6 Lessons Learned from A Planet Superhero
I met a superhero last weekend. She protects the planet. Her passion for preserving the earth stems from her desire to leave a healthy and safe planet for the generations to come. Apart from working with NGOs and leading green initiatives, she has been practicing minimalism, upcycling, etc. An avid nature lover, she participates in trail runs and green marathons. Her words and visage reflect her connection to Mother Earth.
Her green initiatives started as a conscious decision following a conversation with her son about responsibility. When asked to take responsibility and prepare well for his grades, the boy replied, “What’s the use? The generations past have depleted Earth’s resources, melted ice caps, and contributed to microplastics and whatnot. We will have bigger concerns than grades and college degrees.” This conversation was an eye-opener for her. She decided to make the planet a better place.
Isn’t she incredible? Isn’t there so much to learn from her? Let me share some of my learnings from her.
1. Protect the inspiration
For 95% of the people, a thought such as this remains just a thought or inspiration. As Robin Sharma says,
“Inspiration that is unprotected is inspiration that will be lost.”
The World’s top leadership expert says that inspiration can be protected in a tiny bubble of focus. With practice, a small idea becomes a thing of joy, something that can inspire others. Our superhero is one of the 5% — a person who turned her vision into reality.
2. Actions count more than words
Many of us preach about saving the planet. But true leaders walk the talk. They put it into practice with small daily acts. Our superhero doesn’t just preach green ideas. She practices them. “Reduce, reuse, and recycle” aren’t just words for her. She has only three plates at home.
3. Minimalism inspires creativity
What happens when you stop buying more things? When you give away or upcycle items that are not used for over four months as our superhero does? Converting trash to treasure requires creativity.
4. Buying less is good for energy
When people stop buying unwanted things, there is less clutter and more savings. Experiences begin to matter more than material items. Such people focus their energy, time, and money on doing things they love. They become leaders who build and sustain green initiatives.
5. What you give out comes back to you
Our superhero’s passion is to save the planet. Every minimalist act in her day is a win for the earth and for her. Can you imagine the impact on her motivation-reward-reinforcement cycle?
6. Green is good for health too
Many studies have proven the benefits of green living and minimalism. Low stress is the most apparent benefit. Another plus is the time and energy to stay fit.
In conclusion
Ideas and campaigns alone do not make one a green conservationist. It takes action to pursue passion and grit to go beyond personal discomfort and stay focused on saving the planet. The least we can do when we meet such superheroes is to acknowledge their contribution and honor their commitment to their cause. Or we can allow ourselves to be inspired and to be guided by true role models.
