A few steps that will get you going and on the right track is to start with one area that is important in your everyday life such as the products you use on a daily basis. Start shopping eco-friendly products, and begin with an item you use frequently such as soap and find a replacement that is made with natural ingredients. Then replace your lotion, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and so on. The price can be higher sometimes, however the more we buy eco friendly products the more prices will eventually go down. The benefits will outweigh the cost and you will definitely notice the difference.
As with everything else you will not like all eco friendly products even though they are much better for you so you will have to try a few until you find one that you like. Also, not all green products are created equal there are some products that state that they are green or natural and they are not, so make sure you read the labels carefully. Look for products that do not contain parabens, phthalates, talc, artificial colors, bpa, etc., and have no animal testing, (you will also need to look out for the same things when buying cleaning products).
Start thinking about the companies that you purchase your products from. Do they care about selling products that are safe, do they give back to the community or a non profit organization? Do they work with a co-op? Are their products organic, biodegradeable, in recycled packaging, or fair trade? Then start buying from the companies that have these qualities.
Give back! Love makes the world go 'round right? So spread the love and give back to the community or your local charity. Volunteer or donate to a cause you belive in. It will make you feel good inside and enlighten your spirit.
Get with other green-minded people, they are everywhere. They are in your city, you can tweet with them, become fans of theirs on facebook, and learn more by checking out the tons of websites, shows, dvds, and books on green living.
Healthy living is also a part of being green. Eating better (by eating more real and organic food, not processed) and exercising will do you right in the new year. As far as eating treat this area the same as with the products you use on your body. Start replacing one item at a time with a healthier version. Start cooking your food instead of eating out. Seriously, by the time you go buy fast food you could have cooked it yourself, it's less expensive, you get more of it that can be saved for leftovers, you save gas, it's healthier, and you know what's in it (no surprise ingredients). As far as exercise do what's best for you and just keep doing it and don't give up even when it feels like it's not working, it just takes time.
Recycle as much as you can. Find your local recycling center if there is not a pick up in your neighborhood. Drop off items on your way to places you normally go like to the grocery store or to pick up your kids and it makes it easier. It takes a little more time and sometimes you may not feel like it, but if you can only recycle those annoying plastic bags at least do that and it will make a big difference. Most of the grocery stores, big chains stores, or even the schools have local drops-offs for plastic bags or you can just start BYOB (bringing your own bag :) Also, start using use recycled products such as napkins, paper, plates, toilet paper, etc.
Last but not least green your home. Of course changing your light bulbs and appliances to more energy efficient ones will make a big difference, however if you are not exactly sure of all the changes that you can make that will save you money have an energy audit done. Check with your electric company and they may do one for you free of charge.
Some of these things you may have already done, so look at areas that you could improve on and help others in your household get involved. Before you know it you'll be living green, saving money, time, and the planet.
b - happy, b - healthy, b - green
