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6 Ways Playing Guitar Boosts Mental Well-Being

April 1, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

April’s convergence of International Guitar Month and Stress Awareness Month makes a perfect pairing that celebrates the healing power of music for mental well-being.

While music has long been heralded as a universal remedy, the guitar offers far more than just melodies. Studies, stories, and specialists alike agree: playing the guitar is a proven method to reduce stress.

Music has the extraordinary ability to uplift and inspire. As someone who’s played guitar for years, I encourage everyone to immerse themselves in the joy of playing guitar this month. It’s a simple, powerful way to enhance your well-being.

Striking the Right Chord: Playing Guitar Creates Harmony

I believe playing guitar nurtures both mind and soul. Here are six ways I’ve found the instrument to boost mental well-being.

Stress Escape: Anyone can lose themselves in music and find calm in the strums.
Boosted Mood: Playing guitar releases dopamine, the happiness chemical.
Mindfulness: Focusing on music reduces anxiety and centers one’s mind.
Social Connection: Sharing music builds powerful, emotional bonds.
Creative Outlet: Songwriting expresses emotions and eases stress.
Better Sleep: Relaxing guitar sessions lead to improved rest.

In All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I emphasize how music minimizes stress and strengthens relationships that matter. When I was young, I lived music down to my bones, and harmonies played constantly in my head. I wanted to be a rock star more than anything else.

Today, music speaks to the soul like nothing else can. This love for music, this awe I have for the process, has been with me for as long as I can remember. Music has transformed my life and offered calmness and clarity where there was chaos. When anxiety takes hold, a melody actually soothes my nerves. Whether it’s a soft tune or a lively rhythm with bands I play in, music brings a peace I never thought possible. It’s been my strength, saving me more times than I can count.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on April 1, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of music. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

3 Proven Steps for Active Listening

March 3, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Listening, I believe, is one of the most underrated tools to connect with others. It’s through listening that we truly meet people where they are, and I’ve experienced its life-changing impact firsthand. I encourage exploring and celebrating the transformational power of listening. It can strengthen personal and professional relationships and foster deeper understanding.

In my book, “All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony,” I recall a pivotal moment when I sought advice from motivational speaker Denis Waitley regarding my young son’s behavioral challenges. Feeling a growing frustration as a parent, I feared my response might escalate the situation.

Denis’ advice was simple yet profound: don’t punish by removing something tied to their self-esteem. Trusting this counsel, my wife and I paused, listened intently to our son, and discovered the root of the problem — a need for understanding, not correction. That moment, guided by listening, prevented a major parenting mistake and deepened the parent-son bond in ways we never expected.

Another striking example came when a friend confided in me about a strained relationship with someone in their life. Instead of offering premature solutions, I listened without judgment. By giving my friend the space to share openly, I helped them feel understood and validated. The tension they carried began to dissolve simply because someone cared enough to truly hear them. Sometimes, listening is the most powerful gift you can give.

3 Proven Steps to Improve Active Listening

To inspire others to hone their listening skills, here are three proven steps for active listening:

1. Seek First to Understand

Inspired by Stephen R. Covey’s teachings, this principle encourages focused, empathetic listening. Instead of planning your response, aim to fully grasp the other person’s thoughts and emotions.

2. Listen to Your Inner Voice

Active listening isn’t just external. Assess your own biases, assumptions, and mental distractions. When you’re mindful of your inner dialogue, you can approach listening with greater clarity.

3. Lead with Empathy

Engage not only with your ears but with your heart. By imagining yourself in the other person’s position, you can respond with compassion and create stronger, more authentic connections.

A Relationship-Strengthening Superpower

Listening is not merely a soft skill; it’s a superpower that strengthens relationships and fosters goodwill. This March, I invite everyone to reflect on how intentional listening can amplify personal and professional success. Whether in boardrooms or living rooms, listening has the potential to rebuild trust, diffuse conflict, and nurture growth.

Listening starts with a choice. It’s about showing up for others, being present, and moving beyond surface-level conversations. This month is a vital reminder of how each of us can make our world better, one conversation at a time.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on March 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of listening. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Kindness is Forever: Extending the Spirit of Valentine’s Day

February 18, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Valentine’s Day has long been connected with grand gestures of love—bouquets of roses, handwritten notes, candlelit dinners. But at its core, that day is about something deeper and more universal—kindness. Kindness fuels relationships, strengthens community, and, most importantly, makes us human. While February 14 prompts many to express affection, why stop there? Why not find ways to extend this generosity and warmth for the rest of the year?

