2014 is here and here to stay, what will you do this year to make a difference?
I have some suggestions.
Join a CSA (consumer supported agriculture). Why?
- You get fresh, locally grown produce, maybe eggs, some even offer meat.
- You support a local farmer, most likely growing organic or using sustainable methods.
- You reduce your footprint on this Earth. Less fossil fuel used to get food to your table.
- You help your community. Estimates say that up to 90% of the dollars spent on local food stay in the local economy.
Volunteer. Why?
- You support social change.
- You gain a feeling of pride, satisfaction, and accomplishment.
- You make a difference and solve problems, strengthen communities, improve lives, connect to others and can transform your own life.
- You’ll have better health. Studies point to those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer.
Practice sustainability. Why
- Living sustainably is about living within the means of our natural systems (environment) and ensuring that our lifestyle doesn’t harm other people (society and culture).
- You have to get your head around this as it’s a big idea for all of us.
- It’s really about thinking about where your food, clothes, energy and other products come from and deciding whether you should buy and consume these things.
- Do you need another thing from the $$$ store or can you get something similar from a 2nd hand store. Think Teen Challenge Thrift stores and volunteer with your wallet to help.
Try being mindful 10 minutes a day. Why?
- To learn more about mindfulness, watch this TED Talk (link below, it takes about 10 minutes).
Help save the planet. Why?
- Why? because we don’t have a spare we can buy at WalMart.
- I’ve added a link to a great Huff Post article “You Can Help Save the Planet With These 15 (Somewhat) Easy Steps.”
Any other good ideas on how to make a difference in 2014? Please feel free to share them.