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    <channel>
        <title><![CDATA[Stories by Sarah Miller on Medium]]></title>
        <description><![CDATA[Stories by Sarah Miller on Medium]]></description>
        <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
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            <title>Stories by Sarah Miller on Medium</title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
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        <lastBuildDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 21:06:38 GMT</lastBuildDate>
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            <title><![CDATA[Could you cure cancer? You might be surprised.]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/could-you-cure-cancer-you-might-be-surprised-3b88db84710c?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
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            <category><![CDATA[ai]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[science]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[medicine]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[side-hustle]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[drug-discovery]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Sun, 02 Nov 2025 04:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2025-11-02T15:53:50.524Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In a recent trip to San Francisco, I met a fascinating team building what may be the next revolution in medicine.</p><p>The revolution? It’s you.</p><p>This team thinks that with the help of AI, anyone on Earth can discover breakthrough medicine.</p><p>In a world ruled by billion-dollar pharma giants and decades-long development cycles, they want to do something different. The company is called <strong>Exonic.ai. </strong>Think of it as the moment drug discovery meets the crowd, the internet, the world. Exonic is backed by Y Combinator and just came out of stealth.</p><h3>AI: Science Meets Imagination</h3><p>Exonic.ai wants to “free biological AI”. Today, they host all of the latest protein and DNA AI tools for free on their platform. What’s more — they are building no-code &amp; easy-to-use research tools on top of the models. Think of this like Legos. Ways to tweak them, combine them, and use your intuition and creativity to make your own breakthroughs, all without writing a single line of code. In time, they want to become an end-to-end educational platform, professional research platform, and even a gaming website (for science!).</p><h3>Redefining Drug Discovery</h3><p>Traditional R&amp;D hides behind walls of secrecy and cost. Exonic wants to tear them down. Users can share designs and share algorithms. And what’s more, Exonic has their own wet lab, and tests user creations in real biology.</p><p>Exonic plans to announce their first commercial drug discovery program in the next few months. And the most wild part? They will share the upside with creators. Truly flipping the biopharma game on its head. Medicine for the people, by the people.</p><h3>A New Category of Innovation</h3><p>What YouTube did for creators, Exonic could do for drug discovery and medicine. It’s not “citizen science.” It’s the first <em>internet-native biotech pipeline</em>. The promise is staggering: millions of minds, guided by AI, racing to discover the next therapeutic molecule. Democratize drug discovery. Collapse timelines. Cure disease together.</p><h3>Join the Revolution</h3><p>My impression from an afternoon with the team was that of inevitability. In the age of AI, something crazy like this — it might just be obvious in hindsight. If Exonic succeeds, drug discovery won’t happen in glass towers anymore. It’ll happen everywhere. The first DNA design tournament is live, focusing on liver cancer. If you’ve ever wanted to help cure disease — this is your invite.</p><p>Check out <a href="https://exonic.ai/"><strong>Exonic.ai</strong></a>.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*UsFeGolf2iZ_C7iKMuoS2Q.png" /><figcaption>A random protein I saw on Exonic. NADP-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase is an enzyme that helps your body turn alcohols into less harmful molecules, like sugars or acids</figcaption></figure><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=3b88db84710c" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How I Learned to Love My Body]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/how-i-learned-to-love-my-body-4b000caeae50?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/4b000caeae50</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[girls-education]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[mental-health]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[affirmations]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[self-care]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[self-love]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 May 2024 16:32:42 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-20T16:32:42.393Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Learning to love my body has been a transformative journey, marked by moments of self-doubt and breakthroughs of self-acceptance. This path has not been straightforward, but two principles have guided me toward a deeper appreciation and respect for my body: positive self-talk and recognizing that taking care of myself is the foundation of self-love.</p><p>For years, like many, I battled with my body image, influenced by external standards and internal criticisms. My turning point came when I realized that the way I spoke to myself played a crucial role in how I felt about my body. Positive self-talk became my tool for change. It started with a simple yet powerful shift in my daily language. Each morning, I replaced criticisms with affirmations. Instead of zeroing in on any perceived flaws, I began to commend my body for its strength and resilience. “I am beautiful, I am deserving of admiration,” became my mantra. This practice didn’t change my body overnight, but it changed how I viewed it, gradually leading to appreciation rather than criticism.