One late night, while browsing through the Lulu bookstore in search of self-help books, I stumbled upon How to Outsmart a Manipulator by Justin Taylor. The title immediately caught my attention, resonating with my recent experiences. I had been grappling with the realization that a close friend had been subtly manipulating me. Their constant need for control, the guilt-tripping, and the way they twisted situations to their advantage had left me feeling confused and emotionally drained. I hadn't recognized these behaviors as manipulation until I saw this book. Hoping to find clarity and regain control over my interactions, I purchased it. Reading Taylor's book was an eye-opening experience. It not only helped me identify the manipulative tactics used against me but also provided practical strategies to counteract them. Here are ten invaluable lessons I learned: 1. Recognize Manipulative Behavior Early Taylor emphasizes the importance of identifying manipulation before it takes hold. He outlines common tactics such as guilt-tripping, gaslighting, and playing the victim. Understanding these signs enabled me to spot manipulation in its early stages and address it promptly. 2. Understand the Psychology Behind Manipulation The book delves into the psychological mechanisms manipulators exploit, such as our desire for approval or fear of conflict. By understanding these, I became more aware of my vulnerabilities and learned to protect myself from being exploited. 3. Set Clear Boundaries Taylor stresses the necessity of establishing and maintaining personal boundaries. He provides guidance on how to communicate limits assertively and the importance of consistency in upholding them. Implementing this advice helped me reclaim my personal space and autonomy. 4. Build Emotional Resilience Manipulators often target emotional weaknesses. The book offers exercises to strengthen emotional resilience, such as mindfulness practices and self-reflection techniques. These tools have been instrumental in helping me stay grounded and less susceptible to emotional manipulation. 5. Trust Your Instincts Taylor encourages readers to listen to their gut feelings. Often, we sense something is off but dismiss it. Learning to trust my instincts has been crucial in identifying and avoiding manipulative situations. 6. Communicate Assertively The book provides strategies for assertive communication, emphasizing the use of "I" statements and maintaining a calm demeanor. This approach has empowered me to express my needs and concerns without aggression or passivity. 7. Avoid Justifying or Over-Explaining Manipulators often exploit our tendency to over-explain. Taylor advises keeping explanations concise and avoiding unnecessary justifications. This tactic has helped me maintain control during interactions and prevent being drawn into manipulative dialogues. 8. Recognize the Impact of Manipulation on Mental Health The book discusses how prolonged exposure to manipulation can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Acknowledging this impact motivated me to prioritize my mental well-being and seek supportive relationships. 9. Develop a Support System Taylor highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with trustworthy individuals. Building a support network has provided me with perspective, encouragement, and a safe space to discuss concerns. 10. Empower Yourself Through Knowledge Ultimately, the book underscores that knowledge is power. Understanding manipulation tactics and how to counter them has restored my confidence and sense of control. I now approach relationships with a balanced perspective, aware of potential red flags and equipped to handle them. How to Outsmart a Manipulator by Justin Taylor has been a transformative read. It has not only helped me navigate and exit a toxic friendship but also equipped me with the tools to foster healthier relationships moving forward. I feel more confident, self-assured, and prepared to protect my emotional well-being. BOOK LINK: https://www.lulu.com/shop/justin-taylor/how-to-outsmart-a-manipulator/ebook/product-jewnzz5.html?q=How+to+Outsmart+a+Manipulator+&page=1&pageSize=4

