Find Your Words is a cozy adventure from the makers of Below

Several years have passed since developer Capy Games last released a game. Known for their eclectic portfolio, the studio’s latest offering continues this trend with a new cozy adventure titled *Find Your Words*. The game was revealed during Tuesday’s Wholesome Snack showcase, where Capybara debuted the first trailer for this heartwarming summer camp experience.

*Find Your Words* invites players to Camp Pals, a sunny summer camp set amidst lush forests and tranquil wildlife. At Camp Pals, campers are eager to make new friends—and so is the main character, who is on a journey to develop vocal communication skills. Players engage with others by exploring the environment and finding symbols to construct statements, allowing meaningful conversations and connections to flourish.

The premise of the game is inspired by two of the developers, both fathers of non-speaking children. They have personal experience using AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) to facilitate communication, a theme deeply integrated into the gameplay.

Each camper at Camp Pals has a unique personality that becomes more apparent as players build relationships throughout the game. Beyond socializing, players can also participate in various camp activities, creating memorable and joyful experiences.

Capy Games was most recently involved with *BattleVision Network* for Netflix Games. Before that, the studio developed *Grindstone*, a panel-matching puzzle game that originally launched on PC and was later released on current-generation PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

*Find Your Words* is slated to launch soon on PC as a free game. Additionally, optional supporter editions will be available, with proceeds dedicated to organizations that support children who use AAC.

Stay tuned for more updates on this heartwarming new adventure from Capy Games!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/147102/find-your-words-wholesome-snack-reveal-trailer

Watson season 2 episode 8 release date and time, what’s next, and everything you need to know

Watson season 2 continues with episode 8, titled Livvy Sees the Doctor, set to release on Monday, December 1, at 10: 00 PM ET on CBS. The episode follows Dr. John Watson, played by Morris Chestnut, and his medical team at a Pittsburgh clinic that specializes in unusual cases, as they face a high-pressure situation involving a patient’s family. The season also features Rochelle Aytes as Dr. Mary Morstan, Eve Harlow as Dr. Ingrid Derian, and Peter Mark Kendall as Dr. Adam Croft. In episode 8, a father brings his daughter to the clinic, believing it holds the only solution for her unexplained illness, placing Watson and the staff in a tense scenario. The episode streams on Paramount+ for both live and on-demand viewing. When does Watson season 2 episode 8 come out? Release time for all major time zones Watson season 2 episode 8 releases December 1 at around 10: 00 PM ET/PT on CBS. The episode streams live on Paramount+ for Premium subscribers. General subscribers can stream it the next day, December 2, on demand. The weekly schedule remains consistent with the previous episodes, as the series continues its Monday night broadcast. Here is the full release schedule for major regions: Where to watch: Viewers can watch episode 8 of the second season of Watson on CBS or stream it on Paramount+. Premium subscribers can watch live and on demand, while regular subscribers can access the episode the next day. How many episodes are left in Watson season 2? The second season of Watson contains 20 episodes. With episode 8 arriving on December 1, 12 episodes remain in the season. The ninth episode airs on December 8, followed by episode 10 on December 15. The series takes a holiday break before returning in early 2026. A brief recap of Watson season 2 episode 7 In episode 7 of season 2 of Watson, Dr. John Watson treats Annabelle Lee, a young saxophone prodigy who passes out during concerts and has neurological symptoms. Watson and his team look into her condition and find that the pressure of playing causes ministrokes that make her symptoms worse. Annabelle needs surgery on her brain, but at first she doesn’t want it because she’s afraid it will hurt her music career. When she has a full stroke, her situation gets worse, which makes her agree to surgery. At the same time, the episode shows how Watson’s relationship with his father, Hamish, is not going well. When Hamish takes Annabelle to the doctor, old arguments between the father and son come up again. During Annabelle’s treatment, Watson and Hamish have to deal with problems in their relationship that haven’t been fixed. At the end of the episode, Annabelle is still healing from surgery and starting to play music again, while Watson and Hamish start to take steps toward reconciliation, showing that their communication and understanding are getting better over time. Major events to expect from Watson season 2 episode 8 A desperate father arrives at the clinic with a bomb strapped to his chest, forcing Watson and the medical team into a hostage situation while demanding treatment for his daughter’s unexplained illness. Watson and the fellows must diagnose Livvy under intense pressure. Their work requires immediate decisions, limited resources, and careful communication as any mistake may escalate the hostage threat. The clinic’s staff must coordinate movements, negotiate with the hostage-taker, and maintain stability among their team. Their actions determine both the medical outcome and the safety of everyone inside the facility. What lies ahead in Watson season 2 episode 8? Watson season 2 episode 8 presents one of the season’s most dangerous scenarios. The focus goes from normal medical cases to a crisis that involves both a diagnostic and a physical threat. While negotiating with Livvy’s father, who thinks the clinic is delaying treatment, the team needs to find out what is making her sickness worse as rapidly as possible. This predicament puts their ability to reconcile medical judgment with quick hostage-response methods to the test. Watson season 2 episode 8 airs December 1 at 10 PM ET on CBS and streams on Paramount+. Viewers can follow the unfolding investigation and the high-pressure medical case as the season continues.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/shows/watson-season-2-episode-8-release-date-time-what-s-next-everything-need-know

