Interviewer: “What is sustainability?”

Me: “Sustainability is the ability to meet our present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. I want to join this sector because I’ve personally witnessed the negative consequences of human actions on the environment, and I believe sustainability can help improve the situation.”

Interviewer: “Why does it matter to you?”

Me: “Because if we don’t act now, neither we nor future generations will be able to enjoy the beauty of nature. They’ll suffer from the depletion of natural resources.”

Interviewer: “Why do you care?”

Me: “… I felt sadness and anger when I saw the disasters… (a long pause)”

Interviewer: “What if I told you that working in sustainability won’t change anything? What if everything you see online and hear about the importance of sustainability in saving the world is just an illusion? Would you still continue?”

Me: “Why do you say that?”

Interviewer: “Because this is the truth. Everything you perceive could be an illusion—it depends on your beliefs. And I’m telling you, you’re not ready to and can’t save the world.”

Me: “…”

Interviewer: “Have you been able to save yourself from the negative emotions you felt when you witnessed those environmental disasters?”

Me: “…No.”

Interviewer: “There you go. That’s the truth. Start by focusing on yourself. Listen to the truth within—not just what the external world tells you.”

The above conversation took place during my interview at my current company (this is a modified version). It left a deep impact on me. Naturally, I didn’t get the job immediately. At the time, I couldn’t understand what my coach—now my CEO—was trying to share. But over the years, I’ve come to see it more clearly.

Today, when I conduct interviews myself, I often ask candidates the same questions. Their answers are similar to the ones I gave back then, and I find myself both vividly reminded of my past and increasingly concerned about the direction humanity is heading.

Let’s break down this conversation. It reveals some profound truths.

We Are Lost Because We’ve Been Framed

Me: “Sustainability is the ability to meet our present needs without compromising the future…”

This definition, drawn from the UN’s Brundtland Report (1987), is widely accepted. For years, I embraced it. I believed it was everyone’s responsibility to pursue this mission. But as I matured, I began to question the logic behind many of the targets—like the SDGs and Net Zero goals.

I realized that many of these frameworks set targets that are external, aspirational, and often beyond individual control. They can distract us from focusing on what really drives transformation: the inner self.

Yes, these targets offer hope and guidance. But we must strike a balance between developing external frameworks and nurturing internal growth—our awareness, clarity, and purpose.

The “Hero” Mindset Trap

Interviewer: “Have you been able to save yourself from the negative emotions…?”
Me: “…No.”

Today’s youth are vocal on social media about environmental issues. I was once like that. I vented my anger toward governments and corporations for environmental degradation, including coral reef destruction.

But many of us were not mentally healthy during that time. We were trapped in the “hero” mindset—the belief that “If not me, then who?”—which often led to burnout, anxiety, and despair.

When I became aware of this trap, I shifted focus inward. I practiced mindfulness and gratitude. Through this, I gradually healed from depression and anxiety, and my mental health and productivity improved. I was then able to truly make a difference—by inspiring others with positivity and calm, whether through my work or simply by forest bathing in nature.

Lessons Learned

Sustainability may be an illusion—not because the goals aren’t noble, but because the system frames it in a way that distracts us from what really matters.

The world will not be saved solely by ESG policies or sustainability frameworks. It will be saved through humanity, compassion, and consciousness.

The system often wants us to remain within its boundaries, to chase ideals without first grounding ourselves in self-awareness. But nature—and humanity—holds immense power. We must awaken to that truth.

To avoid being lost in illusion, we must develop awareness and expand our consciousness. Only then can we unlock our true potential—and make the world a genuinely better place.

May all beings be happy!