Getting motivated for action on climate change can be daunting. Everyday we are bombarded with bleak and often depressing facts and predictions about dangerous climate change which can leave a lot of us thinking, "Why bother? What difference can I make when everything already seems so bad?" It's at this point I'd like to remind you of one of my all time favourite quotes: "If you think you are too small to make a difference, you haven't spent the night with a mosquito." - African proverb. 1 Million Women is here to share information, inspiration and motivation to help you take practical action against climate change everyday, through every decision you make and every dollar that you spend. Today we want to share some tips to help keep you motivated and on the path towards changing the world for the better everyday.
1. Don't be so hard on yourself:
A lot of us (myself included) fall victim to 'Green Guilt' when we a have a (mostly minor) slip-up in our otherwise very low impact lives. For example, last week I was at the Bondi Farmers market and I forgot my enviro-bag. We'd come a long way and rather than buy nothing, I purchased some items and accepted a plastic bag to carry them. I was feeling pretty low all day and it's hard to feel motivated when you're feeling low. Acknowledge the slip up and learn from it. I highly doubt I'll be forgetting my enviro-bag again!
2. Surround yourself with positive people:
Our friends have such an enormous influence over our moods and lifestyles. If we are hanging around with people who have negative opinions about acting on climate change, it will of course impede our own actions. Educate your friends on how easy and important sustainable living is.
3. Celebrate your achievements:
It is SO important that you make time to celebrate your achievements. It's the perfect remedy for a bout of Green Guilt. For example, last weekend my boyfriend and I celebrated doing an amazing job throughout Plastic Free July with a lovely dinner. Treat yourself!
4. Make a realistic set of goals:
Like in point one, it's important to remember that no one is perfect. It is not up to you to do everything, BUT it is important to do whatever you can and do it well. 1 Million Women has made this easy for you, head over to our Ways of Living page to find practical ideas on low impact living. We explain how to do the action and the amount of carbon you will save by committing it long term, it's so easy! CLICK HERE FOR OUR WAYS OF LIVING.