01 Jan Start by taking small steps
Let me begin by wishing everyone a Happy New Year from the team at Taranaki Safe Families Trust. 2019 is now upon us, and for most people the early part of January symbolised a time of transformation, renewal, and even revolution.
Quitline, for example, is bombarded with phone calls from people wanting to give up smoking. New gym memberships increase with people wanting to lose weight from overindulging at Christmas time. The slogan for many is “New Year, New Me”.
These are great personal goals that serve us as individuals, but are there objectives that benefit the wider community and society as a whole? Can we change some of our habits and opinions regarding important social issues, with the intention of breaking down old stereotypes and creating a more positive, safer Aotearoa? Sure we can!
Let’s look at some New Year’s goals for reducing family violence.
In 2019, I’m going to be more active in the community: Meet the neighbours and become familiar with the families in your area. Let it be known that everyone is looking out for each other and family violence will not be tolerated. Offer yourself as someone to talk to. Discuss and plan some neighbourhood events that promote healthy habits and behaviour. If you see something wrong, stand up, act, and set a benchmark.
In 2019, I’m going to be more reflective and self-aware of my actions: What do you do when you are frustrated? Do you have any strategies or tools to combat anger and aggression? Is there a better way to approach challenging situations? Talk to your friends and loved ones about your feelings and possible changes to be made. Learn about empathy and tolerance. If you need help, talk to someone.
In 2019, I’m going to plan better and be more organised: Ensure the bills and expenses are well planned for. Do budgets. Do meal plans. Have regular family meetings to discuss roles, issues, goals. Strive to keep the house and back yard tidy. Complete those projects you are halfway through. Plan quality time for the family away from television and cellphones. Communication within the family is key.
All of these ideas can help to reduce family violence, albeit from a secondary approach. However, we do know it is complex issue that requires a multi-pronged approach – and we all have to start somewhere.
Dane Haskell
Co-ordinator
Taranaki Safe Families Trust
Email: tsft@xtra.co.nz