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

Kindness is more than a simple act; it’s a ripple that spreads outward, touching lives in ways we often can’t predict. Remember the cashier who greeted you warmly or the stranger who held the door open? These small gestures can change moods in an instant.

There’s a story of a woman who anonymously left flowers on her neighbors’ porches each week. One day, she found a note tucked into her mailbox. It was from a neighbor who had been battling depression, and those flowers had given them a reason to hold on. Flowers! This is the power of kindness—a power we underestimate but one that has the potential to change lives.

Now, imagine if each of us committed to kindness. What would our communities look like? How much more connected, empathetic, and supportive would our world become?

Practical Ways to Practice Kindness Daily

You don’t need to orchestrate grand acts to make an impact. Kindness often lies in the quiet, everyday moments. Wondering how to incorporate it into your routine? Here are some simple yet powerful ways to do so:

1. Show appreciation freely.

Have you thanked your family member or co-worker who always pitches in without being asked? Or told a friend how much you value their guidance? Gratitude costs nothing and yet holds immense value.

2. Be present in your interactions.

How often are we distracted when talking to others, scrolling through our devices, or thinking about something else? Take a moment to be present and really listen. Ask how someone is doing—and genuinely show interest in their response.

3. Offer unexpected generosity.

Whether it’s covering the cost of a meal for someone in need or sharing a positive review about a local small business, giving with no expectation of return can create unexpected joy.

Kindness isn’t just a gift to others; it benefits you as well. Studies have shown that acts of kindness release endorphins and even lower blood pressure. It’s a win-win situation for both the giver and the receiver.

A Year-Round Call to Action

Valentine’s Day serves as an important reminder of the power of love, but why confine that spirit to a single day? By weaving kindness into the fabric of our daily lives, we can contribute to a more compassionate world. Here are three actionable ideas you can take on to spread kindness throughout the year:

1. Write a thoughtful note.

Leave a kind note on a coworker’s desk, send an encouraging text to a friend, or place a thank-you card in your neighbor’s mailbox. Small, heartfelt messages can brighten someone’s day and make them feel valued.

2. Compliment someone sincerely.

Whether it’s a stranger, colleague, or family member, offer a genuine compliment. A simple “I love how creative you are” or “Your positivity inspires me” can have a big effect.

3. Spend time with someone who might feel lonely.

Visit an elderly neighbor, call a relative you haven’t spoken with in a while, or invite a friend out. Your presence and attention—showing them that you “see” them—can mean so much more than you realize.

When we welcome kindness into our lives, it changes everything. It softens arguments, strengthens relationships, and fosters a world where empathy becomes the norm. Everyone has the capacity to make this shift, beginning with the smallest action.

This February, as we celebrate love in all its forms, remember that kindness is its most enduring expression. Extend it freely, cultivate it intentionally, and watch how it transforms not only the lives of others but your own.

5 Strategies to Build Stronger Self-Esteem Every Day

February 3, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Throughout February, I invite you to celebrate International Boost Self-Esteem Month. This month is dedicated to building confidence, fostering self-worth, and inspiring personal empowerment.

Because self-esteem is the cornerstone of a healthy, fulfilling life—shaping relationships, fueling careers and influencing overall well-being—now the ideal time for individuals to prioritize themselves and take meaningful steps toward becoming more confident and empowered.

A healthy self-esteem energized me to power through a colossal failure to lead a billion-dollar global company.

After presenting to executives at a major U.S. retailer, I was bluntly told I had “completely wasted” their time, which spiraled me into an all-time low.

As I write in All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, “We were shot down in such an embarrassing manner and absolutely demoralized that my business partner and I could have told ourselves we were failures, that we had no business being in video production. Instead, we determined to use our failure as a stepping stone for our success.”

During a long layover in Denver, my business partner and I wrote a business plan on the back of about 20 napkins. This gutsy feat launched our careers to higher levels than we imagined.

This month offers a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and take meaningful steps toward valuing yourself more deeply. Everyone has setbacks, but the success secret lies in how you respond. And that starts with boosting your self-esteem.

Self-Esteem Building Strategies

To make this month inspirational and actionable, here are five effective strategies for building stronger self-esteem every day.

1. Practice Self-Compassion

Give yourself the grace you’d offer a close friend. Start each day by treating yourself with kindness. When you make a mistake, remind yourself that no one is perfect and instantly replace self-criticism with supportive words like “I’m doing the best I can.”

