Start Good Blog

The accession of social and environmental awareness brings along a host of controversy with its popularity. People question the honesty and intentions of big business going the CSR route and people are even skeptical of certain remedies like microfinancing and carbon offsetting. However, I find celebrity endorsement to be the strangest of all these monsters. Movies, TV and music all have had their place in pushing culture towards social movements, whether it be Bob Dylan or An Inconvenient Truth, these mediums often become the impetus that compels society to take action. But now many celebrities not inherently associated with activism, unlike Bob Dylan, are on the forefront, speaking for various causes. An odd contrast to their causes is the fact that society tends to look down upon celebrity culture despite its popularity, even many that love and call celebrity gossip a part of their lives know it as “trash.” Like it or not, the more people that start thinking about social and environmental issues, the more likely that celebrities (who are people also!) will speak out about their own beliefs.

So why write about this? Because they are starting good. Celebrities are an example of how people can have an influence on the world at large. We each have our own strengths, which we can use to leverage and create change. For me, it is a passion for writing and technology, allowing me to spread good through blogging. For celebrities, they use their fortune and fame to reach a wide audience in their actions and words. Their influence is undeniable, making local and world issues known and “cool.” While it may seem a bit disappointing, being in vogue is critical to starting widespread change.

Another reason to talk about celebrities is that their ability to communicate to people that will listen and follow. Recently Oprah had a “Going Green 101″ episode and after watching, my mother suddenly became much more aware of environmental concerns. I have told my mother various green tips but nothing sticks and now suddenly everything I have said in the past is something that Oprah said! This made me realize that maybe I have been going at things the wrong way. To get people to change, to start good, you need to show them in ways they genuinely connect with. More than numbers, more than facts, we are complex people. Saying that fair trade coffee is better for growers is not as effective as showing the conditions and telling the stories they go through. And having someone people admire say that something is good, really is an effective way to get them to think and act.

So next time you want to convince others to believe in your cause, do not be afraid. People do listen and they are willing to change, but first look at what they enjoy, what makes them tick and what inspires them. Speak to them in their language and you will end up doing good for both you and them.