Understanding the Full C-Suite: CEO, COO, CFO, CMO AND CTO 1. Main Leadership Roles CEO – Leads the company through vision and strategic direction COO – Oversees daily operations and executes strategic plans CFO – Manages all financial aspects, both internal and external CMO – Drives marketing, brand storytelling, and communication CTO – Oversees technological systems, innovation, and efficiency . 2. On Strategic Vision CEO – Sets and drives the overarching strategy and growth COO – Implements the vision through effective operational execution CFO – Ensures financial discipline and sustainability CMO – Aligns marketing strategy with business vision CTO – Aligns tech innovation with long-term strategic goals . 3. Stakeholder Relations CEO – Public face of the company, engages with top stakeholders COO – Coordinates internal teams and departments for smooth delivery CFO – Reports financials to the board and investors CMO – Engages with customers and markets to build brand trust CTO – Communicates tech strategy to internal teams and partners . 4. Impact on Company’s Values & Benchmarks CEO – Defines and champions corporate values COO – Ensures processes align with company values CFO – Sets and tracks financial benchmarks CMO – Upholds brand values through campaigns CTO – Embeds innovation and efficiency into company culture . . 5. Role in Market Strategy CEO – Leads global expansion and long-term positioning COO – Ensures seamless operations in target markets CFO – Maximizes returns in existing markets CMO – Penetrates markets through branding and promotions CTO – Enables market reach through scalable tech solutions . . 6. Client Focus CEO – Focuses on major partnerships and acquisition COO – Enhances delivery and service quality CFO – Drives retention via value-based pricing CMO – Engages and retains clients through storytelling and loyalty CTO – Improves client experience through technology . . 7. Risk Management CEO – Sets the company’s risk appetite COO – Mitigates execution risks CFO – Manages financial and compliance risks CMO – Guards brand reputation CTO – Manages cybersecurity and tech-related risks . . 8. Relation to the Brand CEO – Shapes and evolves the brand identity COO – Maintains delivery consistency in line with brand promise CFO – Evaluates brand performance metrics CMO – Crafts and amplifies the brand story CTO – Ensures the digital experience aligns with brand expectations . . 9. Role in Investments CEO – Determines high-level investment strategy COO – Allocates resources effectively CFO – Manages investment portfolios CMO – Invests in market positioning and brand assets CTO – Invests in scalable and innovative tech infrastructure . . 10. Involvement in Product Lifecycle CEO – Champions product innovation and market fit COO – Manages production and delivery timelines CFO – Assesses product profitability and ROI CMO – Positions and promotes products in the market CTO – Supports development, testing, and tech performance Conclusion A fully empowered C-Class Team is the backbone of every thriving global brand. Each executive plays a unique yet interconnected role in driving vision, execution, financial growth, brand excellence, and innovation. It’s exciting to know that we're getting there. #highlightseveryone #highlights

*FISHING WITH JESUS CAMPAIGN BEGINS SHORTLY - HOW WILL YOU BE PARTICIPATING?* 👉🏻 God's prophet is set to lead Gospel Pillars in South Mega Zone (Festac, Alimosho, and environs) to embark on the second edition of SATURDAY FISHING WITH JESUS. _Details:_ - Time: 7:30 am - Take Off Point: Fuudies Eatery by Greenfield Estate, Ago Palace Way, Okota. - Dress Code: White Shirt on Blue Jeans (Customized shirts available onsite) - Enquiries: 08168031412 👉🏻 If you are outside the South Mega Zone Axis of Lagos, you can also participate with us virtually by doing any of the following: ▫️ *WhatsApp Status:* Upload the Healing & Wonders Sunday Publicity materials, Sunday Highlights, etc. on your WhatsApp status. ▫️ *Social Media:* Share Sunday promotional materials from our social media platforms directly to your social media. ▫️ *Personal Invitation:* Remember to reach out physically to those connected to you to attend the service this Sunday. Thank you for joining us to seek and save the lost with Jesus!

