9 Important Things We May Have Overlooked And Should Start Caring About In 2016
Let's give 'Malaysian time' a break already.
Published For Volkswagen - 18 Jan 2016, 04:00 AM
Cover image via Nerd Fitness1. Having an honest answer to "What do you wanna be when you grow up?"
Because let's face it, life's too short for coasting.
If you've been feeling like there's a disconnect between who you are and who you want to be, take as much time as you need to figure out the direction you want to be heading in. **Take a good look at your life and pick out the areas that need improving or changing**, whether it's the relationship you're in or what you do for a living.
Image via Mojo
2. Being punctual
There's nothing cute about being known as 'the one who's always late'.
If you've been operating on 'Malaysian time' all this while, it's time to cut the habit. For a start, you could try **setting the time faster on all your devices to trick yourself into thinking you're already running late.**
Image via Tumblr
3. Working on your self-esteem
Everyone has insecurities. The idea is to not allow it to take a toll on your confidence.
Here's something you could try to build up your self-esteem: **Do what you never thought you could!** If the thought of giving a speech is your ultimate nightmare, for example, volunteer to do it the next time an opportunity arises. Sure, it may end up awkward… but it most definitely will be empowering and enlightening too!
Image via Tumblr
4. Choosing to encourage instead of criticise
When you don't particularly agree with someone, make it a habit to find the positive side of things.
**Instead of beating ideas down, look for constructive suggestions that could help them succeed.** After all, all the most mind-blowing things in the world started with a bizarre little idea.
Image via Reddit
5. Taking good care of your mental health
It's way awesome if you're a staunch believer in squats and burpees, but your physical health is only one part of the equation.
**Encouraging a positive mental environment includes learning to deal with stress.** If you're all about creativity, load up on a spot of mindfulness with the latest [adult colouring books](http://says.com/my/lifestyle/11-reasons-why-you-should-totally-buy-a-colouring-book-right-now) trend.
Image via Movie Quotes
6. Surrounding yourself with a good support system
Be with people who love you unconditionally and appreciate your strengths and quirks!
**Take a good look at the company you keep and prioritise people who encourage you to become a better version of yourself.** If there are certain relationships in your life that are dragging you down, consider snipping them off for good.
Image via Sitdjen's Magic
7. Setting your own happiness as a priority
It's not only okay to be a little self-centred, it's absolutely necessary!
Your needs matter; you can ignore them all you want, but that deep, lurking feeling of discontentment is always going to be there. **Value yourself, and actively seek out ways that will boost your happiness.** Whether it's spending an afternoon in a quaint little bookstore or getting that [dependable car](http://vw.volkswagen.com.my/promotions/vw-cny-2016/) you've been saving up for, you do you.
Image via Tumblr
8. Keeping your word
The digital age makes it easier than ever to *ffk* on plans, but don't go down that route.
You know that feeling when you've set aside the evening for a person, you've gotten ready and are about to step out the door, when you get a flimsy text asking if it's okay to reschedule? **Unless you have a completely unavoidable reason to cancel on plans, don't be that flaky person.**
Image via The NYC Film Chick
9. Living in the now
Stop looking forward to the weekend. Be the kind of person who has exciting plans on a Wednesday.
**Appreciate life *right now*, because right now is all we have.** The past has come and gone and the future is uncertain, so learn how to be in the 'here and now' and experience life as it's happening.
Image via Giphy
It's about time to prioritise things that go a long way, and there's no better time to start than a fresh new January!
In the spirit of caring, Volkswagen is using the dawn of a new year to truly listen to its drivers and now may be just the right time for you to get in on all that VW action
This new year, fortune favours the fun-loving and to ring the new year in, start a fresh journey! To make the occasion even more auspicious, **trade in your car with Volkswagen and get additional rebates for any one of the featured models.** Find out which ones could be your potential new ride [here](http://vw.volkswagen.com.my/promotions/vw-cny-2016). 😉
Image via Volkswagen
