Plans are being implemented across the globe to transition to a cleaner and greener way of using the resources that still remain to us, in a way that will lead to a sustainable future. All transitions are challenging, but the greatest need of the moment is not just to change the way we all operate, but to change the way we all think. The transition of this time needs a change in mindset and attitude. It has to be vision-led, unifying and firmly based on principles that allow a shift from an extractive economy (one that is dependent on harvesting or extracting natural resources for sale) to a regenerative economy (one that unlocks the potential for positive contributions for nature and society). The greed that currently underlies most decision-making is actually the greatest crisis we face today.
There are some core principles to underpin this shift. We can actively encourage decarbonisation and the development of renewable energy. We can support affected regions, including workers, their families, and the wider community, affected by closures or downscaling. We can clean up environmental damage and ensure that related costs are not transferred from the private to the public sector. We can address existing economic and social inequalities and we can ensure an inclusive and transparent planning process – giving a voice to all involved.
To achieve these goals, a change in leadership philosophy is pivotal. I would like us to consider the concept of ‘servant leadership’, where the goal of the leader is to serve. A servant leader focuses primarily on the growth and well-being of people and the communities to which they belong. The servant leader shares power, puts the needs of others first and helps people to develop and perform as highly as possible. They encourage diversity of thought, create a culture of trust, have an unselfish mindset and foster leadership in others. This kind of leadership has the potential to radically transform our societies.
Although it is vital to implement these changes from the highest level, each one of us can contribute personally to bring a groundswell of change from the grassroots up. Times are challenging and many are voicing the fact that more is to come. In terms of climate change we have passed some tipping points and are coming close to others. In the midst of this, if we are to be effective agents of change, we need personal resilience. We need to be able to handle the inevitable emotions that will undoubtedly arise through the change process. The better we can do this, the smoother the process of transition will be and the more we can help others through the experience.
Here are three suggestions towards developing this resilience that all of us can do. Firstly, to hold the bigger vision of a sustainable future in our minds. Secondly is to be calm and patient with those around us who just do not yet realise what is needed, and thirdly and most importantly, do something to nurture the spirit every day – pray, do yoga, spend time in nature, a nature that has now become so much more than precious. Meditation is one of the most compelling ways to develop inner strength and a few moments at the start of the day and the close of the day bring deep and lasting results. In most transitions there are winners and losers, but now at this critical time, if there are any losers, we all lose. We need to make sure we all win.
Maureen Goodman is the Programme Director for the Brahma Kumaris UK, and BK NGO representative to the United Nations in Vienna.