Dr. Terri Lyon is a licensed psychologist, professor, and the author of The Happy Activist. As the creator of the 5-Step Activism Path, she specializes in helping individuals achieve sustainable social change through a skills-based approach. Known as "The Activist for Activists," Terri is a dedicated environmental activist and animal lover who believes activism should motivate you, not drain you.
In this video, Miyoko discovers that she finds her perfect activism when she matches her passion and skills to community needs.
Miyoko made the initial mistake of jumping into activism and found she was not engaged with the work. When she stepped back and explored the type of activism that would truly engage her, she found a perfect opportunity.
Activism Techniques: Traditional vs. Creative
Many activists tell me they jumped into activism without much thought and later found themselves overwhelmed and unhappy. Don’t be an activist dropout! Take time to explore types of activism that may not have been on your radar.
Many people have a stereotype of a protestor with a raised fist, shouting angrily. Instead, find a type of activism you enjoy. That might be a traditional activism technique, such as advocacy or running for office. But you might resonate with more creative approaches such as art or writing.
Mobilization vs. Engagement
Protests are the most visible forms of traditional activism. They involve gathering in public spaces to express dissent, raise awareness, and demand change. Protests can be powerful tools for drawing attention to issues and mobilizing public support. But they are not a technique of deep engagement with your cause.
Lobbying involves influencing policymakers and government officials to enact or change laws and policies. This can include writing letters, making phone calls, and meeting with representatives. This is essential work that I encourage you to pursue for the cause closest to your heart and for causes vital to your community.
But reflect on your level of engagement for the cause closest to your heart vs. other issues. Support other issues with mobilization. For your cause, get deep engagemen with a type pf activism that suits you.
If your sister wants you to contribute by putting up a yard sign or volunteering at the polls, that is mobilization. Go ahead and help if you want to.
But if she wants you to run voter registration phone banks every week, that’s engagement. Feel free to say, “Thank you for considering me, but I can’t.”
A Perfect Question: “What is the Right Kind of Activism for Me?”
Deciding between traditional and creative activism depends on your passion, skills, and motivation. But whatever you choose, you can use the technique to make a difference for the cause closest to your heart.
So, ask yourself: “What kind of activism is right for me?” And then, find your perfect activism opportunity.
NEXT STEP
A Perfect Question: “What is the Right Kind of Activism for Me?”
Deciding between traditional and creative activism depends on your passion, skills, and motivation. But whatever you choose, you can use the technique to make a difference for the cause closest to your heart.