</p><p>Moreover, I embraced the idea that taking care of my body was not just about maintaining physical health but nurturing a loving relationship with myself. This meant prioritizing sleep, adopting a nourishing diet, and engaging in regular physical activity that I actually enjoyed, rather than enduring punishing workouts as a form of correction. It also meant scheduling time for relaxation and self-care activities that made me feel good, like reading, meditating, or taking long walks in nature. Each act of care was a building block in the foundation of self-love, reinforcing the idea that I was worthy of the time and effort these actions required.</p><p>The journey also led me to understand that self-love is not a constant state but a practice that evolves and adapts over time. Some days were harder than others, and on those days, the positive self-talk and self-care routines were crucial. They helped me navigate through negative thoughts and taught me to be compassionate towards myself regardless of external pressures or internal struggles.</p><p>Taking care of myself also opened up a new perspective on what it means to feel good in my own skin. It wasn’t about fitting into a certain size or meeting societal beauty standards; it was about feeling alive, healthy, and vibrant. It was about the joy of living in a body that was cared for with love and respect.</p><p>In conclusion, learning to love my body has been an ongoing process of speaking kindly to myself and treating myself with the care I deserve. This approach has not only improved my relationship with my body but has also enhanced my overall well-being. Positive self-talk and dedicated self-care have taught me that true appreciation of one’s body comes from nurturing it lovingly and seeing it as the incredible instrument that it is, capable of experiencing joy, overcoming challenges, and engaging fully with life.</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=4b000caeae50" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The One Week Skin Glowup]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/the-one-week-skin-glowup-1584c5c8ffcf?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/1584c5c8ffcf</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[makeup]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[skin]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[alcohol]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[skincare]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[lifestyle]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2024 14:04:31 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-17T14:04:31.391Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills approach to rejuvenate your skin in just one week, I’ve discovered a method that may seem surprisingly minimalist, yet incredibly effective. This natural skin glow-up regimen focuses on three core principles: washing your face with cold water, abstaining from makeup, and steering clear of alcohol. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in reviving and maintaining the skin’s natural vitality and glow.</p><p>Firstly, let’s talk about the benefits of washing your face with cold water. It might sound too simple to be true, but cold water is a powerful ally for your skin. It helps to reduce the appearance of pores and decreases swelling and puffiness by constricting blood vessels. I recommend using a washcloth to gently cleanse the face two to three times a day. This not only helps in exfoliating the skin but also stimulates blood circulation, promoting a healthy and natural glow. The washcloth acts as a light exfoliating tool, removing dead skin cells without the harshness of chemical exfoliants or scrubs.</p><p>Next, the commitment to forego makeup for a week can have profound effects on your skin’s health. Makeup, while a fantastic tool for expression and enhancement, can clog pores and hinder the skin’s natural ability to breathe and regenerate. By giving your skin a break from makeup, you allow it to recalibrate and restore its natural balance and oil production. This break can help clear up minor blemishes, reduce oiliness or dryness, and enhance your skin’s natural glow. The challenge here is not just in avoiding makeup but in embracing your natural beauty, which can be a powerful boost to your self-esteem and confidence.</p><p>Finally, eliminating alcohol from your diet, even just for a week, can significantly improve your skin’s appearance. Alcohol dehydrates the body, and by extension, the skin, making it look dull and tired. It can also lead to inflammation and puffiness, which detract from your skin’s natural glow. By not consuming alcohol, you help maintain your skin’s hydration levels and overall health, allowing for better nutrient absorption and a clearer complexion.</p><p>This one-week skin glow-up is as much about what you put on your skin as it is about what you don’t. By simplifying your skincare routine to just cold water and a washcloth, avoiding makeup, and not drinking alcohol, you encourage your skin to return to its natural state of balance and health. The results can be quite astonishing. You may notice not only a more radiant and even complexion but also an overall sense of well-being that comes from treating your body with care and respect.</p><p>In conclusion, the one-week skin glow-up is an exercise in minimalism and mindfulness. It’s about taking a step back from the complexities of modern skincare routines and giving your skin the space to breathe and heal naturally. This approach is not only beneficial for your skin but also for your mental health, as it simplifies your daily routines and cuts down on the stress of maintaining a complex beauty regimen. Embrace this week as a reset for both your skin and your mind, and you may find that the best glow comes from within</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=1584c5c8ffcf" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Mental Health in the Apocalypse]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/mental-health-in-the-apocalypse-f7fa97cccc2d?