As the year draws to a close, you may be tempted to wait until January 1 to kickstart all of your new plans and projects, but why wait? Make the most of the last two days of 2018 by doing the things you love. Here are a few of Young Post’s suggestions to get you started.
Start a piece of creative writing
The key to writing isn’t waiting for a sudden stroke of inspiration so you can create your literary masterpiece. It is simply to start writing and not stop. Set a goal of writing 500 to 1000 words a day and before you know it, you’ll have churned out the first draft of a story, poem, or chapter of a novel.
Start a blog/Youtube channel
Wherever your interests lie, from writing or art to cooking or self-care, you can use free blog sites such as Wordpress or Wix, or social media platforms such as Instagram or Tumblr, to share them with others.
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Go gallery hopping
Central and Sheung Wan are both packed with small, intimate galleries showcasing the work of artists from all around the world. Search online for current exhibitions you might be interested in, and plan a gallery-hopping route.
Grab a coffee
It’s amazing what a couple of hours relaxing in a coffee shop can do to your mental state. Grab a steaming mug and a comfy chair at your favourite local spot and congratulate yourself on getting through another year of hard work. We recommend the Hong Kong-themed Starbucks on Duddell Street in Central, which has traditional desserts you won’t find in any other branch. Or try Sensory Zero at Cityplaza in Taikoo, which is not only super cosy, but has the added bonus of being connected to an Eslite bookshop.
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Get lost in a bookshop
Speaking of bookshops, why not spend a few hours perusing the shelves of one? And if you look beyond Hong Kong’s bigger, better-known chains, you can still find a number of small, cosy bookshops tucked away on quiet streets. Lok Man Rare Books is an especially great place to uncover some rare finds.
Switch up your transport
Most of us are usually on autopilot when we travel around the city, but something as simple as changing your route home or taking a different mode of transport can make you stop and take in your surroundings. The cool weather at this time of year is perfect for enjoying a tram or cable car ride across Hong Kong.
Visit an animal shelter
For all you animal lovers, Hong Kong has a number of amazingly dedicated shelters whose furry residents are always in need of some extra attention. Speak to staff about volunteering opportunities, which can range from dog walking to puppy fostering. You may even find yourself with a new addition to your family.
Get cooking
Roung up your family and friends and treat them to a home-cooked meal. You can finally get round to making that recipe you’ve been meaning to try all year, or update an old favourite by experimenting with different ingredients.
Have a clear out
Starting the New Year with a positive mindset is so much easier if you have a clear, organised space to think in. Challenge yourself to get rid of some of the clutter that’s been filling up your room; even better, there are plenty of organisations you can donate any unwanted items that are still in good condition to.
Practise origami
This ancient art form is proven to help you relax, and all you need to do it is a piece of paper. There are plenty of free tutorials online to follow, from simple patterns to more elaborate creations.
Write personal notes for loved ones
The lead-up to the New Year is the perfect time to reflect on all the important people in your life, and express your gratitude to them. And there’s no better way to do it than with a handwritten note. It’s thoughtful, personal, and something the recipient can keep forever.
Try a new look
New year, new you. Try out a new daytime hairstyle, or perfect a makeup look for your next big event. If you’re feeling adventurous, have a go experimenting with FX makeup and face paint.
Edited by Charlotte Ames-Ettridge