With some scientists predicting a grave future for Mother Earth and future generations, the topic of sustainability can feel pretty overwhelming. Have you ever had a to-do list so long that you ended up in a state of decision fatigue and chose to just take a nap instead?

We are often subject to this all-or-nothing thinking, but the pursuit of perfection can be a major obstacle to achieving incremental progress. You have all heard the saying, “practice makes perfect!” It's about time we evolve into a new way of thinking with a new slogan: “practice makes progress.” 

With collective action, we can make a difference!

Earth Day is upon us, and there is no better time to reflect on how we could have a more positive impact on our natural environment. While it's important to remain hopeful, it's vital that we focus on what is within our control to help minimize the genuine chances of decision fatigue and avoid napping through a rather important to-do list.

 Having a positive environmental impact isn't complicated. You don't have to go out and buy a roof full of solar panels, purchase an expensive electric car, or install a wind turbine in your backyard. Here are some real-world, sustainable actions you can personally take today to support the well-being of our planet and increase the quality of life for all.

Bring In the Natural Light

Turn off the lights and let the sun's incredible power light up your home!

Not only are you saving money and energy costs, but YOU are also benefiting from those golden rays cascading on your skin. The sun provides us with energy efficiency and vital nutrients (hellooo, vitamin D!). Not to mention, exposure to the morning sun will help regulate your circadian rhythm—but that's a topic for another day.

Do you know who else is reaping the benefits? Yep, you guessed it—your plants and pets. Have you ever seen a dog or cat sprawl out right where the sun is beaming? Or a plant creeping its leaves towards your window? Everyone wins in this seemingly simple act of climate action.

Support Local Farms

Most communities offer farmer's markets, making supporting your local farm easier than ever. Purchasing your meat, eggs, and produce from a local source helps minimize the  greenhouse gas emissions from transporting food.

With most small farmers practicing organic or regenerative agriculture, they are helping put carbon back into the soil where it belongs. We have all heard of the detrimental impact that commercial meat production has on our planet.

Animals raised in an organic, regenerative setting are happier and healthier and support the earth by enriching the soil. Knowing where your food comes from is important, and it can be one of the most significant impacts on the environmental sustainability of our planet.

Grow Your Own Herbs and Vegetables

I know, more food talk, but hear me out. There is something so rewarding about nurturing a tiny seed into something that nourishes your body. These home-grown veggies are going to be packed with more nutrients, and you’ll actually taste the difference.

If you've ever had a homegrown tomato, you know what I'm talking about. Besides, it saves you a trip to the store (or farmers market!) and money.

Limit Single-Use Plastics

This one seems like a no-brainer, but a little reminder never hurts. Most single-use plastics are just not necessary. Now, more than ever, it's easy to find reusable straws, bags, cutlery, and storage containers. They end up being more affordable in the long run, and as an extra bonus, they come in adorable designs!

Try choosing restaurants that use recyclable to-go containers, and decline those little, pre-made, plastic-cutlery baggies when you can. Again, do your best. Some situations are simply out of your control.

Shop Sustainable Fashion

More and more clothing companies are hopping on the sustainable actions bandwagon, using ethically sourced materials in addition to  Fair Trade and recycled fabrics. For example, UpWest uses recycled polyester, organic cotton, and nylon to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly products.

We also reduce our carbon footprint by using paperless receipts in-store and recycled poly bags online. To limit household waste in people's daily life, we pay for shipping when shoppers donate gently used clothes with the Give Back Box.

Since more people are donating their clothes, there are good quality options at second-hand stores for an affordable price. In addition, fixing torn clothes or broken shoes rather than throwing them away or replacing them is a valuable option for a lower carbon footprint.

If you don't know how to fix your favorite pieces, there are small businesses that will do it for you, often charging you less than what it would cost to replace them with something new and contributing to a lower environmental footprint.

Besides, clothing can be sentimental. Channel your inner Marie Kondo and give thanks to your most joyful pieces. We have grown accustomed to instant gratification and have lost the traditional homemaking and trade skills that our grandparents once relied on. 

Wash your cherished items in cold water to extend their life and make an action plan to eventually replace them with high-quality clothing that will last for years.

There is a reason skills like gardening, sewing, and cooking have been around for so long—they allow humans and the planet to live and thrive. Remember, practice makes progress. Living a sustainable lifestyle doesn't have to be stressful. You are only responsible for what is within your control, which includes small shifts like using eco-friendly products, limiting food waste, refraining from using plastic bottles, and taking steps towards a better carbon footprint.