Green Your Partner
Lead by Design
The ‘ol saying, set a good example. Don’t just buy them reusable bags – make sure you remember yours when you two go shopping together. Most people want to do what looks both fun and right. If you aren’t doing, they’re not going to either.
Knowing is Half the Battle
Educate yourself and your partner; and why not try using electronic media. But not just blogs…books, newspapers, magazines and podcasts. Or give Kindle a try.
Get Up, Get Out and Do Something
Getting involved in your local community can be a fast and easy way to get connected to the world as a whole. A simple trip to the farmers market can help sustain local growers, while introducing you to a new neighbor and encouraging you to eat organic foods. Also, a Saturday spent volunteering at your community garden can help you better understand the use for your own compost or those old tires you were storing in your backyard. One simple act can open the door to new possibilities and actions. Try something new, together, and see where it may lead.
All Systems Ready
Sometimes the hardest part of a project is getting started…so do it for them! If the house you share or the home they have doesn’t already have a recycling system in place, set one up for them. A little surprise recycling overhaul will be just what the doctor ordered to get them jump-started in their new life. But be careful: if it’s their house you are changing, make sure to not make any changes that will turn your surprise into a screaming match instead of a high-five party.
Show Them You Notice
Be encouraging and supportive, but most of all, hold your partner accountable. Everyone needs a little shove sometimes, as well as a pat on the back and some acknowledgment. What might seem like a daily activity to you could be a big deal to them. So make a scene, throw a party, or send them an e-card to let them know you have seen a change – and you appreciate it!
You Know You Got To Have Friends
Taking up a new lifestyle is a great time to meet others in your new mindset. Attending events, shows, expos, concerts and stores that focus on eco-products and culture are great places to meet other couples like you. Take this opportunity to get out into the scene and start to mingle. New friends will open the door to unique options and different things that can spice up your life.
Find Fantastic Alternatives
No one knows your partner’s favorite food, indulgent activities, or wasteful treats better than you. To positively counteract this, find the “eco-alterative” for each and make it even better.
Coffee addict? Try fair trade. Chocolate junkie? Go organic. Love the gas guzzler? Start saving for those new SUV hybrids. Whatever the hang-up, think outside the box – it’s easier than you think. Plus, it shows that you thought it through and are not trying to take away their favorite things, just make them greener!
Take an Eco Trip
After all this work, its time for a vacation, so make it a green one. Whether it’s your second honeymoon, first trip together or just a weekend away, a trip with Mother Nature in mind is a great way to start your new lifestyle off on the right foot. Options in eco-tourism have been growing like wild in the past few years, representing 11.4 percent of all consumer spending in the travel industry. You’ve done a lot of work, so take a break, and enjoy each other!
Original content by Raquel Fagan, Earth911.com
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