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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
David Robson

How to live better in 2025: the power of giving

Hands open Set of arms raised up, isolated on a white background. Concept of struggle for rights. Concept of multinationality.
Helping hands: look outwards towards a cause that matters to you – for free. Photograph: Iuliia Anisimova/Getty Images

Most of us are familiar with the steps that we can take to boost our wellbeing. For our physical health, we are prescribed diet, exercise, sleep and sobriety. Add to that a course in mindfulness, a shiny new bullet journal, and the occasional digital detox, and you may think you are all set for a year of health, happiness and productivity.

There is nothing wrong with any of these lifestyle changes, per se, but they tend to be self-focused. So, why not break with tradition and look outwards towards a cause that matters to you? A body of research shows that, besides helping others, do-gooding can pay dividends for the brain and body. The tricky part seems to be committing to the right activity for the right reasons.

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