The regenerative imperative

We are at a time in history in which our behaviors have to change in a profound way, a way in which what we do benefits the multiple worlds in which each of us live, a way that benefits both human systems and natural systems together. Call it an imperative. It’s an imperative because the options are not acceptable. It’s an imperative because the timing is urgent.

As new as regenerative behavior sounds, it has been practiced by indigenous peoples throughout the world. They have traditionally been the stewards of the natural world. The difference now is that the world has seen an industrial and technological revolution whose goals and ambitions have not accounted for many destructive byproducts and outcomes.

Whereas we have benefited from these technological improvements some vital values and principles have been buried. What was a common cause is often replaced by individual goals. Regenerative behavior sees common cause and individual goals as the same practice. Regenerative behavior necessitates that we examine the common benefits of our individual goals. Regenerative practice examines mutual benefits throughout expanding circles of influence and in multiple directions. It asks what we can do in a collaborative way to benefit each other? Otto Scharmer talks of moving from ego systems to eco systems. Regenerative practice asks how can we increase the vitality of natural systems instead of protecting or degrading them? Regenerative thinking asks us to look at the potential of what we do through the lens of living systems and it requires us to develop clear purposes with effective outcomes.