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Young sad woman lying in bed late at night trying to sleep suffering insomnia. Girl in bed scared on nightmares looking worried and stressed. Sleeping disorder and insomnia

<h3>Night Owl vs. Morning Person: The Ultimate Debate</h3>When it comes to sleep, people tend to fall into one of two camps: night owls or morning people. Each side swears their way is the best, but who’s right? Let’s break it down in a friendly debate, exploring the pros and cons of each lifestyle, how it affects your brain and body, and, of course, who has the upper hand when it comes to how the majority of the world sleeps.The Morning Person“Early to bed, early to rise makes a person healthy, wealthy, and wise,” they say. Morning people are those who naturally wake up early and feel most energized during the day. They’re often labeled as productive, responsible, and structured, but is that really the whole story?Pros:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Increased Productivity: Studies show that morning people tend to be more productive during standard work hours. They often knock out important tasks before the day has even fully started. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Better Sleep Routine: Morning people are more likely to have consistent sleep schedules, which is great for overall health. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Positive Mental Health: Research from the Journal of Psychiatric Research suggests that early risers are less likely to experience depression and anxiety than night owls. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Body’s Natural Rhythm: Waking up with the sunrise aligns with the body’s circadian rhythm, helping regulate hormones like melatonin.Cons:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Struggle to Be Flexible: Morning people often crash early and may miss out on late-night social activities or important moments. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Limited Social Life: Not everyone functions on a 9-to-5 schedule. Morning people might find themselves out of sync with night owls, especially when it comes to social plans. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Energy Dip: While mornings are productive, many morning people experience a noticeable energy dip in the late afternoon, making it harder to power through the entire day.The Night OwlNight owls, on the other hand, thrive in the later hours of the day. They tend to feel most awake and creative when the sun goes down, but does this mean they’re doomed to be tired during the day? Not so fast.Pros:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Creativity Boost: Night owls often find that their best ideas come when the world is quiet and distractions are minimal. Studies from the University of Alberta show that evening types can exhibit increased creativity compared to early risers. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Flexible Schedule: Night owls tend to be more adaptable. They can stay up late for social events and still manage to get things done the next day, even if they miss out on some sleep. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Mental Sharpness in the Evening: Research suggests that while night owls might have a slow start, their cognitive performance improves as the day goes on. Many report being sharpest at night. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Problem Solvers: A study from The London School of Economics found that night owls tend to have higher problem-solving skills, likely due to the need to navigate non-standard hours.Cons:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Tired During the Day: A big downside for night owls is often having to adapt to a world built for morning people. They may find themselves constantly tired during traditional work hours. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Poor Sleep Quality: Night owls are more prone to inconsistent sleep schedules, which can lead to poorer overall sleep quality and higher risk of sleep disorders. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Higher Risk for Health Issues: According to the Journal of Chronobiology, night owls have a higher risk of developing heart disease, obesity, and metabolic issues due to irregular sleep patterns.What the Science Says: How Sleep Affects the Brain and Body&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Circadian Rhythms: Whether you’re a night owl or a morning person, it all comes down to your circadian rhythm—your body’s internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Morning people’s rhythms are naturally in sync with daylight, while night owls have a delayed rhythm, which means they prefer sleeping and waking up later. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Cognitive Function: Morning people tend to have better focus and productivity earlier in the day, while night owls tend to hit their cognitive peak later in the afternoon or evening. This is why night owls often excel in creative or problem-solving tasks when the rest of the world is winding down. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Health: Sleep researchers have found that morning people tend to have more regulated blood pressure and a lower risk of health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Night owls, because of inconsistent sleep patterns, are more likely to experience sleep deprivation, which increases the risk of health problems. But if a night owl maintains a consistent sleep routine, they can offset these risks.Who Wins? What the Stats SayWhen it comes to numbers, morning people are the majority. According to a survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, about 50-60% of people identify as morning types, while 15-20% are night owls. The rest fall somewhere in between, adapting to either schedule based on work or personal needs.That said, many famous night owls—like Barack Obama, Elon Musk, and J.K. Rowling—have achieved tremendous success working late into the night. Clearly, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to sleep habits!Final Thoughts: Is There a Right Answer?At the end of the day (or night), whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, what matters most is consistency and balance. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses, and while the world may favor early risers, night owls aren’t left out in the dark. Find what works best for your body and brain, and make sure you’re getting enough quality sleep.After all, whether you’re sipping coffee at sunrise or burning the midnight oil, the key to success is figuring out how to use your peak hours to your advantage.So, are you Team Morning Person or Team Night Owl? #TellTheGoods<figure id="figure-82ton08on5m1vjc1np"><img id="82ton08on5m1vjc1np" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1334658317/photo/adult-male-runner-in-park-at-autumn-sunrise.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=pGSq7EvihCBy81zHk0Yp92wz6Kf3iMXhE2utLmxwid8=" alt="Adult male runner in park at autumn sunrise" title="Adult male runner in park at autumn sunrise" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

