Why Community Service Matters in Personal Development

Why Community Service Matters in Personal Development

by | Aug 12, 2024 | Community, Explore, Health & Wellness, Motivation

In our personal growth journey, we often focus on self-improvement strategies like learning new skills and setting goals. However, community service is another powerful tool that often goes underappreciated. It not only benefits those we help but also plays a crucial role in our own development. Through giving back, we gain valuable life skills, broaden our perspectives, and find deeper fulfillment.

Building Empathy and Compassion

First, community service helps us develop empathy and compassion. When we volunteer, we step outside our own experiences and into the lives of others facing different challenges. For example, serving meals at a shelter or tutoring students allows us to understand others’ struggles. This understanding fosters empathy, which helps us connect with people on a deeper level. As a result, we approach life with more compassion.

Empathy and compassion are essential for personal growth. They enable us to build stronger relationships, handle conflicts gracefully, and contribute positively to our communities. Through community service, we become more attuned to others’ needs and better equipped to make a difference.

Enhancing Social and Communication Skills

Furthermore, community service enhances our social and communication skills. Volunteering often involves working with diverse groups, including fellow volunteers and those we serve. This interaction improves our ability to work collaboratively, listen actively, and communicate effectively.

These skills are crucial in many areas of life. Whether leading a team, navigating social dynamics, or building relationships, effective communication is invaluable. Community service offers a practical way to develop these abilities, boosting our confidence in interactions.

Gaining a Sense of Purpose and Fulfillment

Another significant benefit of community service is the sense of purpose and fulfillment it provides. Many people seek meaning in their lives, and volunteering offers a powerful way to find it. When we engage in service, we contribute to something larger than ourselves. This involvement gives our lives greater significance.

A sense of purpose is closely linked to happiness and well-being. Feeling that our actions matter brings deep satisfaction and joy. This fulfillment fuels our motivation and mental health, helping us lead more meaningful lives.

Developing Leadership and Problem-Solving Skills

Moreover, community service helps us develop leadership and problem-solving skills. Often, it requires us to step into leadership roles or think creatively to solve problems. Whether organizing a charity event or leading a volunteer team, these experiences challenge us to grow.

Leadership and problem-solving are crucial for success in any area of life. Leadership teaches us to inspire and guide others, manage resources, and make decisions. Problem-solving encourages us to think critically and adapt to changing circumstances. By honing these skills through service, we become more capable and confident.

Expanding Your Perspective

Lastly, community service broadens our horizons. It exposes us to different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, helping us gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world. This expanded perspective challenges our biases and fosters a more inclusive worldview.

Seeing the world through others’ eyes makes us more open-minded and adaptable. This broader perspective is key to personal development, allowing us to navigate life’s complexities with greater awareness. It also helps us appreciate the diversity of human experience, enriching our own lives.

How Will You Serve Your Community?

Community service is a powerful tool for personal development. Through volunteering, we build empathy, enhance our social skills, find purpose, develop leadership abilities, and broaden our perspectives. These experiences not only improve us as individuals but also empower us to contribute more meaningfully to the world around us. As we give back, we grow, gaining the skills and insights needed to lead a more fulfilling and impactful life.

Ben Beresh is a creative entrepreneur and owner of MossyBrain. Originally from Niagara Falls, ON, he now happily calls Broken Arrow OK home, along with his wife Jessica, four amazing kids and dog Charlie. Ben likes to have a good time, all the time (Enneagram 7), playing guitar, the Wim Hof Method, forest bathing, as well as enjoying all types of sandwiches.

Connect with him on Facebook or ben@mossybrain.com.

You might also like…

DISCLOSURE: Some links in this article, and elsewhere on this site, may be affiliate links. While there is not any additional cost to you, purchases made via those affiliate links may earn us a commission. Only products and services which have been vetted and tested by the MossyBrain team are featured and promoted. If you are thinking of purchasing a featured product or service, or have a genuine interest in a linked product, your use of the affiliate link is appreciated and allows us to continue writing these kinds of helpful articles. Thanks so much!

