Five Things to Do This Year

Photo: Kazi Tahsin Agaz Apurbo

It's a brand new day, a brand new year, and we can safely say that at least 40% of the people want a 'fresh start'. Well, we're here to help you make that happen. There are many 'habits', if you will, that Bangladeshis share in unison. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. Having said that, here are 5-to-do's this New Year, to make sure we kick-start 2016 as positively as possible.

Use Public Transportation: There is a very famous quote by the former mayor of Bogota, Enrique Penalosa, where he said, “A developed country is not a place where the poor have cars, it's where the rich use public transportation.” While everyday we sit in our lavish air-conditioned cars, and complain about being stuck in traffic, we often forget that the car we're sitting in is contributing to that very traffic. Maybe we should take the first step, and take the bus?

Keep Clean: Once again, a lot of us will throw chocolate wrappers and tissues from our privileged lives inside the car or our home window, and then complain about 'how dirty Dhaka is'. Instead of expecting those living on the streets to clean up after us, maybe it's time for us to be a little cautious about the environment ourselves. 2016 is the perfect time to start.

Quit Smoking: While this does not apply to many, you would be surprised how many it does apply to. Even if you don't want to quit smoking (which you should, to at least live healthy), at least don't force others around you to smoke. Take your cigarette outside, if you are surrounded by people who don't have the horrid habit themselves. And most importantly, don't smoke in front of children.

The Gross Fluid Habit: It's sad that 2015 is almost over and these particularly uncouth issues can still be applied to so many, many people. Peeing and spitting on the streets is a public nuisance. No two ways about that. Not only is it visually disgusting, it's gross in every other way. There're bathrooms everywhere. If women can hold it in, you men should be able to as well. And grab a tissue whenever you feel like something's lodged in your throat and you need to get it out. No one needs to hear and see you discharge fluids from your body!

Be Kind: This is something that we could all use in our daily lives. This particular act not only helps in uplifting others, especially the old, young, ill, and poor, you would be surprised at what bringing a smile to someone else's face can do for you. You will undoubtedly spend the rest of the day feeling light and joyful. Try doing at least one act of kindness per day, and you'll see how addictive being kind can become!

There are so many things keep listed for the New Year coming ahead, to renew your lifestyle, your faith, your hope and everything in between. Follow these five simple resolutions, make some of your own and you'll be able to ensure a good year ahead, for yourself and those around you. Have a brilliant New Year!