Are you sleepy?

<h3>Obscure Jobs You Never Knew Existed (And How Much They Pay)</h3>When we think of jobs, we tend to picture the usual suspects—doctors, teachers, engineers—but did you know that there are tons of unusual jobs out there that most people don’t even know exist? From scrubbing the internet of harmful content to predicting future trends for companies, these obscure roles are essential to keeping our world running smoothly. And with technology constantly advancing, even weirder jobs are on the horizon!Let’s take a look at some of these hidden careers, how much they pay, and how they came to be. Plus, stick around because The Goods Virtual World is hiring for some exciting roles you might just want to be a part of.1. Internet Content Moderator (a.k.a. The Internet Cleaner)What They Do: Ever wonder how harmful or inappropriate content gets taken down from platforms like YouTube or Facebook? Internet content moderators spend their days reviewing flagged content to make sure it meets community standards. From removing graphic videos to filtering offensive language, these moderators work hard to keep the internet a safer place for everyone.Salary: Around $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the company and location.How It Started: As social media exploded in the 2000s, the need for human moderators increased. While algorithms catch a lot of things, human judgment is still required to deal with more sensitive or complex cases.Future Outlook: With AI taking over more tasks, content moderation will still need human oversight to tackle tricky cases, so this job isn’t going anywhere soon.2. Futurist (a.k.a. Professional Predictor)What They Do: Ever wanted to see into the future? Futurists analyze data, trends, and current events to predict what’s coming next—whether it’s new technology, social shifts, or global changes. These professionals are hired by companies, governments, and organizations to help them prepare for what lies ahead.Salary: Typically $90,000 to $150,000 per year, though top futurists can make much more in consulting roles.How It Started: The field of futurism started in the mid-20th century as businesses and governments realized they needed experts to forecast technological advancements and societal shifts.Future Outlook: As technology, AI, and global trends shift faster than ever, futurists will be in high demand. From climate change to the future of work, they’ll be guiding us through it all.3. Professional SleeperWhat They Do: Imagine getting paid to sleep. As a professional sleeper, you test mattresses or participate in sleep studies to help researchers better understand sleep disorders and improve products. It sounds like a dream job, but it can also involve sleeping under less-than-ideal conditions or with monitoring equipment.Salary: Around $18,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the study or company.How It Started: Sleep research started taking off in the mid-20th century, as scientists began studying the brain and body during sleep. As sleep became a focus for wellness and health, companies began testing everything from pillows to tech gadgets designed to improve your snooze.Future Outlook: With tech companies investing in sleep-tracking gadgets and devices, professional sleepers will have even more products to test. You might soon find yourself testing smart pillows and VR sleep aids.4. Ethical HackerWhat They Do: Also known as white-hat hackers, ethical hackers are hired by companies to break into their systems—but legally. Their job is to find vulnerabilities in websites, networks, and databases and fix them before a malicious hacker can exploit them.Salary: Anywhere from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience and industry.How It Started: Ethical hacking became a thing as soon as the internet did. When companies realized their sensitive data could be stolen or manipulated, they began hiring hackers to test their defenses.Future Outlook: As cyber threats grow more complex, ethical hackers will be more important than ever. With more and more of our personal and professional lives online, this field is only going to expand.5. Pet Food TasterWhat They Do: Believe it or not, pet food tasters are hired to ensure that dog and cat food tastes good—at