Did you make any new years resolutions to live a more sustainable lifestyle? Are you having a hard time sticking to them?
Usually with the new year people begin to look for resolutions and changes that they can make within their lifestyle. And more often than not, after a few weeks these resolutions dwindle down and people forget about them. I wanted to write down a few ways to be more sustainable in 2019 for everyone, myself included – that can stick with you all year. I’m writing this post a few weeks into the new year on purpose, to encourage you a bit more.
Everyone struggles with being green; and in a world of constant go-go-go mentality and what often feels like disposable everything surrounding you, sticking to a sustainable lifestyle can be really tough!
Hopefully these 5 tips and tricks can help you as much as I think they will help me in fighting the good fight of being an eco-friendly human. oh and P.S. If you want more specific ways you can change your lifestyle, check out some of our other posts (for and example our DIY section)!
1. Lead by example.
People are generally pretty curious, especially when they see actions that are not the norm. Whether it’s your family, roommate, co-worker, etc., they’re watching you! One of the best ways to encourage others is through your own actions. Rather than telling people why they should change, focus on you this year, and people watching will be way more inspired to try out a new thing or two. Often we make the mistake of sharing how people can change and they begin to feel guilty. This is obviously counterproductive, and despite how much I believe that certain lifestyles are degrading the environment, negativity is no way to lead a change.
2. Celebrate the little things.
Any change towards being more environmentally friendly in your life is a big one in my opinion. Even if it is as small as bringing a reusable travel mug to the coffee shop. Every little thing counts, and they really add up in the end. I try to slowly change my lifestyle by adding different products in over time. This is partly because I’m on a tight budget, and also because I know if I try too many things at once I will get a tad overwhelmed and not want to do any of them. Right now, I’m working on making my own shampoo. This has been a process, but stay tuned for the post on my trial and error DIY Shampoo! Once I tackle this, it’ll be a new project!
3. Turn that frown, upside down.
This is something I struggle with; there will always be someone somewhere who doesn’t think you’re doing enough (and maybe that someone is you). But keep in mind guys – you know what works best for you. Try not to beat yourself up over something like “breaking” the invisible rules you or others have set. Sometimes you forget your to go coffee mug and you get a single use one… honestly don’t sweat it and think of the bigger issue – other people do not even think of single use items as an issue (yikes). You’re one step ahead, so keep your head up!
4. Be inclusive.
Everyone has a different lifestyle, diet, budget, etc. Being more sustainable does not mean everyone has to do the same thing. What works for me, may not work for you – and that’s okay. Others are on their own journey, and we need to be respectful and encouraging as they figure it out.
5. Remember to be flexible.
There is always room to change. With busy schedules and new products coming out every day (especially as the “green” lifestyle gains popularity), it can be tricky to be open to changing your habits. Remember to be flexible in what you chose to do, and be willing to adapt to the immediate surroundings and comfort level. Only you know what is right for your body and life – so if you feel like you need to make a change then do it! No one is stopping you except you (and sometimes your bank account… lol… Check out this post for more tips on being sustainable on a budget!).
That’s it, short and sweet. Thanks for reading! Questions and comments are appreciated, as always
Riley
Change to Sustain 