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Category: Everyday Psychology (Page 3 of 3)

Reflecting on Lao Tzu’s Proverb

The Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with One Step: Understanding Lao Tzu’s Wisdom in Everyday Life

Have you ever heard of the saying, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step?” This famous proverb written by the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu has resonated for over 2,500 years. Found in the Dao De Jing (also known as the Tao Te Ching), this proverb is a key principle in Daoism, a philosophy focused on living in harmony with nature and the world around us. His words offer a gentle reminder that there’s no need to be preoccupied on big accomplishments or distant destinations; instead, we can find meaning in each individual step, appreciating the journey itself rather than being distracted by any particular endpoint.

What I Think Lao Tzu Meant

When Lao Tzu wrote, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,” his words did not include that the destination to a thousand miles begins with one step. he was encouraging people to start taking action by focusing on the present. In the Dao De Jing, Chapter 64 says, “A journey of a thousand miles begins beneath one’s feet” (Lao Tzu, trans. D.C. Lau, 1963), underscoring that each journey unfolds through the small steps we take. His view doesn’t place special emphasis on reaching a destination or achieving a specific goal. Instead, the journey itself is what matters. Each action, each step forward, is a part of the process, and that’s where we find value.

This approach aligns with Lao Tzu’s belief in Dao, or “the Way,” which is the natural flow of life. The Dao De Jing teaches that everything progresses naturally, without force or hurry. Just as a tree grows at its own pace, Lao Tzu believed we should approach life with patience, moving forward one step at a time without focusing on any final destination. This “step-by-step” journey is where life’s true beauty and lessons lie, and if it leads us somewhere, it’s simply a result of our actions, not the ultimate purpose of our steps (Henricks, 1989).

Living Without a Destination

One key part of Lao Tzu’s philosophy, as seen in the Dao De Jing, is that we can be present and engaged in our lives without having a set goal in mind. The proverb doesn’t suggest that we take steps just to reach a destination; in fact, Lao Tzu’s teachings caution against being too focused on outcomes or future successes. However, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have interests or pursue activities, either; but rather that the steps themselves are fulfilling and valuable even if we don’t achieve some specific endpoint that we expected. According to Lao Tzu, by focusing on each present step, we avoid getting weighed down by expectations of where these steps “should” lead.

In my own understanding, each step we take in life is the journey. While it may take us somewhere eventually, each step holds meaning on its own without needing to be a means to an end. For instance, many people see goals like advancing in a career as final destinations. But for those who resonate with Lao Tzu’s thinking, the daily actions of working, learning, and acquiring are the real journey. They don’t need to lead anywhere specific for each step to have significance. This mindset helps us appreciate each moment of our experiences without always measuring them by where they might take us in the future.

Non-Attachment and Embracing Change

Lao Tzu also taught wu wei, which translates as “non-action” or the idea of acting without force or attachment to outcomes. In this sense, wu wei encourages us to take steps forward without becoming overly focused on or attached to any results. Lao Tzu understood that when people fixate on reaching a certain goal, they may feel disappointment or even failure if things don’t go exactly as planned (Kohn, 1993). Instead, embracing wu wei allows us to accept change and to take each step as it comes without expecting that it will “get us” anywhere specific.

This way of thinking can be valuable in our daily lives. Often, people are under pressure to achieve big milestones, like reaching specific grades, securing a job, or even hitting social milestones. By focusing on each step instead, we feel less anxiety about where we’ll end up. In my own interpretation, the journey truly lies in each single step, not in where that step leads. This flexibility allows us to be more open to life’s changes without feeling discouraged by altered paths.

Taking Small Steps to Improve Daily Life

Sometimes, the thought of starting a journey can be daunting, especially if the steps seem difficult or the process feels overwhelming. This is where Lao Tzu’s wisdom can make a difference. By concentrating only on the present step, we avoid feeling weighed down by the unknown future. One of my patients shared how this approach helped them find meaning in each small, daily action. They celebrated “small wins” each day, and by taking things one day at a time, they found greater fulfillment. This approach allowed them to embrace each step without feeling overwhelmed by where the journey might or might not lead.

