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We get it. But becoming more aware of what’s going on in the world will not only help you do good, it’ll also enhance your life.

byAdora Wong April 2017

We get it. But becoming more aware of what’s going on in the world will not only help you do good, it’ll also enhance your life.

Is it just us, or does turning on the news seem to be more depressing than ever before? There seems to be an onslaught of man-made and natural crises, which are bound to leave you feeling upset, despairing, or both.

It can feel easier to just avoid it altogether. After all, contemplating harrowing realities during the small pockets of your free time isn’t exactly relaxing, and besides, what can you do? While it’s easy to switch off when you’re safe and secure, if you don’t know much about the social problems in our community or across the globe, perhaps it’s a good time to start.

Finding out more about the social issues around you is worth the effort. Besides being the first step to making a positive change (just knowing more helps you hold informed conversations and share with others), it helps you on a personal level. By stimulating your critical thinking skills, being engaged helps you develop a keener sense of self, and motivates you to do what’s best for you emotionally and physically. It can also help you to live more purposefully and learn to better handle the lemons life throws your way. As a first step, try exposing yourself to a range of global news sources, such as Time, The Guardian and The New York Times. You can also attend talks on social issues organised by non-profit organisations such as UN Women (unwomen-nc.org.sg). “Issues we focus on include violence, gender stereotypes and… gender equality [in] a community movement towards equal opportunities, equal access and equal rights for all,” shares Mrinalini Venkatachalam, Head of Public Awareness and Youth Initiatives of the Singapore Committee for United Nations Women and 2016 CLEO Change Maker.

If you’re ready to take the next step in changing the world for the better, look into practising conscious consumerism, which involves basing your purchase decisions on the impact they make on the environment.

There’s no set way to being more socially conscious, but taking any small step is far better than pretending all is right in the world.