Progress Not Perfection: Your Journey to Sustainability

1. Introduction

These days, we hear a lot about the need to be more sustainable in our everyday lives—to avoid items wrapped in single-use plastics, to switch from bottled shampoo to solid bars, to walk or cycle instead of drive, and even to install solar panels on our rooftops. It can all feel overwhelming. I’m sure I’m not the only person who finds that, when I feel overwhelmed by the need to do something, I end up doing nothing at all. It just feels impossible to take that first step.

In this blog, I want to explore some of the practical actions we can take as we try to adopt a more sustainable way of living.

I'm sure, like me, you've seen those TV programmes and magazine articles about people living "perfect" environmentally friendly lifestyles. You know the type—solar panels providing electricity, homegrown fruit and veg, maybe even some chickens. Their clothes are all second-hand or handmade, and they might even have a compost toilet.

While I truly admire these people, knowing I wouldn’t be able—or honestly, wouldn’t want—to live that way can feel like a barrier to making smaller changes. But it’s important to remember that becoming more sustainable isn’t an all-or-nothing situation. It’s a spectrum—from those who never think about sustainability to those fully committed to the eco lifestyle. Most of us fall somewhere in between, and that's okay.

You don’t need to be perfectly green to make a difference. Most of us are doing what we can with what we have. And that is enough.

2. Why Progress Matters More

I'm a big believer in the saying, "every long journey starts with a single step", and I think that’s the best approach when it comes to sustainability.

It's not about trying to do everything all at once—turning your garden into a vegetable plot, swapping your car for a bike, baking all your own bread. These things might be achievable for some, but not for everyone. Jobs, family commitments, finances—these all play a part in what’s realistic for us.

There used to be a traditional greengrocer’s in my village where I could pick up fresh produce from local farms, all sold loose and packed in paper bags. It was ideal—but sadly, it closed a couple of years ago. Now my options are my local Co-op, where most fruit and veg is wrapped in plastic, or driving to a farm shop where the prices are higher.

From my own experience, the best way forward is to start with quick, easy wins—simple changes that feel achievable. One of the easiest is switching to bar soap. You don’t need to buy expensive handmade bars (though they’re lovely!). Most supermarkets now stock solid soap options, and making this change alone reduces plastic waste.

Other simple swaps include solid shampoo and conditioner bars, soap on a rope, and eco-friendly deodorants. As more people make these changes, the demand grows, and manufacturers start producing more plastic-free alternatives. Every small action helps drive wider change.

3. Starting your journey

When you begin making changes, focus on those easy wins. You’ll soon start to feel the impact, which can be a real boost to your motivation. That sense of achievement might even inspire you to take the next step.

So what are some other easy wins?

If you have a stash of "bags for life"—the ones supermarkets encouraged us to buy a few years ago—start using them. If not, invest in some reusable bags. I’ve got all sorts: fold-up ones that fit in my handbag, tote bags in various sizes, and my favourites—traditional string bags. You’ll be amazed how much they hold.

Another quick change is to check what you can and can’t recycle at home. Soft plastics, like food packaging or postal bags, often can’t go in your regular recycling. But many supermarkets now have collection bins for these items. Some even accept batteries. I shop with Ocado, and they give me 10p off for every bag I return—little things like this make a difference.

And remember: don’t beat yourself up for not being perfect. As I said, being “imperfectly green” is much better than not trying at all.

4. Celebrating Wins and Learning from Mistakes

It’s important to track your progress and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Reflecting on what you’ve done helps build momentum.

Of course, there will be mistakes or times when things don’t go to plan. That’s part of the process. It’s not about being flawless—it’s about being honest, staying open to learning, and adjusting as you go.

Having conversations about the challenges we face can also help others feel less alone in their journey. Transparency breeds support and shared solutions.

5. Conclusion

Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. It’s not about reaching some ideal version of an eco-friendly life—it’s about moving forward, step by step.

Start small, build gradually, and do what you can with what you have. Your efforts matter, and they add up over time. Most importantly, know that every positive action counts.

I’d love to hear from you—what changes have you made? What’s working for you? Share your stories or tips in the comments and let’s inspire each other to keep moving forward.