Another patient used this idea to break down their journey into manageable actions, focusing only on the step in front of them. This shift in perspective helped them let go of the pressure to achieve specific outcomes and instead, they discovered the peace that comes from simply experiencing each part of the journey. Lao Tzu’s philosophy of focusing on one step, one day at a time, brings a sense of calm, allowing each moment to hold value for what it is.

Main Takeaway: Applying This Proverb to Everyday Life

The main message in Lao Tzu’s words is that we don’t need to be fixated on a destination to find meaning in what we do. Instead, we can live more peacefully by embracing each action, appreciating the journey, and letting go of specific outcomes. Here are a few ways to apply this wisdom in your life:

  1. Start Small and Stay Present: When you have a big project or life change, focus on the first, smallest step you can take. Appreciate this single action without worrying about the final result.
  2. Be Flexible: Allow yourself to change paths if life shifts, knowing that each step is valuable on its own. Flexibility can bring more peace to the journey.
  3. Celebrate Each Step: Recognize and appreciate small accomplishments. Each day has meaning, and you don’t need to focus on some distant achievement for each action to matter.
  4. Find Appreciation in the Process: Instead of setting rigid goals, focus on being present with each moment. Remember that every experience has something to offer, regardless of where it leads.

By focusing on one step at a time, we can live a life that values harmony, presence, and peace. Lao Tzu’s wisdom reminds us that the journey of a thousand miles is not about getting somewhere, but about valuing each step for what it is. In doing so, we find fulfillment in each moment, and life becomes a continuous path of meaning, not just a quest for a final goal.

Read more from Rizaldy R. Ferrer, Ph.D.


References:

Lao Tzu. (1963). Tao Te Ching (D.C. Lau, Trans.). Penguin Books.

Henricks, R.G. (1989). Lao-tzu: Te-Tao Ching. Ballantine Books.

Kohn, L. (1993). The Taoist Experience: An Anthology. SUNY Press.

    • Kohn’s anthology discusses wu wei, or non-action, and elaborates on how Daoism encourages acting without attachment to outcomes, which aligns with the non-goal-oriented interpretation of Lao Tzu’s proverb.

Did You Know? The Science of Tears

When we cry—whether in sorrow, joy, or frustration—our bodies are doing more than just expressing emotion. Tears actually play a powerful biological role, helping us process feelings and manage stress. According to research, tears contain a mix of hormones, proteins, and natural pain relievers. For example, emotional tears, which are different from the kind that keeps our eyes moist, release chemicals like endorphins and oxytocin, both of which contribute to feeling calmer after a good cry (Vingerhoets, 2013).

Crying also appears to signal to others that we need support, fostering empathy and creating connections within communities. While many cultures put pressure on people to hide tears, especially in public, scientists believe that crying is a natural coping mechanism that has likely evolved for both personal relief and social bonding. As a result, letting yourself cry can be a surprisingly beneficial way to regulate emotions and improve overall well-being (Bylsma et al., 2008).

So, next time you feel the tears welling up, remember: it’s not only okay to cry—it’s also good for you.

Read more from Rizaldy R. Ferrer, Ph.D.


References

Bylsma, L. M., Vingerhoets, A. J. J. M., & Rottenberg, J. (2008). When is crying cathartic? An international study. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 27(10), 1165-1187.

Vingerhoets, A. J. J. M. (2013). Why only humans weep: Unraveling the mysteries of tears. Oxford University Press.

1° Shift

Academic Article: The Power of Small Shifts in Personal Growth

Personal growth and development are often perceived as monumental tasks requiring significant effort and dramatic changes. However, much like the flight path of an airplane, a single adjustment can lead to substantial long-term changes. This is philosophy I call, 1° Shift.

The concept of making a 1° shift is a powerful metaphor for incremental progress. In aviation, even a small change in a plane’s trajectory can result in a substantial shift over time. If a plane alters its course by just 1°, the change may seem negligible at first. However, as the plane continues on this new trajectory, the difference after some time is no longer just one degree. Over a long distance, this small change can result in a significant deviation from the original path, potentially leading the plane to an entirely different destination.

