This is for all activists: for the brave, strong-hearted and empathic beings fighting, demonstrating, living, and breathing for a better world. For simply a better life. This is for you.
Things are happening, people are awakening and the world is shifting. Whether the resistance is taking place online or on the streets, everyone can feel a change in society worldwide. Finally! Climate crisis, increasing poverty lines and inequality issues have been circling unattended for far too long. It is time to make a change! However, getting involved and active in those social issues also can be drowning and exhausting from time to time. Injustice negatively impacts our minds and well-being, even if we are not even experiencing it. Mindfulness is (thank god!) becoming more and more prevalent in our daily lives, whether this concerns our work environment, leisure time or mindful parenting. Nonetheless, in my opinion, this topic is still way too disregarded among activists, probably because those people are quite selfless most of the time. Fighting the system and the ignorant majority is exhausting in so many ways and can make you feel vulnerable, restless, and desperate at times. Here's a guide to stay grounded, without turning inactive: here's to mindful activism that saves the world without destroying yourself.
You cannot pour from an empty cup.
The best way to help others is to help oneself. You cannot save the world and lose yourself in return – we would miss out on too much. Living sustainably starts with self-love and looking out for each other. Full energy levels increase not only the possibility of a healthier and happier lifestyle, but also the potential support you can give which is crucial to our society. While standing up for the rights of others is indeed a selfless act, you as a person equally deserve to be cared for. Don't forget to look after yourself and your energy levels before bursting out there, smashing the system again. It does not all depend on you. The burden of the world's issues is not upon you alone. Every one of us is responsible for making this world a better place - and it won't become better when in the meantime people's spirits get crushed. So take some time to relax and come back even stronger. The next opportunity to save the world is just around the corner 
Do something that cheers you up.
It's okay to not be up to date with current events the entire time. Withdraw from social media and news channels if it makes you feel better. Getting distance solves many problems, and no one out there is helped when you suffer from a mental breakdown. For instance, set yourself a fixed day of the week on which you don't check social media. Planning regular breaks and times to only do cheerful activities will help you freshen up your mind and make your activism even better. Enjoy the break – you deserve it.
Form groups.
Everything gets easier once you share it with others. A problem shared is a problem halved. Joining groups of like-minded people takes at least some pain away, since you feel heard and seen. Having people around you with the same struggles, ideas and dreams is extremely empowering and relieving. It will instantly make you feel better – I promise! If you feel like there is not the right organisation or group around you yet, start one. You'll be surprised how many people feel the same way as you. Do-gooders are everywhere. You just need to find each other.
It all comes back to self-love at the end of the day. Listen to your body and mind, take care of your soul, and do what is best for you first. Balance is the keyword here and it will be inevitable in order to make real change. Only strong trees can stand the storm. Be proud of your impact and everything you have done so far. I am so grateful for your work. You make a difference. Own that!
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