2. Set Achievable Goals

Building self-esteem comes from celebrating progress, not perfection. Break larger goals into small, actionable steps because tracking your wins—no matter how small—will boost confidence.

3. Challenge Negative Thoughts

Negative self-talk can feel automatic, but push back. Ask yourself, “Is this thought based on fact or an unfair assumption?” Replace critical self-talk with statements that reflect your strengths.

4. Practice Daily Gratitude

Gratitude is powerful and shifts focus from what’s missing to what’s meaningful. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. This practice rewires your brain to recognize the good and build a habit of optimism.

5. Learn Assertiveness Skills

The ability to assert your thoughts, needs, and boundaries with confidence is essential for healthy relationships and self-respect. Practice saying how you feel and what you need in calm but firm tones. Assertiveness isn’t aggression; it’s self-respect in action.

Discover Your Best Qualities

Each day of International Boost Self-Esteem Month is an opportunity to take small but powerful steps toward a better version of yourself. Remember, these strategies aren’t about overhauling who you are. They’re about discovering and celebrating your best qualities.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Feb. 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of boosting self-esteem. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

6 Steps to Elevate Your Quality of Life

January 2, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

During International Quality of Life Month, I urge individuals to focus on what truly matters—mental well-being, self-care, financial health, physical fitness, lifelong learning, and meaningful relationships.

With today’s rapid progress, intentionality and small steps toward balance are critical during times of unprecedented change and possibility.

Life is moving faster than ever, but the most critical investment we can make is in ourselves. People who have faith tend to act. They take risks and move forward with hope, enthusiasm, and confidence that things will work out.

In All the Right Reasons, I write, “Brad Henry, former Governor of Oklahoma, said, ‘Believe in yourself, and the rest will fall into place. Have faith in your own abilities, work hard, and there is nothing you cannot accomplish.’ I’ve found that having faith and belief in yourself is one of the fundamental keys to success and happiness.”

6 Actionable Steps to Foster Personal Growth

To inspire action, here are six actionable steps anyone can take this month to elevate their quality of life and foster personal growth:

1. Prioritize Mental Well-Being

Set aside time to care for your mental health. Whether through mindfulness, therapy, journaling, or simply unplugging from screens, ensure your mind gets the rest and nourishment it needs.

2. Practice Consistent Self-Care

Dedicate moments to recharge, whether through hobbies you love, enjoying nature, or finding joy in small daily rituals. Self-care isn’t indulgence—it’s a necessity, which is why I play in two bands. For me, music is medicine for the soul.

3. Strengthen Financial Health

Build financial confidence by creating a budget, setting small but meaningful savings goals, or learning about smart money management strategies.

4. Commit to Physical Fitness

Move your body regularly, whether it’s through walking, yoga, strength training, or a sport you enjoy. Consistent activity improves both physical and mental health.

5. Pursue Lifelong Learning

I love to engage my mind by exploring new skills, books, or online courses. Growth doesn’t end with formal education—there’s always more to discover, and it’s fascinating on several levels.

6. Cultivate Meaningful Relationships

Take time to nurture the connections that matter. Reach out to loved ones, have thoughtful conversations, or establish new connections that inspire positivity.

By focusing on these areas, you can see growth in key dimensions of life. Aligning efforts in these vital aspects will enhance personal well-being and enable you to thrive in an era of extraordinary advancement and transformation.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Jan. 2, 2025. More inspiring examples of the power of intentionality and self-care are shared throughout the best-selling All the Right Reasons, where all proceeds go to feeding hungry children. Each book purchase provides 40 meals.

Build Joy Through These 5 Meaningful Acts of Generosity

December 2, 2024/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Create joy, spread kindness, and uplift our communities through acts of generosity, whether big or small. I’m encouraging each of us to promote compassion and connection as we celebrate National Build Joy Day. This special day is a powerful reminder of the impact thoughtful actions can have on individuals and society.

National Build Joy Day, which takes place each Dec. 2, is an incredible opportunity to reflect on the positive changes we can create. It doesn’t take a monumental effort to make someone’s day brighter. Even the smallest gesture of kindness can leave a lasting impact.

My call to action is simple — look for ways to lift others. In doing so, we also lift ourselves.

Look within your circles for examples of kindness. In the ways that really count, my parents were truly extraordinary. They lived their lives serving and teaching others, not the least of whom were their children. Virtue meant something to my mom and dad, and threads of kindness, hard work, and integrity wove the strong cords of character in their lives.

My parents’ lessons, both spoken and lived, shaped the man I have become and the person I still hope to be.

