ECO Fatigue is Real – How to keep going without burning out
You started out strong with the best intentions – ditching plastic bags, composting and buying second hand.
But lately, it has started to become difficult and hard to find the reason why it matters.
Welcome to ‘eco fatigue’, the very real burnout that can affect even the finest eco warrior.
What is eco fatigue?
The mental and emotional exhaustion felt by trying to be sustainable in an unsustainable world.
This can be felt by anyone and everyone who is trying their best but often feels like their individual efforts are but a drop in a vast ocean of overconsumption and consumerism.
This can lead to guilt and overwhelm, making all efforts seem pointless.
Why does it happen?
Our newspapers and social media are filled with daily reminders of environmental problems, coral bleaching, plastic pollution and natural disasters.
The volume of ‘greenwashing’ and duping by companies exploiting loopholes to continue their corrupt unsustainable practices is exhausting.
For those trying to reduce their impact, whilst all around them others are oblivious or choosing to ignore what their actions are causing, can be soul destroying.
This can all take its toll on even those of us with the best of intentions.
How can we beat it?
We need to make sustainability sustainable.
- Imperfect is better than nothing – you don’t need perfection to make a real impact!
- Choose your battles – you can’t fix everything, focus on one area at a time.
- Take a breather – It’s OK to hit pause when life gets overwhelming. You can pick up your eco habits when things feel lighter.
- Celebrate your wins – reflect on your eco journey, and how far you have come.
- Find positive environmental wins – follow social accounts that share their positive stories not those that choose to only share the losses.
Remember, taking a break does not mean giving up, it is about looking at the bigger picture and realising it is not a race to the finish line.
Millions of small actions do add up and every conscious choice you make does make a difference.
We would love to hear how you combat eco fatigue and share your own tips and tricks to keep sustainability sustainable in your everyday lives.
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