Uncategorized Archives - Lovesong.Blog - Harmonize Your Life https://lovesong.blog/category/uncategorized/ My WordPress Blog Mon, 24 Jun 2024 22:13:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://i0.wp.com/lovesong.blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/icons8-singing-64.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Uncategorized Archives - Lovesong.Blog - Harmonize Your Life https://lovesong.blog/category/uncategorized/ 32 32 217298597 AI https://lovesong.blog/ai/ https://lovesong.blog/ai/#respond Mon, 24 Jun 2024 22:13:13 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1116 R. Ross Horton IIR. Ross Horton is a writer, editor, and musician based in Palm Coast, FL. Last year he published his first book, Love Songs and Suicide: A Travel Memoir, Romance, and Tragic Musical Comedy. At Lovesong.blog, Ross strives to help people find harmony in a chaotic world. Visit this website’s about page to […]

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/ai/feed/ 0 1116 Untitled https://lovesong.blog/untitled/ https://lovesong.blog/untitled/#respond Sun, 09 Jun 2024 22:32:13 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1112 R. Ross Horton IIR. Ross Horton is a writer, editor, and musician based in Palm Coast, FL. Last year he published his first book, Love Songs and Suicide: A Travel Memoir, Romance, and Tragic Musical Comedy. At Lovesong.blog, Ross strives to help people find harmony in a chaotic world. Visit this website’s about page to […]

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/untitled/feed/ 0 1112 I’m a writer https://lovesong.blog/writer/ https://lovesong.blog/writer/#respond Tue, 30 Jan 2024 02:41:47 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1050 No matter what occupation I list on my tax return and whether I like it or not I’m a writer. I may not be best writer in my hometown or state or even in my own family. But writing is what I’m best at and what feels meaningful to me. Let me tell you a […]

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]]> No matter what occupation I list on my tax return
and whether I like it or not
I’m a writer.
I may not be best writer in my hometown
or state
or even in my own family.
But writing is what I’m best at and what feels meaningful to me.
Let me tell you a quick story.
Back in January 2020, before the plague, I was disillusioned on a New Orleans cruise ship, complaining about a jazz band I arbitrarily dubbed “too white.”
Hungover, I wanted to launch all of their instruments one by one into the Mississippi River.
And I openly wished for a “pittance” from the universe.
I didn’t realize it at the time.
But the universe had already issued my pittance to me.
And it’s right here at my fingertips.
Or, maybe my writing ability is a cosmic bounty.
I’m thankful for it.
In the future I’m going to be more appreciative of the gifts I receive from the universe and from others.
I’m a writer.
And I’m proud.
If you’re a writer
And you’ve ever put your words out into the world and faced:
– Scorn
– Ridicule
– Criticism
– Financial struggle
– Depression or anxiety from the job
– Or perhaps worst of all, had your work outright ignored
Then you have my sympathy and profound respect.
Because you’re a writer.
And you should be proud too.
———————————————–
Photo – Me hungover aboard the Steamboat Natchez in January, 2020. My book, Love Songs and Suicide, was born during this trip.

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/writer/feed/ 0 1050 The cure for creative hangovers 🥃 💊 https://lovesong.blog/the-cure-for-creative-hangovers-%f0%9f%a5%83-%f0%9f%92%8a/ https://lovesong.blog/the-cure-for-creative-hangovers-%f0%9f%a5%83-%f0%9f%92%8a/#respond Fri, 12 Jan 2024 20:32:02 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1029 Linkedin Post ~~~ I just wrote my first book. Title: Love Songs and Suicide Subtitle: A Travel Memoir, Romance, and Tragic Musical Comedy Nobody’s read it so far. That’s okay. I haven’t promoted it at all, really. But that’s about to change. I just purchased a domain. At lovesong (dot) blog, I’ll talk about overcoming tragedy […]

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]]> Linkedin Post

~~~

I just wrote my first book.

Title: Love Songs and Suicide

Subtitle: A Travel Memoir,
Romance, and Tragic
Musical Comedy

Nobody’s read it so far.

That’s okay.

I haven’t promoted it at all, really.

But that’s about to change.

I just purchased a domain.

At lovesong (dot) blog, I’ll talk about overcoming tragedy and finding harmony in a chaotic world, exploring topics such as mental health, business, music, and travel.

It’s a self-improvement website (for screwed up people).

I’ve been adrift since I finished the book.

But through trial and error, I’ve discovered the cure for a creative hangover.

It isn’t….

❌ Booze
❌ Medication
❌ Or therapy

Yeah, I tried all of those things.

