AOK Today #40 - Glam gala

AOK Today: Plan a fun night out based around your favourite charity/cause's gala night!

"No one has ever become poor by giving." - Anne Frank

How It Works: There is a unique, powerful, and positive rewarding neural experience linked to giving to another person, (compared to something like receiving an award or winning money). Because the experience is social, there is not only a dopamine response, there is also activation of pathways in the brain that release oxytocin, which is a neuropeptide that signals trust, safety, and connection (often referred to as the ‘cuddle hormone’). Amy Novoteny explains, When oxytocin is part of the equation, the reward is slightly different in that it can be sustained longer, unlike the brief lifespan of a more pure dopamine response. This AOK combines the power of social giving, with solving a challenge of 'adulting': As life becomes fuller, it can be hard to find mutually available time to spend with friends, to make arrangements to have a night out/have genuine fun with those friends. A charity gala night addresses all of the above! These nights are promoted months in advance, typically embed fun throughout the evening (live music, dancing), and are a great source of social giving. Hop on Eventbrite and select the category "charity and causes" to personalise this AOK, and align it with a cause you're passionate about, a place that works, and amp up the meaning (and wellbeing return!).

Cost: This one can be costly - so plan it months in advance if you need to save! Anywhere from $80 - $250.

Why I love it: It is social, purposeful, meaningful and fun!

Happy Giving |XOX|