Pro tip: When family resists cutting home energy use

My sister wants our parents to turn down the heat to help the climate... I think pushing too hard just makes them upset. She says we need to be strict, but I prefer gentle talks. What's your take on dealing with family over this stuff?

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3 Comments

the_margaret7mo ago

Your sister's push for strict rules is a recipe for resistance. I learned that the hard way when my family clammed up. Gentle talks open doors because people need to feel heard, not scolded. Bring up saving money first, since that often matters more to parents than climate talk. Small wins, like lowering the heat at night, can build trust for bigger changes. Rushing this just makes everyone upset and nothing gets done.

1

tessagibson7mo ago

Focus on the cash savings angle. Parents listen when you talk about lower bills. Then you can slide in the climate stuff later.

6

torres.pat6mo ago

Starting with money feels like a trick. People know when you're hiding your real point. If climate is the goal, say it. My parents actually respected the direct talk more than a sales pitch.

1