They didn’t work. I’m still in therapy though (an overshare, perhaps).

The cure for a creative hangover is…

✅ A new project.
✅ Something that matters to you, ideally.
✅ That’s it.

Wishing you “sobriety” in all your endeavors, creative and otherwise.

CTA – I have 35 connections as of now. And no one’s likely to see this post. But by some miracle you did. So if you’re not a serial killer, the MyPillow guy, or associated with the mayonnaise industry in any capacity (I believe mayonnaise should be illegal), feel free to connect with me.

P.S. I actually have more than 35 contacts now. I drafted this post a few months ago, but just now worked up the courage to post it. That’s a lousy P.S. Sorry Jasmin (shameless shout out). I’ve learned a lot from stalking your LinkedIn content despite never commenting on it. Thanks much. And even though I hate your “clear over clever” rule, it does make sense to me and 🍻to everyone on this paycheck Friday and that’s all for now.

#creativity #hangovers #mentalhealth

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/the-cure-for-creative-hangovers-%f0%9f%a5%83-%f0%9f%92%8a/feed/ 0 1029 Love at First Session – 8 Steps to Finding Your Ideal Therapist https://lovesong.blog/how-to-find-a-therapist/ https://lovesong.blog/how-to-find-a-therapist/#respond Sat, 27 May 2023 05:22:06 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=918 Roughly 20% of adults in the United States experience a mental illness each year. Fewer than half of those adults will seek treatment for their conditions.  I was a part of the majority group, struggling in silence with mental health issues, until the winter of 2023.  That’s when I had a breakdown and sought help.  […]

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]]> Roughly 20% of adults in the United States experience a mental illness each year. Fewer than half of those adults will seek treatment for their conditions. 

I was a part of the majority group, struggling in silence with mental health issues, until the winter of 2023. 

That’s when I had a breakdown and sought help. 

And I’m glad I did. 

It was a process—an exploration of personalities, approaches, and compatibility. Along the way, I had to hire and fire several therapists before I discovered the one who not only spoke my language (sarcasm) but also made me feel comfortable in their presence.

In this article, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to find a therapist that is right for you. 

The Eight Steps to Finding the Perfect Therapist

1. Reflect on your needs

 Before you schedule your first session, it’s a good idea to take some time to pause and reflect on what you’re looking for in a therapist.

Consider the specific issues or concerns you want to address.

Think about your goals, too. 

For me, it was essential to find a therapist who understood the complexities of my anxiety disorder and could provide guidance on how to manage it effectively. Since I’ve read hundreds of self-help and psychology books, I also knew I wanted to work with someone who was fairly experienced and not new to the field. 

I’m brooding and sarcastic by nature. 

Accordingly, I didn’t want to work with anyone who was overly cheerful or optimistic (and this desire would dramatically limit my options). 

2. Consider Online Therapy (the Pros and the Cons)

Online therapy offers unrivaled convenience, allowing you to attend sessions from the comfort of your own home. It also gives you access to a wider range of therapists with diverse specialties. Online therapy often provides patients with more flexible scheduling options as well. 

However, online therapy may not provide the same level of personal connection and engagement as in-person therapy. And establishing a therapeutic rapport with an online provider might be challenging for you. Ultimately, the decision between online therapy and in-person therapy depends on your individual needs and circumstances. 

If Snoop Dogg were to receive therapy, I’m fairly certain he’d do it from the comfort of his own home. Or, should I say, crib?

3. Seek Recommendations for Trusted Sources

At the beginning of your therapeutic journey, consider reaching out to your trusted circle, such as family, friends, or even healthcare providers. Hearing about their experiences and recommendations can provide valuable insights and help you find a therapist who may be a good match for you.

I skipped this step initially and found my providers without assistance. But after firing my first psychiatrist, my weekly therapist (a clinical social worker) referred me to a new psychiatrist, Dr. Gillis. 

And she’s fantastic. 

I’ve also since fired the clinical social worker (that’s a long story that begins in my first therapy blog post). 

4. Check the Reviews

In today’s digital age, you have a wealth of information at your fingertips. Websites like Psychology Today, GoodTherapy, and Healthgrades offer comprehensive databases of mental health professionals. These platforms often include reviews and ratings from previous clients. 

When I was searching for a therapist, I relied on online directories and reviews to gather information. It was helpful to read about others’ experiences and get a sense of what to expect.

