Has the rat-race of the busy city life left you exhausted and in a constant state of being in an existential crisis? If you answer yes, then perhaps it's time to find new ways to give back to society!

The classic phrase "love thy neighbour" is often easier said than done. As urbanites, we are so used to putting ourselves first, the idea of giving back to our neighbours (or the country) can seem like an unattainable goal. Yet, it is the key to more successful relationships and an inner sense of peace. Giving back to society is a great way to socialise and maintain a more balanced lifestyle, where you do not have to choose between your ambitions and your need to become a more responsible citizen. 

BE PATRIOTIC

Your patriotism should not just be limited to history lessons and national symbols. Instead, take an active interest in the country. Visit all corners of the nation and learn about the diverse culture, cuisine, and the exciting heritage of our beloved motherland. Be an ethical consumer and support local firms and farms by picking their products over imported materials. Make sure that the child working at your local grocery store goes to school.

Simple acts of kindness by every citizen is what will drive the country forward in the long run.

FOLLOW TRAFFIC LAWS

Dhaka traffic can take a toll on you and when you are stuck in traffic for over two hours, it is quite tempting to consider that empty lane on the wrong side. However, accidents can occur anytime and nothing is more important than your life!

Wear helmets on motorbikes, use a zebra-crossing or an over-bridge, and do not jaywalk!

The list of dos and don'ts is quite long on this one, but each rule is what stands between life and death on the streets of Dhaka.

DO NOT WASTE RESOURCES

With hours of power-cuts and increasing fuel prices, it's should not come as a surprise that resources are limited. Wasting what's left will only make matters worse. Be thrifty when it comes to fuel and electricity. Turn the tap off during brushing and soaping, and the lights off before leaving the house. Walk to nearby places instead of taking the car. Every little step will ensure that there's more left for the next generation!

DISPOSE THE RIGHT WAY

It's high time we stop dumping everything into landfills. The simple act of separating recyclable and non-recyclable waste can reduce the garbage dumped on sites. Opt for products with less packaging and try to avoid plastics and polythene. These take years to decay and bring harm to the precious and often fragile ecosystems. An added step for Bangladesh would be destroying cosmetic bottles before throwing them away so that they are not reused for wrong purposes.

BRING BACK THE GREENS!

Tired of the concrete jungle you live in?  Why not turn your balcony into a mini garden? Installing a bit of the natural into your homes will not only help you de-stress fast, but it would also be refreshing to your neighbours. Who knows, it might even inspire them to make their own little gardens!

FIGHT FOR A CAUSE

Volunteer work is one of the most popular ways of giving back. Various charity organisations often host fundraiser events, and they would gladly accept the extra pair of hands. Alternatively, why not arrange your own fundraiser in your community for a cause you believe in? Not only are these events ideal for creating awareness, but they are also a great way for communities to come together and get to know each other.

Photo: Collected