• Trump's top AI advisor took to X to clarify the administration's goals with AI preemption.
• AI Czar David Sacks said that AI preemption won't force data centers onto people.
• He said the administration was making "an attempt to settle a question of jurisdiction."

President Donald Trump's top AI advisor is seeking to clear up any confusion about the administration's AI preemption plans.

In a lengthy post on X on Monday, White House AI and Crypto Czar David Sacks said that a forthcoming executive order to restrict states' ability to regulate AI is "an attempt to settle a question of jurisdiction."

Sacks, a venture capitalist and a co-host of the "All In" podcast, sought to address various concerns about AI preemption, which has proved to be a controversial topic even within Trump's coalition.

He called those concerns the four Cs — child safety, communities, creators, and censorship.

Regarding communities, Sacks said that AI preemption has little to do with the construction of data centers, which have become a political flashpoint in states around the country due to those centers' heavy water and energy demands.

"AI preemption would not apply to local infrastructure. That's a separate issue," Sacks wrote. "In short, preemption would not force communities to host data centers they don't want."

He also said that state laws requiring platforms to protect against online predators and child sexual abuse material would remain in effect, because AI preemption wouldn't apply to "generally applicable state laws."

The administration appears to be moving forward with an effort to curtail state power to regulate AI, arguing that forcing companies to comply with competing regulations across 50 states will hamper the US's competitiveness in the AI race with China.

While it's unclear exactly what's in the forthcoming executive order, a draft seen by Business Insider last month would direct the Department of Justice to sue states over "onerous" AI laws.

It comes after multiple attempts to enact AI preemption via Congress, most notably in the "Big Beautiful Bill." That provision was ultimately struck from the bill before passage due to opposition from several Republicans.

Sacks wrote on X that the administration will "continue to work with Congress to define a federal framework that can be enacted through legislation." But that hasn't stopped the pushback from other Republicans.

"Nice framework," replied Republican Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio. "This should be a law, not an executive order."

• In January, my husband and I sailed from Barcelona to Rome on a winter cruise.
• With fewer crowds, it felt like we had the Mediterranean to ourselves as we toured famous sites.
• Despite the chilly weather, we had an amazing time, and I'd love to visit during this season again.

When I found out that Windstar Cruises had begun winter sailings to the Mediterranean, I couldn't book fast enough.

I'd visited France, Italy, and Greece during the summer months before, and I had grown increasingly disillusioned each year as Mediterranean Europe became more crowded, expensive, and uncomfortably hot.

It seemed like a January cruise would help me avoid a lot of my past grievances, so I booked Europe's Winter Riviera eight-day itinerary on Windstar, sailing from Barcelona to Rome with stops in Nice, Genoa, and Livorno, the port city for excursions to Florence, Pisa, and Lucca.

After a week of seeing these iconic destinations in a whole new light, I went home with the conviction that winter is the absolute best time to take a Mediterranean cruise.

I loved feeling like I had the Mediterranean to myself

Rather than stumbling through hordes of tourists filling Barcelona's streets, trying to find towel space on a beach in Nice, or waiting hours in lines to enter the Vatican museums, I felt like I had a lot of memorable places to myself.

That's probably because I visited during what Windstar calls the "Local Season," the time between late fall and early spring, when this area typically welcomes far fewer tourists.

Fewer crowds and shorter lines meant I could see more of each city I visited throughout the cruise. I took all the time I liked exploring each place and capturing it all without having to erase throngs of people from my photos.

On one excursion, my small group climbed the medieval village of Èze on the French Riviera — a popular spot often filled with cruise passengers and tourists — and never saw another person. I loved taking in the sweeping views of the sea, unobstructed by massive cruise ships.

In Florence, no more than 20 people circled Michelangelo's famous David statue. And in Rome, my husband and I purchased tickets to the Colosseum 15 minutes before our scheduled entry time and were allowed to enter even earlier.

We felt like VIPs with special access to the best of the region — quite different from the summer months when we had to wait for hours just to get close to an attraction.

Though we had to adapt to the weather, the special winter experiences were worth it

We may have escaped the sweltering heat the Riviera is famous for in the summer, but we did experience some chilly weather.

By our hometown of Houston's standards, it was cold, with morning temperatures dipping into the 40s and afternoons hovering in the 50s — and we were not prepared. Luckily, hats and scarves were readily available and cost about 10 Euros, so we managed.

And, we had to give up some usual summer fun, including relaxing on the ship's deck, which meant spending a bit more time indoors.

I really didn't mind, though, especially since sailing during this season came with some special seasonal activities and spots.

Some winter itineraries include cities Windstar only visits (or spends extra time in) during winter, when there are typically fewer crowds and ships.

Another perk of cruising during the winter is the opportunity to experience seasonal events and activities.

For example, while docked in Nice, France, cruisers can travel less than an hour from the port to visit Menton's Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), held annually starting in mid-February. The two-week festival features giant floats and structures made of fruit, as well as performances, parades, markets, and more.

All in all, I think winter is the absolute best time to visit

As an added bonus, our winter sailing was hundreds of dollars cheaper than a similar one at peak season in June and July.

Of course, if your dreams of the Mediterranean include sunbathing on the beach or swimming in the sea, this isn't the vacation for you.