This metaphor can be applied to personal development. One single action, but consistent adjustment in our behaviors, habits, or mindset can compound over time, leading to significant transformation. The key is consistency, persistence and the understanding that growth is a gradual process. As James Clear discusses in Atomic Habits, the power of tiny gains is profound: a 1% improvement each day results in a 37.78 times better outcome over a year (Clear, 2018). This principle underscores the importance of small, consistent actions in achieving long-term success.

The Physics Behind Small Changes Leading to Big Results

In physics, the concept of small changes leading to large outcomes can be illustrated through the principle of angular displacement. When an object rotates or changes direction, even a small angular change can result in a significant positional difference over time. This principle is particularly evident in projectile motion, where a slight change in the launch angle results in a vastly different trajectory and impact point.

This physical principle mirrors the concept of incremental change in personal development. Just as a small change in angle can alter the path of a projectile, a small change in behavior or attitude can lead to a significantly different life outcome. The cumulative effect of these small changes over time is what drives substantial personal growth.

Literature Supporting Incremental Change

The idea that small, consistent efforts can lead to significant outcomes is well-supported in the literature on personal development and behavioral psychology. In his book The Slight Edge, Jeff Olson (2005) argues that the small choices we make every day, when compounded over time, determine the quality of our lives. Olson emphasizes that success is not the result of a single, monumental effort but rather the accumulation of small, seemingly insignificant actions repeated consistently over time.

Similarly, in The Compound Effect, Darren Hardy (2010) highlights how small, daily disciplines lead to life-altering outcomes. Hardy explains that the compound effect is the principle of reaping huge rewards from a series of small, smart choices. These choices are so subtle that they may not even be noticeable, but over time, they can lead to significant results.

Conclusion

It only takes 1° to shift farther on your journey. It is a powerful reminder of the impact of a single repeated action leading to long-term development. Just as a plane can alter its destination with a slight shift in direction, we can enrich our lives by starting to make a small, consistent adjustment in our daily habits, mindset, and actions. Supported by principles in physics and behavioral science, this approach to personal growth emphasizes the importance of persistence, consistency, and the understanding that significant change is often the result of small, incremental steps.

References

Clear, J. (2018). Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones. Avery.

Olson, J. (2005). The Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and Happiness. Greenleaf Book Group Press.

Hardy, D. (2010). The Compound Effect: Jumpstart Your Income, Your Life, Your Success. Success Books.


Read more from Rizaldy R. Ferrer, Ph.D.

The Half-Empty, Half-Full Glass

The well-known expression “Is the glass half-empty or half-full?” is often used to gauge whether someone has a pessimistic or optimistic outlook. The half-empty perspective emphasizes what is missing, while the half-full view highlights what remains. Both perspectives seem to offer valid, yet opposing truths. However, framing the question as an either/or situation overlooks the dialectical nature of reality, where both sides coexist in a continuous interplay.

Dialectics, a concept rooted in philosophy by Georg Hegel, holds that seemingly opposing forces can exist simultaneously, and it is in their interaction that truth is revealed. Rather than viewing the glass as either half-empty or half-full, the dialectical perspective suggests they are both at the same time. This duality reflects a more comprehensive understanding of reality, where contradictions are not resolved by choosing one side but are embraced as part of a larger, dynamic whole.

From a dialectical standpoint, acknowledging that the glass is both half-empty and half-full allows for a deeper appreciation of life’s complexity. It encourages us to move beyond binary thinking, fostering a mindset where limitations (the half-empty) and possibilities (the half-full) are recognized together. Life is not static; it constantly shifts between what we have and what we lack, and understanding this interaction can lead to more balanced perspectives.

In practice, this means recognizing that challenges and opportunities are intertwined. The glass is neither just full of potential nor only depleted of resources—it is both. By embracing this dialectical view, we open ourselves to a more nuanced understanding of our experiences, where growth and setbacks, gains and losses, exist in an ongoing relationship. It’s in navigating this tension that we find deeper insight into ourselves and the world around us.