The Many Benefits of Play: Enhancing Creativity, Productivity, and Well-Being

The Many Benefits of Play: Enhancing Creativity, Productivity, and Well-Being

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Explore, Health & Wellness, Psychology, Relax

For so many adults, the concept of “play” is often seen as something reserved for children. However, the benefits of play extend far beyond childhood and into every stage of life. Engaging in playful activities can have a profound impact on our creativity, productivity, and overall well-being. Whether it’s through games, hobbies, or spontaneous fun, play is an essential component of a balanced and fulfilling life. Let’s explore the many benefits of play and why it should be an integral part of your daily routine.

Play Fuels Creativity

One of the most significant benefits of play is its ability to spark creativity. When we play, we allow ourselves to think outside the box, explore new ideas, and engage in imaginative thinking. This unstructured, open-ended activity encourages our brains to make new connections and generate innovative solutions to problems.

For example, taking a break from work to engage in a creative hobby like painting, playing music, or even building with LEGO can stimulate your mind in ways that a rigid focus on tasks cannot. Play reduces the pressure to “get it right,” allowing your creativity to flow freely. This often leads to fresh insights and ideas that can be applied to your work or personal projects.

Play Boosts Productivity

While it may seem counterintuitive, taking time to play can actually enhance your productivity. When we play, we give our minds a break from the stresses and demands of daily life. This mental respite allows us to return to our tasks with renewed energy, focus, and motivation.

Studies have shown that short, playful breaks throughout the day can improve concentration and prevent burnout. For instance, a quick game of ping-pong, a walk in the park, or even a playful chat with a colleague can refresh your mind and boost your efficiency. Play breaks help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that you stay productive without sacrificing your well-being.

Play Enhances Well-Being

Beyond its effects on creativity and productivity, play is also crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in playful activities can reduce stress, increase happiness, and promote a positive outlook on life. Play releases endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, which help combat stress and anxiety.

Moreover, play fosters social connections and strengthens relationships. Whether you’re playing a board game with family, participating in a team sport, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, play brings people together and builds a sense of community. These social interactions are vital for emotional support and overall happiness.

Play also promotes physical well-being. Active play, such as sports, dancing, or outdoor activities, helps maintain physical fitness and improves coordination and motor skills. The joy of movement, combined with the fun of play, makes exercise feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable experience.

Incorporating Play into Your Life

Integrating play into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple ways to bring more play into your life:

Schedule Play Breaks

Set aside time during your day for short, playful activities. Whether it’s a quick game, a creative hobby, or just some time to unwind, these breaks can recharge your mind and body.

Embrace Spontaneity

Allow yourself to be spontaneous and open to fun. Say yes to a last-minute invitation to play a game or go on an adventure. Spontaneous play can bring unexpected joy and inspiration.

Rediscover Childhood Joys

Nostalgia is a helluva drug. Revisit activities you loved as a child, such as drawing, playing with toys, or exploring nature. These activities can reconnect you with a sense of wonder and joy.

Play with Others

Engage in group activities that involve play, whether it’s a game night, a team sport, or a creative project with friends. Sharing playful experiences with others enhances social bonds and collective creativity.

Make Play a Priority

Recognize the value of play in your life and prioritize it as an essential part of your routine. Treat play as a necessary and beneficial activity, not as a distraction or a waste of time.

Play Your Way

The benefits of play are far-reaching, impacting our creativity, productivity, and overall well-being. By embracing play as an integral part of our lives, we can unlock new levels of innovation, efficiency, and happiness. So, whether it’s through creative hobbies, social games, or spontaneous fun, make time for play and experience the positive changes it brings to your life. After all, play isn’t just for kids—it’s a powerful tool for living a balanced, joyful, and fulfilled life.

Ben Beresh is a creative entrepreneur and owner of MossyBrain. Originally from Niagara Falls, ON, he now happily calls Broken Arrow OK home, along with his wife Jessica, four amazing kids and dog Charlie. Ben likes to have a good time, all the time (Enneagram 7), playing guitar, the Wim Hof Method, forest bathing, as well as enjoying all types of sandwiches.

Connect with him on Facebook or ben@mossybrain.com.

