Happy 2023! The new year often inspires fresh perspectives. Although COVID-19 began almost 3 years ago, I picked up a habit during that time that was good medicine then and will carry me far into the future. Perhaps you’ll gain some insight and inspiration from this new habit, too.
—
At the height of the pandemic, I began watching the news on repeat. While it’s important to stay connected to world events, I noticed that the more I watched the more helpless I felt. Not good for me as a person or a coach, so I doubled down on my neighborhood walks to gain some perspective.
While walking, I noticed stray candy wrappers, plastic bags and discarded masks. Instead of contributing to the powerlessness I was already feeling, I picked up the litter and stashed it in my jacket pocket. Somewhat surprisingly I felt better – a bit empowered. It felt good to be someone who noticed and picked up trash.
During a time when I, like so many of us, was feeling unsure how to make a difference, doing something as simple as picking up trash allowed me to take action aligned with my value of being a steward of the environment. I felt a sense of agency over my own life at a time where we were living in an agency void.
Here are some takeaways from my litter-picking-up walks:
One person can make a difference.
I made a difference by picking up trash. While I certainly encourage you to pick up trash, I also encourage you to find your own version of picking up trash. Do something small that is within your grasp and aligns with your values.
It’s powerful to do something yourself, instead of waiting for someone else to do it.
Instead of calling my township to complain or judge people for littering (okay maybe I did get a bit judgmental at times!), I decided to take immediate action to fix it. It felt good!
A small action can have a positive ripple effect in your life, and in your community.
More than once, another walker I passed on my route thanked me for picking up the trash. One woman even began bringing a bag on her walks to do the same. Goodness is contagious!
—
My invitation for you: Take an action today aligned with your values.
Perhaps this means writing a thank you note to a friend. Or, checking in with a new colleague.
It feels good to do good, and we are not powerless. We can all be agents of change in our community, in our friendships, and in our workplace. It’s amazing to appreciate the power we hold.
Tell me — what will you do this week to live in line with your values?
For further reading on this topic, checkout this thought provoking post “Why I Pick up Trash at the Beach” by Ryan Holiday.