This A16 iPad Falls Even Further After Amazon Black Friday Began, Landing at a Price Apple Normally Wouldn’t Allow

The Apple iPad is an 11-inch tablet designed for everyday users who want both portability and power. It boasts a sleek, slim profile while housing the robust A16 chipset that delivers strong performance. The tablet features a Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 by 1640 pixels, ensuring vibrant and accurate colors with crisp detail. With True Tone technology, the display adjusts its color temperature according to the surrounding light, offering a comfortable viewing experience no matter your lighting conditions. The Apple iPad Air is available in a variety of eye-catching colors, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow, allowing you to select one that fits your personal style. Equipped with a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP ultra-wide front camera, the iPad Air makes it easy to capture photos and participate in video calls. Whether you’re FaceTiming or joining a Zoom meeting, the iPad ensures clear and crisp communication. A new feature, Center Stage, uses built-in intelligence to track your movements within the frame, keeping you centered on camera. This ensures that you and anyone else in the room stay perfectly in view during calls. Additionally, the rear camera is equipped with a True Tone flash, making it ideal for scanning documents with accurate lighting. Enhance the functionality of your iPad with a range of accessories. The Apple Pencil transforms your device into a drawing pad or a tool for jotting down notes. Meanwhile, the Magic Keyboard Folio offers a detachable two-piece design that not only serves as a full keyboard but also acts as a protective case for the back of the tablet. For security, the iPad integrates Touch ID into the top button, allowing you to unlock the device with your fingerprint. This also makes it easy to sign into apps or authorize payments through Apple Pay with just a touch. With Wi-Fi 6 support, the iPad delivers fast access to your files, photos stored in the cloud, and smooth streaming of your favorite movies and TV shows in high-definition quality.
https://kotaku.com/apples-11-inch-ipad-dropped-down-to-under-300-ahead-of-black-friday-2000647067

John Hancock Disciplined Value Fund Q3 2025 Commentary

John Hancock Investment Management 21 Follower s Comments Summary The Russell 1000 Value Index, the fund’s benchmark, gained 5. 33% in the third quarter. The index was up 11. 65% on a year-to-date basis through September 30. The fund outpaced the benchmark, building on its performance advantage in the first half of the year. Stock selection was the primary driver of the fund’s strong results. Highlights The Russell 1000 Value Index, the fund’s benchmark, gained 5. 33% in the third quarter. The index was up 11. 65% on a year-to-date basis through September 30. The fund outpaced the benchmark, building on its performance This article was written by 21 Follower s A company of Manulife Investment Management, John Hancock Investment Management serves investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship. For inquiries or communication, please use John Hancock Investment Management’s official channels. Comments Recommended For You.
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4847197-john-hancock-disciplined-value-fund-q3-2025-commentary?source=feed_all_articles