You might also like…

DISCLOSURE: Some links in this article, and elsewhere on this site, may be affiliate links. While there is not any additional cost to you, purchases made via those affiliate links may earn us a commission. Only products and services which have been vetted and tested by the MossyBrain team are featured and promoted. If you are thinking of purchasing a featured product or service, or have a genuine interest in a linked product, your use of the affiliate link is appreciated and allows us to continue writing these kinds of helpful articles. Thanks so much!
Establishing An Early Morning Routine: Finding Peace, Patience and Potential First Thing

Establishing An Early Morning Routine: Finding Peace, Patience and Potential First Thing

by | Aug 8, 2024 | Grow, Health & Wellness, Mindset, Motivation, Psychology

Establishing a healthy and productive early morning routine is one of the most powerful ways to set the tone for a successful day. Waking up early allows you to take advantage of the quiet, undisturbed hours before the world wakes up. This provides you with a unique opportunity to focus on yourself and your goals. This time can be used for personal growth, physical activity, mental clarity, and intentional planning—activities that are often neglected during the busier parts of the day. By starting your day with purpose, you create a foundation of positivity and productivity that can carry you through the challenges ahead.

The Power of Waking Up Early

One of the key benefits of an early morning routine is the ability to start your day with a sense of accomplishment. Engaging in activities like exercise, meditation, or journaling in the morning can boost your mood and energy levels. This makes you feel more in control and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. These small wins in the morning can build momentum, helping you approach the rest of your day with confidence and focus. Additionally, an early start reduces the likelihood of feeling rushed. This will allow you to manage your time more effectively and reduce stress.

Moreover, a consistent morning routine can improve your overall well-being. Regularly dedicating time to activities that nourish your body and mind (exercise, mindfulness, and personal development) can lead to better physical health, improved mental clarity, and a stronger sense of purpose. Over time, these habits contribute to long-term personal growth and resilience. By prioritizing your needs first thing in the morning, you ensure that you are investing in your most important asset: yourself.

My Early Morning Inspiration

Two popular books (that have both been very influential in my life), The 5am Club by Robin Sharma and The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod, emphasize the transformative power of waking up early and establishing a morning routine. Whether you’re an early riser by nature or looking to become one, creating a healthy and productive morning routine can significantly impact your overall well-being and success.

Both The 5am Club and The Miracle Morning advocate for waking up early—ideally at 5:00 AM—to take advantage of the quiet, uninterrupted time before the rest of the world wakes up. This early start provides a unique opportunity to focus on personal growth, mental clarity, and intentional living. By dedicating the first hour or two of your day to yourself, you can set a positive tone that carries through the rest of your day.

Key Principles from The 5am Club

The 5am Club introduces the concept of the “Victory Hour,” which is the first hour after waking up, dedicated to self-improvement through a structured routine known as the 20/20/20 formula. This formula divides the hour into three 20-minute segments:

Move (20 minutes): Start your day with physical exercise to boost your energy, enhance your mood, and improve brain function. This could be anything from a brisk walk to a more intense workout, depending on your fitness level and preferences.

Reflect (20 minutes): Spend time in reflection, which can include meditation, journaling, or practicing gratitude. This quiet time helps you center your thoughts, reduce stress, and gain clarity on your goals and intentions for the day.

Grow (20 minutes): Dedicate the final segment to personal growth by reading, listening to a podcast, or learning something new. This intellectual stimulation primes your mind for creativity and productivity throughout the day.

By following this 20/20/20 formula, you create a balanced start to your day that nurtures your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

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Key Principles from The Miracle Morning

The Miracle Morning emphasizes the importance of starting your day with intention through a series of practices that Hal Elrod refers to as the “SAVERS” routine. Each letter in SAVERS represents a different aspect of the morning routine:

Silence: Begin your day with a moment of silence, whether through meditation, deep breathing, or prayer. This practice helps you start your day with calmness and focus.

Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reinforce your goals, beliefs, and self-confidence. Repeating affirmations helps set a positive mindset and motivates you to take action.

