In our series #WomenWeLove we share stories, insights and tips from sustainable living advocates, women who are making positive changes in the world once step at a time. Today, we are happy to interview, Nicol, sustainable fashion blogger. 

Why did you become an advocate for sustainable living?

I wouldn't necessarily say I am an advocate but I do enjoy looking for ways to live a more sustainable lifestyle and to share what I find out with others.  That's really why I started @inthelifeofgray and my blog, I wanted to share my thrift purchases and how to make you own face care products.  It's slowly grown into more than just that now but my main goal stays the same, to share what I learn with others.

In a nutshell, what do you do to live a sustainable lifestyle?

I try to look at the things I do in every day life and how I can switch those over to a sustainable option.  Like choosing reusable over one time use, recycling, composting, choosing glass instead of plastic packaging, eating plant based, etc.

What was the first actionable step you can recall towards living a more sustainable lifestyle?

Probably about three years ago when I changed over to a plant based diet.  I didn't realize it at the time but that was a step towards living a more sustainable lifestyle.  Then about a little over a year ago I started @inthelifeofgray and found out about the sustainable fashion community.  I had already been shopping secondhand mostly and knew of some sustainable brands but didn't realize the significance behind choosing those options over fast fashion.

What is the biggest impact/improvement you have noticed through living a more sustainably?

One of the biggest improvements is living each day with a full heart and clean conscience knowing that I am doing the best I can to respect the earth.

What would you say is the biggest obstacle with sustainable living and how do you work towards overcoming it?

I wish I could switch over the rest of my unsustainable ways to sustainable ones all at once but that's just not possible.  So I try to just take it one step at a time and remind myself it's a journey and I won't be able to get it right all at once.  I like to make lists so I do have a list of things I still need to switch over and that helps me feel less overwhelmed and that it's something attainable.

What are the biggest myths about living sustainably?

One of the biggest myths I've noticed is that some people say that living sustainably is expensive.  On the contrary living sustainably helps keep your life simple. 

What is your advice for small, actionable steps people can take towards living a most sustainable lifestyle. Why should it matter to them?

Start with simple things in your every day life, make lists, and set goals.  Composting, thrift shopping, reusable shopping bags, and choosing glass over plastic are just some of the simple, small ways you can work towards a more sustainable lifestyle.  It should matter because appreciating the beauty of the earth begins with taking responsibility in small decisions.

Follow  Nicol on Instagram!