First things first, let’s demystify what Corporate Social Responsibility really means, so that we can move forward to more practical reading.
Corporate Social Responsibility, or CSR, is a self-regulating business system that helps an enterprise be socially accountable, to itself, its partners, its employees, and society as a whole. By being engaged in CSR, companies can be more involved and aware of their contributions to economic, social and environmental developments, while improving the quality of life of its workforce and their respective families, along with the local community. With this in mind, CSR is assumed here as a path to a solution, a path to changing how a business sees itself and how others perceive it, as its final outcome is to have a positive impact on society, the environment, and companies.
By taking this into account, we can depict certain factors that distinguish companies that implement a CSR strategy, which are: Responsibility, Sustainability, Market, Ethics, Sincerity, Resources, Long-term, and Goals. In one way or another, in order to be true to their CSR mission, companies need to embrace all these dimensions, in order to have a positive impact, both internally and externally.
By breaking down CSR, we can understand that it can take numerous forms, and is contingent on the business and industry it operates in. Among the many benefits a company might have by nurturing CSR initiatives, are such things as: increased media coverage, improved public image, investor attraction and retention, as well as boosted employee engagement. On the other hand, the employees benefit as well, as it increases creativity, creates a positive workplace environment, encourages professional and personal growth, and promotes individual philanthropy.
Frequently, businesses that implement CSR programs can successfully develop their companies to the level where they can give back to society. Likewise, the bigger and more noticeable companies are, the more responsibility they have towards setting higher standards for ethical conduct.
On a more individual level, how can we have a CSR mentality? How can we have a better impact on those around us, or on society at large? Who’s voices are you listening to and is it leading your life?
If nothing comes to your mind, maybe start by pushing the restart button, make your mid-year resolutions and ditch your unhealthy habits that you promised to change at the beginning of the year. Once again, this year, you have the chance to refocus on your goals and start afresh with Global Wellness Day (GWD), on June 8, to be your catalyzing day, or simply take the opportunity to celebrate your mid-year achievements!
The important thing is to live a better life and be aware of your health! It is under this premise that Global Wellness Day exists, to increase the consciousness of living in a more sustainable way, even if it’s just for one day, by drawing attention to healthier lifestyle choices.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number one health problem in the world is, surprisingly, not a virus or a disease, but depression – an affliction, which is linked to sleeplessness, stress and obesity.
The GWD campaign challenges people to change one aspect of their lives for a day, and outlines seven steps to better wellness: What will you say “yes” to today?
1. Drink more water; 2. Walk for an hour; 3. Shop locally and eat organically; 4. Stop using plastic bottles; 5. Do a good deed; 6. Eat a family dinner; 7. Go to bed at 10pm.
There’s no doubt that by the time you take action in changing, you will start listening to discouraging voices around you. But remember Noah’s story, he had faith he was doing something for the good of humanity, yet, everyone thought he was insane. Nonetheless he persevered and finished the Ark.
If doing for your own sake is not motivating enough, do it for others. Build ‘the Ark’ that the planet needs, the ark that only you can assemble with your own lifestyle actions. Persevere! Show us your true grit, your strength of character! Serve a purpose!
The best remedy to fight depression, anxiety and stress is the gift of serving others. “Those who are the happiest are those who do the most for others,” as Booker T. Washington once said. This is the kind of mentality corporations that implement CSR programs must have, and so do we.
Days like Global Wellness Day are a great opportunity to harness such a mentality! And one of the best things about this event is that it is totally free of charge and open to all ages and communities! There will be activities such as: Pilates, Aerial Hoops, Aqua games, Workout sessions, healthy refreshments, talks related to Education and Wellness, and a fantastic opportunity to have people talking to each other, relaxing and mingling within an environment that speaks to a non-judgmental healthy lifestyle. An amazing opportunity to get inspired or to inspire others!
So, save the date! Together with ManaVida, you and Macau can “Say Yes” to Global Wellness Day, a one-day event celebrating health and wellbeing, taking place this June 8, 2019 from 8am to 6pm at The St. Regis Macao.
For more details about how to support, please got to the Facebook Page: Global Wellness Day Macao.
