Ana R.
Ana joined the Bright Side team as a writer in 2025. She will gladly write about movies, book recommendations, and pop culture. In her spare time, she enjoys lavish amounts of coffee, and deals with ridiculous amounts of dog hair.

11 Everyday Actions That Might Help Keep Your Mind Sharp

11 Everyday Actions That Might Help Keep Your Mind Sharp

We often focus solely on fitness goals for the body and forget that the brain needs regular exercise too. Just like our muscles, our minds stay stronger when they’re challenged in new and interesting ways. The good news? Brain workouts don’t have to be boring or hard. From tiny habits to playful challenges, here are 11 simple ways to keep your mind active and sharp every day.

My Dad Walked Out on Me 10 Years Ago, Now He Wants to Meet My Child

My Dad Walked Out on Me 10 Years Ago, Now He Wants to Meet My Child
Family & kids
2 weeks ago

Twists of fate can be more shocking than anything you see in the movies. One of our readers found herself face-to-face with the father who had abandoned her years ago, only to learn he now needed something from her own child. Here’s what happened, and how she’s trying to navigate an impossible, heartbreaking decision.

12 Actions That May Help Save Your Life During Bear Encounters

12 Actions That May Help Save Your Life During Bear Encounters
Animals
3 weeks ago

It seems bear encounters have been on the rise lately, even in areas where these animals aren’t usually found. The reasons vary: in some regions, authorities say the bear population has grown out of control, while in others the animals have lost their natural habitat, so they wander into human settlements looking for food. Either way, it’s important to know how to avoid running into a bear and how to stay safe if you unfortunately do.

My Ex Cheated and Left Me, Then Had the Audacity to Ask for Help

My Ex Cheated and Left Me, Then Had the Audacity to Ask for Help
Relationships
3 weeks ago

The past has funny ways of showing up at your doorstep, usually when we least expect it and almost always when it’s least convenient. Sometimes it brings closure. Sometimes it’s messy. But once in a while, if you’ve healed enough, you can actually find the humor in it. That’s what one reader managed to do. Here’s her story.

My DIL Treated Me Like the Enemy After I Commented on Her Parenting

My DIL Treated Me Like the Enemy After I Commented on Her Parenting
Family & kids
3 weeks ago

Family dynamics can get complicated fast, especially when the people we care about don’t always see things the same way. It’s even harder when different parenting styles or values clash in public, leaving everyone feeling misunderstood. One reader wrote to us about a situation with her grandson that generated a bigger question: when should we speak up, and when should we step back?

15 Low-Effort Changes That Can Improve Your Next Trip

15 Low-Effort Changes That Can Improve Your Next Trip
Tips & tricks
3 weeks ago

The truth is, the more you travel, the more you realize just how helpful small, smart hacks can be. Whether you’re trying to save money, avoid stress, or just make the journey smoother, these tips are worth keeping in your back pocket. From packing tricks to safety habits, here’s a set of expert-backed tips that can help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.

My Coworker Claimed My Work and Got Embarrassingly Exposed

My Coworker Claimed My Work and Got Embarrassingly Exposed
People
month ago

Managing issues at the workplace can prove tricky, especially if you’re not the kind of person who likes to create conflict. One of our readers came up with a sneaky solution to deal with a difficult coworker, who had long been taking credit for his work.