🎉 Happy 42nd Birthday to Lil Wayne! 🎉 Born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. on September 27, 1982, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Lil Wayne turned 42 in 2024. He is widely recognized as one of the most influential hip-hop artists of his generation, with a career spanning over three decades. 🎤 Career Highlights Early Start: Discovered by rapper Birdman at age 11, Wayne joined Cash Money Records and became the youngest member of the label. Solo Success: His debut solo album, Tha Block Is Hot (1999), achieved Platinum status, setting the stage for a prolific solo career. The Carter Series: The Tha Carter album series, particularly Tha Carter III (2008), solidified his status in hip-hop, earning him multiple Grammy Awards. Wikipedia Young Money Entertainment: In 2005, Wayne founded his own label, Young Money Entertainment, launching the careers of artists like Drake and Nicki Minaj. 🎶 Recent Activities Dreamville Festival 2025: In April 2025, Lil Wayne headlined the fifth and final Dreamville Festival in Raleigh, performing alongside artists like 21 Savage and J. Cole. Axios Super Bowl 2025: Despite hopes to perform at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in his hometown, New Orleans, the spot went to Kendrick Lamar. Wayne expressed his disappointment but extended best wishes to Lamar. 🕊️ Personal Life In May 2025, Lil Wayne's on-and-off girlfriend, model Denise Bidot, accused him of emotional and physical abuse, notably claiming he ended their relationship via text on Mother’s Day. Bidot shared a series of emotional Instagram Stories detailing her experiences and requested legal assistance. New York Post As Lil Wayne celebrates his 42nd birthday, fans worldwide honor his contributions to music and culture, recognizing his enduring impact on the hip-hop industry. 🎂🎶

Bullies TREATED a Poor Girl Badly, then she did this_EPISODE: 6 Maybe the principer had actually listened this time. Before she went home, Fred went to the school restroom like she usually did. The hall were almost empty by then. She was washing her hand when the door cracked open behind her. She turned and her heart instantly dropped. Vanessa and her gang walked in. Minifred began to panic. With a trembling voice, she begged, "Please, Vanessa, I don't want any trouble. Please." Vanessa smirked, strolling in casually. Trouble? Who said I came here for you? Am I not allowed to use the restroom like everyone else? Vanessa hissed and walked to the sink, washing her hand. Wifred blinked in disbelief. Maybe she had changed. Suddenly, as Winnie Fred was about to turn to leave, one of the girls intentionally put her foot out. Wifred tripped hard on it, crashing her face hard into the tide floor. Pain exploded in her face and tears flowed down instantly to her eyes. Before she could recover from this, Vanessa quickly pulled her roughly to a kneeling position. Wifi tried to fight her away and get up, but the two girls grabbed her arms, forcing her to kneel down. "You thought it was over, right? You thought your pathetic old grandmother would help you," Vanessa said. Then one of the girls went into one of the toilet stales and returned with a plastic bowl filled with water. "Open your mouth," Vanessa commanded. "No, please." Wifred cried while struggling. But Vanessa and her gang were stronger. They held her still, forced her mouth open, and poured the water down her throats. But it wasn't water, it was pee. Winfred kagged, spitting out and shocking as the girls around her bust into laughter. Wifred eyes were streamed with tears and had turned red and her body was trembling with shock and disgust. "So you think reporting me to that wrinkled grandmother of yours will change anything?" Vanessa said, "Now you will think twice before messing with me again." With a final shove, she dropped her to the floor and walked away laughing. Wifred cried and cried, but it wasn't over. When Winnifred tried to leave the restroom, she realized the door was locked. Vanessa and her gang members had locked it. Wifred pulled and pulled on the handle, but nothing. They had locked her inside and had taken the key with them. She banged on the door with her fist, screaming, crying for help, but no one came. It was Friday and there will be no one at school on Saturday and on Sunday. The janitor, who sometimes came to clean on weekends, never showed up. Wifred knew that Vanessa might have told her not to come, and the woman must have respected her commands. Wifred screamed and banged on the door several times until her hands began to hurt. By Saturday morning, she was extremely hungry and thirsty and because of this, her lips cracked and her skin looked so dull. 🚨 Missed an Episode? Don't Worry! 🚨 📌 ALL Episodes Here 👉 https://www.blogchimu.com/748/ 📌Follow the link in the story to the next episode! ✨ Love the story? FOLLOW 👉 https://tinyurl.com/Random-Story for more, and help me reach 200 shares by sharing with your friends! 🚀 Find the link in the story for the next episode. #Africantales #tales #DMZ #bbfb #fypシ゚ #highlights #WeRiseByLiftingOthers To be continued… ⚠️ WARNING ⚠️ ❌ DON'T COPY ❌ Like comment and share

