Instead of focusing your resolutions on yourself, this year, make a change by channelling goodwill to the people around you
Take time off once a month to make a difference in the local community by volunteering your support and aid in charity events.
How many times have you set a perfectly feasible resolution, only to forget about it? This year, try something different and be motivated by making a difference in someone else’s life.
As the old adage goes, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Showing kindness and generosity is the first step to making 2016 a remarkable year, not just for you but for others.
RESOLUTION #1: COMPLIMENT AT LEAST ONE PERSON A DAY
Saying something encouraging can make someone’s day, whether it’s as simple as “well done” or complimenting a good outfit. Recently, The Guardian and Bloomberg reported that Singapore ranks as the world’s least emotional country, according to a Gallup survey across 150 nations worldwide.
It’s time to change that. Let’s start channelling positive thoughts and expressing them to others.
It may boost your mood for the rest of the day too, especially if you receive a compliment or two in return.
RESOLUTION #2: VOLUNTEER ONCE A MONTH
Local non-profit organisations like as SG Cares and Beautiful People hold events where some of the less fortunate, the elderly and the handicapped can get together for a good time. You can help make their day memorable by your company and helping hand.
For instance, SG Cares organises karaoke sessions for some hospices, and Beautiful People connects with disadvantaged young women through baking and makeup sessions.
While you’re at it, bring your friends and pass your resolution on to them too.
For volunteer opportunities, visit www.sgcares.org and www.beautifulpeople.org.sg.
RESOLUTION #3: SHOP LOCAL, EAT LOCAL
Singapore has many local brands that produce delectable foodstuff, such as GSH Conserves’ fresh and interesting jams.
In a small country such as ours, it’s especially important to support local businesses, particularly when this includes endangered shops like your favourite neighbourhood hawker stall.
This 2016, let’s endeavour to start shopping locally, eating locally and recognising where our money is going. Grab your morning cuppa from the kopitiam instead of an international coffee chain, sniff out more cafes and zi char restaurants run by local folk and shop at independent boutiques rather than big-brand stores. The corners of Haji Lane and Scape conceal some great inexpensive finds.
RESOLUTION #4: DO CHARITY WORK ABROAD
Change the world and let the world change you on your next adventure abroad, by embarking on an overseas volunteer programme. (Photo: Supannee Hickman / Shutterstock.com)
Very often, the world changes those who travel. This time, why not attempt to change the world a little? Give something back on your next trip, be it in aiding the less fortunate children in Nepal (or nearer, in one of our neighbouring countries) or even learning about and supporting endangered animals in Africa.
Overseas volunteer programmes can last from a few days to a few months.
Singapore International Volunteers organises itineraries focused purely on volunteer work, while travel agencies such as STA Travel include sightseeing or city tours in their programmes.
For some overseas volunteering opportunities, visit www.sif.org.sg or www.statravel.com.sg/volunteer.
By Pamela Chow
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