12 empowering ways to celebrate International Women's Day 2020 in Singapore

Let's all be #EachforEqual.

Just so you know, this year's theme for International Women's Day is "An equal world is an enabled world" - a strong call-to-action to build a gender equal world. Inspired? Here are some small ways to celebrate International Women's Day 2020.

1. KEEP A DIARY

Taking note of what you get up to on a daily (or weekly) basis is a great way to look back on your life and see how you can improve it. When you can look back on what made you happy, sad, scared, or just downright angry, you’ll have a better understanding of what you need in your life and make informed changes to work towards said goals.

2. FOCUS ON 5 MINUTES AT A TIME

So you’re not a morning person and you’re constantly in an amazing race to get into work on time? Instead of making grand plans to wake up an hour earlier, start by waking up five minutes earlier each day (or week, if you want to ease in slowly) and gradually increase this time frame to reach your goal.

3. LOG OFF SOCIAL MEDIA

Stop existing online and start living in the real world. Instead of constantly taking “Instagram-worthy” photos, look at your surroundings and enjoy the view. And stop reading about where all your friends went on holiday and what they ate for dinner; instead, catch up with them in real life and find out about the non-glossy moments, too.

4. MOVE IT

We know exercise is good for us, but it’s often hard to get motivated. Don’t sign up for that annual gym membership yet because there’s a high chance you won’t go often enough to get your money’s worth. Instead, start small by going for 30-minute walks or even doing exercises at home.

Slowly build your energy levels and you’ll soon be encouraged to exercise more.

5. START GIVING

With so many organisations in Singapore championing such good causes, there’s really no excuse for you not to get involved in charity work. And, seriously, everyone has time for it; all it takes is an hour or two each month (or whenever you have time, really).

Volunteer at a children's or old folk’s home; deliver food to the needy; or raise awareness on wildlife protection - search for organisations online and rope in a friend or two while you’re at it.

6. DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT

It might sound scary but it’s good to step out of your comfort zone sometimes. So do something you’ve never done before - go to the cinema alone, perhaps, or try a type of cuisine for the first time. They don’t have to be big challenges, you can start small and work your way up to those (skydiving, anyone?).

7. CHECK YOUR HEALTH

You know that annual health screening you keep postponing? Call your clinic now and make an appointment. Making sure we’re at our optimal health is one of the first steps to enjoying life.

Also, many health issues have a higher chance of being treated the earlier they’re diagnosed, so it’s good to know exactly what’s going on with your body.

8. JOIN THE CLUB

We should never stop learning, so take a class and pick up a skill or hobby you’ll enjoy. Whether it’s a new language, pottery or a yoga class, it’ll take your mind off whatever is stressing you out on that day.

9. BE MINDFUL

A lot of life’s stresses involve living in the past or panicking about the future. When you choose to live in the now, you’ll be more appreciative of your surroundings and achievements and, thus, be happier.

10. HELLO, BOSS

Have a serious chat with your boss to find out about your job prospects or even if you can take on any extra duties, if you feel you can handle them. You’re not going to get that promotion if you’re a wallflower in the office so make your presence known and go forth and climb that corporate ladder! 

11. A HAIRY IDEA

Changing the way you look is never easy but it’s often worth the risk. Why not start with a new haircut? Speak to your hairdresser about trying a new look as they’re the most qualified to advice what would work best with your face shape and hair type.

It’s a bold step but you never know until you try; what’s the worst that could happen, really?

12. BE KIND

The most important change you could make is to not be so hard on yourself. We are often our own worst critics and this negativity can stand in the way of our own success. So pick yourself up, and continue to press for progress. What matters most is your determination to move forward!

This article was first published in Her World Online.