But for me, the positives far outweighed the negatives. We got to see so much more than we could have during the summer months, without the crowds — and for that, I'll pack a cozy hat and gloves any day.

• I became pregnant with my oldest daughter during my senior year of college.
• Now, she's applying to college herself, and it's making me realize how young I really was.
• I'm so excited for her future, while also dealing with some surprising feelings of grief for myself.

I've been helping my 17-year-old daughter, a senior in high school, apply to college.

I've watched her type her applications, and it sparked a flashback to when I sat in the kitchen of my run-down college apartment and learned I was pregnant with her.

I'll never forget the look of the brown linoleum floor illuminated under the harsh fluorescent light, its buzzing the only other sound competing with my sobs. My boyfriend held his head in his hands, the positive pregnancy tests fanned around him like the color sticks at a nail salon.

Is it really possible that I was only a few years older than my daughter is right now? She, who still prefers me to run in and grab the smoothie I preordered because she doesn't like to talk to people? The girl whose room is messier than I ever thought possible? The one whose kindergarten picture was so perfect it took my breath away?

I can't even fathom what it would look like for her to be facing down motherhood in a few short years, so it's stirred some new emotions up for me.

I was so young when I found out I was pregnant

I distinctly remember my boyfriend picking me up for class at the beginning of that semester. The sun was shining, my gold hoops were swinging, and as I hopped into his truck, I felt a surge of hope and excitement for the future.

That was a few weeks before I would realize that my period was not coming after all. Looking at my daughter now, it's finally hitting me: I was so young.

The naive self-confidence of my younger, college self crumbled that night in my apartment kitchen, and I can't say that I ever regained it. Becoming a mother at any stage can have that effect on you. It carves you apart, empties you out, and makes you question everything at all times forever.

I grieve for my younger self, but I was always meant to be her mother

Now, as my teenage daughter teeters on the cusp of the age I was when I had her, I feel a little bit of loss and grief for my own self at her stage.

Seeing her with the world at her fingertips reminds me of how I felt just before she came into existence. I had no fears. I was confident in a way I would never be again.

But what I remember the most, among the uncertainty, the anxiety, and the complete reorganizing of myself, is the moment I met her, the instant the nurse laid her on my chest. The moment my newborn baby nestled herself into me, burrowing, it felt as though she had straight into my heart; I felt a complete recognition, like nothing I could ever describe. My only thought was, Oh. It's you.

I remember a complete calm settling into my being, as if we were two souls who had known each other forever, simply meeting again.

I'm excited for all the opportunities she has before her

I feel like I've spent the past 18 years learning who I am with her and because of her. Overnight, I'm supposed to relearn what it's like to live without her here. I feel a mixture of fear and excitement for her future, much like I did in those early days of her existence.

I also feel grief for the girl I was when I had her, but I don't want her to share in that grief.

I want her to feel the freedom I had at her age, even if I acknowledge the loss of my own.

I want her to have a life I did not have, while never, for a second, feeling guilt for her life.

I want things that feel impossible, for both of us. But she has the world at her fingertips now, and I want so much for her to embrace every bit of it, maybe, selfishly, for both of us.

And no matter what happens, I hope and pray that we can always find our way back together, just like that moment we first met, when I can hold her close again and whisper, Oh, it's you.

• From "chockablock" to a "full Monty," the Brits have a wide range of interesting slang words.
• You don't want to be described as "dim," "a mug," or "a few sandwiches short of a picnic."
• If you're "zonked" or "cream crackered," you might want to take a nap. 

Americans might want to mind the gap when it comes to discerning what these British phrases actually mean.

Some terms, like "dim," "a mug," or "a few sandwiches short of a picnic," can be used as colorful insults, while some British slang words like "cheeky" can be either negative or positive, depending on the context. 

In a business setting, you could incorporate British terms into presentations or marketing materials to relate with British clients or customers, but take caution not to offend them or totally miss the mark.

Here are 60 British phrases that will confuse anybody who didn't grow up in the UK.

A few sandwiches short of a picnic

"A few sandwiches short of a picnic" means someone who lacks common sense. The phrase was first documented in the BBC's "Lenny Henry Christmas Special" in 1987.

"She's great fun, but she's a few sandwiches short of a picnic."

Anorak

"Anorak" refers to someone who's a little bit geeky, with strong interests or expertise in a niche area.

Although it's more often used as a synonym for a raincoat, an anorak is something slightly different in playground slang. This word probably originates from the "uncool" appearance of anorak coats and the people wearing them.

"Thomas is such an anorak when it comes to train trivia."

Bagsy

"Bagsy" is the British equivalent of calling "shotgun" or "dibs" when something, like the front seat of the car or food, is offered up to a group. School kids might call "bagsy" on items in their friends' pack lunches, like an apple or a cereal bar, that the friend isn't going to eat.

"Does anyone want thi—"

"Bagsy!"

Bee's knees

"Bee's knees" refers to something at the "height of cool." This phrase became mainstream in the USA in the 1920s despite its British origins, but its popularity has dwindled since the turn of the century.

When first documented in the 18th century, the "bee's knees" referred to small or insignificant details. Since then, the phrase has evolved and now refers to something popular or cool.

