Permaculture Principle Three: Obtain a Yield
Bite-Sized Rewards: How "Obtain a Yield" Can Transform Your Life
Permaculture co-creator David Holmgren once suggested that you ensure that you get truly useful rewards as part of your work. This might seem obvious, but when it comes to the third permaculture principle, Obtain a Yield, it takes on a deeper meaning. Forget the "bigger, better, faster" mentality. Here, the "yield" isn't just about maximising output; it's about rethinking what rewards truly matter and reaping them in all aspects of life.
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Think of the principle's icon: a vegetable with a bite taken out. It whispers a playful reminder – every bite, every small gain, fuels future yields. It's about recognising that rewards come in various forms, not just bountiful harvests or promotions. Sometimes, the joy of learning a new skill, the satisfaction of completing a small project, or simply the beauty of a flower in bloom are yields more valuable than any spreadsheet can tally.
But why is this shift in perspective important? In our economy-driven world, we often equate yield with material gain, overlooking the hidden potential in everyday actions. This narrow focus can leave us feeling drained, disconnected, and less resilient. "Obtain a Yield" invites us to embrace a broader definition of reward, fostering resilience and joy in unexpected places.
Beyond the Garden Patch
Transform Your Commute: Instead of mindlessly driving, choose to cycle, walk or car-pool. The "yield" isn't just physical fitness, but mental clarity, reduced stress, and a chance to connect with your surroundings. Every pedal stroke or footstep becomes a mindful moment, a mini-yield nourishing your well-being. In car-pooling, you get to connect with your mates or create new ones.
Skill Swap Sundays: Gather your neighbours and organise a skill-sharing session. Swap gardening tips, learn basic plumbing, or teach each other how to bake the perfect sourdough. The yield? Not just new skills, but strengthened community bonds and a sense of self-reliance.
Upcycle with Gusto: Give new life to pre-loved items. Turn old jars into herb planters, repurpose fabric scraps into reusable bags, or transform a broken chair into a quirky planter. The yield? Reduced waste, creative fulfilment, and a unique piece for your home – all from things destined for the bin.
Home Sweet (Resourceful) Home
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Become a Water Detective: Fix leaky taps, install water-efficient shower heads, and harvest rainwater. You could also add a bucket to your shower and catch water as its warming up, your garden will thank you for it. Every drop saved is a yield, reducing your reliance on external resources and building water resilience for your household.
Kitchen Alchemy: Don't toss those vegetable scraps! Compost them for nutrient-rich soil, dehydrate them for healthy snacks, or use them to make flavourful broths. The yield? Reduced food waste, delicious home-made treats, and a flourishing garden – all from kitchen scraps!
Energy Efficiency Games: Challenge yourself to reduce your energy consumption. Turn off lights when not in use, air-dry clothes whenever possible, and consider energy-efficient appliances. The yield? Lower electricity bills (who doesn’t want those!), a smaller environmental footprint, and a sense of accomplishment through clever resource management.
Remember, "Obtain a Yield" isn't just about tangible results; it's about fostering a attitude of mindful abundance. By recognising and celebrating small wins, we nurture resilience, build stronger communities, and reconnect with the joy in everyday actions. So, start looking for yields in unexpected places. What creative ways can you apply the "Obtain a Yield" principle in your own life and community this month?
In April, I’ll focus on permaculture principle number four - Apply Self-Regulation & Accept Feedback.
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