How To Go Green with Style In 2009

Five Ways To Green Your New Year's Resolutions

Dec 28, 2008 Elena Lipson

There are a few simple, no-pain ways to check off your list of New Year's resolutions and lighten your footprint at that same time.

Every year millions of well meaning, hard working and dedicated people sit down to make a list of changes they want to make, and goals they want to accomplish in the coming year. This year, it is ever more important to add a few green themed items to your list.

First Things First

When creating a New Years resolution list, there are a few criteria that help you reach those goals:

  • Stretch a bit - make your resolutions achievable yet slightly out of easy grasp. There's nothing like the feeling of reaching a goal that seemed unreachable just a year ago.
  • Look within - as you are conjuring your list, try to think beyond the glow of the January momentum. January is one of the busiest months for gym enrollment, yet how many of those hopefuls are still pumping iron in April? Think about what you want your year to look like. Project yourself into the end of 2009, what are the things you will look back on proudly?
  • Do it for YOU - the things you put on your list should reflect the things you want for yourself. Check your inner compass to make sure that you are not trying to reach other people's expectations first (unless they match with your own).
  • Take your time - a great way to get your list started is to take a few hours, (or days) and go sit in a place that inspires you. Does the beach give you ideas? Do you think best and most creatively when you are hiking on the path doing yoga? Do your best ideas come through when you're in the shower? Keep a pad and paper near by as you ponder your best 2009. Inspiration can strike anywhere.

Now For the Green

Adding a few green objectives to your New Year's resolutions is a great way to put some thought into lightening the load and caring for the environment.

  • Recycling - this is a simple enough addition to any list. But this time, add a new element to recycling. Think beyond the garbage pale. Take a walk through your home and closet. Are there things in your home that no longer reflect your life? Toys, clothes, magazines etc.? This is a great opportunity to pass on to those who can really use your stuff. (you won't miss it...promise)
  • Make your own gifts and cards - there is something about receiving a hand made card that makes a person feel loved and considered. You need not be a descendant of Picasso to create a memory or a special gift. Use things you have around the house - printing paper, stickers, crayons, markers. Just few simple words, colors and thoughts can create a connection and put a little sparkle into their day. (Don't wait for a special occasion to send a hand made note.)
  • Buy local - before your next purchase of shoes, furnishings or clothing, take a moment to look around your own town for treasures. There are local artisans in ever town and city who put their heart and soul into creating unique, high quality items that will be treasured for generations. There is something special about knowing the person who made your chair, your boots or your earrings that simply cannot be found in a factory. (you might just make a new friend)
  • Plan for your purchases - the new year gives you a chance to plan out birthdays, celebrations and travel. Take a moment and really think through the amounts of money you would like to spend on each. (This sounds terribly like a budget - what a great way to add on another resolution - better sleep through budgeting)
  • Cancel catalog subscriptions - anyone with a mailbox knows that there are more catalogs than human beings sent each and every day. How many of these actually get read? Yes, they do get recycled, but why waste the energy on something that just seems so wasteful. Most stores who send catalogs also have great functional web sites where you can browse as needed. Check out CatalogChoice.org to learn how you can lighten your mailbox load.

Beautiful Image is Copyrighted and Courtesy of {Just Call me S}

Enjoy!

The copyright of the article How To Go Green with Style In 2009 in Green/Simple Living is owned by Elena Lipson. Permission to republish How To Go Green with Style In 2009 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Freedom, {Just Call me S}
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