When it comes to encouraging others to do their bit for a healthier planet, threats and coercion are rarely the best way to catalyse action.
People have to want to make sustainable changes and choices, not feel obliged to because of a perceived ‘or else’ mentality.
This is why when it comes to net positive advocacy, the gentle power approach is far more effective.
Net positive advocacy is about inspiring others to make changes in their lives to reduce their environmental impact and support a more sustainable future.
It’s one of the most powerful tools all of us can use to accelerate a change to low or net zero carbon footprints - both in our personal and professional lives.
Gentle power is about leading by example and showing others what's possible. Rather than ramming your ideas down people's throats, you simply share your passion for sustainability, the choices you're making in your own life and the impact this has on you - which helps to make it relatable to others.
When you use gentle power, you're more likely to build trust and rapport with others. This makes them more open to learning from you and making changes in their own lives because they trust you and the reasons you are doing it.
Here’s a few reasons why it’s a great for creating net positive advocacy:
- It's more respectful. Gentle power doesn't assume that you know what's best for other people. Instead, it respects their autonomy and allows them to make their own choices.
- It's more persuasive. People are more likely to be persuaded by someone who is leading by example and showing them the impact it’s had for them, rather than someone who is simply telling them what to do.
- It's more sustainable. Gentle power doesn't require you to constantly exert energy and effort to persuade others. Instead, it creates a ripple effect of change as people are inspired by your example - and hopefully share their net positive journey too.
So how can you use this? We asked our team of experts here at S2Z for their top tips - here’s their thoughts:
Firstly, and it’s obvious, but be a living example of the change you want to see in the world.
- Make sustainable choices in your own life and share your passion for sustainability with others. Not saying turn your social pages into shining examples of sustainability - that’s edging too close to the ‘ramming it down people’s throats’ angle. But when you’re proud of something, or you found it an ‘interesting’ insight or saving, then consider posting about it, and sharing it with friends and family.
- This can be as simple as cutting down on meat consumption - which is responsible for about 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Be positive and engaging.
- People are more likely to be inspired by your story if you focus on the positive aspects of sustainable living - and especially the impact it has had.
- For example, switching to a green energy tariff can often cost the same or less than a fossil fuel using tariff, and help create green energy jobs - so you can talk about both the cleaner energy, the savings on your budget, and economic benefits.
Be specific and share examples.
- When you talk about the sustainable choices you're making, be specific and share examples. This will help others understand what they can do to make a difference in their own lives.
- For example, when you shop, choose businesses that are committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Look for businesses that are using renewable energy, reducing their waste, and giving back to their communities - and share their brand names - help other people find them too.
Be authentic.
- Just be genuine - it’s OK to say it's hard (we do at S2Z because we struggle with it ourselves) - it’s the journey that counts, and getting started on it.
Be inclusive and welcoming.
- Sustainable living is for everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. Create a space where everyone feels welcome to learn and participate. Every contribution matters - so celebrating someone doing one less car trip a week is just as important as your friend who installed solar panels - it’s the planet that’s the winner.
At Switch2Zero, we’re passionate about helping anyone, anywhere, on their journey to a lower carbon footprint and a more sustainable lifestyle. Sometimes that can mean solutions, but sometimes it just means advice, support and insight. Which is where gentle power is at its best.
So give it a go - perhaps you’ll find a partner to support you on your own journey and add to your net positive story.
