Making the shift to a more sustainable lifestyle is an enriching journey. It’s about aligning your actions with your values and contributing to a healthier planet. But as with any new endeavour, it’s easy to stumble. Here are three things to avoid when adopting new sustainability practices, shared with warmth and encouragement to help you on your path.

1. Don’t Aim for Perfection

When starting out, it’s tempting to want to do everything perfectly—but sustainability isn’t about being flawless. Just do the best you can at any given time with what you have. Unrealistic expectations can lead to burnout and frustration, so remember:

• Small, consistent changes add up over time.
• Mistakes are learning opportunities, not failures.
• Focus on what you can do rather than what you can’t.
• Recognise that not everybody will understand what you are doing or even share your environmental concerns. Carry on with kindness.

For example, if you forget your reusable bags one day, don’t let guilt derail your efforts. Celebrate the times you do remember, and keep moving forward.

2. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself

Trying to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight can feel overwhelming and unsustainable. Instead:

• Start with one or two changes that are meaningful to you, like composting or reducing single-use plastics.
• Build on your habits gradually. Once you’ve mastered one change, move on to the next.
• Prioritise practices that align with your values and lifestyle, so they’re easier to stick with.

By pacing yourself, you’ll create habits that last and avoid feeling like you’re taking on too much at once.

3. Don’t Forget to Celebrate Wins

It’s easy to focus on what you haven’t done yet, but don’t forget to acknowledge your progress! Celebrating small wins can help you stay motivated and inspired. Some ideas include:

• Sharing your achievements with friends or family.
• Treating yourself when you hit a milestone, like completing a month of zero food waste.
• Reflecting on the positive impact your efforts are having on the planet.

Each step you take is a step towards a more sustainable future, and that’s something worth celebrating.

Remember, We are in This Together

Sustainability depends on connection. The world around us is far from perfect, and there are lots of challenges to affecting positive change. What each of us does matters, and when we foster our connections to each other and build sustainable communities, we really can change the world. Check out The Bowerbird Community Hub for regular support and inspiration on your sustainability journey.

Want more support for your sustainable living journey? Check out what I have on offer at Anne Price Permaculture. Let’s create a brighter, greener future together!