Lincoln Riley remains optimistic about USC’s future despite loss at Oregon

USC head coach Lincoln Riley, quarterback Jayden Maiava and defensive lineman Devan Thompkins squeezed into a white, canopy-style tent for the postgame press conference after the Trojans’ fourth straight loss to Oregon. The opaque, plastic walls of the tent offered little protection from the chilled Eugene air. A bright, cardinal-red backdrop gave the makeshift room a false warmth. The weak, rosy glow of the room could not be felt. “Great battle out there two football teams really going at it,” Riley said, launching into his opening statement. For weeks, Riley has subtly smiled when talking about what could be on the horizon for the Trojans: A big-time game against Oregon. A College Football Playoff bid. Much-awaited progress in USC’s rebuild. USC (8-3 overall, 6-2 Big Ten) had the chance to do something special. Has special come and gone? Riley thinks not. “We’re right there,” he told reporters after the loss. “That’s just how I feel. Two good teams going at it. We’re just gonna keep getting better, and we’re just gonna get better and better as time goes on. We got a good team, that’s what (this game) tells me.” The Trojans took a continuously-depleting roster into Eugene to compete with the Ducks, who were No. 7 in the most recent CFP rankings. The offensive line was reshuffled yet again when Elijah Paige was ruled “out” and Kilian O’Connor left the game due to injury. The coaches called on J’Onre Reed, who was also not fully healthy, to take his place. They never planned for backup rushers King Miller and Bryan Jackson to be in this position. The blitzing safety duo of Bishop Fitzgerald and Kamari Ramsey wasn’t healthy enough to play, leaving Christian Pierce and talented-but-inexperienced Kennedy Urlacher to fend off Oregon’s offense. All were baptized by fire in the 42-27 loss. “They fought,” Riley said of Pierce and Urlacher, in particular. “They’re two fighters. They tackle the ball. They’re violent. They’re contact seekers. A couple plays that we want back from a communication standpoint. But for both those guys, in that moment, against a good offense like that, they both made a lot of plays.” It’s highly unlikely that USC makes the playoff after losing to Oregon. From many perspectives, that is a failure. The fact that Riley is 6-13 against ranked opponents and 0-5 against top-10 teams doesn’t make the shortcoming any easier to swallow. Riley appears to remain focused on long-term plans. His top-ranked 2026 recruiting class remains in tact ahead of the early signing period, which begins on Dec. 3. There’s also still one game remaining on the regular season schedule against UCLA. “We don’t make our plans contingent on how things go,” Riley said. “How we play is just how we play. This is USC. The standard here is incredibly high. It’s incredibly high in our locker room, so we’ll start preparing for UCLA on the plane and we’ll get ready for that one and then figure it out after that.” ESPN experts in a post Sunday morning project USC to play BYU in the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 30. The Cougars, despite being 10-1, may need to win the Big 12 Championship game to get in the CFP. It’s up to the Trojans to decide if they want to move out of the cold, postgame tent and return to the big stage. “No matter what happens, I believe that we’re still just playing to win,” Thompkins said. “Playoffs or not, we’re just playing to win. Coming into this game, that was the mindset, and going into next week still.”.
https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2025/11/23/lincoln-riley-remains-optimistic-about-uscs-future-despite-loss-at-oregon/

The M4 Mac mini has completely changed how I view all other desktops [Video]

Believe it or not, the M4 Mac mini was released just over a year ago. Apple changed the footprint, design, and form factor to create a compact 5in x 5in x 2in aluminum box with a fan at the bottom—a nice upgrade from its predecessor. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much. I figured it would be a fine computer, especially since Apple debuted it at a $599 price point (now $499 on Amazon). I thought there must be some limitation everyday users would notice, right? But after using this as my main desktop for an entire year, it has completely changed how I think about computers and what real value in tech should look like.

