One of the most surprising things to me about Houston’s environmental community is how small it can seem. In a city the size of Houston, one would imagine a huge, diverse, chaotic amalgam of individual activists and organized groups.

It is true that our environmental community seems to be getting stronger, at least by some measures. The last few years of appalling air events have led to the formation of new community-based activist groups, and the number of organizations requesting membership in the CEC is on the rise.

But there are still some things that seem to hold us back from our real potential. See if you recognize any of these symptoms:

One-Man Band: All of us at one time or another have gotten so fed up that we have charged brazenly forward, assuming (or hoping) someone else will organize the followers. The mantra becomes “I’ll have to do it myself to do it right.” The one-man band usually burns out or becomes overly cynical.

Incest is best: Familiar faces and friends can be especially welcoming in the often-hostile arena of environmental activism. These relationships are vital to a strong community. But if we forget to reach beyond these comfort zones for support, we are guaranteed to fail.

Poor, poor me: This is the classic “If only we had more resources, we could lick this problem.” Whether it’s money, influence, or understanding, we construct imaginary barriers to convince ourselves the problem is too big or complex to be solved by us.

Luckily, as individuals and as a community there are many things we can do to turn the “one-man band” into a symphony orchestra, “incest” into a diverse community, and “poor, poor me” into “don’t mess with me.”

First, we must recognize every new individual who puts a toe into our community and make them feel welcome. Make a bee-line for new faces and help them connect with others who share their concerns.

Second, reach out to communities that you haven’t heard from. One of the great things about the environment is that it doesn’t discriminate - and we should make sure our activist community represents the diversity of our region.

Third, don’t ever let your lack of resources limit you or your organization. One of my favorite sayings is from Lord Rutherford: “We haven’t got the money, so we’ll have to think.” Get mad, then be resourceful. In the long run, big balance sheets are no match for deep dedication.

For more information about successful environmental campaigns and movements, check out Ronald Libby’s new book “Eco-Wars” — Editor