How To Successfully Implement a Bring Your Own Mug (BYOM) Habit

Written by Ashely, creator of The Little Black Coffee Cup

Ever since publishing a piece highlighting the environmental challenges of our single-use coffee culture, I made a commitment to change my behavior in relation to the to-go cup. In the past I would attempt to circumnavigate half of my environmental guilt by choosing not to use a lid, or skirt the issue entirely by taking the time to sit and enjoy a cup in shop. These methods, however, are a safety hazard and inconvenience to the majority of folks who like to drink coffee on the go.

Armed with my favorite reusable mug and an unshakable curiosity, I made it my mission over the past month to fully understand what is required to cultivate the habit of reusing a coffee cup. I wanted to know: Why aren't we all bringing our own mugs? Why haven't I—a person who drinks a lot of coffee and professes to care about the planet—been making it a priority to reuse? And, could it be so darn hard?! 

In the past 30 days of bringing my own coffee cup, these are the 3 most important things I have learned:

1. BYOM everyday is not difficult, it just requires a bit of planning. 
2. Single-use is a habit. It's easier not to change. The easy choice isn't always the right choice.
3. Drinking out of my own mug is infinitely more pleasant than sipping through a disposable plastic lid. Choosing to use my favorite cup can make good coffee taste better (see: flavor perception).

So, without further ado, here are 7 easy tips to help build your own reusable mug habit...

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