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/f7fa97cccc2d</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[happiness]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[mental-health-awareness]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[mental-health]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[tecnologia]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 14 May 2024 18:44:18 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-14T18:44:18.619Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In our generation, the digital landscape has transformed every facet of life, from how we work and socialize to how we date and relax. As we navigate this new terrain, the toll it takes on our mental health is becoming increasingly apparent. The relentless pace of technology and the demands it places on our time and attention can be overwhelming, prompting a need for us to reassess and find balance.</p><p>Screen time usage has skyrocketed among our generation. It’s not uncommon for individuals to spend upwards of several hours a day on their devices, whether it’s for work, socializing, or leisure. This intense digital engagement is reshaping our daily routines, often at the expense of our mental well-being. The blue light from screens can disrupt sleep patterns, while the constant influx of information can lead to cognitive overload. This, in turn, can increase feelings of stress and anxiety, making it difficult to disconnect and relax.</p><p>The way we form relationships has also been profoundly impacted by digital technology. Dating apps, which have become the norm for meeting new people, often encourage a culture of superficiality and disposability. While they provide the opportunity to connect with a broader network of potential partners, they can also lead to feelings of loneliness and inadequacy when interactions are reduced to surface-level engagements or when connections are not as meaningful as those formed in person.</p><p>Amidst this pervasive digital engagement, one wonders if the world outside could be fraying at the edges, quietly inching towards chaos without our notice. Ensnared in our virtual realities, we might miss the silent stirrings of change, like the distant rumble of thunder before a storm. This metaphorical apocalypse isn’t marked by desolation seen in films; instead, it’s the subtle erosion of our awareness and connection to the physical world and each other.</p><p>To mitigate these effects, it’s essential that we deliberately unplug and seek rejuvenation beyond our digital screens. Embracing nature, pursuing hobbies that do not involve screens, and cultivating face-to-face relationships can ground us in the present and restore a sense of reality. These activities not only provide a respite from the digital barrage but also help us reconnect with the elements of life that technology often obscures. By fostering these habits, we can shield our mental health from the encroaching digital apocalypse and reclaim a more balanced, fulfilling existence.</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=f7fa97cccc2d" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Climbing The Female Corporate Ladder]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/climbing-the-female-corporate-ladder-6c88be9e6683?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/6c88be9e6683</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[careers]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[women]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[women-empowerment]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[empowerment]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[female-founders]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 14 May 2024 12:55:31 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-14T12:55:31.742Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the bustling heart of New York City, where skyscrapers stretch endlessly towards the heavens and the streets buzz with the energy of millions, I spent the last five years climbing the corporate ladder. This journey was less about the heights I reached and more about the relationships and connections forged along the way — particularly with the incredible women I met and collaborated with. Here, in this urban jungle, I learned that true progress in our careers is intrinsically linked to our ability to empower others, especially fellow women, and the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones to make meaningful connections.</p><p>My journey began in a typical Manhattan office, a small cubicle amidst a sea of others. It was easy to feel isolated, just another face among many striving for recognition and success. However, I soon realized that isolation was a choice. The path to empowerment and advancement lay in collaboration and mutual support, not competition. I started reaching out, attending meetings, and speaking up, gradually forming a network of peers and mentors. The lesson was clear: get out of your house, out of your cubicle, and meet people.</p><p>Networking outside of work was just as crucial. New York City is a melting pot of events, workshops, and seminars, all providing incredible opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals. I attended as many events as I could, each time leaving with new acquaintances, and occasionally, lifelong friends. These connections were not just for personal growth but were pivotal in seeing different perspectives and challenging my own ideas.