Most people still believe that we need to drive to work, school and daily shopping — and that electric cars will be the way out of the climate crisis.
Cars have for a long time dominated our economic and political thinking. Cars stand for wealth, independence, are still seen as status symbols for many. Today, the automotive industry is the industry with the highest employment in countries such as Germany. At the same time, this dominant attention on cars has led to huge challenges.
Just a few examples:
- Cars play a major role in the megatrends of climate change and resource scarcity
- Urban concepts and landscaping continue to be oriented toward cars, not people
- Health aspects continue to take a back seat to commercial interests.
When, if not now, will we recognize cycling as a lifestyle that brings us health, freedom and connection to nature?
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.”
Albert Einstein (1879–1955)
In the spirit of Albert Einstein, I argue that there has never been a better time to get your life in flow by cycling. I have experienced for myself over a number of years the joy that riding a bike brings — in all weathers, and over increasingly long distances. The result is a new lifestyle — more independent and relaxed due to the change in consciousness that working with your own body triggers.
How to get there?
Behavioral changes always start in one’s own mind.
Get yourself a nice bike, some suitable gear and start riding to work or during your lunch break today.
Start in very small sections and ride consciously, inhaling your surroundings. You will experience it as something new, unfamiliar at the beginning — and after a while you will experience you thoughts and reflections shifting: You will think more consciously about your diet. You will look for more opportunities to ride your bike. You’ll strike up conversations with other cyclists. You will eventually not miss the car anymore.
Congestion is replaced by movement in flow.
You still want to sit in the car every morning on autopilot?
Making the switch to the bike is the future. There has never been a better time to ride a bike. Bike is best for you, your community and the environment!
