifts. Now that’s something we can get behind. (via Garnish and Glaze)

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This article has been updated.