least to pets. Tasters don’t swallow the food, but they do assess its flavor, texture, and nutritional value to make sure it’s up to standard.Salary: Around $40,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on the company and experience.How It Started: As pet ownership became more widespread in the 20th century, companies began developing higher-quality pet food. With the rise of organic and gourmet pet products, tasters became a critical part of the development process.Future Outlook: As the market for premium pet food grows, pet food tasters will be tasked with testing everything from freeze-dried treats to gourmet meals for pets.6. Professional Line SitterWhat They Do: Ever wish you didn’t have to wait in line for the newest iPhone or concert tickets? That’s where professional line sitters come in. They’ll hold your place in line for hours, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of standing around.Salary: $15 to $25 an hour, but some sitters make much more during high-demand events, like product launches or exclusive sales.How It Started: While informal line-sitting has always existed, it became a real profession as product launches and limited-edition items grew more popular. Now, thanks to apps like TaskRabbit, it’s easier than ever to hire someone to wait in line for you.Future Outlook: As exclusive product drops and events become even more competitive, professional line sitters will remain in demand. Maybe in the future, we’ll even see virtual line sitters for online drops.7. Water Slide TesterWhat They Do: Yes, people really do get paid to test water slides! Their job is to make sure slides are safe, fast, and most importantly, fun. It’s not all play, though—they also assess safety and speed to ensure everything’s just right before the public gets to use the slides.Salary: Around $30,000 to $45,000 per year.How It Started: As water parks grew in popularity, so did the need for slide testers. Engineers design the slides, but someone needs to physically test them to make sure they’re ready for visitors.Future Outlook: With theme parks adding more tech-based experiences, such as VR water slides and sensory effects, testers will soon be trying out even more innovative rides.The Goods Virtual World: The Future of Work and FunAt The Goods Virtual World, we’re not just looking at the future—we’re building it. As part of our mission to create immersive virtual experiences, we’re hiring for unique and creative roles. Want to design virtual experiences? How about predicting the future as a futurist for a cutting-edge platform?With The Goods Virtual World, you’ll be working in an innovative space where virtual and real-world issues collide. Whether you’re helping users explore different career paths or making the world a little happier, you’ll be at the forefront of creating something extraordinary.Real Jobs of the Future&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1. VR Experience Designer: Create immersive worlds for education, work, or play in the ever-growing field of virtual reality. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2. &nbsp;AI Psychologist: Help design AI systems that understand human emotions and ensure ethical behavior. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Data Trash Collector: Tidy up companies’ digital clutter by identifying and eliminating unnecessary or outdated data.The Bottom LineThere’s a whole world of obscure jobs out there that most people don’t know about—yet these careers keep things running behind the scenes. As technology continues to evolve, new jobs will emerge that sound even stranger. Whether you’re cleaning up the internet or predicting future trends, these roles are fascinating, essential, and only becoming more relevant.And if you’re looking to be part of the future of work, The Goods Virtual World is hiring now—so take the plunge and join us in shaping tomorrow!<figure id="figure-8mkkc3e33m1vivtq2"><img id="8mkkc3e33m1vivtq2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/529418686/photo/shes-a-genius-programmer.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=xii99XSFQ8a1kxFfOYKvFIdmUGMbI4Q3fdrEoF47JCw=" alt="She's a genius programmer" title="She's a genius programmer" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

