It’s that time of year again, when lists get written, motivational quotes shared and daily habits come under the microscope. Though some may say there’s nothing special about any one of our 365 days around the sun there’s still a certain impetus that comes from the beginning of a new year. Whether it’s committing to less or more of something – or letting go of negative attitudes – the New Year can be a great time to try something…new.
A large number of New Year’s resolutions revolve around fitness and taking care of your body and health. Many will sign up to gyms, take up a new sport or simply add a little more exercise to their daily routine in these cold winter weeks. It can be a chance to meet new people through joining groups and clubs or fulfill a long-held ambition, such as running a marathon.
But though health and a sense of achievement are prime motivators in sticking to these physical resolutions, sometimes they aren’t quite enough. However, there’s a way you can not only keep motivation levels up but double the fruits of your labour – and it’s as straightforward as the answer to a Christmas cracker joke.
Combining your health and fitness goals with fundraising is a way to make your resolutions mean something more and carry you across the finish line. Participating in a 5k, 10k, half-marathon or even a full marathon for charity means every early morning practice goes towards helping others. It doesn’t have to be running though – any form of physical activity (sponsored unicycle?) can help you meet your own resolutions and the needs of others around the world. Get friends, family, colleagues and strangers to sponsor you and you can even get a group together to all fundraise for one cause and take part together on the day. Creating a group is also a brilliant way to make sure your resolutions continue to be fun as you can train together and spur each other on.
You can fundraise for charity with any activity, but certain charities have particular events they love to get involved with. At Kidasha our supporters have decided to join together for the world-famous British 10K London in July 2019 and the Ealing Half Marathon in September 2019. They’re also taking part in the Wye 100 Challenge in May, either walking, cycling or canoeing 100km in the beautiful Wye Valley. Want to make one of these part of your 2019 New Year’s Resolutions? Contact us to book your place and find out more.
However, resolutions don’t have to just revolve around fitness, and fundraising can be a great way to connect more with your local community, be more involved with charity work, or travel more, if these are your new year’s commitments. In October and November this year one of our trustees, Liz Waterman is leading the trek of a lifetime in Nepal, in the breathtaking Annapurna range. Organised by Mountain Kingdoms (AITO Responsible Tourism Operator of the Year Award Winner), there’s a choice of two treks and the trip includes the chance to see highlights of Nepal’s two major cities, Kathmandu and Pokhara. In Pokhara you’ll also be able to visit some of Kidasha’s projects and meet our local staff – and the whole trip helps Liz raise vital funds for our work. Want to make 2019 special? Email Liz at Elizabeth@waterman.org.uk to find out more.
Whatever resolutions you’ve made this new year – or if you’re still deciding – why not help others a bright new year too?