"The Beatles are the bee's knees."

Bender

A "bender" is an extended period of drinking, usually in excess. Someone on a spree of excessive drinking and mischief is "on a bender."

Benders can last over 24 hours, and so you might say that someone is on "a weekend bender," or a "three-day bender."

"I bumped into him towards the end of his four-day bender. He was a wreck."

Bird

A "bird" is an informal word for a girl or young woman.

While the phrase can be interpreted as misogynistic, it's still commonly used. It's usually used to describe a woman between the ages of 18 and 50, particularly one who is attractive.

"Look at that bird over there. She's fit."

Pull a blinder

To "pull a blinder" involves achieving something difficult faultlessly and skillfully. The phrase is most commonly used when the individual has been lucky and the person saying it is in disbelief that the first person has managed to pull it off.

"And did you see that equalizing goal in the last minute of injury time? He pulled a blinder there."

Bloody

"Bloody" or "bleeding" is used to add emphasis to adjectives, similar to how "wicked" is used in New England. The origins of the word are widely disputed. Some believe it's derived from the Dutch word "blute," meaning "bare." Others believe the word is a contraction of the 17th-century phrase "by our lady," and is blasphemous.

This second theory has been disproved, however, by the slang's first documentation predating the widespread use of the phrase "by our lady."

Nowadays, "bloody" is used widely — it's even used in children's films such as "Harry Potter" — and is arguably one of the most quintessentially British words on the list.

"That was bloody good."

Bob's your uncle

"Bob's your uncle" is the very British equivalent to "hey presto!" or "et voilá!" This phrase is often used to describe a process that seems more difficult than it actually is.

"Press down the clutch, put it into gear, then slowly ease off the clutch again. Bob's your uncle — you're driving!"

Bog-standard

Something that is "bog-standard" is completely ordinary with no frills, embellishments, or add-ons. Its origins are somewhat unclear, but a "bog" is another word for a toilet in British slang, adding to the connotations that something "bog-standard" is unglamorous and unspecial.

"How was the hostel?" "Oh, nothing exciting to report. Just your bog-standard dorm, really."

Boot

The "boot" of a car is the trunk in American English. A popular pastime in the United Kingdom is attending or having your own "car boot sale," in which people usually sell knickknacks and old personal items out of the back of their cars.

"Shove the shopping in the boot."

Botch job

A "botch job" is a repair job that's been completed in a hurry and will probably fall apart reasonably soon. A "botch job" can also refer to anything that's been done haphazardly, like a work assignment.

"Sam did a botch job on these shelves — they're wonky!"

Brolly

A "brolly" is a shortened word for an umbrella. On a rainy day in London, you would definitely want a brolly on hand.

"Grab your brolly, it's drizzling outside."

Budge up

"Budge up" is similar to "scoot over" or "move over." An informal way of asking someone to make room where they are sitting for you to sit down, too, would be asking them to "budge up."

"Hey, there's loads of room on that bench. Budge up and make some room for us, too!"

Builder's tea

"Builder's tea" is the name of a strongly brewed cup of English breakfast tea with milk and sugar.

It's common courtesy to offer a laborer or builder working on your house a builder's tea while they're working — especially if they're working out in the cold. This is probably how the term came about.

"A bacon sandwich and a builder's tea. Now that's a proper breakfast."

Butcher's hook

"Butcher's hook" is Cockney rhyming slang for "look." Therefore, if you're "having a butchers," you're having a look at something.

"Would you take a butchers at this broken bike for me?"

Cheeky

"Cheeky" refers to an act that could be deemed impolite or shameless but, for some reason, comes across as funny or endearing to others. "Being cheeky" means being funny or humorous, but slightly mischievous at the same time. 

"Joe's children are absolute rascals — they tied my shoelaces together last week!"

"Those cheeky monkeys."

Chinwag

A "good old chinwag" is a good chat, catch-up, or gossip with someone.

The action of chatting away — with the jaw bobbing up and down — resembles a chin "wagging" like a dog's tail.

"Those two are having a proper chinwag — I haven't been able to get a word in edgeways for half an hour!"

Chockablock

"Chockablock" could be used to describe something that's full to the brim or rammed. This is sometimes shortened to "chocka." The phrase is most often used to describe heavy road traffic.

"We should've taken the other route. This road is chocka!"

Chuffed

"Chuffed" means overjoyed and full of pride. If you get a promotion or meet someone special, you might describe yourself as "chuffed."

"I heard you got the promotion. Congratulations! You must be chuffed."

Codswallop

"Codswallop" means something untrue, often made up for dramatic effect.

Although no one is completely sure of the word's origins, it could derive from the words "cod" and "wallop," which historically meant "imitation" and "beer" respectively — implying that "codswallop" is the kind of rubbish you make up when drunk.

"Oh, what a load of codswallop!"

Cream crackered

"Cream crackered" is Cockney rhyming slang for "knackered," or incredibly tired.

The term probably came about because it rhymes with "knacker." A "knacker" was the person who slaughtered worn-out horses in the 19th and 20th centuries for their meat, hoofs, and hides. So, if you're "ready for the knacker's yard," you're exhausted beyond relief.

"This week's done me in already, and it's only Tuesday. I'm cream crackered."

