New Year’s resolutions often focus on lifestyle changes, like exercising regularly or eating healthier. However, true well-being goes beyond these habits — it also involves setting aside time for meaningful self-reflection and defining goals that align with your values.
Engaging in regular reflection in a calm and peaceful setting can significantly enhance mental health. Spending time in nature, for instance, has been shown to reduce stress, lower heart rates and restore emotional balance, making it a powerful tool for overall well-being
Look back on the past year
Reflecting on events is a meaningful way to process experiences and prepare for what lies ahead. As Ms Shane Yan, co-founder of Growthbeans, a social enterprise that seeks to develop purposeful, resilient and compassionate leaders by equipping them with self-discovery and people skills, explains “It allows us to review the unpleasant narratives in our heads objectively, so that we can take more control of our lives moving forward.”
For a tranquil setting to unwind and process your thoughts, look no further than your nearest CSC clubhouse.
At CSC @ Bukit Batok, take a calming stroll through its lush, resort-like grounds. Relax by the drift pool or jacuzzi, or treat yourself at The Ultimate Spa, where you can enjoy quiet introspection with luxurious treatments.
If a serene sea view is your preference, CSC @ Changi offers the perfect spot. Contemplate the ocean from a deck chair by the infinity pool, or embark on a scenic trail along Changi Boardwalk and Changi Beach Park.
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For those who love the sand and sea, CSC @ Loyang provides a peaceful beachside retreat. Alternatively, visit the nearby Changi Chapel and Museum for a moment of silent reflection.
Even bustling CSC @ Tessensohn has its pockets of peace. Find your inner calm by the koi pond, amid the clubhouse’s vibrant offerings.
As you reflect on the past year’s events and milestones, Ms Claire Ong, co-founder and lead coach of The Positive Movement, which organises experiential learning programmes for personal and professional development and well-being, reminds us that it’s natural to compare ourselves to others — but often unfavourably.
To avoid falling into the trap of feeling self-doubt, she recommends acknowledging the desire to compare before shifting-focusing to the bigger question: “Who do you want to be, and what matters to you? It may sound cliched, but there’s truth in the saying that we all need to learn to run our own race. After all, we are all wired differently,” says Ms Ong. “Recognise that you have areas of development that you can work on, but also validate your own areas of strength and accomplishment.”
Set goals for the new year
After reflecting, the next step is to define clear goals for the year ahead. According to Ms Yan, setting clear goals helps provide a concrete picture of what success looks like and ensures you stay focused without shifting the goalposts over time. “When we are clear about the end-goal, it’s easier for us to get in motion and consider how we will get there. If it’s not clear why the goal matters to us, it’s easy to give up when an obstacle arises,” she says.
For the best chances of success, set goals that are within your control. “For example, a goal like ‘I want to be promoted this year’ is beyond your control,” says Ms Ong. “What you can control, however, is the number of hours you put into work, or being more assertive and expressive. Those are more achievable.”
Ms Ong also recommends breaking your goals into bite-sized steps for a more manageable and rewarding process. “Focus on small wins. When you fall short, pick yourself up and try again. A small step is better than nothing.”
An example of this approach comes from Ms Yan, whose resolution last year was to jog three times a week. By keeping her goal flexible — running at any time she wanted, even late at night or in the early hours of the morning — she was able to stay consistent and gradually build on her progress. This has inspired her to adopt healthier goals in 2025, such as eating more nutritiously and incorporating more physical training into her routine.
For those looking to embrace similar healthy habits, CSC’s facilities provide a convenient and supportive environment to achieve your fitness goals. Whether it’s swimming in the Olympic-sized pool at CSC @ Tessensohn, working out at a 24-hour gym, bowling, yoga, rock climbing or water sports, there’s an activity for everyone.
With other options ranging from dance and martial arts to a variety of fitness classes, CSC caters to diverse interests and schedules. To further enhance your wellness journey, explore CSC-organised workshops and seminars on health and wellness, where you can gain practical insights on incorporating these goals into your daily life.
Stay motivated throughout the year
Sticking to resolutions isn’t always easy, but a mental tool called mental contrasting can make a difference. Ms Ong explains: “First, look at the ideal picture of what life is like when you achieve your goal. Then look at the obstacles that currently stand in your way and how you can deal with them. The contrast helps you to see clearly what you care about and get a better view of the potential obstacles and how you can overcome them realistically.”
For example, if budget constraints are a concern, CSC membership perks offer affordable solutions, such as 10% OFF Vyasa Yoga and 20% OFF The GymPod premium subscription plan, making fitness and wellness more accessible.
Even with obstacles addressed, maintaining momentum can still be tough. If you worry that your commitment to a healthier lifestyle might fade as the year progresses, finding a supportive community can help. Group classes with like-minded peers, for instance, can be more motivating than working out alone. Additionally, participating in events like the STAR Games or sports try-outs can introduce you to new hobbies and passions.
Ms Yan says that while you might feel discomfort at the start of your commitment, growth requires you to leave your comfort zone. Rather than an occasion for feeling discouraged, view it as an opportunity to connect with others for help in achieving your goals. “Find support from family, friends or even a growth circle to help keep you motivated,” she adds.
The New Year is an opportunity to reflect, recharge and set goals that matter to you. Whether you find inspiration in nature, camaraderie in group fitness, or clarity in quiet reflection, CSC clubhouses offer a wealth of options to help you thrive in 2025.
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Mental health guidance and resources
Learn healthier mental habits and enjoy improved well-being at these platforms:
- Growthbeans: Offers coaching, workshops and programmes for youths and adults aged 17 and above.
- The Positive Movement: Provides positive psychology-based coaching tailored for corporates, schools and the public.
- Mindline at Work: Features mental health tools and resources specifically for Public Service Officers.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental distress, the following counselling helplines and online platforms are available for support:
For Adults:
For Children, Youths and Teenagers:
* Please note that some resources may have limited operating hours.