Behave like your actions matter, because they do.

Believe in the existence and power of love. Look for evidence of it, acknowledge and celebrate it.

Apologize when you hurt someone.

Smile at strangers—especially if they look like they need it.

Hug people, often.

Eat less meat and dairy.

Drive less, cycle more.

Stand up for yourself.

Stand up for people and animals who are being mistreated in any way.

“The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world.” ~ Paul Farmer

Feel your emotions, including (especially) the uncomfortable ones. Repressing or denying them only leads to (bigger) trouble later on.

Forgive yourself and others.

Learn to recognize when fear is in the driving seat and rise above it.

Vote with your wallet and choose ethical and sustainable products.

Be kind.

Be strong and brave in the face of tyranny.

Call out—as compassionately as you can—racism, sexism, homophobia or any other kind of bigotry you witness. Model a better way of viewing the world.

“A problem cannot be solved by the same level of consciousness that created it.” ~ Albert Einstein

Take care of your own well-being: eat well, walk, dance, sing, laugh, meditate.

Be a blessing to somebody in need, in whatever capacity you are able.

See everyone on their own path and respect all beings, equally.

Stop waiting for authority figures to solve all our problems, or pointing the finger of blame at those in power who don’t seem to care enough. We each have to play our part. Our actions have a ripple effect. So, it is up to each and every one of us to give a f*ck about the kind of world we want to live in—and act accordingly.

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” ~ Dr Seuss

~

Author: Hilda Carroll

Image:  Courtney Carmody/Flickr 

Editors: Catherine Monkman; Emily Bartran