In such a short time being in this class, it has really impacted the way I look at design and the world around me. It has really opened my eyes to so many issues that I wasn’t aware of before and has given me a good foundation for beginning a journey of sustainable living and design. Through mindfulness practices and all the articles and videos we discussed throughout the course, I have really been able to reexamine my life and how it impacts the world around me.
After watching the end of The 11th Hour, I have really been thinking of ways to change the way I do things in order to have more of a positive impact on the environment. I have really been more aware of how all the little things I’m doing every day can add up and actually have a big impact. Things like turning off the water while brushing my teeth, taking shorter showers, and turning of lights when I’m not using them are just a few things that I am really trying to be aware of in my everyday life. I’ve also been trying to be more aware of my spending habits. It was really eye opening when the movie talked about voting with your purchases. I have never thought much about how my purchases can reflect what I am consenting to. I have really been working on trying to be more aware of where the things I’m buying are coming from and who is making them. One of the quotes from the movie that really stuck with me was “things are thieves of time”. I have been thinking about this quote a lot and have really been trying to remember it and hope to start living a simpler lifestyle.
This course has been such a worthwhile experience and I have enjoyed it so much more than I thought I would. It has inspired me to be more aware of myself and my surroundings, and also to research different issues in the world, and in my field especially, that I can play a part in changing. I can’t wait to take what I’ve learned here and apply it to my future classes and career.