What inner skills are you developing to create change and impact? I firmly believe that adopting an Open Stance is one of the most essential. My life has changed with this perspective. I am kinder to myself, have better relationships and feel more connected to my community and environment. When we approach ourselves, others, and our environment with an open heart and mind, we unlock the potential to see and connect with endless possibilities. This openness brings more joy and aliveness into our lives, positioning us to make a significant difference for ourselves and those around us.

I was fortunate to recently participate in the Inner Development Goals Summit.

As we confront the multitude of challenges our planet faces, the need for immediate and collective action has never been more pressing. In 2015, United Nations member countries unanimously adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to tackle urgent issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, with the ambitious goal of creating a more sustainable and inclusive world by 2030. While these goals set a crucial agenda, an equally vital dimension that complements them is the Inner Development Goals (IDGs).

Bridging the Gap with Inner Development Goals

The IDGs serve as a vital complement to the SDGs by focusing on the personal skills and inner qualities necessary for individuals to meaningfully contribute to societal progress. By honing in on the “human element,” the IDGs aim to foster meaningful change for a sustainable future. The framework encompasses five key areas:

– Being: Cultivating self-awareness, presence, and an open, learning mindset.
– Thinking: Enhancing cognitive skills for critical and creative thinking.
– Relating: Fostering empathy, compassion, and care for others and the world.
– Collaborating: Building social skills to engage in trustful, co-creative conversations.
– Acting: Developing the capacity to enable and drive change.

The Skills for Thriving Leadership

These are the very skills I have dedicated myself to nurturing in leaders and organizations. We need inner capacity and personal growth to drive meaningful outer change. The ability to relate to ourselves with empathy and openness, to connect genuinely with others, and to collaborate effectively are foundational to fostering a thriving, sustainable world. This inner growth is not just a personal journey, but a powerful force that can drive significant change in the world.

Your Inner Development Journey

Let us each commit to our inner development journey, recognizing that the change we seek in the world begins within. By aligning our inner goals with the broader societal objectives, we can collectively create a sustainable, inclusive future filled with possibility. Reflect on the skills and qualities you want to cultivate, and consider how they can contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive world.