What started a decade ago, as a group of college friends with a shared passion to positively impact the world, has grown into a global movement.
We are so proud to say that millions of people are now recognizing pornography for what it is and rejecting its influence in their lives. We are the organization we are today because of those who have fought for this cause and supported our mission to raise awareness on the harmful effects of porn using only science, facts, and personal accounts. We’re continually growing, and it is because of our Fighters that our resources have been able to educate and raise awareness on this issue across the globe.
But fighting for love and educating on the harmful effects of porn hasn’t come without its own difficulties for each one of us.
It can seem daunting to tackle a big issue such as the harms of porn and sexual exploitation, but there are ways you can take care of yourself while advocating for the cause. Here’s how.
Related: Fight the New Drug – Who We Are & Why We Began This Movement for Love 11 Years Ago (VIDEO)
1. Don’t suppress or ignore your feelings.
If you find yourself feeling anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or sad, pay attention. That is your body telling you important information and that it may be time to slow down or take a breather. Check in with yourself often, daily or multiple times a day if this is a movement you’re heavily involved in.
2. Look for signs of emotional burnout.
Emotional burnout is what happens when you feel emotionally worn-out and drained because of accumulated stress. People who experience this often feel a lack of energy or decreased motivation along with a feeling of being stuck. If you’re feeling emotional burnout, there are things you can do to take care of yourself and take a breather.
3. You can take a break.
Sometimes being an advocate can become exhausting. It is okay to take a break! Take that time to rejuvenate and recharge yourself before coming back. Maybe you could have a meaningful conversation about this issue with a loved one who shares your views, or else take an actual break whether it be one hour, one week, one month, or more. This cause will be here when you get back.
4. Be gentle with yourself and others.
This work is challenging, you are doing great. Be as kind to yourself as you may be toward others. This topic is heavy—be gentle with yourself.
5. Try mindfulness and breathing exercises.
This can be great to do when you find yourself feeling especially overwhelmed or frustrated. Try breathing exercises that can help to ease anxiety and promote mindfulness.
Or try the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 meditation exercise. Start by taking some time to do deep belly breathing. Get yourself in a comfortable position and place one hand on your belly. Pay attention to your breath and watch as your hand rises and falls with each inhale and exhale. Once you find your breath slows down and becomes intentional, switch your attention to your senses. What are 5 things you can see in the room around you? What are 4 things you can touch or feel? What are 3 things you can hear? What are 2 things you can smell? What is 1 thing you can taste?
6. Do something creative to release your fear, anxiety, or frustration.
Find your “thing” and lean into it. Is it drawing, writing, making something with your hands? Sometimes, doing something creative can give your mind a break from the challenging issue of educating on the harms of porn and sexual exploitation.
7. Take care of your body.
Get enough sleep, drink enough water, eat a healthy diet, and exercise. When your body is taken care of, you can better handle stress. You can do this, one step at a time.
8. Avoid shaming yourself and others
If you’re reading this article, it probably means that you’re pretty passionate about educating on the harms of pornography, which is awesome. But because pornography can be a controversial and personal topic for so many, it can be easy for shame to sneak in. According to the research, shame can actually fuel unhealthy habits rather than motivate meaningful or sustainable change. That means whether you’re feeling discouraged by your own efforts, or the (lack of) effort from others, shaming yourself or others will likely exhaust or discourage you more. So be patient, be kind, and remember that love is stronger than shame.
Protect your mental health
We know being part of this movement can be challenging at times, but fighting for real love is always worth it. Thank you for your continual support, and remember to take care of yourself. Keep fighting!