Before we jump in, here’s my hands-on review of the M4 Mac mini after one year of use.

## Design and Specs

As I mentioned earlier, although the design did change, it wasn’t a drastic alteration. The Mac mini got more compact, a bit taller, and feels like a smaller but denser package. At this point, it almost feels portable. Viewed from the top down, it has the same corner radius as many Apple applications. The size is excellent and fits on any surface. It’s easy to tuck away, stand up, lay flat, and there are even cool casings that make it look like a mini Mac Pro!

While you can spec up the Mac mini with the M4 Pro and 64GB of unified memory, I went with the base model to see how it would hold up over time. The specs of the base version include:

– **Base M4 chip**
– **16GB unified memory**
– **256GB SSD storage**
– **Wifi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3**

### Ports

The port selection is also impressive:

– Three Thunderbolt 4 ports (rear)
– Gigabit Ethernet port (rear)
– HDMI 2.1 supporting up to 8K at 60Hz (rear)
– Two USB-C 10Gbps ports (front)
– 3.5mm headphone jack (front)

I wish there was at least one USB-A port and an SD card reader on the front, but at $499, some sacrifices are understandable. If you choose the M4 Pro variant, you get upgraded Thunderbolt 5 ports, if needed.

Another notable design choice is the power button’s placement on the bottom—slightly inconvenient, but with macOS standby mode, you’ll rarely need it. In a year of use, I’ve used the power button fewer than ten times.

## Everyday Performance

My goal with the baseline M4 Mac mini was to test how far I could go with a value-priced machine. My daily use includes email, Slack, other forms of communication, content consumption, extensive research, writing, web browsing, Excel work, Google Drive, file management, and occasional video editing.

The magic of the Mac mini lies in just how normal it feels to use. At $499, you’d expect some slowdown or for it to feel cheap, but I’ve never had that experience. It handles all my tasks seamlessly and remains whisper quiet—the fan has only kicked in a handful of times, proving that this machine can handle much more than basic day-to-day usage.

Here’s what my typical day looks like:

– Dozens of browser tabs open (Comet or Chrome)
– Slack, Monday.com, and Discord running constantly
– Occasional photo edits in Lightroom, quick video trims in Final Cut Pro
– Sidecar and Universal Clipboard with my iPad Pro
– iCloud Drive for seamless file syncing

I only have 16GB of RAM, and sometimes diagnostic tools show I’m using up to 14–15GB. Even when peaking, it never throttles down or slows.

## Other Uses and Limitations

But what if you’re a coder, gamer, or need to render 3D effects in Blender? Can the baseline Mac mini do it all?

The short answer: Yes and no.

Gaming works well for titles optimized for Apple Silicon, like NBA 2K on Apple Arcade. But if you want to play more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed with high settings, the experience won’t be the best. Casual gaming is great, but real AAA gaming still has room to improve.

The same goes for 3D rendering. Simple projects are handled fine, but for large files or fast rendering, you’d be better off with an M4 Pro or M4 Max.

It’s important to note that the Mac mini can handle most basic tasks and is great for learning new programs like Blender. However, for professional VFX work, 8K footage, or heavy project loads, you may find it stuttering.

Then there’s storage. For many, 256GB is sufficient, especially for cloud-based and lightweight files. But video creators with terabytes of 4K footage will need external storage. I typically recommend starting with base storage on Macs, as Apple’s upgrades are expensive.

## Who is the M4 Mac mini For?

The baseline M4 Mac mini fits a wide range of users:

– Students who want power without paying MacBook prices
– Remote workers needing a reliable home setup
– Creators handling 4K footage, photo editing, or light content creation
– Families using it as a shared computer or home server (great for Plex)

This computer is truly versatile. As long as you know what you’re looking for, the $499 M4 Mac mini is enough computer for about 95% of potential buyers.