Yes...that's my JOB

woman in brown sweater sitting on white couch

<h3>Happiness: Where It Begins, How to Nurture It, and How The Goods Virtual World Can Help You Thrive</h3>Happiness is something we all want, but finding it often starts closer than you might expect—it begins and ends inside of us. While we might look to success, relationships, or material things to find joy, true happiness comes from within. It’s about shaping our thoughts and actions to support a mindset of well-being and contentment. Let’s dive into how you can nurture happiness, what to avoid, and how The Goods Virtual World is designed to help you along your journey to joy.Where Happiness BeginsAccording to Shawn Achor, a leading happiness researcher and author of The Happiness Advantage, “Happiness is the joy we feel striving toward our potential.” Achor explains that happiness doesn’t depend on external success—it comes from focusing on growth and finding joy in the process, not just the outcome. This means happiness starts with self-awareness and knowing what lifts you up. It’s about appreciating the small moments in life and seeing challenges as opportunities for growth.Where Happiness Can FadeHappiness can easily slip away when we let stress, negative thinking, or comparing ourselves to others take control. As Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a psychologist who has studied happiness extensively, points out, “Our thoughts—about ourselves and others—play a large role in how we feel.” When we let outside pressures, like societal expectations or the pursuit of perfection, overwhelm us, it becomes harder to hold onto happiness.Tips from Experts to Boost Your Happiness1. Practice Relaxation and Mindfulness According to Jon Kabat-Zinn, mindfulness expert and founder of the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program, practicing mindful breathing and being present in the moment can greatly reduce stress. By pausing to focus on your breath or a simple activity, you can reset your mood and find peace. Even just 5 minutes a day of meditation can help lower anxiety and boost happiness. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2.Set Boundaries for Emotional Well-being Setting boundaries is key to maintaining your happiness. Brené Brown, a research professor and author, often discusses the importance of saying no and protecting your time and energy. “Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves even when we risk disappointing others,” she explains. Healthy boundaries help you avoid burnout and ensure that you have time for what truly makes you happy. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3.Communicate with Purpose Esther Perel, a relationship therapist, emphasizes the importance of clear communication in all our relationships. Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, actively listening and speaking with intention can strengthen connections and reduce misunderstandings. Perel suggests that “authentic communication creates deeper relationships, which is the key to a happy and fulfilling life.” &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. Gratitude Practice Shawn Achor also advocates for daily gratitude practices as a powerful way to boost happiness. Simply writing down 3 things you’re grateful for every day can retrain your brain to focus on the positive. Over time, this habit can increase your baseline happiness and help you see more joy in everyday life. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5. Limit Comparisons One of the biggest happiness thieves is comparing yourself to others, especially on social media. Psychologist Dr. Laurie Santos, who teaches Yale’s popular course on happiness, explains that “social comparison is one of the fastest ways to feel miserable.” Focus on your own growth, your own accomplishments, and avoid the trap of comparing your journey to someone else’s highlight reel.The Goods Virtual World: Your Happiness HubAt The Goods Virtual World, we understand that happiness is a personal journey. That’s why one of our core goals is to incorporate happiness throughout the platform. We’ve created a space where you can explore real-life decisions and challenges in a supportive, interactive virtual world, but we’re also going a step further.Imagine attending virtual meditation sessions led by some of the world’s leading happiness specialists, including experts like Shawn Achor, Jon Kabat-Zinn, and Brené Brown. These sessions will help guide you through mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and strategies for boosting long-term happiness. Whether it’s unwinding with a 10-minute mindfulness break or learning how to better communicate with loved ones, The Goods Virtual World is designed to support your emotional well-being in every way.Real-Life TestimonialsHere’s what real people say about making happiness a priority:Amanda, 29, credits mindfulness and communication with improving her well-being: “I used to think happiness came from external things, but focusing on meditation and communicating openly with my friends and family really helped me get back to a peaceful mindset. Now, I focus on what’s in front of me, and I feel so much happier.”Michael, 35, found that setting boundaries made a big difference in his work-life balance: “I used to say yes to everything, and I was totally burned out. But once I started setting limits—thanks to advice from Brené Brown—I felt a weight lift. I had more time for my hobbies, and I became a lot happier.”Happiness is a JourneyHappiness isn’t about constant joy or never facing challenges. It’s about nurturing your inner peace, practicing self-care, and being aware of the habits that either bring you closer to or further away from your happiness. The more you practice mindfulness, gratitude, and positive communication, the more control you’ll have over your happiness. As Shawn Achor says, “Happiness is not the belief that we don’t need to change; it is the realization that we can.”With The Goods Virtual World, you’ll have the tools and support to build a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re exploring real-world scenarios or taking part in virtual mindfulness sessions, we’re here to help you grow, reflect, and thrive. Happiness is within you—it’s time to nurture it.<figure id="figure-l4dmvlbosrm1vi4ety"><img id="l4dmvlbosrm1vi4ety" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1432606877/photo/beautiful-evening-sunset-with-rainbow.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=aLgfsOqX_fl_elV8Pu5vyM8lIPRuDa50xVEtM7GHUvA=" alt="Beautiful evening sunset with rainbow" title="Beautiful evening sunset with rainbow" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

Am I Happy enough?

