My imperfect journey to a more sustainable life

Sustainability is messy. It’s not a finish line you cross or a perfect lifestyle you unlock. It’s a series of choices—some easy, some inconvenient, and some downright hard.

Five years ago, I started making changes, not because I had to be perfect, but because I wanted to do better. And while I’m still figuring things out, I know that every step, no matter how small, adds up.

✔️ Switched to an ethical bank

One of the first big shifts I made was changing banks. It might not seem like the most obvious sustainability move, but when I learned how much money from traditional banks funds fossil fuels, I knew I couldn’t keep my savings in a system that didn’t align with my values. Moving to an ethical bank was a simple yet powerful way to put my money where my heart is.

🥦 Went vegetarian

Then came food. I went vegetarian—not overnight, not perfectly, but gradually. It was a learning curve, and I still get it wrong sometimes. But I love knowing that my plate has a lower carbon footprint and that my choices reduce harm. Plus, it’s pushed me to be more creative in the kitchen, which has been an unexpected bonus.

♻️ Buy mostly second-hand

When it comes to stuff, I’ve shifted my mindset entirely. I used to buy new without thinking twice, but now, most of what I own is second-hand. Clothes, furniture, tools—there’s so much already out there waiting for a second life. It’s not just about reducing waste; it’s about breaking free from the cycle of overconsumption. And honestly? Vintage and pre-loved finds have way more character.

🏡 Built a nearly off-grid tiny house

One of my biggest dreams was to live more in tune with nature, so I built a nearly off-grid tiny house. It’s small, it’s simple, and it’s enough. Living with limited resources—solar power, rainwater collection—has made me more mindful of how I use energy and water. I’ve learned to appreciate the essentials and let go of excess.

✈️ Reduced my flights

But if I’m being completely honest, travel is my Achilles’ heel. Seeing the world is what drives me, and I’m not ready to give it up. Instead, I’ve found a compromise: I’ve cut my flights. It’s not perfect, but it’s a conscious choice. I try to make each trip meaningful, staying longer, traveling slower, and appreciating every moment.

I share all of this not to say, “Look at me, I’ve figured it out,” but to remind anyone reading this that sustainability isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention. It’s about doing what you can, where you can, and knowing that your efforts—big or small—matter.

I’m still learning. I still have blind spots. But if the past five years have taught me anything, it’s that change happens in steps, not leaps. And that’s okay.

What steps have you taken? What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to living more sustainably? Let’s talk about it—imperfectly, together.

#Sustainability #ImperfectAction #OffGridLiving #EthicalLiving #SlowTravel #VegetarianLife #SecondHandFirst #ClimateAction