Dench

"Dench" is an adjective used to advocate something that is impressive or agreeable. Dench is also the equivalent of "solid" or "cool" when used in response to someone else.

Its reported creator, British rapper Lethal Bizzle, elusively told The Guardian in 2013 that the word "means anything you want." 

"I'm going to make us spaghetti carbonara for dinner."

"Dench."

Dim

"Dim" refers to someone who lacks common knowledge. On the other hand, someone who's intelligent might be described as "bright."

"She's a bit dim."

Doddle

A "doddle" is an easy task. The word could be a variation of "toddle" — like a young child's first steps.

"This will be a doddle."

Dog's dinner

A "dog's dinner" is a mess or fiasco. It is also sometimes referred to as a "dog's breakfast."

"You've made a dog's dinner of that paint job."

Faff

To "faff" or "faff about" is to waste time doing very little. "Faff" comes from the 17th-century word "faffle," which means to flap about in the wind.

"What did you do on your day off from work?"

"We were just faffing about."

Fit

"Fit" is used to describe someone physically attractive, usually referring to their physique. If you see someone you find attractive, you would call them "fit."

"He's fit."

Flog

To "flog" means to sell something, usually quickly and cheaply.

"Flogging" also refers to whipping a racehorse in order to make it move faster, so there is some speculation into whether you flog goods in order to make them shift faster, too. However, there is no proof for this theory.

"I'm trying to flog my old sofa. Do you know anyone who might be interested?"

Full Monty

A "full Monty" refers to pursuing something to the absolute limits.

After "The Full Monty" film was released in 1997, there was some international confusion over the phrase, which was taken as a euphemism for stripping. However, "the full Monty" now usually refers to taking something as far as it can go, similar to "the whole nine yards."

"The full Monty" historically refers to an old tailor called Sir Montague Burton. Going "the full Monty" meant purchasing a full three-piece suit, a shirt, and all of the trimmings.

"Our Christmas dinner had everything from sprouts to Yorkshire puddings. If you're going to have a roast, have the full Monty!"

Full of beans

"Full of beans" can be used to describe someone who's energetic, lively, or enthusiastic. This phrase could be a reference to coffee beans, although these claims have been disputed.

"Goodness, you're full of beans this morning!"

Gaff

"Gaff" is an informal word for "home." Although the origins of this phrase are largely unknown, a gaff in the 18th century was a music hall or theater, and so it's believed to derive from this.

"What are you up to this weekend? We've got a party at our gaff, if you fancy it?"

Geezer

A "geezer" is a man who could be described as "suave" or "dapper," and is often suited and booted. Men from east London are also commonly referred to as "geezers," where the term is more interchangeable with "lad."

Geezer is thought to stem from the 15th-century "guiser," which meant a well-dressed person.

"That guy's got such swagger — he's a proper geezer."

Gutted

"Gutted" means devastated or extremely upset. If your favorite football team were to lose, you'd be "gutted."

"I was absolutely gutted."

Innit

"Innit" is an abbreviation of "isn't it," most commonly used among teenagers and young people. This phrase is used to confirm or agree with something that another person has just said.

"It's really cold today."

"Innit."

Kip

A "kip" is slang for a short sleep or nap. The term is usually used to refer to a nap, but it can also mean a long sleep.

"What a long day. When we get home, I'm going to take a quick kip."

Leg it

"Leg it" means to make a run for it, run away, or escape. It's used most commonly when you're trying to get out of a situation by physically running away.

"That's when all of the lights came on, and so we legged it."

Miffed

"Miffed" means slightly irritated or annoyed and possibly derives from the German "muffen," meaning "to sulk."

"I was a bit miffed, I can't lie."

Mint

"Mint" might be used when referring to something of the highest caliber. It's derived from "mint condition," which refers to something pre-owned that retains its pristine condition — although something that's just "mint" doesn't have to be pre-owned.

"Those shoes are mint!"

Mortal

"Mortal" describes someone highly intoxicated or drunk in a sloppy manner. Derived from the Newcastle sociolect, "mortal" gained widespread recognition nationwide in 2011 through the reality TV show "Geordie Shore."

"Did you see Scott last night? He was mortal."

Mug

A "mug" is someone who has been made a fool of. "Mug" likely originated in London with Cockney slang. It means a stupid, often gullible, person who is easily taken advantage of.

"You signed that contract? You're such a mug."

Mug off

In the same vein, to "mug off" someone is to make a fool of them, usually by deceiving or cheating on them. The phrase is common on the hit British reality show "Love Island."

"He's going on a date with Amber? I feel so mugged off right now."

"You're mugging me off."

Nick

To "nick" something means to steal it. "The Nick" can refer to a prison. The origins of the phrase are largely debated online, however, it's believed that "to nick" as in to steal influenced the slang term for prison, as being imprisoned is similar to being "stolen" away.

"Did you just nick that?"

"Don't get caught, or you'll end up in the Nick!"

On the pull

Someone who's "on the pull" has gone out, usually on a night out, with the intention of attracting a sexual partner. "Pull" can also be used as a verb. If you've "pulled," you've kissed someone.

"You look nice. Are you going on the pull?"

