Even with the best intentions, it can be hard to keep the momentum going when trying to form a new habit. For the average Brit, it takes just 13 days to drop out of new sustainable habits 1 .
We’re here to put the odds in your favour with practical tips to help you stick to your guns, and live the sustainable lifestyle you desire.
1. Do your research
Immerse yourself in the topic of sustainable living. The better informed you are, the more passionate you’ll be about seeing it through, as you’ll understand how your role fits into the bigger picture.
2. Start small
Don’t set yourself up to fail by aiming too high, too quick. You want to make long-term changes so this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Pick things that are easy to change and reap big rewards as this will encourage you to continue. For instance, reduce food waste. This will save you money, give you more kitchen space, and will force you to get creative with your cooking.
See here for more ideas on how to create a sustainable home.
3. Repeat, repeat, repeat
The only way to make something stick is to do it again, and again, and again until it’s so ingrained in you that it becomes second nature.
The key is to make it as easy as possible to repeat these habits. For example, if you want to reduce your use of plastic, leave reusable shopping bags by the front door and in the boot of your car, so you can quickly grab them on your way out.
4. Buddy up
Find someone to do it with you. Having a support network is beneficial, especially if you start to lose interest and sight of your end goal.
You can encourage one another by sharing tips and tricks that have worked well.
5. Be kind to yourself
Aim for progress, not perfection. As the saying goes, ‘patience is a virtue’, and you’ll need lots of it as you adjust to your new sustainable habits.
Many people fall off the bandwagon when they don’t see quick results, but the smaller changes will still make a difference.
Also, acknowledge your achievements, and when things get tough, remember why you want a more sustainable lifestyle.
Stay on track
These tips will help keep you on track, but remember, like any bad habit you’re trying to kick, or good habit you’re trying to instil, the secret is persistence.
1. Mirror.co.uk
Important information
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend on your circumstances. The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.
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