Leadership and Sustainability: The Role of Self-Awareness

The Mind Takeaway Podcast

In this episode, we come to you from a lovely public park in Bordeaux, also known as Jardin Public, to discuss a topic close to our hearts: sustainability and self-awareness in leadership.

We explore the intricate relationship between self-awareness and building more sustainable companies. As leaders, understanding our impact on the environment and communities is crucial for fostering a future where businesses thrive without depleting natural resources. With its commitment to sustainability through initiatives like zero-kilometre restaurants and an efficient public transport system, Bordeaux is a perfect backdrop for this conversation.

We explore the importance of internal and external change in achieving sustainability. From the landmark case won by a group of Swiss women for climate justice to the necessity for cultural, political, and business reforms, we highlight that true sustainability begins with self-awareness. Leaders must question their beliefs, practices, and the very definition of success to create a more equitable and environmentally friendly future.

Join us as we discuss how leaders can cultivate self-awareness, become better mentors and coaches, and make conscious decisions that reduce their company's footprint. We share insights on fostering a culture of listening to others and oneself to identify and overcome limiting beliefs and traumas that hinder sustainable practices.

Whether you're a startup founder or a seasoned executive, this episode offers valuable perspectives on integrating sustainability into your leadership approach and business strategy. Listen to discover how you can make a meaningful impact and lead your company towards a more sustainable future.

Timestamps

(01:26) To be more sustainable and impact the world, you must become more self-aware as a leader.

(01:50) Learn why Bordeaux, France, is one of Europe's most sustainable cities.

(02:40) Self-awareness within leadership is crucial in building sustainable companies and enables us to have a lower footprint on our planet.

(03:10) Community Leadership: How did the Swiss woman, known as KlimaSeniorinnen, win a landmark case for climate justice at the Human Rights Court, where policymakers will be held to account?

(05:50) What is wrong with how we measure success in business, and what do we need to do to change it

(07:24) What we see in the startup world is growth for growth's sake, and why does this need to change?

(09:50) How can leaders become more sustainable? How can they grow their self-awareness?

(10:49) Listening and self-reflection are essential for understanding our belief systems and how those beliefs influence our decision-making.

(12:47) As your awareness grows, so does your curiosity, and we start asking ourselves: Why do we need to buy all these things? Can we continue to use what we have? How can we be more purposeful in our actions?

References

Jardin Public https://www.bordeaux.fr/l858

European Court of Human Rights https://www.echr.coe.int/

Brains Love Circuits https://brainlovescircuits.com/