5. Evaluate Websites and Portfolios

Reviewing a therapist’s website or portfolio will provide you with valuable insights. You’ll learn about their qualifications, approach, and areas of expertise. 

If the therapist has a website, you’ll want to assess its overall style and functionality. A well-organized website demonstrates professionalism. On the other hand, a cluttered or outdated website might raise concerns about the therapist’s attention to detail or ability to communicate effectively.

As you evaluate content on a website or portfolio, pay attention to the tone and language used. Some therapists may adopt a formal tone. Others may use a more conversational approach. During your evaluation process, think about whether the therapist’s communication style aligns with your own communication style and goals. 

6. Check Their Qualifications 

Of course, you should assess the therapist’s background and areas of expertise. If you’re dealing with a complex mental health issue, such as bipolar or borderline personality disorder, you may want to try to find a therapist who lists your condition as one of their specialties. 

Additionally, consider their years of experience in the field. 

Although a therapist’s experience level doesn’t guarantee effectiveness or even competence, it may provide you with an idea of their exposure to various client populations and mental health concerns.

 

Surreal painting of an experienced but bad psychiatrist. 

7. Consider the Costs

Therapy costs vary depending on many factors, including the location, the experience level of the therapist, and the type of therapy being offered. 

If you have health insurance, you’ll want to review your policy to understand what mental health services are covered and what your out-of-pocket expenses may be. To reduce costs, look for therapists who are in-network with your insurance provider. 

Some therapists offer sliding-scale fees based on income. Others may have discounts for multiple sessions available. Nonprofit organizations, community mental health centers, and university clinics often provide therapy at reduced rates or on a sliding-scale basis as well. 

8. Create a Short List, Then Make Some Phone Calls

After conducting thorough research, it’s time to create a shortlist of potential therapists. Narrow down your options based on the factors that matter most to you. 

If you’re seeking therapy locally, the next step will likely involve making some phone calls. Contact the therapists on your shortlist to gather more information about their practice and to determine if they are currently accepting new clients.

During these phone calls, you can ask specific questions to further assess your compatibility with the therapists. 

However, it’s important to note that many online therapists don’t provide their phone numbers. In such cases, communication is typically conducted through secure online platforms or video conferencing software. 

How to Find a Therapist – Closing Thoughts

On your journey to find the ideal therapist, it’s important to:

  • Reflect on your needs and goals.
  • Seek recommendations from people you trust. 
  • And conduct thorough research. 

Exploring online resources, checking reviews, and evaluating websites and portfolios will help you gather information and assess the qualifications of prospective therapists. 

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can navigate the path to finding your therapeutic match with confidence.

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/how-to-find-a-therapist/feed/ 0 918 Best Of https://lovesong.blog/best-of/ https://lovesong.blog/best-of/#respond Wed, 10 May 2023 01:41:15 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1008 This skim-friendly post features a compilation of my best writing samples, as well as a jingle with the best two-word concept pitch you’ll ever hear.  Sample 1 – Social Media Post This post was a massive success by LinkedIn standards, especially for someone with a small network. It generated 35 likes, tangible leads, and a […]

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]]> This skim-friendly post features a compilation of my best writing samples, as well as a jingle with the best two-word concept pitch you’ll ever hear.

 Sample 1 – Social Media Post

This post was a massive success by LinkedIn standards, especially for someone with a small network. It generated 35 likes, tangible leads, and a response from a top-10 LinkedIn creator.

 

The cure for creative hangovers 🥃 💊

I just wrote my first book.

Title: Love Songs and Suicide

Subtitle: A Travel Memoir,
Romance, and Tragic
Musical Comedy

Nobody’s read it so far.

That’s okay.

I haven’t promoted it at all, really.

But that’s about to change.

I just purchased a domain.

At lovesong (dot) blog, I’ll talk about overcoming tragedy and finding harmony in a chaotic world, exploring topics such as mental health, business, music, and travel.

It’s a self-improvement website (for screwed up people).

I’ve been adrift since I finished the book.

But through trial and error, I’ve discovered the cure for a creative hangover.

It isn’t….

❌ Booze
❌ Medication
❌ Or therapy

Yeah, I tried all of those things.

They didn’t work. I’m still in therapy though (an overshare, perhaps).

The cure for a creative hangover is…

✅ A new project.
✅ Something that matters to you, ideally.
✅ That’s it.

Wishing you “sobriety” in all your endeavors, creative and otherwise.