Imagine a person who only views the glass as half-empty. This person constantly focuses on what is missing—whether it’s time, resources, or personal achievements. Over time, this perspective can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety, or even depression. When we only see what’s lacking, the mind begins to internalize a narrative of insufficiency, leading to a cycle of negative thoughts. Opportunities for growth and happiness become overshadowed by a fixation on shortcomings, creating mental strain and emotional fatigue.

Conversely, someone who exclusively sees the glass as half-full may focus solely on the positives, disregarding any potential issues or challenges. While optimism is beneficial, an overly positive bias can lead to unrealistic expectations, denial of real problems, or avoidance of difficult emotions. This type of thinking can prevent a person from preparing for challenges, leading to frustration or unexpected setbacks when reality doesn’t align with their optimistic view.

Now, consider a person who sees both sides of the glass—half-empty and half-full. This individual acknowledges the emptiness, but also values what is still present. By recognizing the challenges while appreciating the opportunities, they foster a balanced and adaptable mindset. This approach encourages practical problem-solving while maintaining a sense of gratitude and resilience. Acknowledging both what we lack and what we possess helps us to develop emotional flexibility and mental strength.

Benefits of a Balanced Perspective:

Mental flexibility: Recognizing both the good and bad can help manage stress, process emotions healthily, and build resilience.

Emotional health: Appreciating what is present, while also planning for and addressing what is lacking, reduces anxiety and creates a sense of control.

Cognitive balance: Viewing both sides nurtures a realistic, yet hopeful mindset, allowing one to stay grounded while remaining open to growth and change.

Ultimately, the healthiest mental state comes from seeing the glass as it is—both half-empty and half-full—because life, too, is a balance of losses and gains, struggles and successes. Embracing this duality allows us to thrive mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually, fostering a more sustainable sense of wellbeing.

It’s now your turn to reflect on how you navigate around your daily experiences. When you face challenges or opportunities in life, do you tend to focus more on what’s missing (the empty part) or on what you have (the full part)? How might your mindset shift if you made room for both perspectives?

Rather than choosing whether the glass is half-empty or half-full, it is more consistent with dialectics to see that it is both. This broader perspective acknowledges the contradictions inherent in life, encouraging us to embrace complexity rather than oversimplifying our reality.

Read more from Rizaldy R. Ferrer, Ph.D.

I’m Active, Not Busy!

Over 10 years ago, during a therapy session with a 12-year-old patient, I started the conversation by asking, “How are you? Have you been busy?” He paused for a moment and then replied, “No, active.” His response struck me, and it since changed the way I think about the words I choose to describe my intentions and how I go about my day.

I realized that using the word “busy” often leaves me feeling stressed and anxious, as though I’m running around without purpose—like a chicken with its head cut off. When I reflect on how people usually say they’re “busy,” it often seems to carry a sense of being overwhelmed or not in control of life’s demands. Some even wear “busy” as a badge of honor, as if juggling too many things is normal, even though they don’t actually enjoy the feeling.

This experience inspired me to continue to explore how the words we use everyday matter in the way we think and their impact on our feelings and actions. In my work as a practicing psychologist, I pay attention to individuals’ experiences associated with “feeling busy,” and suggest trying to use “active” to gain more control over their behaviors. In this article, I also explore the cultural and common idea of being “busy” in today’s world, looking at research that shows how the words we use shape our behavior, thinking, and wellbeing.

The word “busy” seems to be a common answer to the question, “How are you?” For many, being “busy” has become a way of life, almost a standard response that suggests a sense of productivity and purpose. But is this really the case? The word “busy” often implies that we are overwhelmed and constantly reacting to endless demands. It suggests a lack of control over our time and energy, and it can carry a heavy sense of stress.

The Problem with “Busy”

When people describe themselves as “busy,” they might actually be conveying that their lives feel chaotic and unmanageable. Research shows that this perception of busyness is often linked to increased stress and burnout. A study by Gordon et al. (2019) found that the language we use to talk about our daily lives, like saying we’re “busy,” is directly related to how much stress we experience. People tend to feel less in control when they frame their day-to-day tasks as overwhelming and unmanageable.