5 Ways to Build Joy in Your Communities

To support this call to action, here are five ways to build joy in your community.

1. Volunteer Your Time

Offer your time to local shelters, food banks, or non-profits. A few hours donated can provide much-needed support to organizations serving those in need.

2. Perform Random Acts of Kindness

Pay for someone’s lunch, leave a thoughtful note, or help a neighbor with errands. These small acts can brighten someone’s day.

3. Express Gratitude Publicly

Recognize the hard work of frontline workers or thank someone whose kindness inspires you. Gratitude creates ripples of positivity.

4. Organize a Community Event

Bring neighbors together by hosting a park clean-up, a food drive, or a donation swap. Shared efforts foster unity and connection.

5. Donate to a Worthy Cause

Contribute financially or donate items, such as clothes or non-perishable food, to organizations making a difference in your area.

#BuildJoyDay

National Build Joy Day amplifies these kinds of efforts. It’s a chance for individuals and groups alike to think creatively about making life better for others.

Joy is contagious. When you give to others, you also give to yourself. You create a cycle of positivity that strengthens individuals, families, and entire communities.

I invite everyone to share their acts of kindness using #BuildJoyDay on social media to inspire others and celebrate the day together. By working collectively, we can make National Build Joy Day a memorable and impactful occasion.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on National Build Joy Day, Dec. 2, 2024. More inspiring examples of joy and kindness are found throughout All the Right Reasons, where all proceeds go to feeding hungry children. Each book purchase provides 40 meals.

Gratitude Creates a Profound Impact on Health & Happiness

November 1, 2024/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

This November, I encourage everyone everywhere to celebrate National Gratitude Month and experience gratitude’s profound impact on health and happiness. From enhancing psychological well-being to boosting physical health, gratitude has a transformative effect that can change lives in meaningful ways.

National Gratitude Month is a time to recognize gratitude’s lasting influence on our lives.

Studies show that grateful individuals sleep better, experience reduced stress, maintain healthier diets, and engage in increased physical activity. Moreover, a July 2024 Harvard study showed a connection between gratitude and longevity among older adults.

The core values that make up my foundation are faith, family, service, gratitude, and honesty. Those things matter most to me; I try to live by these values. They are manifest in how I treat others and the choices I make. I am committed to living in harmony with these values, particularly when times are tough and I feel pressure to do otherwise.

3 Things to Enhance Feelings of Gratitude

Gratitude Jar. Every day this month, write something you’re grateful for on a small piece of paper and add it to a jar. At the end of the month, review your collection of positive moments to reflect on.
Thank-You Notes: Send thank-you notes to people who have made a difference in your life. Even a heartfelt text or email expressing gratitude to others can strengthen relationships and foster a deeper sense of connection.
Pay it Forward. Perform random acts of kindness and see how the ripple effect of gratitude can spread joy far and wide.

Feeling Grateful

My gratitude begins with my parents, wife, and children.

Mom shaped my life, and I am forever grateful. She glowed from the inside out and made everyone feel like they were the most important person in the world. I am also so grateful for the life my dad lived, for the lessons he taught, and for the values he instilled in me. His faith runs through me and buoys me up.

My wife, Lori, continues to bless my life with her goodness. I’ll be forever grateful for my wonderful family.

When I think of my precious relationships with my wife, children, and grandchildren, and I consider my career at USANA, I thank God.

Tap to Read More on Gratitude

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Nov. 1, 2024. More inspiring examples of gratitude are found throughout All the Right Reasons, where all proceeds go to feeding hungry children. Each book purchase provides 40 meals.

Country Music Month: Achieving Mental Wellness Through Music

October 1, 2024/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

As vibrant melodies of Country Music Month fill the air this October, there is no better time to explore the symphony between our love for music and the pursuit of mental wellness.

Country music, with its rich storytelling and emotional resonance, offers more than just a soundtrack to our lives. It serves as a guiding force in achieving mental well-being.

Our commitment to health is underscored by the power of music to transform lives. Country music, in particular, provides a unique blend of emotional expression and narrative. It offers listeners a deep connection that can be both healing and uplifting.

In a world where maintaining mental health is paramount, balancing life through music and wellness practices is essential. Here are five key benefits of incorporating music into daily life for mental balance.

