Sustainia or Dystopia?

The Loneliness Pandemic

The prevalence of loneliness in the Western world is a cause for concern. Social connections and interactions are diminishing, and studies have shown that social media connectivity has aggravated feelings of isolation. Loneliness expert Murthy suggests that loneliness can lead to increased polarization and hinder our ability to confront the climate crisis and inequality.

Trust in one another and institutions is at a historic low, and loneliness has adverse health effects, including an increased risk of premature death, heart disease, stroke, anxiety, depression, and dementia. Change agents, including activists and those in caregiving positions, are particularly susceptible to loneliness. Change agents tend to burnout not due to a lack of purpose but from caring deeply and feeling isolated and not sufficiently (self-)effective in their pursuits.

When we work with sustainability managers in big corporations, many also suffer from a myriad of stumbling blocks and being treated as spoilsports when trying to do their work. Just imagine if those of us who are catalysts of change had better support networks and enjoyed more appreciation in our society?

Loneliness can lead to increased polarization and hinder our ability to confront the climate crisis […].

Positive narratives hold a significant role in shaping our beliefs, values, and behaviors. They have the power to transform and inspire sustainable actions while fostering a connected society. By highlighting the benefits of sustainable practices and linking narratives to local businesses and community identity, we can instill a sense of shared responsibility and belonging. Positive narratives not only motivate individuals but also promote values such as trust, love, integrity, and collaboration – through relating.

Systemically Induced Feelings

It is essential to recognize the influence of free-market mechanisms in shaping narratives, even if we are not consciously aware of them. Social media and advertising manipulate narratives to serve their interests, often perpetuating consumerism and feelings of inadequacy. Through targeted ads, curated content, and algorithms that prioritize comparison, these mechanisms fuel an unending desire for more, leading to excessive consumption and travel.

"Comparatitis," feeling the other always has and does and is more, sadly directly impacts environmental degradation as well as degrading our sense of self. It is a clear lose-lose. We consume differently when we care – about the person we buy from, the people and resources involved in the process. We are willing to think beyond pricing; our attitude alone makes the good more durable. The trouser isn’t just any trouser; the chocolate is filled with the taste of a beautiful story.

The Value of Empathy

The value of empathy and understanding diverse perspectives are crucial for bridging divides and inspiring sustainable change. I had the privilege of meeting Gülcan Nitsch, founder of Yesil Cember 13 years ago. Through highly personalized and hands-on communication approaches, Gülcan actively engages with Turkish media and the Turkish community in Germany, mobilizing them around environmental issues.

Overcoming barriers and promoting change requires an understanding of human behavior and decision-making. The reptilian parts of our brains tend to make us opt for the habitual: convenience and comfort, while we thrive when we make room for the new. This can be also key to sustainability and justice matters.

The reptilian parts of our brains tend to make us opt for the habitual: convenience and comfort, while we thrive when we make room for the new.

The "meat paradox" serves as an intriguing example. It refers to the conflicting beliefs and attitudes individuals hold towards meat consumption. While many enjoy the taste and convenience of meat, they are also aware of the ethical and environmental concerns associated with factory farming, not to mention the adverse health effects on us humans. This paradox often leads to defensive responses when encountering vegans, to protect one's own beliefs and choices.

Positive Psychology

Positive psychology can help ease defensiveness and encourage curiosity by showcasing better alternatives that benefit our health and beauty goals, for instance, as well as contribute to animal welfare and the planet. We can craft narratives that resonate with individuals, trigger positive emotions, and motivate sustainable actions.

Communication is key – with ourselves and others. Any kind of thought or feeling is vital - the question is what we make out of them. A fleeting feeling of envy is okay, acting enviously less so. But how do we react to opposing views?

Positive communication techniques and active listening are vital in relating to differing viewpoints. By presenting ideas in a calm, rational, and fact-based manner, while avoiding inflammatory language, we create spaces for understanding and productive dialogue. In Non-Violent Communication, we can react to a statement but never to a person.

I am an avid proponent of IMAGO dialogues of rephrasing what the other says to invite dialogue and to create a safe space for relating. It is powerful when we are feeling heard. The less cornered we feel, the more open we are. Having what we say mirrored often leads us to question our viewpoints and find a consensus. Needless to say, there are conversations that are better avoided to preserve our energy. It is our role to be the change and not to preach.

Grassroots Engagement, Effective Communication

I find solace and inspiration in following positive figures around the world like Vandana Shiva (India), Greta Thunberg (Sweden), Valerie Kaur (USA), and Wangari Maathai Kenia), who exemplify mobilizing underrepresented voices for positive change through relating. They demonstrate empathy, grassroots engagement, effective communication, and a focus on social and environmental justice.

Then there is the content we expose ourselves to. Our streaming services are full of dystopian stories of post-apocalyptic horror visions. Scientists warn us gravely. We need to understand that the climate crisis is real – but we need hope and love, not just shame, just as much as we need water and air and sustenance.

Stories of hope, such as Valentin Thurn's "Story of A New World," can counterbalance divisive narratives, fuel optimism, inspire positive action, and guide us towards a better future. It's crucial to be selective in what we read, watch, and listen to, just as we carefully choose the people and places that inspire us.

We need to understand that the climate crisis is real – but we need hope and love, not just shame, just as much as we need water and air and sustenance.

My co-founder Anna is such a person to me – not only do we share a vision, but we also share values of positive communication, embracing change, and the desire to be the change together. As a place, Stuttgart, where I am based, has been my go-to for a while. I am moved and inspired by local activists and the collaboration between the environmental department of Stuttgart, different NGOs and organizations.These people and places nourish my vision of Sustainia and give me a taste and feeling of what Sustainia could be like.

The pursuit of a Better Me for a Better World is deeply rooted in the neurobiology of human behavior. When individuals in Sustainia embrace self-efficacy, they tap into the brain's reward systems, experiencing a sense of agency and empowerment. It feels good to do good – and it feels even better when “doing good” is the norm, and you feel connected instead of isolated when striving towards it.