Get a Fresh Perspective in 2009
January 12, 2009
THE URBAN SCRAWL
gmail.com

The start of the year always feels like a clean slate, an opportunity to change things from the year before, set new goals, and meet new challenges. So instead of the usual resolutions to lose weight, quit smoking or pay off debt… consider looking at the world with a new lens, and make a commitment to help make your city a better place to live, work and play.

Stand Up for What You Believe In. It’s easy to complain to your colleagues and friends about your dissatisfaction, but have you done anything about it? Our views and concerns can only be represented and given attention to, if someone knows what they are. Write a letter to the editor, attend a public hearing, start a group on Facebook. Take some kind of action to let people know what you think, feel and believe.

Take Initiative. If we all waited for someone else to take care of it, we wouldn’t have hybrid cars, recycling programs or charitable organizations. People who take action with their ideas change our world. Start small and organize a neighbourhood clean-up. Raise money for something you believe in.  Vote.  Care enough to do something about what matters to you.

Open Your World. If you break free from your comfort zone, you’ll be surprised to find out there is a whole world of things that you may like (or may not) but haven’t tried before. Do something out of the ordinary -- eat sushi, play ultimate, go for a walk in a neighbourhood that isn’t your own, watch an independent movie at the Oxford, take in a festival or play. With every area we explore comes the possibility of a new found love and passion - and who wouldn’t like a little more passion in their lives.

Get Engaged in Your Community. Meet people outside your circle of friends and work colleagues, and you’ll open doors to a whole new Halifax. Attend a FUSION Halifax event, volunteer with a community organization, or try a new hobby. Whatever it is, do it because it interests you, not because someone else you know is doing it.

This year, don’t sit around and wait for opportunity to find you. Find it.  Or better yet make it happen. Make it your own responsibility to help make Halifax a better city to live, work and play.

Christina Biluk is the Director of Engagement for FUSION Halifax. Visit FUSIONHalifax.ca to find out how you can get involved in shaping our city.