Pants

"Pants" means something is rubbish, trash, or garbage. It's most often used to say something is unsatisfactory, like "blows" or "reeks," rather than actual trash.

"That is pants."

Pea-souper

A "pea-souper" is a thick fog, often with a yellow or black tinge, caused by air pollution. The idiom was first used to describe the thick, choking smog that settled over London as early as 1200 C.E., caused by the widespread burning of fossil fuels in close proximity.

The smogs were compared to pea soup due to their color and density.

"Be careful when you're driving — it's a pea-souper out there."

Pop your clogs

To "pop your clogs" means to die. This cheery phrase is widely believed to originate from Northern factory workers during the Industrial Revolution. When they worked on the factory floor, employees had to wear hard clogs to protect their feet.

The idea is when someone popped or cocked their clogs, the toes of the clogs pointed up in the air as they lay down dead.

"Did you hear what happened to John's old man? He popped his clogs, didn't he…"

Poppycock

"Poppycock" means something that is nonsense, rubbish, or simply untrue. This quintessentially British idiom does not refer to actual poppies. It derives from the Dutch "pap" and "kak," which translate as "soft" and "dung."

"What a load of poppycock!"

Quids in

"Quids in" means investing in something, sometimes — but not always — financially. Someone who's "quids in" has invested in an opportunity that will probably benefit them massively.

"Quid" is British slang for "pounds." For example, "five quid" means £5.

"If it all works out as planned, he'll be quids in."

Shirty

"Shirty" could be used to describe someone who is short-tempered or irritated. The meaning of this slang has been debated at length.

The word "shirt" is derived from the Norse for "short," hence short-tempered. However, other people believe that "shirty" has connotations of being disheveled.

"Don't get shirty with me, mister."

Skew-whiff

"Skew-whiff" means askew. It means literally tilted on one side rather than slightly off or uneasy, as askew can mean in the US.

"Is it just me or is that painting a bit skew-whiff?"

Skive

To "skive" is to avoid work or school, often by pretending to be ill. "Skive" is derived from the French "esquiver," meaning "to slink away."

"He skived off school so we could all go to Thorpe Park on a weekday."

Smarmy

"Smarmy" is used to describe someone who comes across as scheming or untrustworthy.

Although the adjective's origins remain largely unknown, early documented uses seem to use the word as synonymous with "smear," further suggesting that someone who is "smarmy" is also "slick" or "slippery."

"Don't trust him — he's a smarmy geezer."

Take the biscuit

"Take the biscuit" is used similarly to "take the cake" and is the equivalent of taking the nonexistent medal for foolishness or incredulity.

If someone has done something highly irritating or surprising in an exasperating fashion, you might say that they've "taken the biscuit."

"I could just about deal with the dog barking at 5:30 a.m., but the lawnmower at 3 a.m. really takes the biscuit."

Take the Mickey

To "take the Mickey" means to take liberties at the expense of others. It can be used in both a lighthearted and an irritated fashion.

"Take the Mickey" is an abbreviation of "taking the Mickey Bliss," which is Cockney rhyming slang for "take the p***."

"Hey! Don't take the Mickey."

Waffle

To "waffle" means to talk at length while not getting to the point. When someone makes a great speech while skirting around a subject or saying little of any value, you might say that they're talking "waffle " or "waffling."

In the 17th century, to "waff" meant to yelp, and that quickly evolved to mean to talk foolishly or indecisively.

"I wish he'd stop waffling on."

"What a load of waffle!"

Wally

A "wally" is someone silly or incompetent. Although its origins are largely debated, the term's meaning has undergone significant evolution over the last 50 years.

In the 1960s, someone who was unfashionable might be nicknamed a "wally," Dictionary.com reported. 

"Don't put down a leaking mug on top of the newspaper, you wally!"

Whinge

To "whinge" means to moan, groan, and complain in an irritating or whiny fashion. It is often deemed unnecessary or over-the-top. 

"Quit whinging."

Wind your neck in

"Wind your neck in" means to mind your own business. If you want to tell someone to not concern themselves with issues that don't directly affect them, you might tell them to "wind their neck in."

This classic phrase is another way of telling someone that their opinion is not appreciated in the given scenario.

 "Wind your neck in and stop being so nosy!"

Zonked

"Zonked" means exhausted or tired. It can also refer to someone already asleep or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

"I was going to go out tonight, but when I finished work, I was absolutely zonked."

"When I got home, he was already zonked."

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story was written by Bobbie Edsor and first published in 2017. It was most recently updated in December 2025.

• After traveling for three months straight, I felt exhausted and had a panic attack.
• I knew something needed to change, so I spent an entire trip to Maui simply relaxing.
• The vacation was unconventional for me, but it reshaped the way I think about productivity.

I've always been the kind of traveler who squeezes every drop out of a destination.

Even if I only have a few days in a city, I'll fill them with early-morning hikes, back-to-back tours, buzzy restaurants, and enough walking to hit 15,000 steps without even trying. After all, if I'm in a beautiful place, I want to make the most of it.

My camera roll is full of photos of bucket-list moments, and every new experience has taught me something about myself and the world. But somewhere along the way, my version of traveling started to feel a lot like work. And after months of nonstop travel, I hit a wall.