</p><p>One of the most profound experiences was forming a small group with other female professionals committed to supporting each other’s career goals. We met regularly, shared challenges, and celebrated successes. This circle became a powerhouse of motivation and empowerment. Each of us, in turn, took what we learned from our group to inspire and uplift other women within our respective teams and networks. The ripple effect was incredible. We weren’t just climbing our individual corporate ladders; we were building a scaffold to elevate everyone.</p><p>Empowering women around me became a core part of my ethos. It involved advocating for more inclusive policies, recognizing the achievements of my female colleagues loudly and publicly, and providing mentorship whenever possible. This approach not only enriched my career but also brought a profound sense of fulfillment that the pursuit of personal success alone had never achieved.</p><h4>The moral of my story is this: In the rush of corporate ambition, it’s easy to overlook the power of human connection. My time in New York taught me that career advancement is deeply interwoven with the relationships we cultivate and our willingness to support and be supported by others. The true measure of success on the corporate ladder is not just how high you climb, but how many others you can lift along the way. Get out, meet people, and let’s empower each other. Because together, we rise.</h4><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=6c88be9e6683" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Alcohol is Ruining Your Skin]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/alcohol-is-ruining-your-skin-fa5e21de06a8?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/fa5e21de06a8</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[makeup]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[skincare]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[skin]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[alcohol]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2024 13:55:56 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-13T13:55:56.452Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A year ago, I made the life-changing decision to quit drinking, and the transformation in my skin has been nothing short of remarkable. Before quitting, I never truly understood the detrimental effects alcohol had on my complexion. Now, with a year of sobriety behind me, I feel compelled to share why alcohol might be ruining your skin too.</p><p>Firstly, alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases the body’s production of urine, leading to dehydration. Dehydration is a major enemy of healthy skin. When your skin is deprived of moisture, it becomes dry, flaky, and less resilient. I used to wake up with my skin feeling parched, no matter how much water I drank the next day. Now, I notice my skin retains moisture much better, appearing more supple and vibrant.</p><p>Secondly, alcohol causes inflammation throughout the body, including the skin. This inflammation can manifest as redness, puffiness, and even exacerbate conditions like rosacea. I often woke up with a red, blotchy face after a night out, a telltale sign of inflammation. Cutting out alcohol has significantly reduced the redness and swelling in my skin, giving me a more even complexion.</p><p>Another way alcohol sabotages your skin is by disrupting sleep patterns. Good sleep is crucial for skin repair and regeneration. However, alcohol interferes with the quality of sleep, often leading to poor sleep and fatigue, which can result in dark circles, puffiness, and a dull complexion. Since I stopped drinking, my sleep has improved tremendously, and it shows. My dark circles have diminished, and my skin looks more rested and refreshed.</p><p>Alcohol also affects the liver’s ability to detoxify the body effectively. A sluggish liver can lead to a buildup of toxins, which may appear on the skin as acne, blemishes, and dullness. Since giving up alcohol, I’ve noticed fewer breakouts and a brighter, clearer complexion. My skin feels like it can breathe again.</p><p>Moreover, alcohol is packed with empty calories and sugars, which can lead to weight gain and skin issues like acne and premature aging. I used to struggle with random breakouts and a lack of elasticity in my skin. By eliminating alcohol, I’ve not only maintained a healthier weight but also experienced fewer breakouts and improved skin elasticity.</p><p>In conclusion, the positive changes I’ve seen in my skin since quitting alcohol have been astonishing. From improved hydration and reduced inflammation to better sleep and fewer toxins, my skin has never looked better. If you’re noticing issues with your skin and you drink regularly, it might be worth considering cutting back or quitting altogether. Your skin, and your overall health, will thank you!</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=fa5e21de06a8" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
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        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[3 Tips for Amazing Skin]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/3-tips-for-amazing-skin-b7a2010ff6e8?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/b7a2010ff6e8</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[skin]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[acne]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[skincare]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[lifestyle]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2024 17:41:43 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-09T17:41:43.773Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I’ve learned that achieving radiant, healthy skin goes beyond just the products you use. It’s about making holistic lifestyle choices that nurture your body from the inside out. Here are my top three tips for better skin, inspired by my own journey to a healthier lifestyle.