Understanding how your actions fit into bigger systems of change can help you stay motivated, get clearer on what’s working and keep improving. Reflecting regularly is how activists, organisers and campaigners build long-term impact, not just one-off wins.
We recommend using Gibbs’ Reflective Practice Cycle, a simple tool designed to help you learn from experience and make each action even more effective than the last.
How to do it:
Use a notebook to work through these 6 steps. You can do this alone or with someone else.
1. Describe what happened
Start with the facts. What action did you take?
- What did you do, when, and where?
- Who was involved?
- What was the outcome?
- Why did you choose this action?
2. Explore your feelings
Take a moment to think about how it felt.
- What were you feeling before, during, and after?
- Were there moments of pride, hesitation, frustration, connection?
- What do you think others involved felt?
3. Evaluate what worked and what didn’t
Be honest, that’s how growth happens.
- What went well?
- What didn’t go so well?
- What helped or hindered your progress?
- Did you feel supported?
4. Analyse the experience
Now look deeper. What patterns or insights can you spot?
- Why did things go the way they did?
- What broader systems or context might have shaped your experience?
- What surprised you?
- What did you learn about yourself?
5. Draw your conclusions
Step back and summarise.
- What’s one key thing you learned?
- What could have made this better for everyone involved?
- What skills or knowledge could help you grow?
6. Create an action plan
Use what you’ve learned to shape your next step.
- What will you do differently next time?
- How can you build on what worked?
- Do you need to seek out more support, resources or training?
Want to go further?
- Set a reminder to do this again in 3 months
- Share your reflections with someone you trust
- Use your insights to guide your next personal or collective action
Activists who regularly reflect on their work are more likely to avoid burnout, build stronger networks, and drive meaningful long-term change.
We hope that you have learned a lot from your Eco Hero guide, and that you now have the skills and know-how to start on your change-making journey. We will email you over the coming weeks with more stories, tips and information to help you as you get started.
If you want to amplify your impact even further, you can start a monthly gift today. Your support will play a vital part in tackling the climate emergency and preserving our planet.
