Are you willing to #ChangeForTheBetter?

MANILA, Philippines – We know, we know. It’s that time of the year. It’s what everyone does. 

But just because it’s popular, doesn’t make it just another superficial practice. The winding down of a year is always a prime opportunity to reflect and to reassess. And hardly anyone of us will deny that we always want to be better.  

However, are we willing to change? 

Change is a scary thing. Most people would rather stay where they are, maintain the same routine and continue the same behavior. Change disrupts our comfort zone. Why bother to be more caring when you already have your circle of friends? Why journey someplace unfamiliar to try out a new job? 

When doubts surface, think of them as tests. They’re not there to block you, they’re there to help you figure out how much you are willing to invest to change for the better.

What should remain unchanged though, as you change for the better, is your values system. Think of them as your moral compass as you navigate something new and unfamiliar. Are you becoming more caring? Are you being respectful? Are you persevering towards something worthwhile?

Remember, there are many things that make you awesome (READ: 5 reasons we’re proud to be Pinoy). Filipinos are known to be masigasig, mapagmalasakit, matatag, magalang and mapagpasalamat. They’re traits that define us and are unique to the Filipino people. If you’re not there yet, there’s always a chance to be better. Every day is an opportunity to adopt the traits that will make you great.  

As we start a new year, let’s all look forward with optimism. First, let’s take advantage of clear hindsight and identify the choices we made in the year that just ended, and then make deliberate decisions to meet 2015 with a higher purpose. 

Join our convo on January 1, Thursday, from 4pm to 6pm. What better time to commit to #ChangeForTheBetter? Use the hashtag and join our discussion. We’d love to know what you think. – Rappler.com