Four important things to remember
Start Small
Living sustainably does not have to happen over night. There is no need to overhaul your whole life in one big sweep.
Start small and work up. You do not need to phase out plastics completely, if that does not suit your lifestyle yet. Instead, start by using reusable grocery bags at the store to eliminate your use of plastic bags. Or refuse to use plastic straws and instead opt for either a reusable metal straw or no straw at all!
By doing this, you are cutting down on the number of plastic items that end up in our oceans.
Smart, simple switches
Sustainability does not have to be one big grand gesture. It takes place over time through everyday decisions.
What can you switch to that would promote a sustainable lifestyle? You might start by saving gift bags and wrappings for when you need them. Or maybe wear an extra coat instead of turning on the heat in your home. An extra pair of socks go a long way!
Make the transition easy and at your own pace. Look for simple switches and easy transitions.
Celebrate the victories
Living sustainably can be difficult. Trading in convenience for sustainable practices is not always an easy task. Take time to stop and appreciate the progress you have made. That plastic straw you just refused is one straw that will not end up hurting our sea life. Go you!
The gift bag you are reusing for a friend’s birthday gift is not only saving you money but saving trees as well!
Giving up a life of convenience can be hard and daunting. But as long as you are trying and taking small steps, you should celebrate the sustainable choices you are making because you are making a difference!
You actually ARE making a difference!
At times, it can be hard to tell if the small switches are adding up in the grand scheme of the world’s dilemma. Well, it is. Let’s think about it. The plastic straws that you are refusing for your drinks are straws that will not end up in the ocean, killing our sea life. The gift bag you just reused for your friend’s gift just saved money and trees. Taking a shorter shower saves money on your water bill and water for other uses.
Choosing to live sustainably shows that you are an active member of the world and want to be a good steward of it. Keep going! You are doing great!
Want one other action to take to help heal the planet? Learn more about becoming a Purpose Partner here!