In contrast, I argue that when we think of ourselves as “active,” there’s a shift in how we approach our tasks. Being “active” suggests intention and purpose—it implies that we are engaged in our activities by choice, rather than feeling trapped by them. This shift in perspective can make a significant difference in how we experience our daily lives.

Words Shape Our Reality

The idea that language shapes how we think, and feel has long been studied in the field of psychology. According to the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis (Whorf, 1956), the words we use influence our perception of reality. For instance, a study conducted by Boroditsky (2001) demonstrated that people who speak different languages perceive time differently based on how their language structures the concept of time. This finding shows that our words don’t just reflect our thoughts; they actively shape them.

When we repeatedly use the word “busy,” it can reinforce feelings of stress and anxiety, making it more challenging to find calm in our everyday activities. On the other hand, using a word like “active” can encourage a mindset that focuses on purposeful action and engagement, helping us feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

Changing Language, Changing Behavior

Research has also shown that changing our language can lead to changes in our behavior. Carol Dweck (2006), in her study of mindsets, found that students who used language focused on growth and learning were more resilient and willing to embrace challenges. They developed what she termed a “growth mindset,” which significantly improved their problem-solving skills and adaptability.

Applying this idea to our daily lives, when we choose to describe ourselves as “active” instead of “busy,” we might find that we approach challenges with more intention and clarity. The simple act of changing our language can help us shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling engaged and purposeful.

The Impact on Wellbeing

Our choice of words also has a profound impact on our overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that people who regularly describe their lives as “busy” are more likely to experience negative emotions, such as anxiety and stress (Matthews & Wells, 2020). In contrast, those who describe their activities as “active” or “engaged” tend to report higher levels of satisfaction and a greater sense of accomplishment.

Killingsworth and Gilbert (2010) conducted a study revealing that people are happiest when they are fully present in their activities, regardless of how many tasks they have. This finding aligns with the idea that being “active” promotes mindfulness and focus, while being “busy” can lead to distraction and a sense of losing control over one’s life.

Conclusion

Choosing to be “active” rather than “busy” is more than just a shift in language—it’s a shift in mindset. This change can help us regain control of our lives, turning what feels like chaos into a series of purposeful actions. By reframing our tasks as part of a chosen engagement rather than overwhelming demands, we create a more balanced, intentional approach to our daily activities.

Read more from Rizaldy R. Ferrer, Ph.D.


References

Boroditsky, L. (2001). Does Language Shape Thought? Mandarin and English Speakers’ Conceptions of Time. Cognitive Psychology, 43(1), 1-22.

Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.

Gordon, C., Montgomery, A., & Napier, S. (2019). The Language of Stress: How Words Relate to Mental Health. Journal of Applied Linguistics, 15(2), 210-227.

Killingsworth, M. A., & Gilbert, D. T. (2010). A Wandering Mind Is an Unhappy Mind. Science, 330(6006), 932.

Matthews, G., & Wells, A. (2020). Stress and Language: The Role of Everyday Expressions in Mental Health. Health Psychology Review, 14(3), 456-478.

Whorf, B. L. (1956). Language, Thought, and Reality: Selected Writings of Benjamin Lee Whorf. MIT Press.

7NOW

The 7 Network of Wellbeing

In my 30 years of studying human behavior and wellbeing, I’ve discovered that optimal personal growth and fulfillment stem from enriching multiple facets of our lives, not just focusing on one. Through my work as a psychologist, meeting over a thousand individuals, seven common themes consistently emerge. However, I’ve noticed that when even one of these areas is overlooked, it negatively impacts a person’s overall sense of wellbeing, underscoring the importance of maintaining harmony across all facets of life.

The “7 Network of Wellbeing” is coined after learning from the research and insights of Peter Wohlleben, a German forester and author of The Hidden Life of Trees, and Suzanne Simard, a renowned forest ecologist. They explain how trees are far more social and interconnected than previously understood, sharing nutrients and information through fungal networks beneath the soil. This mutual support system helps trees thrive and survive as a community, rather than as isolated individuals.