CTA – I have 35 connections as of now. And no one’s likely to see this post. But by some miracle you did. So if you’re not a serial killer, the MyPillow guy, or associated with the mayonnaise industry in any capacity (I believe mayonnaise should be illegal), feel free to connect with me.

P.S. I actually have more than 35 contacts now. I drafted this post a few months ago, but just now worked up the courage to post it. That’s a lousy P.S. Sorry Jasmin (shameless shout out). I’ve learned a lot from stalking your LinkedIn content despite never commenting on it. Thanks much. And even though I hate your “clear over clever” rule, it does make sense to me and 🍻to everyone on this paycheck Friday and that’s all for now.

#creativity #hangovers #mentalhealth

Sample 2 – Best Insurance Jingle Ever?

No, of course “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” is the best insurance jingle ever.

But this one pretty good. It generated some interest from a company that shall remain nameless for now (that company name rhymes with…regressive).

We’ll see. I’m shopping it around as I type.

Title: “Come Bundle with Us”

Runtime: 47 seconds (could easily be reduced to 30 seconds).

Special cameo at the end.

Plus a two-word pitch that I’m pretty sure will sell you on the concept.

 

 

Sample 3 – Blog Post Intro

This has been one of my most successful posts for my hair loss blog, which has generated over three million views in total. I play on the insecurities of my audience in the intro, before offering solutions to their problem in the body of the article. 

 

The Top 7 Hair Loss Treatments of 2023 – An Unbiased Guide

Death, taxes, and baldness. They’re three inevitable facts of life.

The stats are shocking.

Some men start losing hair before they lose their virginity. And a full 66% of guys have noticeable hair loss by the age of 35.

Women aren’t immune either. 40 percent of all hair loss sufferers are female.

So you’re not alone, my balding brother or sister.

When we start losing our hair, we get a glimpse of our own mortality. And we have two options: accept fate or fight it.

We’re not all ripped movie stars.

“Just shave it, bro,” your juiced-­up and handsome balding buddy might tell you. “Look at Jason Statham and the Rock. They look better bald than they did with hair.”

While it’s true that some men (and women) look amazing bald, it’s not a style that suits everyone.

Some of us have big ears, scarring, a cone head, or all of the above like I do. Moreover, some of us would just prefer not to be bald.

Whether you’re a cone­-headed mutant who has no business shaving his head ever, like me, or you’re just wondering about your hair loss treatment options, this post is for you.

I’ve spent hundreds of hours researching this subject.

My goal is simple. I want to provide you with the best, most current, reader-­friendly, and unbiased hair loss treatment guide on the internet.

That means you won’t have to click around and view a hundred different articles to find what you’re looking for. No links to schedule a free hair transplant consultation, either.

Like I said, my objective is to provide you with everything you need to know about hair loss treatment, right here, in this one post. It’s an ambitious goal, I know.

Now, before we head out onto the battlefield, let’s briefly assess the damage…

Sample 4 – Web Copy for a Subway Restaurant

As a copywriter I’ve helped thousands of businesses, big and small, succeed online. This sample features some web copy I wrote for a Subway restaurant.

 

To check out more samples, including a sample from my book, Love Songs and Suicide, you can return to my full writing portfolio.

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/best-of/feed/ 0 1008 Subway Catering – SEO Copywriting https://lovesong.blog/subway-catering/ https://lovesong.blog/subway-catering/#respond Thu, 13 Apr 2023 21:17:10 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1038 R. Ross Horton IIR. Ross Horton is a writer, editor, and musician based in Palm Coast, FL. Last year he published his first book, Love Songs and Suicide: A Travel Memoir, Romance, and Tragic Musical Comedy. At Lovesong.blog, Ross strives to help people find harmony in a chaotic world. Visit this website’s about page to […]

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]]>

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/subway-catering/feed/ 0 1038 Jingleguy.com – Cringe-free Jingles and Music Production Services https://lovesong.blog/jingle-guy/ https://lovesong.blog/jingle-guy/#respond Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:07:27 +0000 https://lovesong.blog/?p=1035 I use my alter ego/middle name “Ross” for this endeavor. Full URL: jingleguy.com R. Ross Horton IIR. Ross Horton is a writer, editor, and musician based in Palm Coast, FL. Last year he published his first book, Love Songs and Suicide: A Travel Memoir, Romance, and Tragic Musical Comedy. At Lovesong.blog, Ross strives to help […]

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]]> I use my alter ego/middle name “Ross” for this endeavor. Full URL: jingleguy.com

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]]> https://lovesong.blog/jingle-guy/feed/ 0 1035