Reimagining leadership series - Applying the Ikigai Concept to Corporate Sustainability
The Japanese concept of Ikigai—finding the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for—can serve as a powerful framework for corporate sustainability.
What the World Needs:
Today, 73% of global consumers are willing to change their consumption habits to reduce environmental impact (Nielsen). Companies must align with this growing demand for sustainable practices to stay relevant.
What You Are Good At:
Incorporating sustainability into your core business strategy is no longer optional. Studies show that companies with strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) scores have 28% higher profitability (McKinsey). Aligning sustainability with your business strengths can drive innovation and efficiency.
What You Love:
Employees increasingly seek purpose in their work. In fact, 64% of millennials won’t take a job if a company doesn’t have strong CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) practices (Cone Communications). Embracing sustainability can enhance employee satisfaction and retention.
What You Can Be Paid For:
Sustainable products are growing at 5.6x the rate of their conventional counterparts, accounting for over 50% of market growth in many categories (NYU Stern). By embedding sustainability into your value proposition, you can tap into this expanding market.
By integrating the principles of Ikigai into your corporate sustainability strategy, you can create a business model that not only drives profits but also delivers real value to society and the planet. This approach isn't just about compliance—it's about thriving in a world where sustainability is increasingly synonymous with success.
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