Election in USA. Man putting his vote into ballot box and American flag on background, closeup

<h3>The 2024 Presidential Election: What You Need to Know (No Boring Stuff)</h3>So, you’re voting for the first time in 2024. Congrats! But now you’re faced with two major candidates who couldn’t be more different—Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Don’t worry, we’re breaking it down for you in a way that’s quick and easy to understand, without the confusing political talk. Let’s dive into what each candidate stands for, the dirt from their past, and what could make or break their chances of becoming president.Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)Who She Is: Kamala Harris is currently the Vice President and the Democratic candidate for president. Before that, she was a Senator and Attorney General of California. If elected, she’ll be the first woman, Black, and South Asian president—pretty historic stuff.What She Stands For:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Criminal Justice Reform: She’s big on fixing the system, reducing mass incarceration, and ending cash bail. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Healthcare: She wants to make healthcare cheaper and more accessible for everyone. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Climate Change: Harris is serious about fighting climate change with renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Women’s Rights: Strong advocate for reproductive rights, equal pay, and racial equality.Pros:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; She’s all about civil rights and helping people who are often overlooked. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wants to make healthcare more affordable. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A major symbol of change and representation.Cons:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Some say her past as a tough prosecutor doesn’t match her current stance on justice reform. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Critics claim she hasn’t laid out a clear plan for fixing the economy. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; She’s got less experience leading on the national stage.Donald Trump (Republican Party)Who He Is: You probably know him already—Trump was the 45th President and is now trying to make a comeback. A billionaire businessman before politics, Trump is all about shaking up the system with his “America First” style.What He Stands For:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Economy: Trump promises lower taxes and fewer regulations, especially for businesses. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Immigration: He’s tough on immigration, still pushing for a stronger border. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Healthcare: Trump wants a more free-market system and less government involvement in healthcare. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Foreign Policy: He’s all about keeping the U.S. independent and less involved in global agreements.Pros:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The economy boomed before the pandemic under his leadership. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; He’s got a loyal base of supporters who believe in his outsider approach. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Strong on national security and tough on immigration.Cons:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Polarizing—people either love him or hate him, no in-between. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Widely criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Faces legal issues related to business dealings and the January 6 Capitol Riot.Pros &amp; Cons at a Glance:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kamala Harris: Historic, civil rights-focused, healthcare advocate—but controversial criminal justice record and not as experienced as other leaders. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Donald Trump: Economic growth and national security champion—but divisive leadership and ongoing legal battles.The Bottom LineIf you care about healthcare, climate change, and criminal justice reform, Harris might be your pick. But if you’re all about the economy, immigration, and keeping things tough on global issues, Trump’s your guy. Both have their pros and cons, and it all comes down to what matters most to you.So get informed, vote, and make your voice count in 2024. This is your shot to shape the future! #GetOutAndVote2024 #TheGoodVote'24&nbsp;<figure id="figure-xdghx6tlo4m1vhnzum"><img id="xdghx6tlo4m1vhnzum" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2161396990/photo/portrait-of-a-young-african-american-woman-voting-in-the-us-election-placing-vote-ballot-in.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=uIOfcY-F32inrKjNCDv4yN1crpqIVT6iuAXpH3TOp_A=" alt="portrait of a young african american woman voting in the us election, placing vote ballot in the polling box, vote in America. Concept of choice, democracy and freedom" title="portrait of a young african american woman voting in the us election, placing vote ballot in the polling box, vote in America. Concept of choice, democracy and freedom" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

