Recently, during the wrap-up of a marathon training session, one of the quieter attendees, who had been gradually warming up to the topic at hand, shared this simple yet philosophical thought: “We just need more of this.” These words resonated deeply with me. They made me realise that I wasn’t just training or teaching; I was facilitating a shift in mindset.
Many people perceive sustainability efforts as obligatory tasks—something they have to do, akin to form filling or box ticking. This perspective often stems from not fully understanding the purpose or feeling disconnected from the changes impacting their professional and personal lives. It’s easy to become disheartened by the negative headlines about the cost of new technologies or the dire impacts of climate change.
However, in this session, I was able to convey a different narrative. I explained the sustainability agenda, highlighting the opportunities it presents for businesses and the meaningful roles individuals can play. By showing how they could contribute to a more equitable society and a healthier environment—both at work and in their personal lives—I aimed to make the subject matter relatable and inspiring. This approach sparked enthusiasm and a flood of ideas from the group.
This experience reinforced my belief that people do care about sustainability; they just need to feel empowered and inspired. It’s about presenting sustainability as a positive force they can actively engage with, rather than a series of challenges to overcome.
My goal is to find more ways to foster this sense of empowerment. I want to awaken people to the idea that they can make a real difference. It’s not about just doing a job; it’s about doing a job that also positively impacts the planet and society. Everyone’s role can contribute to sustainability, and recognising this can unleash a wave of positivity and proactive engagement.
So, I always ask: “Why would you just go to work to do your job when you can do your job while making a real positive impact on the planet and society around you?” Unleashing this potential is about fostering a mindset where everyone feels capable and inspired to make a difference.