This week we’re focusing on how to be more “A-OK” by sharing AOK (Acts Of Kindness).

The world needs more acts of kindness than ever before. And the cool thing is, when we do an act of kindness for people, no matter how small it is, it boosts our immune function, our emotional well-being, reduces depression, anxiety, stress, and it floods neuro-chemicals in the brain and the body that help us feel better, more joyful, more happy, and more well.

The best part is these acts of kindness don’t have to be big, lofty things. If it’s not your job to take out the trash, but you do it as a willing act of kindness for someone, that counts as an AOK. If you want to give donations to a cause that will make a difference in the world, go for it! That counts as an AOK. If you want to smile at people outside the window to bring some light to their day, that counts as an AOK. If you want to send a letter thanking somebody for a positive impact they made on your life, that counts as an AOK.

There are so many ways we can make a difference in others’ lives, in our communities, in the world, and, interestingly, in our own well-being. In fact, research shows that people who do acts of kindness, because they want to and willingly choose to do them (not because they feel they have to do them) tend to live up to 10 years longer than those who don’t. The simple act of voluntarily making a positive impact in the world significantly contributes to both the length—and the quality—of your life.

So, think about those little ways you might share an act of kindness today and every day. Send a meal to someone who’s been working a bunch of over-time, send notes out to your neighbors saying, “I’m thinking of you.” Tell a teacher how important their job is (because we all know they should be sainted). Thank first responders and leaders for helping get through these difficult times. Thank the people around you for enriching your life. Acts of kindness this week will help you be A-OK. So let’s AOK all week long…and then some!

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