2024 First Time Voters

Black young woman filming herself dancing at home to share on social media

<h3>Going Viral: Fame, Fortune, and the Ones Who Disappeared</h3>We all dream of going viral—posting that one video that blows up and lands us fame, followers, and maybe even a little (or a lot of) cash. But while some viral stars turn their 15 minutes of fame into major success, others fade into the background, forgotten just as quickly as they were discovered. So, what’s the secret? And who are the people that rode the viral wave to the top—and who couldn’t keep up?Let’s break it down with some examples of viral success stories and the ones that, well, fizzled out.The Viral Stars Who Turned Fame Into Fortune:1.Charli D’Amelio Before she became the biggest star on TikTok, Charli D’Amelio was just another teen posting dance videos in her bedroom. But once her simple, catchy dances caught on, she skyrocketed to fame. Charli now has over 150 million followers and has turned her TikTok success into brand deals, a reality show, and even her own line of products. She’s estimated to be worth $20 million, all thanks to viral TikToks. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2.MrBeast Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, started posting silly challenge videos on YouTube years ago, but his viral success came when he began doing insane stunts—like counting to 100,000 for 40 hours or giving away huge sums of money to random people. His wild generosity and over-the-top content made him one of the most successful YouTubers ever, with over 200 million subscribers and an estimated net worth of $500 million. Not bad for a guy who started by reading the dictionary on camera. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3.Lil Nas X Who doesn’t remember “Old Town Road”? Lil Nas X went from being a virtually unknown rapper to a household name after his country-rap hybrid song went viral on TikTok. But Lil Nas X didn’t stop there—he kept the momentum going with more hits, music videos, and headline-grabbing performances. He’s now one of the biggest names in music, with multiple Grammy Awards and a net worth of over $15 million. It all started with a viral song that people couldn’t stop making memes to. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. Kylie Jenner&nbsp; Okay, Kylie Jenner was famous long before she went viral, but her Kylie Lip Kits blew up in 2015 thanks to viral Instagram posts and her ability to tap into trends. The demand for her lip kits was so high that they sold out in minutes, and Kylie’s cosmetic line eventually made her the youngest self-made billionaire (though some debate how “self-made” she really is). Kylie turned her viral fame into an empire, with her makeup company, Kylie Cosmetics, valued at over $1 billion.The Ones Who Couldn’t Keep Up With Viral Fame&nbsp;1. Alex from Target Remember Alex from Target? In 2014, a picture of a cute teenager working at Target went viral. Girls everywhere swooned, and for a brief moment, Alex had an army of fans. He even got to appear on Ellen! But after his viral moment, Alex struggled to keep up the momentum. Sure, he gained some followers, but there wasn’t much for him to build on. Today, Alex is mostly out of the public eye, working a regular job again. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2. “Damn Daniel” Daniel Lara (aka “Damn Daniel”) became famous in 2016 when a friend made a viral video of him walking around school in his white Vans with the now-iconic line, “Damn, Daniel!” The clip blew up, and Daniel found himself everywhere—from memes to the Ellen show. But after his viral moment passed, the world quickly moved on. Daniel now lives a normal life and still occasionally posts on social media, but he never capitalized on his viral fame like others. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Tay Zonday (“Chocolate Rain”) Back in 2007, Tay Zonday’s deep voice and quirky song “Chocolate Rain” became one of YouTube’s earliest viral sensations. His video was viewed millions of times, and Tay became an internet meme. But as more viral content flooded the internet, Tay struggled to keep up. Though he still makes content today, Tay never reached the same level of fame again, and “Chocolate Rain” remains his biggest claim to fame. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. Rebecca Black (“Friday”) Rebecca Black became viral for all the wrong reasons. Her song “Friday” (remember the repetitive lyrics and auto-tune?) blew up in 2011, but most of the attention was negative. People mocked her, and she became an internet punchline. While she’s still making music today, Rebecca had to overcome years of being laughed at and hasn’t been able to shake off her association with the infamous “Friday” song.Why Some Make It and Others Don’tSo, why do some viral stars turn their moment into lifelong success, while others disappear? A few things come into play:&nbsp;1.Consistency People like Charli D’Amelio and MrBeast didn’t stop at one viral video—they kept posting content and kept evolving. The key to staying relevant in the viral world is consistency. If you blow up and then disappear, people forget about you. It’s about staying in the spotlight without burning out. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2.Skill and Talent While some viral stars got famous just by chance (Alex from Target), others had actual skills they could capitalize on (Lil Nas X with music, MrBeast with creative stunts). If you can offer more than just a one-time meme, you have a better chance of turning your viral moment into something bigger. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3. Business Savvy Once you go viral, you’ve got to know how to turn that attention into real opportunities. Whether it’s brand deals, collaborations, or creating new content, the viral stars who get rich are the ones who know how to capitalize on their fame. People like Kylie Jenner already had the business skills to make money off their viral moments, while others struggled to figure out the next step. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4. Luck Sometimes, it’s just about being in the right place at the right time. “Damn Daniel” didn’t do anything special—he just wore white Vans at the perfect moment. But without a solid plan to follow up the viral moment, luck can only take you so far.The Risk of Going ViralGoing viral sounds amazing, right? Who wouldn’t want instant fame and maybe even fortune? But here’s the thing—there’s a dark side to chasing viral fame. You can become famous for something embarrassing or risky, and once that’s out there, it’s out there forever. It’s important to think about how your viral moment could affect you long-term, and whether you’re ready for the spotlight.Plus, the pressure to stay relevant can be intense. The internet moves fast, and what’s trending today could be forgotten tomorrow. If you’re not ready to put in the work to keep people’s attention, you might just be another viral star who fades away.Ready to Go Viral?Going viral is like riding a wave—you have to catch it at the right time, be prepared for anything, and know how to ride it to the shore. Whether you’re hoping for overnight fame or just curious about how it all works, remember that behind every viral star is a lot of luck, some serious hustle, and sometimes a little bit of risk.So, are you ready for your 15 minutes of fame? Or maybe even more? Just remember, once the spotlight’s on you, there’s no going back!What viral moment do you remember the most? Share your thoughts!&nbsp;<figure id="figure-1lfw4jaqfsm1vh8qo9"><img id="1lfw4jaqfsm1vh8qo9" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1665470909901-162912ec16f7?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyOXx8aW5mbHVlbmNlcnxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjgwOTE4NDd8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="graphical user interface, application" title="graphical user interface, application" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

