empowHERd.

At 172 days into the new year, it's so typically me to think about how far I've come since the last time I really took the time to check in with myself. As a country and a world, we've been through a lot already and it seems like every day there's a new reason to feel completely and totally overwhelmed.

But it's important to not let the weight of the world press down. Instead, using the things that matter to you as a catalyst for your own campaign is the best way to fight back. Using some of the biggest issues facing our country and world right now, I've rounded up some ways to have a positive impact on the world, your community and your everyday life:

"Adopt a pet." #lucythecuriouskitten was rescued from the MSPCA in 2013. And she is just the greatest little thing.

• Adopt a pet
• Attend a local government meeting
• Avoid products that are tested on animals
• Be a mentor
• Be kind
• Build a community garden
• Call your elected officials
• Campaign for a candidate or cause you believe in
• Catch people being good
• Commit a random act of kindness

Vote for coffee! (But also candidates and causes that inspire you!)

• Conserve electricity
• Create a compost pile
• Donate your gently used clothes
• Eat locally-sourced products
• Empower others
• Get your news from more than one source
• Gift someone with a local service
• Have a conversation with someone who has a different opinion than you
• Hold the door for someone

Volunteering is more fun with friends.

• Identify "fake news" when you see it
• Inspire your business to partner with a nonprofit
• Introduce yourself by making a connection with someone 
• Invite a friend to attend a meeting, mentor or call elected officials with you
• Join a class or group
• Learn a new skill
• Listen to other peoples concerns
• Opt for a local restaurant over a chain
• Organize an event
• Participate in a charity event or fundraiser

Browsing area Farmer's Markets is my favorite way to shop locally!

• Pay it forward
• Pick up trash in your neighborhood
• Plant a tree
• Practice self-care
• Read a newspaper
• Recycle
• Run for office
• Say "please" and "thank you"
• Shop locally
• Smile more often

Support local businesses, eat local food!

• Spend more time outdoors
• Start a petition about a policy you would like to see implemented
• Stay informed
• Support a local organization
• Use eco-friendly products
• Volunteer your time
• Vote
• Walk, carpool or use public transportation when possible
• Wear sunscreen
• Write a letter-to-the-editor about an issue that matters to you

How do you practice self-care for the world? I'd love to hear how you feel most empowered as a global citizen. Be sure to comment with your own ideas!