## Final Thoughts

The M4 Mac mini has completely shifted my perspective on tech value. At $499, it outperforms most machines two or three times its price. It’s versatile and powerful for so many uses. Unless you need a crazy Pro-level machine, this Mac mini will work wonders for most people.

**Note:** When you buy the Mac mini, it only comes with the computer and the power cable. You’ll need your own mouse, keyboard, and monitor. Fortunately, there are great accessories for budget setups:

– Logitech Pebble keyboard (under $35)
– Satechi M1 mouse (under $30)
– 27in Dell monitor (under $140)

So, for just about $700, you can set up an awesome and powerful desk space. We live in amazing times!

**What do you think? Have you used the Mac mini? Are you thinking about getting one? Let’s discuss in the comments below.**

**Mac mini deals and accessories:**
https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/11/the-m4-mac-mini-has-completely-changed-how-i-view-all-other-desktops-video/

Lord Abbett Developing Growth Fund Q3 2025 Commentary

**Lord Abbett Developing Growth Fund Q3 2025 Commentary**

*Lord, Abbett & Co. LLC*

**Summary**

Global equity markets advanced in the third quarter, building on gains from the previous period. The Lord Abbett Developing Growth Fund returned 13.75% for the quarter ended September 30, 2025. This return reflects performance based on the net asset value (NAV) of Class I shares, with all distributions reinvested. In comparison, the Fund’s benchmark, the Russell 2000® Growth Index, returned 12.19% for the same period.

We continue to believe that the secular bull market for innovative growth stocks remains intact.

**Market Review**

**Index Performance**

| Index | 3Q25 | YTD |
|—————————-|——–|——–|
| S&P 500 Index | 8.1% | 14.8% |
| Russell 1000® Index | 8.0% | 14.6% |
| Russell 2000® Index | 12.4% | 10.4% |
| Russell 3000® Growth Index | 10.4% | 16.8% |
| Russell 3000® Value Index | — | — |

**About Lord Abbett**

Lord Abbett is an independent, privately held global asset manager and one of the oldest money management firms in the United States. The firm manages assets across a full range of U.S. mutual funds, UCITS funds, institutional accounts, and separately managed accounts for clients worldwide.

For inquiries or further communication, please use Lord Abbett’s official channels.

*Comments and feedback are welcomed.*

**Recommended For You**
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4840207-lord-abbett-developing-growth-fund-q3-2025-commentary?source=feed_all_articles

I’m a big fan of the new Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 – but there are a couple of drawbacks you should consider before buying

Dyson Hot+Cool HF1: Two-Minute Review

The Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 is a sleek and smart fan heater featuring the bladeless and aesthetically pleasing design we expect from Dyson. With a premium list price of £399.99, the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 is currently available in the UK through Dyson and a few other retailers. Sadly, it’s only available in the UK at the time of publishing, but we’ll provide updates if it becomes available internationally.

The HF1 offers ten fan speeds, three oscillation options up to 70 degrees, a heater that can reach temperatures up to 90ºF (32ºC), and exciting smart features. During testing, I found the HF1 very efficient in both Cool and Hot modes. The lowest setting delivered a gentle breeze from six feet away, making it comfortable while sitting on the couch.

There are multiple ways to control the HF1: onboard controls, a remote, and the MyDyson app. The app provided seamless access to the full range of settings, including timers, scheduling, historical ambient temperature data, and the ability to turn on heat mode remotely—perfect for coming home to a warm room. While the remote mostly worked well, it was occasionally patchy in its communication with the unit.

The fan’s noise level was comparable to similar fans tested. It was generally quiet enough to sleep near, although the Hot mode produced a brief period of increased noise when heating up, which could be disruptive for light sleepers.

For families with children or pets, note that the metallic edging at the front of the air purifier can become very hot quickly. Additionally, the child lock feature applies only to onboard controls, not the remote, which might be inconvenient if you have curious toddlers or pets around.