Quiet...I'm Going Viral

<h3>A Day in the Life of a 3rd Grader in America (From a 3rd Grader)</h3>Hi! I’m in 3rd grade, and every day is a little different but always fun (and a little bit challenging too). Let me tell you all about my day, from recess to homework and everything in between!Waking Up and Getting ReadyI wake up around 6 AM because I need at least 10 hours of sleep (so says my mom). I eat breakfast—sometimes it’s cereal, but when I’m lucky, we have Toaster Strudels! Then, I get dressed, grab my backpack, and make sure I have my lunch (sometimes I forget it). Depending on where you live, mornings can be really different. In California, some kids might walk to school in warm weather, but in Minnesota, you’ll see kids bundling up in big coats because it’s super cold!Recess: The Best Part!Recess is hands down my favorite time of the day. For 30 minutes, we get to run around, play tag, soccer, cheer, or hang out on the playground. The girls and boys sometimes split up—some kids play on the swings, while others play football or basketball. In Texas, recess can get really hot in the spring, but in places like Maine, it’s all about bundling up in winter gear just to play in the snow.Class Time: Learning to Focus3rd grade is serious business. We’re learning multiplication (those times tables are tough!), and we have longer books to read. My teacher gives us letter grades now, like A’s and B’s, which means we have to pay attention. Kids in some schools get extra help if they need it, but in other places, they don’t get as much support because funding is down. My teacher says that school funding has been a problem in lots of places. In some areas, like small towns in the Midwest, schools might not have the money for enough supplies or new books. In bigger cities, kids might have more access to computers, but not all of us get to use them every day.Lunch Time: What’s on the Menu?Lunch is always a big deal, especially if we get pizza! I bring my lunch from home most of the time, but some of my friends buy school lunch. Depending on where you live, school lunch can be really different. In places like California, they might have fresh fruit and even smoothies, but in smaller towns where money is tight, the options can be more limited. Some schools are struggling because they don’t get enough money to offer a lot of different foods, but we make it work!Homework: Not Always FunWe get a little bit of homework each day—usually math or spelling. It’s not too bad, but I’d rather be playing video games. My teacher says that doing homework helps us prepare for tests. Schools in some areas have a lot of money for books and supplies to help us learn, but in other places, kids don’t have as many resources. In some states, like Mississippi and West Virginia, schools don’t get as much funding, and that makes it harder for students to get the help they need.Friends, Fun, and BedtimeHanging out with my friends is the best part of school. Whether it’s talking about video games at lunch or playing games during recess, we always have a good time. I’ve made more friends this year because our class is bigger.By the time the day is done, I have to be in bed by 8:30 PM. That way, I’m ready for another day of learning, recess, and fun. But not all schools are the same—depending on where you live, school can be a bit different, and funding cuts have made things harder for some schools. My teacher says that lots of schools need more money for things like books, art classes, and sports. But no matter what, we always try to make the most of our day.3rd grade is busy and exciting, but whether you live in a big city or a small town, it’s all about learning and having fun with friends. There’s a lot to do, but with recess, snacks, and friends by your side, it’s the best! &nbsp;<figure id="figure-4w2cj9szxrm1vgholw"><img id="4w2cj9szxrm1vgholw" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1641357980635-23516c42672e?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8a2lkcyUyMHBsYXlpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI4MDkwNTUxfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="a man climbing up a tree in a forest" title="a man climbing up a tree in a forest" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1641357980635-23516c42672e?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8a2lkcyUyMHBsYXlpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI4MDkwNTUxfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

The Life of a 3rd Grader

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