Visualization: Visualize your goals and the life you want to create. Imagine yourself achieving success and overcoming challenges. Visualization helps you mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Exercise: Engage in physical activity to boost your energy and vitality. This can be as simple as stretching, yoga, or a quick workout to wake up your body and mind.

Reading: Spend time reading something that inspires or educates you. This practice fuels your mind with new ideas and knowledge, setting a positive tone for the day.

Scribing: Write down your thoughts, goals, or reflections in a journal. Journaling helps you process your thoughts, track your progress, and gain clarity on your next steps.

By incorporating the SAVERS routine into your morning, you create a powerful start to your day that supports personal growth, motivation, and productivity.

Crafting Your Morning Routine

While The 5am Club and The Miracle Morning offer valuable frameworks for a successful morning routine, it’s essential to tailor your routine to fit your lifestyle, goals, and preferences. Here are some tips for creating a healthy and productive early morning routine:

Start Small

If waking up at 5:00 AM feels daunting, begin by waking up just 15 to 30 minutes earlier than usual. Gradually adjust your wake-up time as you become more comfortable with the routine.

Prioritize Sleep

To wake up early and feel refreshed, prioritize getting enough sleep. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night, and establish a consistent bedtime routine to wind down.

Create a Morning Ritual

Design a morning ritual that includes elements from both The 5am Club and The Miracle Morning. For example, you might start with a brief meditation, followed by a quick workout, and then spend time reading or journaling.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is key to making your morning routine a habit. Try to follow your routine every day, even on weekends, to establish a rhythm that sets you up for success.

Adapt and Evolve

Your morning routine doesn’t have to be rigid. Feel free to adapt and evolve your routine based on your changing needs and goals. The important thing is to stay committed to starting your day with intention and purpose.

Tomorrow Morning Could Change Everything…

Creating a healthy and productive early morning routine can transform your life, setting the stage for greater success, personal growth, and well-being. By drawing inspiration from The 5am Club and The Miracle Morning, you can craft a morning routine that empowers you to take control of your day and achieve your goals. Embrace the power of an intentional start, and watch as your mornings—and your life—change for the better.

Further Reading

Ben Beresh is a creative entrepreneur and owner of MossyBrain. Originally from Niagara Falls, ON, he now happily calls Broken Arrow OK home, along with his wife Jessica, four amazing kids and dog Charlie. Ben likes to have a good time, all the time (Enneagram 7), playing guitar, the Wim Hof Method, forest bathing, as well as enjoying all types of sandwiches.

Connect with him on Facebook or ben@mossybrain.com.

You might also like…

DISCLOSURE: Some links in this article, and elsewhere on this site, may be affiliate links. While there is not any additional cost to you, purchases made via those affiliate links may earn us a commission. Only products and services which have been vetted and tested by the MossyBrain team are featured and promoted. If you are thinking of purchasing a featured product or service, or have a genuine interest in a linked product, your use of the affiliate link is appreciated and allows us to continue writing these kinds of helpful articles. Thanks so much!

Mindful Exploration: How to Be Present and Fully Experience Your Adventures

Mindful Exploration: How to Be Present and Fully Experience Your Adventures

by | Aug 7, 2024 | Explore, Inspiration, Psychology

In an age of constant connectivity, dopamine addition and endless distractions, the art of being present has never been more crucial. Whether you’re embarking on a journey to a far-off destination or simply exploring your local surroundings, practicing mindful exploration can deepen your experiences and enrich your adventures. By being fully present, you can savor each moment, connect more deeply with your environment, and create lasting memories. Here’s how to cultivate mindfulness in your explorations and make the most of every adventure.

Understanding Mindful Exploration

Mindful exploration involves engaging with your surroundings in a deliberate, attentive, and non-judgmental way. It’s about immersing yourself in the present moment, noticing the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations around you, and letting go of distractions. This approach not only enhances your travel experiences but also promotes a sense of calm and well-being.

Benefits of Mindful Exploration

Enhanced Sensory Experience

By focusing on your senses, you can fully appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of your environment. Notice the vibrant colors of a sunset, the intricate details of a historical building, or the subtle aromas of a local market.