Overall, the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 is an efficient and convenient fan heater. While the price is high, its performance and smart features justify the cost for those who value these qualities.

Price & Availability

  • List price: £399.99
  • Launch date: October 2025 (UK)
  • Availability: UK only at time of publishing

The HF1 is a premium product with a premium price tag. It costs £150 more than the Dyson Cool CF1, which is reasonable considering the addition of Hot mode and smart features. The HF1 is available through Dyson, Currys, and other retailers in the UK.

If you have the budget, the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 offers good performance and several handy features. However, it’s worth considering its drawbacks—such as noise in Hot mode, child lock limitations, and price—before making your decision.

Value for money score: 4 / 5

Design and Features

  • Small and lightweight design, adjustable tilt
  • 10 fan speeds
  • Heater output up to 90ºF / 32ºC
  • MyDyson app with extra settings, including a pre-heat function

Setting up the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 was quick and simple. Attaching the plastic base plate and connecting the device to the MyDyson app took only minutes. The HF1 has a maximum diameter of 8 inches (20.4 cm) with the base attached, but at 23 inches (58.5 cm) tall, it may feel slightly tall for desktop use. However, it worked perfectly well on the floor.

You can slightly adjust the vertical airflow angle by tilting the fan’s body forward or backward. The bladeless design makes it easy to clean and safer for families with curious children or pets.

The HF1 can oscillate at 15°, 40°, or 70°, and uses ceramic heater plates combined with Air Multiplier technology to heat a room quickly—Dyson claims it can raise the whole-room temperature by 1ºC within about 100 seconds.

Like the Dyson Cool CF1, the HF1 comes with a magnetic remote control that stores conveniently on top of the loop amplifier. The remote controls power, oscillation, fan speed, temperature, sleep mode, timer, and child lock.

Where the HF1 stands out is its integration with the MyDyson app, which offers advanced settings, historical temperature data, outdoor air quality information, and easy remote control from anywhere. You can also connect it to your smart home system for voice control.

One particularly exciting smart feature is the ability to preheat a room to your desired temperature before you return home.

Design score: 4 / 5

Performance

  • Good performance for size in both Cool and Hot modes
  • Easy to control via app and remote
  • Generally quiet, but noisy briefly when warming up in Hot mode

Using the HF1 was straightforward, especially with the MyDyson app. The remote was handy but sometimes lagged or failed to register commands.

From six feet away, the lowest fan speed produced a subtle breeze when oscillating. Increasing speeds delivered a stronger airflow, with top speed producing a noticeable breeze but some noise (about 45dB from 6 feet away), comparable to moderate rainfall. The HF1’s noise levels in Cool mode ranged from a whisper (29dB on speed one) up to 50dB on speed ten, making it louder than some competitors at top speed.

The oscillation noise was about 28dB and subtly reminiscent of a document scanner’s hum—quiet enough to sleep with for most.

Testing in Hot mode, I found the metallic edges near the air outlet became too hot to touch within minutes, so caution is advised around children and pets. The heating began slightly noisy but settled after warming up, with sound levels around 42dB initially, dropping to 37dB.

The HF1 managed to raise the room temperature by 1ºC in under two minutes, though accuracy may vary across larger rooms. An auto-adjusting Cool mode based on ambient temperature would be a nice addition to complement the Hot mode’s smart control.

Regarding safety, the child lock currently restricts onboard controls only; the remote remains accessible. Extending the lock to the remote would improve safety and prevent accidental use by children.

Sleep mode dims the display and lowers fan speed, but the display does not turn off completely in Heat mode. For overnight heating, the HF1 can start heating when the temperature drops; however, the initial volume increase in Hot mode could disturb light sleepers. A gradual heat increase in sleep mode would improve comfort.

Overall, the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 delivers impressive airflow and user-friendly control in a portable, lightweight design. While Light sleepers might prefer quieter alternatives for overnight heating, other users will appreciate its convenience and performance.