On the first night of a trip to Maui, my last big trip after almost three months away from home, I became overwhelmed by exhaustion and had a panic attack.

I broke down crying and hyperventilating, feeling like I just couldn't catch my breath. However, this breakdown brought me to a startling realization: I needed to slow down.

From that moment on, I knew this trip would be different

When I woke up the next morning, I had one goal: to do nothing. As someone who's always on the go (both physically and mentally), I knew it wouldn't be easy for me. However, to feel like myself again, I knew something needed to change.

Unlike my past trips, there would be no packed itineraries, pressure to post on social media, or chasing the next adventure. Just rest.

I let myself lounge in bed while I sipped my coffee, went for a walk on the beach, booked a spa treatment, then spent time on a beach chair for the rest of the afternoon.

I never left the resort that day, and I had to fight the guilt of not "making the most" of my time on the island. However, it was the very thing that rejuvenated me and brought me back to life.

It also encouraged me to put my phone away. In today's digital age, vacations often come with an unspoken expectation to document, post, and share every highlight on social media.

And as someone who makes a portion of my living by sharing my travels on these platforms, that pressure multiplies tenfold. After the scary experience of that panic attack, I decided, for once, to step back from my phone.

I still took photos and shared parts of the trip, but it was because I wanted to, not because I felt like I had to. When my partner and I watched the sunset from our hotel room balcony, I actually took in the sky's vibrant colors. I even ate my fresh sushi before snapping an Instagram story.

I felt more present and wanted to hold that feeling closely before inviting in the rest of the world to see and comment on my trip.

My trip to Maui changed the way I think about travel

What surprised me most about this trip wasn't just how restorative it felt, but how much it reshaped the way I think about productivity culture and what "vacation" is really for.

I learned that every travel experience has its own purpose. Some trips are for adventure, while some are for rejuvenation. And that's OK.

When I'm running on empty, even the most exciting itinerary or the most beautiful setting can feel like an obligation rather than the privilege that it's meant to be.

By paying closer attention to my senses in the present moment — taking in the sound of the waves, soaking in the cool blue water against my skin, or the delicious taste and texture of fresh poke on my tongue — I returned to a state of calm and contentment. I was even able to be more present with my partner in such a romantic setting.

Ironically, slowing down ended up giving me more energy to move forward. After resting and letting my body and mind reset, I returned home feeling more focused and inspired to get things done.

For me, this trip was a reminder that true productivity comes from balance. Rest isn't wasted time. Rather, it's what makes everything else possible.

• American sentiment toward capitalism is on the decline, surveys show.
• It comes amid an increased dissatisfaction with economic conditions in the US.
• Business Insider wants to hear what you think about capitalism — take our survey below.

What does capitalism mean to you?

Over the past few years, polls have shown that American sentiment toward capitalism is on the decline — especially among Democrats and younger generations.

For example, the latest Harvard Youth Poll found that 39% of surveyed 18- to 29-year-olds support capitalism, down from 45% in 2020. A September poll from Gallup showed that it's not just young people — 54% of Americans view capitalism favorably, down from 60% in 2021. It's the lowest result that Gallup has measured to date.

The shifting sentiment reflects a broader shift in the US, with Americans growing increasingly dissatisfied with the state of the economy, including inflation and the high cost of living. They're seeking solutions, and it could help explain why political figures who support socialism have gained support.

Business Insider is exploring the future of capitalism, and we want to hear what our readers think. Please fill out our survey below.

• As a Costco employee, I love searching the warehouse shelves for the best holiday gifts each year.
• Items like the Shark CryoGlow mask and Marshall Kilburn portable Bluetooth speaker caught my eye.
• I think the Yankee candle and holiday mug sets are great to break up and gift to multiple people.

As a Costco employee of 20 years, I look forward to the holiday season, when the store's shelves are stocked with beautiful decorations and great gifts.

This year, I decided to browse the store for items for everyone on my list. From skincare essentials to portable speakers, here are seven of the best gifts I'm seeing on shelves right now.

Shark's CryoGlow mask is a great choice for the skincare aficionado in your life.

Light-therapy masks are super popular right now, so the Shark CryoGlow version caught my eye. This high-tech skincare device combines LED-light therapy with under-eye cooling to help users address multiple skin concerns from the comfort of their homes.

The bundle also includes a charging stand, storage bag, remote, pillowcase, and clip-on under-eye pads.

Music fans will love the Marshall Kilburn portable Bluetooth speaker.

For a classic-looking speaker with modern audio power, I recommend checking out the Marshall Kilburn II portable Bluetooth speaker. It delivers over 20 hours of play time on a single charge, making it great for use at parties and events.

The Nuwave Hot Brew is perfect for taking your morning coffee on the go.

The Nuwave Hot Brew temperature-control mug is a 16-ounce rechargeable, self-heating, stainless-steel travel mug that brews your preferred beverage — and keeps it hot.

Simply fill the included filter with coffee grounds or tea leaves, place the mug on the charging coaster, pour boiling water on top, let it brew, and enjoy your drink at the perfect temperature for hours.

Costco's Yankee Candle set can be broken up and gifted to multiple people.

This pack from Yankee Candle caught my eye because it could make an excellent gift for the candle lover in your life. Or, it could easily be broken up to give as gifts to coworkers, friends, or family members.