Deeper Connections

Mindfulness allows you to connect more deeply with the people you meet and the cultures you encounter. By being present, you can engage in more meaningful conversations and build stronger connections.

Reduced Stress

Mindful exploration can help reduce travel-related stress and anxiety. By staying grounded in the present moment, you can let go of worries about the past or future and enjoy a more relaxed state of mind.

Lasting Memories

Being fully present helps create vivid and lasting memories. When you engage deeply with your surroundings, your experiences become more memorable and impactful.

Tips for Practicing Mindful Exploration

Set an Intention

Before you begin your adventure, set an intention to be present and mindful. Remind yourself to focus on the journey rather than the destination. This can help shift your mindset and prepare you for a mindful experience.

Slow Down

Resist the urge to rush through your travels. Take your time to explore and savor each moment. Whether you’re walking through a bustling city or hiking in nature, slow down and fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Engage Your Senses

Use all your senses to experience your surroundings. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures around you. Take a few moments to close your eyes and focus on each sense individually, enhancing your awareness and connection to the present moment.

Practice Deep Breathing

Deep breathing can help anchor you in the present moment. Whenever you feel distracted or overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Embrace Curiosity

Approach your explorations with a sense of curiosity and wonder. Ask questions, seek out new experiences, and be open to learning. Curiosity helps keep your mind engaged and focused on the present.

Disconnect from Technology

Limit your use of electronic devices to minimize distractions. Put away your phone, camera, and other gadgets, and focus on experiencing the moment firsthand. If you need to take photos, set aside specific times for capturing memories without interrupting your mindful experience.

Reflect on Your Experiences

Take time to reflect on your adventures. Keep a travel journal to document your thoughts, feelings, and observations. Reflecting on your experiences can deepen your appreciation and help solidify your memories.

Practice Gratitude

Cultivate a sense of gratitude for your experiences. Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for during your travels. This practice can enhance your overall sense of well-being and presence.

Experience Adventures You Will Never Forget

Mindful exploration is a powerful way to enrich your adventures and fully experience the beauty of the world around you. By being present and engaging with your surroundings in a deliberate and attentive manner, you can create deeper connections, reduce stress, and make lasting memories. Embrace the art of mindful exploration, and discover the profound impact it can have on your travel experiences and overall well-being.

Ben Beresh is a creative entrepreneur and owner of MossyBrain. Originally from Niagara Falls, ON, he now happily calls Broken Arrow OK home, along with his wife Jessica, four amazing kids and dog Charlie. Ben likes to have a good time, all the time (Enneagram 7), playing guitar, the Wim Hof Method, forest bathing, as well as enjoying all types of sandwiches.

Connect with him on Facebook or ben@mossybrain.com.

You might also like…

DISCLOSURE: Some links in this article, and elsewhere on this site, may be affiliate links. While there is not any additional cost to you, purchases made via those affiliate links may earn us a commission. Only products and services which have been vetted and tested by the MossyBrain team are featured and promoted. If you are thinking of purchasing a featured product or service, or have a genuine interest in a linked product, your use of the affiliate link is appreciated and allows us to continue writing these kinds of helpful articles. Thanks so much!

The Growth Mindset: This Changes Everything

The Growth Mindset: This Changes Everything

by | Aug 6, 2024 | Grow, Inspiration, Psychology

In the pursuit of personal and professional success, our mindset plays a pivotal role in determining how we face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve our goals. One concept that has revolutionized the way we approach learning and growth is the growth mindset. Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, the growth mindset is the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, effort, and perseverance. Embracing this mindset can change everything about how we view success and failure, ultimately transforming our lives.

What is a Growth Mindset?

A growth mindset is the belief that talents, intelligence, and abilities can be developed over time through effort, learning, and persistence. This stands in contrast to a fixed mindset, where individuals believe that their qualities are set in stone and cannot change. People with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities to grow, view effort as a path to mastery, and understand that failures are a natural part of the learning process.