PUNCH Newspaper *The unseen crisis facing Nigerian men (moment Otunba Kunle Akinyele collapsed)* 5th May 2025. Ganiyu Olowu *When Otunba Kunle Akinyele, a respected hotelier in Lagos, slumped and died at his wife’s 60th birthday thanksgiving, the nation gasped in disbelief. One moment, he was celebrating life and love; the next, he lay lifeless at the altar of joy*. The video is haunting — *a man gesturing, gasping, reaching for help in a sacred space, surrounded by those he loved but alone in his final battle.* This was not just a death. It was a metaphor of silent suffering, buried exhaustion, and what men have come to normalise in the name of strength. Akinyele’s case is not isolated. It is one of many chilling examples of how Nigerian men, particularly in their mid- to late years, are collapsing under the weight of responsibilities, unspoken pain, and undiagnosed illnesses. According to the World Health Organisation, men in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, are 2.4 times more likely to die prematurely from preventable causes than women. This alarming disparity is fuelled by cultural and behavioural factors: men are less likely to seek medical help, more likely to suppress emotional turmoil, and often glorify suffering in silence. In Nigeria, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and untreated mental health conditions are among the leading causes of sudden deaths in men. So This Happened (215) Reviews Death Of Lagos... In 2019, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya—admired for his strength and spiritual leadership—passed away quietly after years of enduring deep emotional losses and reportedly ongoing health complications. His resilience was legendary, but it masked what many now see as untreated grief, intense stress, and likely silent medical conditions. Then came the sudden death of veteran broadcaster Ayo Oduleye, better known as MC Loyo, who slumped while compering an event in Ibadan. His charm and humour lit up stages, but in the blink of an eye, the microphone fell silent. Just like that. Similarly, the passing of Mr Ibu (John Okafor) in early 2024, after months of battling illness, reminded the country of how many male entertainers struggle financially and physically behind the scenes, putting on a show while their bodies deteriorate. Masculinity, when warped, can become a silent weapon—not just against others, but against oneself. Globally, the story remains the same. In 2014, beloved comedian Robin Williams died by suicide, a victim of masked depression. And in 2022, cricket legend Shane Warne died suddenly of a heart attack, a casualty of silent coronary disease and an overstretched lifestyle. Yet while statistics shock and headlines haunt, the everyday grind of the average Nigerian man tells an even sadder tale. Take Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital—the city that never sleeps, and where many men now barely do. A significant number of working-class men reside on the mainland or in Ogun border towns like Mowe, Ikorodu, Sango Ota, or Ibafo but must commute to the Island for work—a journey that often begins by 4:00 a.m. and ends by 9:00 p.m. on return. This is no exaggeration. Studies from the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority reveal that Lagosians spend an average of four to six hours daily in traffic—with many men doing these five to six times a week. That is over 1,400 hours a year lost in gridlock—time stolen from rest, from family, from reflection. For these men, the day begins before the rooster crows. They rush into overcrowded buses, endure fumes of frustration, only to return home when their children are already asleep. There is no room for hobbies, hardly any time for checkups, no outlet for pain. Sleep is a luxury. Rest is a myth. And joy is rationed, like fuel in a scarcity season. This modern man is constantly running on empty—physically present but emotionally absent, financially committed but spiritually depleted. And society applauds his hustle, without asking at what cost. The idiom says, “Heavy is the head that wears the crown,” but what if the crown is invisible, made not of gold but of expectations, bills, unspoken grief, and sacrificial silence? Men are praised for providing, for showing up, for being “rocks”. But even rocks erode—silently, slowly, and then all at once. The greatest tragedy is not that they die, but that they are dying unseen. Consider the tragic case of a 42 year old engineer in Port Harcourt who collapsed at his workstation after weeks of working overtime to meet project deadlines. His colleagues described him as “dedicated to a fault”, but his sudden death revealed the dangers of ignoring signs of burnout and hypertension. Another heartbreaking example is the story of a young entrepreneur in Enugu who passed away in his sleep after complaining of chest pains for weeks. Despite his family’s pleas, he refused to visit a doctor, citing his busy schedule and financial obligations. His autopsy later revealed undiagnosed cardiovascular disease—a silent killer that could have been managed with timely intervention. One unforgettable story is that of Samuel Okwaraji, the gifted footballer and patriot who gave everything to his country on the football pitch. In 1989, during a World Cup qualifier against Angola in Lagos, Okwaraji collapsed and tragically died of congestive heart failure at just 25 years old. His life, so full of promises, was cut short under the intense demands of national expectation. The harsh conditions of the game that day, combined with the immense physical and psychological pressures he faced, ultimately proved too much. These stories compel us to ask: What are we doing to ourselves in the name of strength? Why does the world celebrate silent suffering but frown upon seeking help? Dr Salawu Abiola, a psychiatrist at the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Yaba, offers critical advice for men navigating these pressures. He emphasises the importance of prioritising rest, adequate sleep, and regular health checkups. “If you work and die today, someone will replace you at the workplace, but no one replaces you in the family,” he warns. Abiola advocates setting realistic goals, managing time effectively, and creating moments of joy and relaxation amid life’s challenges. He also highlights the need for men to engage in positive activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and socialising with supportive people, to release built-up tension and foster mental well-being. Check your vitals before you check your wallet. Monthly profit means nothing if your heart gives out unexpectedly. Your strength is not in how much you carry but in how well you manage your load. Therapy is not weakness. It is a repair. Just like a car needs servicing, your mind and soul need realignment. Build relationships where you are more than a provider—where you are allowed to cry, collapse, confess. A good name is better than riches, but good health is the foundation of both. As Chinua Achebe once said, “When the drumbeat changes, the dance must also change.” The drumbeat of life today is faster, louder, and less forgiving. Men must adjust their rhythm. Health is the new wealth. Silence is no longer golden; it is dangerous. *Ganiyu Olowu, a public affairs analyst, writes from Lagos*. punchng.com ©️ 1971- 2025 Punch Nigeria Limited CULLED

