TED Talks Daily
Feeling stuck on climate change? Here’s what to do | Kris De Meyer
Feb 21, 2025
Kris De Meyer, a neuroscientist specializing in how small actions influence decision-making, shares insights on overcoming feelings of overwhelm, especially regarding climate change. He emphasizes that taking minor steps can effectively shift beliefs and foster engagement with significant issues. Fear is often an unproductive motivator, leading to apathy. By encouraging personal actions and storytelling, we can inspire collective change. De Meyer argues that re-engaging individuals through simple, actionable choices is key to addressing large-scale challenges.
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Quick takeaways
- Taking small actions can profoundly influence personal beliefs and overcome feelings of helplessness regarding significant global issues like climate change.
- Effective climate communication should focus on fostering environments for self-persuasion rather than merely presenting facts or using fear-based tactics.
Deep dives
The Importance of Taking Action
Feeling stuck is a common response when addressing significant global issues like climate change. Engaging in action beforehand, even without strong views, can lead to a deeper commitment to the cause. This phenomenon, where one's actions influence beliefs, is crucial for overcoming feelings of helplessness. By initiating small steps toward action, individuals can cultivate a sense of purpose and drive, empowering them to tackle major challenges effectively.
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