Why I Decided to Go Green (It Wasn’t Overnight)
I wasn’t always the “eco-conscious” type. In fact, if you’d met me a few years ago, you’d probably find single-use everything in my kitchen, plastic bags under my sink, and a shopping habit that leaned heavily into fast fashion. So what changed?
It started small—really small. I came across a documentary on plastic pollution one night while scrolling aimlessly on Netflix. One hour later, I was emotionally wrecked and staring at my bathroom counter full of plastic bottles, wondering how I became part of the problem.
That was my turning point. But let me tell you something I wish someone had told me back then: sustainable living isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being aware and making better choices, one at a time.
The First Steps I Took (and the Mistakes I Made)
I jumped in headfirst. I made a long list of swaps I wanted to make—bamboo toothbrushes, reusable bags, compost bins, zero-waste everything. And guess what? I burned out fast.
The truth is, trying to go 100% eco-friendly overnight is the quickest way to feel overwhelmed. So I gave myself permission to slow down. I focused on one habit at a time—starting with something simple: switching to a reusable water bottle and ditching plastic straws.
That small change felt good. Like I had control again. Plus, I found this sleek stainless-steel water bottle that I now take everywhere—it keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and honestly makes me feel like a sustainability ninja.
The Products That Helped Me Stay on Track
Let’s be real—living eco-friendly doesn’t mean never buying anything. It means choosing better when you do buy. Here are a few game-changers that helped me build momentum:
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Bamboo Toothbrush: Swapping out my plastic toothbrush for a biodegradable one was surprisingly satisfying. I use this one because it’s soft on my gums and compostable.
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Beeswax Wraps: These were a revelation! I replaced cling film with these wraps, and they keep my produce fresh without the guilt.
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Reusable Cotton Rounds: I used to toss so many makeup wipes. Now I use these washable rounds—they’re cute, soft, and I never run out.
Each product felt like a little “win,” and that kept me going.
The Struggles (Because They’re Real)
Let’s talk honestly: not everything was sunshine and compost bins.
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I forgot my reusable bags more times than I care to admit.
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My first attempt at composting… smelled like failure. (Literally.)
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I faced eco guilt—a real thing—every time I slipped up.
But I learned to treat this lifestyle like a relationship. Progress, not perfection. I even started giving myself eco “cheat days” so I didn’t spiral into self-shame.
What Changed—and What Stayed the Same
Fast forward to today: my kitchen has fewer disposables, my wardrobe is smaller but more intentional, and I feel lighter in ways I didn’t expect.
I haven’t changed the world. But I’ve changed my world. And if enough of us do that, well… maybe we will make a dent together.
Final Thoughts (And a Little Nudge for You)
If you’re standing at the edge of the eco-living pool, wondering whether to jump—start with one thing. Just one. Your morning coffee routine, your grocery bags, your toothbrush.
I promise, that one thing will lead to two. And soon, you’ll be telling your own story about how it all started.
