THINK DIFFERENTLY:

Bill Mollison, co-founder of permaculture said “permaculture is a philosophy of working with, rather than against nature; of protracted and thoughtful observation, rather than protracted and thoughtless action…” He also said “We don’t have to suppose we need oil, or governments, or anything.” We are being invited to reconsider everything about how we live, what we do, what we have been taught and what we believe to be true.

The capacity for self reflection and insight is an extremely useful, but also challenging skill. To be able to consider our own point of view as dispassionately as possible, to look for the pros and cons, and to always remember that we live and think in a bubble of like-minded friends, colleagues and social media helps to keep our own thinking open to alternative points of view and possibilities.

I would also like to suggest that it is not only about thinking differently; it is about thinking BETTER. Always looking for the better choice, in alignment with our values and what we are trying to achieve.

Every time we spend dollars, we have the chance to make a statement, big or small, with our choice. Re-usable cup or single use? Packaged or unpackaged fruit and vegies? Cheap imports or locally grown and hand-made? Take the car or opt for walk/bike/public transport? Research and move the banking/superannuation/power company or let it go a little longer? Individually they are small actions, but by taking the thoughtful route we help to drive change in a positive direction.

Everything we do has a cost, whether that is in personal effort, time, energy, to the environment, or in dollar terms. By taking well-informed and thoughtful decisions we can minimize any detrimental effects, and make a positive contribution.

For more hints and tips on thinking differently head to https://www.52climateactions.com/think-differently/full