</p><p>1. Say No to Alcohol</p><p>One of the most significant changes I made for my skin was cutting out alcohol. For years, I enjoyed my nightly glass of wine or the occasional cocktail with friends, but I started noticing the toll it was taking on my skin. Alcohol dehydrates your body, which can lead to dull, dry skin and make fine lines more noticeable. It also dilates blood vessels, which can cause redness and exacerbate conditions like rosacea.</p><p>When I quit drinking, I saw a remarkable improvement in my complexion. My skin became more hydrated, my redness diminished, and I even noticed a reduction in breakouts. Seeing alcohol for what it is — a toxin — helped me stay committed to this change. If you’re looking to improve your skin, consider cutting back on alcohol or eliminating it altogether. Your skin will thank you!</p><p>2. Cut Down on Sugar</p><p>We all love a sweet treat now and then, but excessive sugar can wreak havoc on your skin. High sugar intake can lead to glycation, a process where sugar molecules attach to proteins and fats in the skin, damaging collagen and elastin. This results in premature aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin.</p><p>I started paying closer attention to my diet, reducing my consumption of sugary snacks, sodas, and even cutting down on simple carbohydrates that quickly convert to sugar in the body. Instead, I focused on eating more whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This not only helped my skin look better but also made me feel more energized and balanced. By keeping your sugar intake in check, you’ll help preserve your skin’s youthful elasticity and glow.</p><p>3. Embrace Meditation for Relaxation</p><p>Stress is a major contributor to skin issues like acne, eczema, and premature aging. Finding ways to manage and reduce stress can have a profound impact on your skin’s health. For me, meditation became a game-changer. Taking just a few minutes each day to sit quietly, focus on my breath, and let go of the day’s worries has helped me feel more centered and calm.</p><p>Meditation reduces the production of stress hormones like cortisol, which can trigger inflammation and breakouts. It also improves blood circulation, giving your skin a natural, healthy glow. I found that incorporating a regular meditation practice not only improved my skin but also enhanced my overall well-being. Whether it’s a guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply sitting in silence, find a practice that works for you and make it a part of your daily routine.</p><p>By making these three changes — cutting out alcohol, reducing sugar, and embracing meditation — you can achieve radiant skin. Remember, your skin reflects your overall health and well-being, so take care of yourself from the inside out. You deserve to feel confident and beautiful in your own skin!</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=b7a2010ff6e8" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
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        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How I Quit Drinking at Age 27]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/how-i-quit-drinking-at-age-27-7bda70743bfc?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/7bda70743bfc</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[lifestyle]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[drinking]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[wine]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[alcholism]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2024 17:37:05 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-05-09T17:37:05.850Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I never thought I’d be the person to quit drinking. In my late twenties, I was just like many of my friends — enjoying the social scene, the occasional girls’ night out, and the celebratory glass of wine after a long week. But somewhere along the line, I realized that my relationship with alcohol was doing more harm than good.</p><p>Growing up in a medium sized town in Ohio, drinking was a social norm. It was woven into the fabric of our gatherings, from family barbecues to football games. I started drinking more in college, like most of my peers, and it quickly became a regular part of my life. It was fun, a way to unwind, and it seemed harmless. But as the years went by, I began to notice the significant ways alcohol was affecting me.</p><p>The first step in my journey to quit drinking was education. I started researching the long-term effects of alcohol, and what I found was eye-opening. I learned about the impact on my liver, and the increased risk of cancer. I read about how alcohol can damage your brain, leading to memory problems and cognitive decline. The more I learned, the more I saw alcohol for what it truly was: a poison.</p><p>Armed with this knowledge, I began to see my nightly glass of wine in a different light. I started asking myself, “Why am I drinking this?” and often, I couldn’t come up with a good reason. It was just a habit, a routine that no longer served me.</p><p>I decided to make a change. The first few weeks were challenging. Social events felt awkward, and I missed that buzz feeling. But I reminded myself of the long-term benefits: better health, clearer skin, improved sleep, and a sharper mind. I focused on how great it felt to wake up without a hangover, and to feel truly present in my life.</p><p>I found new ways to relax and have fun. I started practicing yoga, which helped me connect with my body and mind in a way that alcohol never could. I began experimenting with mocktails and discovered a whole world of delicious, alcohol-free drinks. I leaned on my support system — friends and family who encouraged me and respected my decision.</p><p>Quitting drinking was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It wasn’t just about giving up alcohol; it was about reclaiming my life and my health. I want to encourage anyone who’s considering this path to educate themselves on the long-term effects of alcohol and to see it for what it truly is. You deserve to live a life free from the chains of alcohol, and I promise, it’s a journey worth taking.</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=7bda70743bfc" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
