In a recent episode of the Mind My Age podcast hosted by Neelam Brar, listeners were treated to an inspiring conversation with Jacqueline Way, founder of 365Give. Jacqueline shared her remarkable journey into the heart of giving and discussed how small acts of kindness can transform not only individual lives but also entire communities. The episode was a deep dive into how the practice of giving can contribute to healthier, more fulfilling aging—a concept central to Mind My Age’s mission.
The Foundation of 365Give
Jacqueline Way began 365Give as “a personal parenting project” with her eldest son, aiming to do one act of giving every day. This simple act turned into a global movement inspiring people worldwide. Jacqueline stressed the importance of intention, stating, “There’s nothing random about what we do. We actually encourage [others] to sit down with intention and planning.” Her approach not only nourished her son’s compassion but also laid the groundwork for what would become a life-altering mission.
Science-Backed Benefits of Giving
The essence of 365Give is grounded in science as much as it is in altruism. Jacqueline explained, “It’s called the helper’s high. We like to call it your daily dose of happiness.” This is a powerful combination of dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins—all triggered by acts of giving. These chemicals contribute to a profound sense of happiness and well-being. As Jacqueline noted, “The risk of you getting sick from diseases out of our control actually drops when you start giving on a regular basis.” 
Empowering the Next Generation
The power of 365Give lies in empowering individuals, especially children, to recognize their capacity to positively impact the world. As Jacqueline noted, children have the earliest and strongest potential to develop compassion: “When you empower and give children the ability to choose… they run with it.” The movement has reached over 700 schools globally, instilling in students the importance of empathy and kindness.
A Holistic View on Aging and Giving
Jacqueline’s insights connect deeply with Mind My Age’s mission to explore pathways toward a healthier, more purposeful life, particularly as we age. Giving, as Jacqueline illustrated, becomes a practice akin to any other wellness activity. She shared that for older adults, giving can improve health and prolong life: “It’s literally a full circle moment…you give, and it comes right back to you with love.”
Practical Tips for Giving
Among the practical suggestions Jacqueline provided, she emphasized starting small and personal. “Start with yourself,” she advised, encouraging self-care practices as foundational. Jacqueline also recommended looking at local opportunities, such as volunteering skills or creating small craft projects for those in need, which can be done from the comfort of one’s home. 
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jacqueline Way’s participation in the Mind My Age podcast illuminated the transformative power of giving. More than just acts of kindness, giving becomes a source of joy and health—a perpetual motion that enriches the lives of both givers and receivers. Jacqueline encourages everyone to “just do one small thing today,” illustrating that meaningful change starts with simple, everyday actions.
For those interested in integrating giving into their lifestyle, Jacqueline advises visiting 365Give for ideas and guidance. Whether you’re seeking to rediscover your purpose or simply want to infuse more positivity into your day, this conversation reminds you that small acts of giving hold the power to change the world one day at a time.
Stay tuned for future episodes of Mind My Age for more stories and inspiration on living with purpose and joy.