Dating a single mother sometimes may be risk. When I met my wife was in 2010, she had a child, 4 years old then. She was a single mother, working hard to provide for herself and child. She was only 27 years old. I was 30, I needed a good woman to marry. When I met her, I didn’t let the fact that she was a single mother affect how I saw her. I treated her with so much love and respect. She told me the man responsible for her child abandoned her when she was pregnant so I took responsibility of the child. I changed his name to mine after I married the mother. I’ve done nothing but love this woman with everything in me. I put her kid in a good school and established a good business for her to operate. I never took a penny from her business, I only put in more money for her to expand and be a boss of her own. She bought her own car aside what I gave her in 2021 and started building a house she claimed she wanted her mother to occupy. We have two kids together, making three in total. I’ve only been a good father and husband to my family. I don’t interfere in my wife’s business, I respect her ideas so I only encourage her to grow. I work full time, I’m my own boss but I still make sure I go to work everyday and spend the normal hours I’ve to at work. My wife does same but sometimes I try to visit her at work and on several occasions, I met her absence. Her excuse was always, she went to check on some materials. I have always believed her. Three months ago an issue of DNA came up at work. One of my employees said he went to do it after he discovered his wife was still in contact with one of her ex lovers but the result was positive, he was the father of his children. That drove me to conduct a DNA on my own kids. I thought it was a waste of money at first, but after careful consideration, I decided it was necessary, since my wife was once with someone before me. I never saw or heard her talk of this baby daddy since we met. I doubted the results would be anything else than what will say the kids are mine. After all, I even changed her child’s name to mine. So the results came out two weeks ago. I went for it and when I checked, neither of the kids are mine. I was so shocked! I said nothing, I only stayed away from the house for three days so I could calm down. After that, I invited her parents and mine over and made her read the results of the test to them herself. She didn’t know why I called the meeting, I shocked her and everyone else. She confessed at the meeting that the kids were all for Owura, her baby daddy. The man she claimed abandoned her. She was using my money to feed Owura. Owura was occupying the house she claimed to be building for her mother. Owura knew me all along. My wife would go and stay at his place for hours and then return to the house, saying she’s from work. , I took everything from her. Every single penny. Even the house and car she bought for herself, I took it. I told her to take me to court if she wanted. I sent her away with the kids to go and stay with their father. Only thing I didn’t touch was her bank balance, if she had any. Over 14 years that I was with her, she did nothing but deceive me. Make a fool out of me. I regret ever meeting her. I live in pain and regret every day sir. Note: this text is copied post @top fans #highlights #goviral #marriage #relationships #ghananews #ghanacelebrities #ghana #ghanamusic #ghanaentertainment #ghanamovies #ghostoftsushima #omanchannel #omanmedia #ghanapolitics #ghanablackstars

