As we wrap up 2022 with the 100^th Action of the Week, it feels right to take a moment to pause and reflect on what we have learned together from this journey; the journey of better understanding and reducing our environmental impact through the implementation of personal actions.  Here are the top 10 takeaways 7GA learned through the Personal Climate Action Center “Action of the Week” project:

1. Start small.  Sometimes the hardest thing is to get started so avoid becoming overwhelmed and start small.  Perhaps switching to cold water wash or choosing a shower over a bath is a good place to start your journey.  Some of the tips are simple, some take more time to implement, but the most important thing is to start.  Chances are once you take action and implement a simple change in your life it will inspire you to take more action.
2. Let go of the guilt.  There is a lot of guilt that is felt in regards to human impact on the environment.  The problem is that those who are taking on the guilt are often the ones who care the most and who are trying to make a positive difference.  Next time a feeling of guilt slips into your mind, try to focus on gratitude instead.  Or read some good news to remind you there is a lot of good happening around you.
3. Let go of judgment of others.  We must take care of each other and help each other -  you never know what the other person is going through.  With that being said, you can always share some helpful tips with those in your world, such as office environmental practices or encouraging your school or business to reduce their carbon emissions. Lead through example.
4. Take care of yourself. Taking care of your personal health goes hand in hand with taking care of the planet’s health.  This can be as major of a change as going meatless on Mondays or as simple as checking out your local farmers market and buying organic.   
5. A lot of little changes do add up.  When it feels like your efforts won't make a difference, remind yourself that it does all add up.  From choosing to walk or ride your bike for trips less than a mile away to recycling to minimizing car idling, they all have the potential to make a big difference.
6. While change can be hard, sometimes it’s simple. Simple fixes such as turning your camera off when you Zoom  or boiling only the water you need or turning off your water when you brush your teeth or shave aren’t that hard to get used to, but can have a big effect.  Sometimes it’s just about raising new awareness to your current habits.
7. A lot of environmental tips end up saving you money as well.  Some examples are installing solar, investing in a smart sprinkler system, or insulating and weatherizing your home.
8. Avoid plastic.  Plastic is finally getting a lot of attention for what it is - a major problem.  Say no to single use plastic, skip the plastic wrap, buy plastic that is truly recyclable, and avoid individually wrapped snacks when possible.
9. Educate yourself.  Knowledge is empowering. There is always so much more to learn as new discoveries are made and new technologies are developed.  Environmental books are a great place to start or volunteer with an environmental group to learn directly from like-minded peers.
10. Have hope.  Find the hope in your daily life. Learn from inspirational experts, and of course spend time in nature to find the best inspiration.  

7^th Generation Advisors developed the Personal Climate Action Center to empower people to take action when feeling helpless about how climate change is impacting our planet. Our hope is that you learned along with us how to offset some of that eco-anxiety by becoming empowered with knowledge about ways you can make a positive difference.  We hope you will respectfully share your knowledge within your communities and inspire others to join you on the journey of taking personal action.   

We constantly find inspiration and hope from one of our environmental heroes, Jane Goodall, so we leave you with this thought of hers, “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

Wishing you a hopeful, peaceful and inspirational 2023!

READY TO TAKE ACTION?

At 7th Generation Advisors we are diligently working with scientists, policymakers, activists and clean tech companies to create a clean energy economy for all, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and to protect all living things seven generations into the future.
We care about the future of our planet. Will you join us?