This blog is a bit different from what I normally write. We all know how overwhelming the ESG/sustainability/DEI world is right now. Information and demands come from every angle – burnout along with feelings of helplessness and loss of purpose are becoming epidemic. I know many people in this situation and more articles appear in the media daily on the topic.
If you face this struggle, getting clarity on a few things personally and at work might be just the ticket for regaining your optimism, focus and energy.
- Start and end the day by clearing your mind. We all need a break from the sustainability possibilities, reports, and data constantly in our face. Starting each day with a clear mind allows you to think objectively about prioritizing your time and energy. A good night’s rest is also critical to handling the next day – hit the sack at a reasonable hour and take a little mental vacation each night before bed to get you in sleep mode.
- Truly understand your company’s approach to, and goals for, ESG/sustainability/DEI if you don’t already know. I mean really learn how committed the company is. Not every company sees value in these initiatives. Without absolute candor there, you’ll waste energy on things the company simply won’t do, and you will have a hard time integrating into the business/linking to company goals.
- Assess how to support the company. Knowing what your company really believes and expects from ESG/sustainability/DEI brings clarity to your work – allowing you to focus, be efficient and achieve goals. You can also establish priorities properly – something difficult in the “everything, everywhere, all at once” feeling so prevalent in the ESG/sustainability world. Finding alignment between yourself and the company significantly reduces frustration borne out of mismatched expectations.
- Identifying areas of misalignment (or gaps) is also cathartic, but forces change: changing your priorities/goals, push for change in the company or change jobs.
You may need help to get through any or all of these steps. Talk to family or a trusted colleague for support, ideas and encouragement. Once you figure out how to cut through the noise, you will get your mojo back.
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