We shall flood the street of Nigeria🇳🇬 tomorrow with the #efccfreevdm #freevdm #BoycottGTBank #highlights2025everyone #EVERYBODY #hashtags

SENTENCED TO DEÁTH BECAUSE OF ONE MINUTE CALL FROM HIS PHONE BY A STRANGER. A stranger comes to you and says help me with only one minute of call from your phone. My phone is dead and I need to call someone urgently, and you, being a nice person, say no problem, take and make the call. Do you know what you have done? If your phone is used to call someone they want to go and kill or someone they just poisoned and when investigation starts and they have to check who called them last and your number shows up…. Let me break down what will happen to you so that you will learn something today from this. First of all, you will be arrested for whatever crime because your phone was used to make that call and it will be considered that you know the person that’s why you gave the person your phone and it’s a known deal between both of you. Secondly, since the inception of Mobile Networks, your phone is your personal property that you will answer for anything that happens on it or through it. So, for these reasons, you will be arrested and kept in detention until all investigations are completed. Even if the investigation takes 6 months or 2 years, that means you will be locked up for that period of time over the fact that you just lent someone your phone to make a one minute call. Do you now see that your good heart that is void of carefulness can lead you to something so bad? *And ignorance of the law is not an excuse before the law. Don’t be stingy with this information. Share it with your family and friends so they can learn from this.z l #everyonehighlightsfollowerseveryonehighlightsfollowerseveryone #followforfollowback

“Before President Tinubu stepped in to save me from Political ‘regelation’ due to a popular theory perceived by my attackers positioned on the Dark Square of the chess board, the place I call home has never made move or stretch a helping hand to at least show we care. If you find me in the APC tomorrow, just know it is for the good of Rivers People! -Suspended Rivers Governor Fubara gives reason of cross-carpeting if the need arises! #Afrocania #viral #everyone #follower #virals #highlightseveryonefollowers

A woman can leave a rich man or a fine man🚨 But she will never leave a man who holds her heart. The man who makes her feel safe. The man who shows her that life without her is unthinkable. The man who wipes her tears, stands by her in her darkest moments, and treats her like his greatest treasure. Money can buy a house, but only love can build a home. Hearts are not bought — they are won with kindness, loyalty, and tenderness. — Nollywood legend, Liz Benson #viral #virals #nollywood #everyone #LizBenson #highlightseveryonefollowers #followers

BARCELONA WINS EL CLASSICO COPA DEL REY FINAL IN EXTRA TIME . Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid highlights