In the documentary Intelligent Trees, released in 2016 and directed by Julia Dordel and Guido Tölke, it explores the fascinating communication and cooperative behaviors of trees, particularly focusing on how they interact through an underground network often referred to as the “Wood Wide Web.”

Just like trees connect through underground networks to nurture and sustain each other, our wellbeing is interconnected through seven essential realms: physical, psychological, social, environmental, economic, spiritual, and artistic. Each aspect supports and enriches the other, creating a resilient network for holistic health and happiness. And when these areas of our lives are in harmony, they create a strong foundation for overall wellbeing.

Here are short tips for you to begin your practice of enriching your 7 Network of Wellbeing:

  1. Physical: Engage in regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep to maintain and enhance your physical health.
  2. Psychological: Practice mindfulness and meditation to manage stress and foster emotional resilience.
  3. Social: Nurture relationships by staying connected with loved ones, participating in community activities, and practicing active listening.
  4. Environmental: Spend time in nature and adopt eco-friendly habits, like recycling and reducing waste.
  5. Economic: Create a budget, save regularly, and set financial goals to manage your resources effectively.
  6. Spiritual: Reflect on your values and purpose through meditation, prayer, or other spiritual practices.
  7. Artistic: Engage in creative activities like drawing, writing, or music to express yourself and stimulate your imagination.

These practices can help you build a balanced and interconnected sense of wellbeing across these seven areas.

Read more from Rizaldy R. Ferrer, Ph.D.

Mental Health

When we talk about wellbeing, we often think of physical health – eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. But did you know that mental health is just as important? It affects how we think, feel, and behave.

Why is mental health important?

  • It affects our daily life: How we handle stress, relationships, and work.
  • It influences our physical health: Mental health issues can lead to physical problems like headaches or stomach aches.
  • It’s essential for our wellbeing: A healthy mind contributes to a fulfilling life.

How to Nurture Your Mental Health

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices help you focus on the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety.
  2. Connect with Others: Building strong relationships can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.
  3. Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and enough sleep are crucial for overall wellbeing.
  4. Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to talk to a therapist or counselor.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Just like you would seek the help of a physician when you are ill, it’s just as important to seek help for your mental health. By understanding the basics and taking steps to improve your wellbeing, you can live a happier and healthier life.

What is Serotonin and How is it Related to Our Mental Health?

Serotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a neurotransmitter—a chemical messenger that helps transmit signals in the brain and throughout the nervous system. It is primarily known for its role in regulating mood, but it also influences sleep, appetite, digestion, memory, and even social behavior. The majority of the body’s serotonin, about 90%, is produced in the gut, while the rest is synthesized in the brain. Once released, serotonin interacts with specific receptors to produce various effects, depending on where it acts in the body or brain. This neurotransmitter has a complex role, and its levels and functionality are influenced by genetics, diet, stress, and physical health (Berger et al., 2009).

In terms of mental health, serotonin is widely associated with conditions like depression and anxiety. Low serotonin levels are thought to contribute to mood disorders, which is why many antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are designed to increase serotonin activity in the brain. SSRIs work by preventing serotonin from being reabsorbed into neurons, thereby allowing it to remain in the synaptic gap longer and enhance communication between nerve cells. However, while serotonin plays a significant role, mental health conditions are typically influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Recent research has even questioned the simplistic “low serotonin equals depression” theory, suggesting that the relationship between serotonin and mental health is more complex than once believed (Moncrieff et al., 2022).

Understanding serotonin’s impact on mental health highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treatment. This includes addressing physical health, stress management, and other factors that influence neurotransmitter function. While serotonin is not the sole factor driving mental health, its role in mood regulation and emotional stability makes it a critical area of study for understanding and treating conditions like depression and anxiety.

References:

Berger, M., Gray, J. A., & Roth, B. L. (2009). The expanded biology of serotonin. Annual Review of Medicine, 60(1), 355-366.

Moncrieff, J., Cooper, R. E., Stockmann, T., et al. (2022). The serotonin theory of depression: A systematic umbrella review of the evidence. Molecular Psychiatry, 27, 2404–2414. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41380-022-01661-0

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