Why a Growth Mindset Matters

We all need all the help we can get when it comes to self-improvement and personal growth. Cultivating a growth mindset can be like dumping Miracle-Gro on the seedlings of your personal, relational and professional development. The following benefits come from changing your outlook from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset:

Embracing Challenges

People with a growth mindset are more likely to embrace challenges rather than avoid them. They understand that challenges are opportunities to learn and improve. This willingness to step out of their comfort zones leads to personal and professional development, as they constantly push their boundaries and discover new strengths.

Persistence in the Face of Setbacks

A growth mindset fosters resilience. Instead of giving up when faced with obstacles, individuals with this mindset persist, viewing setbacks as temporary and solvable. This persistence is crucial for achieving long-term goals and can lead to remarkable accomplishments.

Effort as a Path to Mastery

In a growth mindset, effort is seen as essential for improvement. Individuals recognize that hard work, practice, and dedication are necessary for developing skills and achieving success. This contrasts with the fixed mindset, where effort might be viewed as fruitless if one believes their abilities are innate and unchangeable.

Learning from Criticism

Constructive criticism is a valuable tool for growth, and those with a growth mindset welcome it. They see feedback as a means to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments. This openness to feedback leads to continuous self-improvement and a willingness to learn from others.

Inspiration from Others’ Success

Instead of feeling threatened by others’ success, individuals with a growth mindset find inspiration in it. They understand that learning from the achievements of others can provide valuable insights and motivate them to strive for their own goals. This perspective fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, benefiting everyone involved. 

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Developing a Growth Mindset

I think you get it- a growth mindset can propel you forward in amazing ways. But change is always very difficult, and you will definitely face resistance as you moe in the direction of growth. Here are some tips to change your thinking towards what is possible in your life:

Acknowledge and Challenge Your Fixed Mindset

The first step in developing a growth mindset is to become aware of your fixed mindset tendencies. Pay attention to your thoughts and attitudes towards challenges, effort, and feedback. When you catch yourself thinking in a fixed mindset, challenge those thoughts and reframe them in a growth-oriented way.

Embrace Learning and Improvement

Cultivate a love for learning by seeking out new experiences, skills, and knowledge. Approach each learning opportunity with curiosity and enthusiasm, knowing that every effort contributes to your growth.

Set Learning Goals Instead of Performance Goals

Shift your focus from outcomes to the learning process. Set goals that prioritize growth and improvement rather than solely aiming for a specific result. This approach reduces the pressure to achieve perfection and encourages a focus on continuous development.

Practice Resilience

Build resilience by viewing setbacks as learning experiences. Reflect on what went wrong, identify the lessons, and apply them moving forward. Celebrate your efforts and progress, no matter how small they may seem.

Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded Individuals

Engage with people who embody a growth mindset. Surrounding yourself with supportive, positive, and growth-oriented individuals can reinforce your own mindset and provide valuable encouragement and inspiration.

Unlimited Growth Potential

Adopting a growth mindset can truly change everything. It transforms how we approach challenges, setbacks, and efforts, leading to a more fulfilling and successful life. By believing in the potential for growth and improvement, we unlock the ability to learn continuously, persist through difficulties, and achieve our highest goals. Embrace the power of a growth mindset and watch as it transforms your perspective, actions, and outcomes, paving the way for a brighter and more accomplished future.

Further Reading

Ben Beresh is a creative entrepreneur and owner of MossyBrain. Originally from Niagara Falls, ON, he now happily calls Broken Arrow OK home, along with his wife Jessica, four amazing kids and dog Charlie. Ben likes to have a good time, all the time (Enneagram 7), playing guitar, the Wim Hof Method, forest bathing, as well as enjoying all types of sandwiches.

Connect with him on Facebook or ben@mossybrain.com.

You might also like…

DISCLOSURE: Some links in this article, and elsewhere on this site, may be affiliate links. While there is not any additional cost to you, purchases made via those affiliate links may earn us a commission. Only products and services which have been vetted and tested by the MossyBrain team are featured and promoted. If you are thinking of purchasing a featured product or service, or have a genuine interest in a linked product, your use of the affiliate link is appreciated and allows us to continue writing these kinds of helpful articles. Thanks so much!

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