Starting Fresh: Small Acts of Kindness to Begin Your New Year
by Lim Swee Chen
Counsellor / Parenting Coach
Starting Fresh: Small Acts of Kindness to Begin Your New Year
It’s early January 2025, and here we are, standing on the other side of the holidays. For some, this is a time of new beginnings and ambitious resolutions. But for others, flipping the calendar page from 31 December to 1 January doesn’t feel as transformative as it’s made out to be. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure how to move forward, know that you’re not alone.
The truth is, life doesn’t drastically change overnight, and that’s okay. It’s perfectly fine if you’ve spent the last week celebrating, resting, being a couch potato, or simply catching your breath after the holiday whirlwind. What matters most now isn’t rushing into big changes but taking small, meaningful steps towards kindness—for yourself and others.
We understand that you might feel the pressure to make New Year’s resolutions—because “new year, new me,” right? Or perhaps you’re trying to start a dry January after indulging in festive celebrations. It’s okay to take a pause and not rush into drastic changes. You’re allowed to start gently at your own pace.
Why Service, Gratitude, and Praise Matter
There’s something magical about kindness. It has the power to lift spirits, foster connection, and create positive ripples that extend far beyond the initial act. But the magic doesn’t stop there—kindness benefits the giver as much as the receiver.
Service provides a sense of purpose and allows us to momentarily set aside our own worries as we focus on others.
Gratitude helps us recognise the good already present in our lives, shifting our perspective from scarcity to abundance.
Praise strengthens our bonds with others, boosting their self-esteem while reminding us of the beauty in human connection.
These aren’t massive undertakings. They’re small, intentional moments of care. And they might just be the key to unlocking a gentler, more grounded start to your year.
Let’s explore three gentle and practical ways to ease into the new year by focusing on kindness, gratitude, and service.
1. Who Can I Help Today?
Let’s start with a simple but powerful question: Who can I help today?
Helping doesn’t have to mean signing up for a major volunteering project or overextending yourself. Often, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. Maybe it’s holding the door open for someone, offering to grab coffee for a colleague, or checking in with a friend who’s been on your mind.
Acts of service remind us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. They’re a way to connect, to care, and to find purpose in everyday life. And if you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about your own goals, helping someone else can be a beautiful way to move forward.
Every little act counts.
2. Who Can I Thank Today?
Gratitude is a grounding force. It shifts our focus from what we lack to what we already have and deepens our connections with those around us. So, ask yourself: Who can I thank today?
It doesn’t have to be elaborate. A heartfelt “thank you” can brighten someone’s day. Think of a family member who supported you, a friend who listened when you needed it, or a colleague whose effort made things easier for everyone. Even small moments of appreciation, like a quick note or message, can leave a lasting impact.
When you express gratitude, you remind yourself of the good in your life while letting others know they’re valued. It’s a simple gesture with profound effects—for both the giver and the receiver.
Whether it’s a quick ‘thanks’ or a more casual ‘appreciated,’ what truly matters is that the sentiment comes from the heart. When your gratitude comes from the heart, it resonates deeply with others and strengthens the connection you share.
3. Who Can I Compliment Today?
Gratitude is about acknowledging the good in your life and letting others know they’re valued. Compliments take this a step further by celebrating the unique qualities, efforts, or contributions of those around us.
There’s something powerful about a genuine compliment. It has the ability to brighten someone’s day, strengthen your connection, and spread positivity in ways you might not even realise.
So, here’s your next question: Who can I compliment today?
It doesn’t have to be about appearance—though those compliments are lovely, too. Focus on what you truly admire about someone: their kindness, their work ethic, their creativity. Something as simple as, “I really appreciate how thoughtful you are,” can have a lasting impact.
Rest Is Productive, Too
Before diving into acts of kindness, it’s important to acknowledge where you are right now. The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activity, and it’s okay if you’re starting the year feeling tired or even a little depleted. Rest isn’t unproductive—it’s a necessary part of the cycle.
If you’re not ready to leap into action, give yourself permission to pause. Reflection and rest are just as important as movement, and they lay the foundation for meaningful progress.
Kindness: A Resolution That Lasts
If traditional resolutions feel overwhelming, consider making kindness your focus this year. By helping, thanking, and complimenting others, you’re fostering deeper connections and creating a positive ripple effect.
You might be wondering: What about my career, achievements, or personal goals? When you approach life with kindness—towards yourself and others—you create a strong foundation for success in all areas of your life. A kind mindset can lead to better collaboration, increased resilience, and stronger relationships, all of which support your growth and achievements.
The start of a new year doesn’t have to be about big, sweeping changes. Sometimes, it’s the small, thoughtful acts that make the biggest difference. So today, ask yourself:
• Who can I help?
• Who can I thank?
• Who can I compliment?
And remember, progress isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, one kind act at a time.
Conclusion
Quick check-in: Are you being kind to yourself as you step into the new year? Remember, starting fresh isn’t about perfect resolutions or instant transformations—it’s about small, meaningful steps taken with compassion for yourself and others.
Consider setting one or two simple intentions for the year to guide you towards kindness and growth. And if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for counselling support in Singapore. Speaking with a psychologist, counsellor, or psychotherapist can provide clarity and help you move forward with confidence.
This year, let kindness be your guide. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to begin.
About the author
Swee is a seasoned counsellor and parenting coach at The Counselling Place Singapore. With over 7 years of clinical experience, Swee supports individuals and parents coping with various challenges. She is also certified in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Women’s Reproductive Mental Health, and crisis intervention (ASIST).
She fosters a safe, non-judgmental space for self-empowerment and growth, with a special interest in working with trauma, relationships, mental wellness, domestic violence, and LGBTQIA+ issues.