As the end of the year approaches we often find ourselves reflecting on what has happened and what lies ahead. It is easy to get caught up in material things that go along with the holidays, but it is never too late to take a step back, evaluate and make simple positive changes that have a lasting impact.
I like to start my morning with a nice hot cup of coffee. Since I’m an early bird, I usually have some quiet time to myself. A few years ago, I got into the habit of taking a few minutes each morning for “gratitudes”. No matter what is going on around me, I can always find “something” to appreciate. I am eternally grateful for my family and friends, a safe place to live, food in the fridge……and my hot cup of coffee. I understand that this is a luxury that not everyone has. Quiet time allows me to reflect and dig a little deeper to consider how I can make a difference in someone else’s life or actions that I can take to help the planet.
We often put a lot of pressure on ourselves to make lofty resolutions. Running an Ironman (in my case a half marathon in April), losing those few pounds that snuck up on us, getting our financial houses in order. It can feel a little overwhelming. I am a big fan of “slow and steady” and “if you fall off the horse, get back up again.” Taking small steps not only gives us a sense of accomplishment, but over time those small steps accumulate and lead to bigger change.
We don’t have to be perfect to make the world a better place. Everyone can do “something.” Simply saying “please” and “thank you” goes a long way in our rushed, everyday lives. Checking on a neighbor, especially during these isolating times can be a lifeline. Taking a couple hours to volunteer can ease the burden placed on our essential workers. A few years ago, I started a tradition of leaving a basket of fresh-baked cookies (wrapped, of course) on our front porch with a sign thanking all of the delivery drivers. It’s been a big success, with one driver ringing the bell each year, to share how much he appreciates and looks forward to a homemade snack during the hectic holiday season. Now THAT is a win-win. We both feel good and we both feel valued.
The same idea of taking small steps holds true for taking care of our planet. We can not all quit our jobs and become full-time activists, but we can all make small changes in our daily lives.
Fun Fact – Hand washing dishes uses up to 27 gallons of water per load
What can you do? – It may feel more virtuous to wash by hand, but it’s actually more wasteful, using up to 27 gallons of water per load by hand versus as little as 3 gallons with an ENERGY STAR-rated dishwasher.
BONUS – No dishpan hands!
Fun Fact – The US burns 10,000 gallons of gasoline per second which is the equivalent of 220,000 pounds of carbon dioxide.
What can you do? Simple things like mapping out the most fuel-efficient errand route, asking neighbors if they would like to join you, taking a stroll, or jumping on a bike for local errands are all creative solutions.
BONUS – A more efficient route will probably save you time on the road! Walking or riding may take a little longer, but the fresh air and exercise are worth the tradeoff.
Fun Fact – A single cow can release between 200 and 400 pounds of methane gas (think both ends of the cow) each year.
What can you do? If possible, integrate a few vegetarian or vegan meals into your weekly diet.
BONUS – cutting back on meat and dairy may have health benefits!
Fun Fact – The US produces 30% of the world’s waste even though it has only 5% of the world’s population.
What can you do? When you feel that you “need” something, take a look around first and see if you have an item that could be repurposed to fill that need. Join a local “Buy Nothing” group where friends and neighbors exchange goods and services for free, with the added benefit of not consuming more new products.
BONUS – It’s a great way to meet new people in your community!
These aren’t new ideas by any means. However, it’s easy to overlook or forget the difference that even the smallest changes can make. Tweaks to our daily routines can have a huge impact on our personal wellbeing, as well as that of the world around us. Whether you choose to make resolutions for the New Year or not, now is a great time to grab a hot cup of (insert beverage of your choice), sit back, reflect on the year ending and look forward to the year ahead. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back for whatever you have accomplished this year, and if you fell short of the goals you set last year, it’s ok…..get back on the horse and give it your best.
[Originally written by Richelle Lieboff for the January 2022 edition of Hopewell Valley Neighbors]