When you like someone, show it.

When someone knows you like them, they’re much more likely to be open to your ideas. Find common ground with people. Be warm. Give them genuine praise for something.

Warning: Fake it and people will know, which can backfire.

Be generous of spirit.

Let them talk first by beginning with questions. Listen carefully. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Look past small mistakes. Deeply, thoughtfully, and consistently think through their perspective. Show respect.

Experts who people like and respect can be powerful.

Does your conversation partner have a leader they respect? Do you know what that person thinks about the climate? Concern about the climate crosses nearly all the typical political and religious boundaries.

Tell your story.

Know what’s more powerful than facts? Stories.

What happened in that moment when you first became aware of the climate challenge? When did you first start feeling nervous, and why? What else did you feel?

Don’t say it—do it.

When others see you act on your beliefs (by seeing you volunteer or change your lifestyle in some way, for example), it’s powerful. What you do is more effective than what you say.

Repetition from more than one person is important.

It often takes more than one person talking about an issue to change a mindset. That’s why a concerted, organized effort like ULLU is so important. And it’s another reason why you should keep conversations brief and positive. If you start to feel revved up, it’s time to stop.

Want to share your actions—and influence by example?

Here are a few things you may already be doing:

• Using a smart thermostat
• Installing LED bulbs
• Giving an electric lawn-mower a try—they cost $399
• Considering an electric snow-blower—they exist!
• Requesting a home energy audit
• Maintaining your tire pressure
• Giving thought to a hybrid or electric vehicle
• Turning off the lights
• Avoiding rush hour traffic
• Reducing food waste—it contributes to climate change
• Shopping at a local farmer’s market
• Buying local
• Using solar gain in the winter and opening your blinds
• Putting a dry towel in the dryer with your wet clothes
• Using a dimmer switch
• Using a slow cooker—it’s 75% more efficient
• Putting reusable grocery bags to work
• Installing solar panels—they come with tax breaks
• Eating your veggies!

Looking for a few conversation starters?

Here you go:

• What’s up with the weird weather?
• Did you know that 80% of people believe the climate is a real threat?
• Have your kids talked to you about the climate?
• Do you know if your town is involved in a sustainability program?
• What frustrates you about the climate conversation?
• What resonates most with you about the climate stuff going on?

Download this guide.

Want to refer back to these handy tips later? Here you go.

Power ULLU.

When you support ULLU, you reach people just like you—people who want to learn and act.

Help empower them.