5 Mental Wellness Benefits of Music

Emotional Release: Music allows individuals to express feelings that might otherwise remain bottled up, offering a safe outlet for emotional release.
Stress Reduction: Engaging with music can lower stress levels, helping listeners find peace amid the chaos of daily life.
Connection and Community: Country music often tells stories that resonate on a personal level, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Mindful Presence: Listening to or playing music encourages mindfulness, grounding individuals in the present moment and away from future anxieties or past regrets.
Inspiration and Motivation: The motivational narratives in country music can inspire listeners to pursue their goals and dreams with renewed energy.

When the music comes from the heart, the connection between the musician and the audience is exhilarating and stunningly honest. Music speaks to the soul like nothing else can. This love for music, this awe I have for the process, has been with me for as long as I can remember. Music has transformed my life.

As we tune into the heartfelt melodies and stories this month, let’s also tune into ourselves. Let’s recognize the vital role mental health plays in our overall well-being. At USANA, we believe in the strength of a balanced life, where music and health come together in harmony.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Oct. 1, 2024. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony is available on Amazon. It uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

Successful Entrepreneurs Possess These 3 Key Traits

September 3, 2024/2 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Entrepreneurs are critical for driving innovation, economic growth, and stability. Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of today’s economy. Their courage to take risks, ability to innovate, and unwavering determination drive progress and create opportunities across industries.

Achieving success is not always an easy road. Years ago, my business partner and I gambled our future on a business pitch in Texas to a major U.S. retailer. We faced a crushing rejection by their top executives, but that very setback became the springboard for our thriving video production company going forward.

At that moment, I discovered that persistent determination is the hallmark of leaders.

The winning entrepreneur turns setbacks into stepping stones, using every failure as fuel for success. They hone their skills and adapt to new challenges. They cultivate resilience and maintain an unwavering focus in the face of rejection.

3 Key Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs

Over the years, I’ve identified many attributes common in successful entrepreneurs. Below are three key traits:

Innovative Thinking: Entrepreneurs must think outside the box and constantly seek new ways to solve problems. This creative approach is essential in developing unique products or services that stand out in a competitive market.
Resilience: The path of entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges. Successful entrepreneurs demonstrate resilience by bouncing back from setbacks and learning from failures. Staying determined is an important trait that moves you forward to success despite obstacles.
Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for entrepreneurs. It helps them build relationships and gain customer trust. When you master communications, you can convey your vision to investors and stakeholders. You inspire others. I’ve learned that clear communication is a trademark of successful business leadership.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Sept. 3, 2024. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

7 Steps to Soar Like Olympians

August 1, 2024/1 Comment/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Inspired by Olympians, I’m urging each of us to dig deep into our inner strength to excel in our personal and professional lives. Today’s elite athlete shows tremendous discipline, resilience, determination, and grit, all traits that develop winners in life.

So much of life comes down to understanding your passion and having the willingness and grit to turn it into something great. It’s easy to dream. The hard part is doing the work. The hard part is developing the grit.

As the sponsor of thousands of elite athletes, USANA Health Sciences values excellence and well-being. Our top-tier nutritional products undergo rigorous testing and nurture body, mind, and spirit.

Thinking about the Olympics, I’m inspired by the remarkable dedication and persistence of these athletes. Their relentless pursuit of excellence teaches us valuable lessons that we can apply in our own lives.

7 Steps to Achieve Success Like Olympians

Drawing inspiration from these elite competitors, here are seven practical steps to achieve success.

1. Set Clear Goals

Define career and personal objectives with specific, measurable goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain focus and direction.

2. Commit to Continuous Improvement

Constantly refine your skills; similarly, invest in lifelong learning. Attend workshops, seek mentorship, and stay updated with industry trends to stay ahead of the curve.

3. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity

View setbacks as opportunities for growth. Reflect on failures, identify lessons learned, and apply them to improve future performance.

4. Cultivate a Winning Mindset

A positive mental attitude is crucial for success. Stay optimistic, focus on your strengths, and visualize achievements. This mindset will propel one forward, even in challenging times.

5. Build a Supportive Network

Rely on coaches, teammates, and supporters. Be surrounded by individuals who encourage and motivate. Networking can provide valuable advice, opportunities, and emotional support.

6. Maintain Physical and Mental Well-being

Prioritize health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices contribute to sustained energy and focus.

7. Celebrate Progress

Celebrate every milestone, big or small. Recognize and reward achievements along the way to stay motivated and appreciate the upward journey.

The Road to Success

By implementing these steps, you can channel the determination into your own pursuits and achieve higher levels in both your career and personal life. In my global travels, I’ve seen that the road to success is paved with continual effort, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your own potential.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Aug. 1, 2024. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

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