Every year, we make resolutions to help us grow in the new year. Most resolutions involve losing weight, saving money, learning a new instrument, or taking on a new sporting challenge. However, as Singaporeans, there are many everyday habits we can improve to develop a better lifestyle and mindset in 2026.
In this story, we explore 8 common Singaporean habits that we can be more intentional about changing this year so that we can become better versions of ourselves or even save more money along the way.
1. Use That ActiveSG / Gym Membership
If you didn’t know, every Singaporean and Permanent Resident receives a one-off $100 top-up to their ActiveSG credits. These credits allow you to book public swimming pools, courts for badminton or pickleball, and even kayaking sessions. If you’ve been wanting to try a new sport, now is the time to use those credits and get active.
On the other hand, if you are someone who has declared “New Year, New Me” and signed up for a year-long gym membership, the goal is to stay consistent. You paid, so you go. Aim to work out more than twice a week this year.
2. Complain Less
Complaining is an iconic Singaporean pastime and a common conversation starter whenever someone asks about your day. Whether it is about the weather or the train, we always seem to have something to complain about.
This year, let’s break the habit. The train was only late by five minutes. It is not the end of the world. Instead, let’s reduce how often we complain and replace it with gratitude. Be thankful that we have such an efficient public transport system that takes us to almost every part of Singapore conveniently.
3. Spend Less on Food Delivery
Love your food delivery membership perks? We get it. We do too, especially when a 9pm delivery hits different. But so does your wallet and waistline. With a minimum spend of $15, we sometimes end up ordering more than we should for supper.
This year, aim to learn how to cook at least once a week and walk to your nearest kopitiam for supper instead of ordering prata or bubble tea.
Save Money by Enjoy 1-for-1 Dining Deals on merewards!
4. Learn to Guard Your Rest
Burning out should not be the norm. Work hard, yes. Burn out, no. In a city where hustle culture and overworking are often glorified, be someone who learns to guard their rest. Resting is not being lazy. It helps you stay productive during your working hours. Learn to say no sometimes and protect your evenings to spend time with family or friends. These are moments money cannot buy, so do not let them slip away in the name of hustle culture.
More importantly, protecting your evenings also means resting at the right time and not staying online until midnight just to “prove” productivity. You only have one body and one chance at good health in the prime of your life. Learn to stay calm internally, even in stressful situations. If needed, take your leave to rest and unwind by doing something you enjoy without constantly looking at your phone.
5. Drink More Water (Not Just Kopi & BBT)
Fatigue seems to be a common issue faced by many Singaporeans, as we often have never-ending schedules. This can lead to a lack of sleep and a constant reliance on coffee, matcha, or bubble tea to stay energised throughout the day.
However, these drinks are not substitutes for water, as they often contain sugar and milk that are high in calories. This year, aim to drink at least 3 litres of plain water daily and see how staying hydrated helps you feel more energised and reduces brain fog.
6. Explore Singapore Like a Tourist
You do not need a flight to have a life. Flying overseas every year is a good-to-have, not a must. Take your leave and explore Singapore like a tourist. Try that pastry from the bakery you have always meant to visit, or explore neighbourhoods you have never been to. Go for a walk in one of the many nature parks you have been meaning to check out, or visit local museums and see Singapore with fresh eyes.
Singapore may be small, but it is far from boring. You do not have to travel overseas to take a break from work. Instead, use that same amount of leave to rest, recalibrate, and explore the places and eateries in Singapore you have always wanted to try.
Book Local Activities with Klook and Earn Up to 3.5% Cashback!
7. Save First, Spend Later
Whether you have an upcoming BTO to pay for or a baby on the way, saving money is a challenge for many of us, especially as we strive for a better standard of living.
This year, pause before purchasing the latest gadget or that $100 “treat yourself” meal you find yourself splurging on almost every week. Build the habit of “sleeping on it” and avoid being swayed by urgent, last-minute deals. A good rule of thumb for bigger purchases is to give yourself a day. If you are still thinking about it the next day, take the time to compare prices before buying. Platforms like Shopee and Lazada often carry the same products, sometimes at lower prices with platform vouchers.
Most importantly, make it a point this year to check in with a financial advisor to ensure you have sufficient emergency funds and automated savings in place for rainy days. Your future self will be grateful.
Get up to 10% Cashback When You Shop at Lazada via merewards!
8. Be Proud of Small Wins
Singaporeans are great at achieving a lot, but we also tend to compare ourselves and undervalue our progress. As part of learning to be more thankful in 2026 and complain less, let us also learn to celebrate progress, not just promotions.
Allow yourself to rest without guilt and remind yourself that you are doing better than you think. Comparison is the thief of joy, and everyone is running their own race. It is perfectly okay not to be exactly where social norms say you should be.
Managed to hit the gym three times this week? Count it as a small win worth being proud of. Remember, surviving is also succeeding.
This 2026, be kinder to yourself and to the people around you. Learn to prioritise your health and quality time with family and friends. Lastly, do not be afraid to try new things, meet new people, and explore new places.
May 2026 bring more joy and peace into your life, and less fear of the future. Happy 2026!
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.