Performance score: 4 / 5

Should I Buy the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1?

Buy it if:

  • You want a stylish, efficient fan heater with smart features and app control.
  • You appreciate fast heating and a bladeless, safe design.
  • You’re comfortable with the premium price for added convenience and performance.

Don’t buy it if:

  • You are a very light sleeper and plan to use Hot mode overnight.
  • You have young children or pets and need full remote child lock features.
  • You’re on a tight budget or don’t need smart home integration.

Also Consider

If you’re exploring other options, check out our guide to the best fans for alternative recommendations that might better fit your needs or budget.

How I Tested the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1

I used the Dyson Hot+Cool HF1 in multiple locations, including on different surface heights and near my bed. After unboxing and assembling the base, I connected it to the MyDyson app and explored all settings. I tested all fan speeds in Hot and Cool modes, monitored sound levels, and evaluated the app and remote controls for responsiveness and convenience.

Over several nights, I used the HF1 in Hot mode with the timer set to avoid overheating, helping me understand its suitability for overnight heating. I also paid attention to how quickly it heated rooms and the noise generated during operation.

https://www.techradar.com/home/air-quality/dyson-hot-and-cool-hf1-review

Gutsy Gen Z employee requests time off from work for the most head-scratching reason

As the saying goes, honesty is the best policy. While some employees hesitate to take well-deserved paid time off (PTO) because they feel guilty—looking at you, millennials—others, their younger Gen Z counterparts, seem to have no problem asking for time off for reasons straight from the heart.

A manager recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a leave request email he received from a young employee that would have many boomers scratching their heads. The email read:

“I recently had a breakup and haven’t been able to focus on work, I need a short break. I’m working from home today, so I’d like to take leave from the 28th to the 8th.”

Short, sweet, and to the heartbroken point.

When the manager publicly shared a screenshot of the email (with names blurred out), he wrote above it: “Got the most honest leave application yesterday. Gen Z doesn’t do filters!”

If you’re wondering, yes — this manager did approve the leave request **without any questions**.

The post quickly went viral, receiving over 14 million views on X. Many people expressed support for the generation born between 1997 and 2012.

One commenter wrote, “Gen Z might not have everything figured out, but when it comes to work—they know their rights, speak up without fear, and refuse to tolerate nonsense.”

Another chimed in, “In an age of AI, you should be hiring people with solid communication skills and great EQ. This person is that.”

And someone else tweeted, “I respect the honesty. Sometimes a breakup hurts more than deadlines.”

This, of course, isn’t the first time a Gen Z employee has had an unexpected reason for requesting time off. Another young worker sent a candid email that read:

“Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the work and my energy feels a little off, so not getting that vibe right now. I’ll be out from 28th July to 30th July (pls don’t miss me).”

At first, this manager didn’t seem as understanding as the previous one since the employee appeared to be stating what they were doing rather than formally asking for time off. However, by the end of the day, the request was still approved.

“She was frustrated with all the work, so I approved it,” the manager shared.

In the end, it seems that honesty—and a little vulnerability—go a long way in today’s workplace, especially among Gen Z employees who are redefining how we communicate and set boundaries at work.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/02/lifestyle/gen-z-employee-had-unexpected-reason-for-time-off-request/

Ferrari star Lewis Hamilton in danger of getting replaced by impressive F1 rookie in 2027 – Reports

Lewis Hamilton’s Future at Ferrari Suddenly Uncertain

Lewis Hamilton’s future at Ferrari has become a topic of intense speculation. With his contract running only through the end of 2026, ESPN reports that Ferrari is not planning to extend the seven-time world champion’s deal beyond that point.

### A Long-Term Project That’s Struggling to Click

When Hamilton arrived at Maranello, he expected to embark on a long-term project. The veteran driver signed a two-year deal reportedly worth around $87 million, stepping in to replace Carlos Sainz alongside Charles Leclerc. Ferrari finished just 14 points behind McLaren in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship, and Hamilton’s vast experience was anticipated to help bridge that gap.

