Working as a freelance environmental writer is brilliant. I get to geek out about all the latest conservation and sustainability news and share those with the world through my articles, blogs and copywriting services. But it can be tough. Eco anxiety is real. It's definitely something I struggle with when a lot of my work involves thinking and writing about the immense challenges our planet is facing. Species are being lost at a catastrophic rate, governments are still approving new coal and oil projects and raw sewage is being pumped into the sea. It's easy to feel discouraged and overwhelmed by all the negatives.

But I try to have hope. I believe we have to if we are to continue making a positive impact through our careers (or just as global citizens). So, here are a few ways I try to stay positive as an environmental writer. I hope some of these tips might be helpful for you too!

Find your people

One of the things I love most about the sustainability sector is the people. My network is full of passionate, dedicated people all doing their bit to have a positive impact on the world. And it's not just conservation and environmental writers like me. There are carbon literacy trainers, campaigners and even translators who are helping to spread the word.

Surrounding myself with like-minded professionals who share my values has been incredibly motivating. For example,l I set aside time for 'freelance natters' (although you don't have to be freelance to have a chat). For me, this has been a great way of meeting inspiring people, keeping ourselves accountable and boosting each other when it all gets a bit too much.

Give back

For those of us working in the environmental field, giving back is often a key part of our business. This can be a great way to stay motivated because it helps you stay connected to the tangible impact you're having. How you give back depends on what's right for you. Think about which of the SDGs are closest to your heart, what impact you want to have and what you want to gain (if anything) from the support you offer. For example, if you're an early career consultant, offering pro bono support could help you boost your portfolio, volunteering in your local community can help you meet new people and getting involved in citizen science or grassroots conservation projects can be a great way to expand your knowledge of relevant issues. Or it might just be getting that warm and fuzzy feeling knowing you've helped someone else.

Personally, I try to give back in several ways. This includes: donating to charity, planting trees, supporting charities and taking courses to learn more about sustainability and conservation as well as getting involved in citizen science. Now I live by the sea (hooray!), I also want to get more involved in local community projects. I'm hoping to put my Marine Mammal Medic training into practice by responding to nearby BDMLR call outs and taking part in regular beach cleanups.

Look after yourself

I've found that my work as an environmental writer can have highs and lows. I've struggled with eco anxiety and sometimes I push myself too hard. It feels like there's no time to rest when we need such urgent solutions. But I keep trying to remind myself to take breaks and practice self-care. You can't help anyone if you've burned out. For me, looking after myself means getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, keeping up with my yoga and meditation, socialising with friends and connecting with nature and the ocean as much as possible.

Think about the ripple

With our planet facing so many challenges, it can feel like you're too small to make a difference. I try to focus on the ripple effect of everyone taking small actions and sharing them with our network. For example, when Emma Hewlett made conker laundry liquid, I thought I'd give it a go. Then my mum tried it too as did a few of my LinkedIn followers. It's hard to track how many people have made a positive change thanks to you. But knowing that sharing what you're up to might inspire other people to improve their habits can help keep you motivated.

Celebrate the wins

Let's face it, there are many negative aspects to working in the environmental sector. To avoid getting swept up in how overwhelming the challenges are, I try to celebrate the wins wherever possible. This might be a tiny lifestyle change I've made myself, the cumulative impact I'm having through my business or an inspiring innovation that could speed up solutions to the climate crisis.

Keep going

I'll admit that I'm not doing the above perfectly. I get overwhelmed. I feel eco anxiety. And, often, I'm not looking after myself as well as I should; only realising too late when my batteries are worn down. But I'm committed to trying to stay motivated and focus on the positives. Because we ARE making progress in the sustainability sector. The sea change we've seen in recent years is so inspiring. I'm going to remind myself to keep checking this list to make sure I continue to stay positive and committed to having a tangible impact through my work as an environmental writer and my own lifestyle choices.

I'd love to hear any tips on how you stay motivated and positive in the face of the climate crisis.

Thanks so much for reading. I hope these hints help you in your own climate career journey. I'm happy to offer my insights for free to help others in the industry. But if you've found this useful, I'd be very grateful for anyone who considers buying me a virtual coffee.

Work with me

Hi, I'm Mel and I write about the ocean. If you enjoyed this blog and my other published work and need an environmental writer to support your projects, let's chat. I'm available for commission from organisations and editors to help with articles, blogs, web copy, reports and more.

If you're interested in commissioning me, feel free to get in touch for a chat - I'd love to hear from you.