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        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Why I Bought The Rare Metal Rhenium]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/why-i-bought-the-rare-metal-rhenium-0596013d59b0?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/0596013d59b0</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[investing]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[gold]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[rare-metals]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:16:32 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-04-30T15:16:54.533Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>While many gravitate towards investing in gold as a safe haven, discerning investors might consider less crowded trades in more rare metals. Rhenium is a rare metal, which in my opinion, has a strong potential for substantial price appreciation in the next five years. Rhenium may shape up to be a high leverage bet on GDP growth, particularly through its indispensable applications in advanced medical and aerospace industries.</p><p>Rhenium is one of the scarcest elements found in the Earth’s crust, typically extracted as a by-product of molybdenum and copper mining. The primary use of rhenium today is in superalloys used in turbine engine blades, crucial for the aerospace industry. These superalloys withstand extreme temperatures and stress, critical for both commercial jets and military aircraft. The growth in global air traffic and an increase in global defense investment suggest a rising demand for these materials.</p><p>Additionally, rhenium plays a critical role in other high-temperature applications. It is ideal for rocket motors due to its ability to maintain structural integrity at very high temperatures. Alloys of rhenium with tungsten and molybdenum create filaments used in industrial ovens and lamps. Moreover, its use in thermocouples for measuring temperatures above 2000°C, and in electrical contacts that resist wear from electric arcs, underscores its broad utility across various sectors.</p><p>The investment thesis for rhenium is bolstered by its limited supply. Unlike gold, which is mined directly, rhenium’s is so rare that its availability is contingent on the extraction of other primary metals. As industries dependent on high-performance materials grow, so too does the demand for rhenium, making it a potential high leverage bet on global economic growth..</p><p>While gold remains a traditional safe asset, rhenium presents a unique opportunity. Its critical role in high-tech industries, coupled with a highly constrained supply, creates a promising scenario for price volatility.</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=0596013d59b0" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[2024 is Not Your Year]]></title>
            <link>https://medium.com/@sarah_social/2024-is-not-your-year-aeea11db3ec4?source=rss-02856f48bbb3------2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://medium.com/p/aeea11db3ec4</guid>
            <category><![CDATA[self-awareness]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[self-love]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[comedy]]></category>
            <category><![CDATA[self-improvement]]></category>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sarah Miller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:25:48 GMT</pubDate>
            <atom:updated>2024-04-19T14:25:48.081Z</atom:updated>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dear reader, let me break it to you gently: 2024 is not your year. I know, I know, you’ve got your new calendar all marked up with goals, dreams, and deadlines that scream self-improvement and success. But trust me, the universe has other plans.</p><p>You see, 2024 is the year that will embrace the art of anti-achievement, particularly yours. Oh, it’s not personal —</p><p>Let’s start with your New Year’s resolutions. Remember how you vowed to hit the gym, eat healthier, and read more? Well, let’s just say the fast-food joint down the street is about to know you by name, and your gym membership card will continue to be the most well-rested item in your wallet. As for reading, you’ll likely think scrolling through Twitter counts — and in a way, doesn’t it?</p><p>Now, let’s address your career aspirations. This year promises to be a groundbreaking year in the field of almost getting that promotion. Yes, you’ll work hard — no one’s doubting your ability to open a spreadsheet and look deeply concerned. But alas, your boss will finally recognize your efforts, just in time to credit them to someone else. It’s not that you’re invisible; it’s just that you’re about as noticeable as the terms and conditions on a software update.</p><p>In the realms of love and relationships, 2024 will be a whirlwind of romantic escapades — with other people. You’ll be there too, of course, nodding sympathetically and rehearsing the words “I’m happy for you,” as your friends recount tales of love found, love fostered, and vacations to places you can’t even spell.</p><p>And let’s not forget travel! This year, your social media feed will be flooded with exotic destinations and adventurous escapades. You, on the other hand, will get intimately acquainted with the less-explored corners of your own home, discovering adventures such as “What’s In the Refrigerator?” and the sequel, “Oh, That’s Where That Smell Was Coming From.”</p><p>Hey! Keep your head up. Maybe 2025 will be better.</p><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&referrerSource=full_rss&postId=aeea11db3ec4" width="1" height="1" alt="">]]></content:encoded>
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