However, so far, Hamilton has struggled to deliver the expected results. After 20 Grands Prix in what has become arguably the most difficult season of his career, he has yet to claim a podium finish. This lack of success has prompted Ferrari’s board to carefully evaluate their commitment to him long-term, especially as the team and driver continue to search for a compatible working relationship.

According to ESPN, “several senior paddock figures have suggested that the seven-time world champion will not be offered another contract when his expires at the end of 2026 given his performances.” While this prediction may be premature, what is clear is that the pairing between the British driver and the Italian team has not clicked this year.

### Charles Leclerc Carrying the Load

Charles Leclerc has shouldered much of Ferrari’s success throughout the 2024 season. The Monegasque driver has contributed all seven of Ferrari’s podiums and amassed 210 points, compared to Hamilton’s 146. Along with concerns emerging from within the garage about communication and strategic direction, these disparities have fueled rumors that Ferrari may explore alternative options when contracts come up for renewal in 2027.

### The Impact of 2026 Regulation Changes

The 2026 season will introduce major regulation changes affecting engines and chassis designs. Teams and drivers anticipate a volatile transition period where fortunes can quickly change. This regulatory reset is pivotal in Ferrari’s decision-making process regarding Hamilton’s future. A strong performance under the new rules could reshape the narrative significantly.

Notably, Hamilton himself has stated that the 2026 regulation changes will be decisive for his career. For now, the prevailing consensus in the paddock suggests Ferrari is reluctant to guarantee Hamilton a seat beyond 2026 unless he shows clear signs of progress.

Additionally, Hamilton will be 42 years old in 2027, an age at which no driver has won a Formula 1 Grand Prix in over 50 years. This reality inevitably weighs on Ferrari’s long-term planning.

### Is Oliver Bearman Ferrari’s Next Driver?

Adding an intriguing twist to the situation is Oliver Bearman, a promising 20-year-old Ferrari academy graduate. Bearman delivered one of the breakout performances of the year at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Starting ninth, he surged to sixth by the opening lap, executed a stunning double overtake on Max Verstappen and George Russell by lap six, and briefly ran in second place. He ultimately finished fourth, matching Haas’s best-ever result.

Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, publicly praised Bearman’s drive, and senior figures within the team now regard him as nearing readiness for a full-time Formula 1 seat.

Crucially for Ferrari, Bearman is under contract with Haas through 2026—the same expiration window as Hamilton’s Ferrari deal. The ESPN report explicitly mentions Bearman as the internal option Ferrari could promote if they decide a long-term renewal with Hamilton is not in their best interests.

### Ferrari Leadership Stands by Hamilton—for Now

Fred Vasseur, who recently extended his own contract with Ferrari, has publicly backed Hamilton during this challenging phase. He noted, “He spent 10 years at McLaren, then 12 with Mercedes, but it was a kind of continuity—two teams based in the UK with the same engine, same environment. Ferrari is a complete change for him, in his life, the culture of the team and everything. To do it in three test days in the winter period is quite difficult.”

Vasseur added, “It’s up to us to support him when he is struggling, and we also need to push him when he’s struggling. I’m really convinced that he will do it.”

### A Dream That May End Sooner Than Expected

Hamilton’s passion for Ferrari was evident from the outset. His move to Maranello was seen as a homecoming, fulfilling a boyhood dream to race for the Scuderia. But as F1 pundit Ralf Schumacher recently observed, that dream might end sooner than anticipated if the results don’t improve.

If Ferrari’s patience runs thin and Bearman’s impressive rise continues, the most decorated driver in Formula 1 history may soon face an unfamiliar question: what’s next after 2026?

Stay tuned as the 2026 season and its regulations bring fresh challenges and opportunities for both Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/f1/news-ferrari-star-lewis-hamilton-danger-getting-replaced-impressive-f1-rookie-2027-reports

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