Each pack comes with six seasonal scents like red-apple wreath, sparkling cinnamon, balsam and cedar, Christmas cookie, white spruce and grapefruit, and sage and citrus.

The Skylight digital calendar is perfect for keeping busy families organized.

The Skylight smart calendar is a sleek touchscreen organizer that serves as a central hub for family or business scheduling.

The device can be displayed on a tabletop or mounted on a wall, and syncs automatically with Google Calendar, iCloud, Outlook, Cozi, and Yahoo, making it easy to view everyone's events in one place.

When purchasing the device at Costco, you'll also receive a one-year "plus subscription," which unlocks bonus features, like the ability to turn the calendar into a digital picture frame.

Check multiple gifts off your list with Costco's four-piece mug set.

Costco's four-piece mug gift set is a seasonal favorite at my store. Each ceramic mug comes filled with delicious treats like Ghirardelli chocolate.

Like the aforementioned candles, this set can easily be broken up into multiple gifts for coworkers, teachers, neighbors, or friends.

The Braun electric shaver is a great gift option.

The Braun Series 9 Sport Shaver is an electric razor designed for both efficiency and portability. According to the user manual, the shaver is fully waterproof, allowing you to use it both wet and dry.

This bundle comes with five shaving attachments, as well as everything you need to charge and clean the device.

• An arms maker said Europe is showing interest in its mini-computer system that turns guns into drone-killers.
• Since 2022, at least 10 countries have either acquired this tech or are actively considering it, IWI said.
• Its growing popularity reflects greater European investment in counter-drone defenses.

European militaries are showing growing interest in a technology that turns standard service rifles into last-resort drone killers, an Israeli weapons maker says, as countries look for cheaper ways to counter the surge in uncrewed systems.

A representative of firearms manufacturer Israel Weapon Industries told Business Insider that at least 10 European countries have either purchased or shown interest in the Arbel system, a micro-computer intended to better optimize a gun for shooting down drones, since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.

IWI declined to name buyers and interested parties. But Europe has grown increasingly interested in anti-drone defenses.

Drones have dominated the battlefield in this war, providing Ukraine and Russia with constant surveillance and precision-strike capabilities. As both sides develop cheap ways to deal with the threat, countries closely watching the conflict from the sidelines are investing in the same.

IWI said that its Arbel system is already in use with an undisclosed number of militaries around the world, said Semion, the head of Europe for the company, who requested to be identified only by his first name for security reasons.

He said that by next year, given current trends, he expects that 40 to 50% of European countries will either have procured the Arbel system or be close to doing so, reflecting growing investment in cost-efficient anti-drone defenses across the continent.

'The new bullets on the battlefield'

Drones of all shapes, sizes, and functions are playing key roles on the battlefield in Ukraine, but one of the most problematic for soldiers on both sides is the small quadcopter known as a first-person-view (FPV) system.

FPV drones are often armed with explosives that turn them into inexpensive precision-strike weapons. To defeat them, soldiers use signal jamming to interfere with their signal connections.

However, FPV drones are increasingly being controlled by fiber-optic cables that connect directly with an operator rather than radio frequencies, making them immune to electronic warfare. The only option is to shoot them down with small arms, but even that requires precision and a lot of luck.

Drones are hard targets to hit, in many cases, with anything other than a shotgun, and even then, there's no guarantee. They can move quickly and in unexpected ways.

With drones cementing themselves as a permanent feature of the modern battlefield, militaries are racing to acquire personal anti-drone defenses, like Arbel, in case soldiers find themselves on the receiving end of one of these weapons.

Arbel is a tiny computerized system that can be integrated into light machine guns or assault rifles, giving a soldier a more accurate shot on the battlefield in scenarios that require quick reactions or against moving targets — such as small drones, Semion said.

When activated, the system lets a soldier hold down the trigger while Arbel automatically releases rounds at the moments they're most likely to hit the target. It can bring down drones at roughly 450 meters in daylight and 200 meters at night.

The system's sensors study the shooter's behavior — their weapon movement, stability, and trigger pressure. With the trigger held down, all the soldier needs to do is keep the drone in their sight; Arbel decides exactly when each round should go.

Arbel is battery-powered and adds about 400 grams to the gun, and soldiers can adapt quickly. Semion said the system is inexpensive but declined to disclose any specifics on the cost.

Semion likened the system to equipping a soldier with a helmet and bulletproof vest, saying that drones today "are the new bullets on the battlefield."

Arbel itself doesn't necessarily know what it's shooting at. Semion said it's up to the soldier to engage targets responsibly.

Early versions of Arbel have been on the market for a few years now, but only recently — after Russia launched its full-scale invasion and drone usage exploded on the battlefield — has the system been viewed as a viable anti-drone solution.

European nations, in particular, are acutely aware of the rising drone threat, and there is increasing demand for counter-drone solutions.

Arbel is one of several systems that offers to help soldiers use small arms to battle the drone threat without needing to pack on too much extra gear.

Last year, Business Insider observed US soldiers training to shoot down drones with the Smart Shooter — a rifle equipped with a special optic that tracks the threat, calculates its trajectory, and notifies the user when they have a reasonable chance of hitting it.

And this year, Business Insider observed AimLock target recognition technology at a special operations event, where the company's CEO talked about how this tech could support the counter-drone fight by enhancing various weapons.

Beyond rifle attachments and fresh pitches for shotguns as drone defense, Western countries are also racing to develop interceptor drones as an anti-drone capability, following Ukraine, which has invested heavily in the production of these small systems and uses them widely to take down Russian threats.

• This post originally appeared in the Business Insider Today newsletter.
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Two titans of different eras battle over something they believe is crucial to their future.

The Paramount-Netflix fight over Warner Bros. Discovery sounds like a great Hollywood script. Instead, it's a reality, and set to reshape the entertainment industry one way or another.

There's a lot to unpack here, so let's get into it.

Wait, Paramount Skydance is trying to buy Warner Bros.? I thought Netflix was buying Warner Bros.?

You're right, and you're right. Netflix is buying Warner Bros. At least, the two sides reached an agreement on Friday for WBD's streaming and studio assets. On Monday, Paramount, which was also bidding on WBD, launched a hostile bid for it. Paramount CEO David Ellison said the deal "represents a powerful opportunity to strengthen both companies and the entertainment industry as a whole," according to a memo sent to Paramount employees first obtained by BI's James Faris.

What does that even mean? How can Paramount make a deal with a company that already turned it down? I did call it "hostile." Paramount's Ellison (more on him below) is appealing directly to WBD shareholders that his company is the better fit. Hostile bids aren't always easy, but they have been successful in the past. Here's a list of some of the biggest.

Does that mean Comcast is going to rejoin the fray too? That seems … unlikely.

How are the two bids different? I'm so glad you asked! BI's Lucia Moses has a full breakdown on how Paramount and Netflix are each pitching themselves as the better home for WBD. As for the structure of the deals: Netflix doesn't want WBD's TV networks like CNN, TNT, and TruTV. It's offering $27.75 per share. Paramount is looking to buy it all with a $30-per-share offer.

What's Netflix's pitch? It's the biggest streamer on the block. That means a massive distribution channel for WBD's well-known franchises (DC Comics, Harry Potter). It's also pitching this as a win for Hollywood and consumers. It says it'll create more jobs in the long term, and give Netflix subscribers access to content they haven't seen.

What about Paramount? An easier path to regulatory approval. Netflix's massive size has led some to question if it'll face antitrust concerns. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said he already discussed the deal with President Donald Trump ahead of time. But Ellison has his own relationship with Trump, and thinks he can get regulatory approval in as little as 12 months. On Monday, Trump said he wanted to "do what's right."

Who is this guy Ellison anyway? His dad is Larry Ellison, the billionaire cofounder of Oracle and a longtime Trump ally. The 42-year-old isn't keen to just sit on a beach and inherit his father's massive fortune, though. He's been involved in the entertainment space since founding Skydance back in 2006. This year he combined Skydance with Parmount, cut a deal with the UFC, and shook up CBS News' leadership.

Anything else worth mentioning? Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth funds are all involved in Paramount's deal. What role they'll play in the company, beyond putting up billions of dollars to help get the deal done, isn't quite clear, writes BI's Peter Kafka. And while we're talking about interesting parties on the Paramount side, Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, is also part of the offer via his private-equity firm.

• Jeep and Ram owner Stellantis is bringing a $11,500 tiny car to the US.
• Fiat CEO Olivier Francois confirmed that the Topolino will come to US roads.
• Tiny cars are rare in the US, but they now have an unlikely ally: President Donald Trump.

President Donald Trump has opened the door for tiny cars to be sold in the US — and now Stellantis is bringing an Italian mini car to American shores.

The auto conglomerate, which owns Jeep and Ram, confirmed on Monday that it would bring the Fiat Topolino — a 2.5-meter-long electric tiny car — to the US.

Speaking at an event in Michigan, Fiat CEO Olivier Francois said the Topolino's display appearances in the US had sparked "tremendous excitement," adding that the company would share more details about the tiny car's US launch next year.

The Topolino, which means "little mouse" in Italian, is a major departure from the gas-guzzling big trucks that dominate US roads.

Built by Italian brand Fiat, the compact city car has a max range of around 47 miles and a top speed of 28 miles per hour.

Weighing less than a golf cart, it's technically classified as an electric quadricycle rather than a car, meaning that it can be driven from age 14 in some European countries.

The Topolino is available throughout Europe and costs around 9,900 euros ($11,500) in its home market of Italy. Its impending US launch follows a sudden burst of support for tiny cars from an unlikely source — Trump.

The US president expressed admiration for Japan's pint-sized Kei cars after a recent trip to the country.

Trump described the mini electric models, which are hugely popular in Japan, as "very cute" and "beautiful," and said last week that he had loosened regulations to allow manufacturers to build them in the US.

A Stellantis spokesperson told CNBC the announcement of the Topolino's US launch was unrelated to Trump's comments. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Kei cars have developed an enthusiastic cult following in the US, but the vehicles don't meet federal auto standards and can only be imported if they're over 25 years old.

Kei cars also face a patchwork of state regulations, with some states limiting them to low speeds or prohibiting them from being driven on public roads entirely.