By Samuel T. Reddy
Keywords: Sustainability, Leadership, Military, Veterans, Mindset
Abstract:
Mid-career professionals, particularly veterans transitioning from military to civilian life, increasingly recognize the importance of adopting a sustainability mindset to navigate career shifts and contribute meaningfully to society. This mindset integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, aligning personal purpose with broader societal impact. Sustainability roles offer mid-career individuals opportunities for renewed fulfillment by leveraging transferable skills such as leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving developed during military service. These roles are critical in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world, where organizations demand expertise in corporate social responsibility and sustainable practices. The sustainability mindset fosters emotional resilience, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles and transition effectively while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. It also bridges fixed and growth mindsets by encouraging continuous learning and adaptation, essential for career longevity and innovation. Veterans, in particular, bring a mission-oriented approach and technical expertise that align well with environmental and sustainability careers, offering pathways in sectors like environmental science, renewable energy, and corporate sustainability leadership. Programs supporting veterans’ transition into sustainability careers emphasize the development of these competencies, promoting a legacy of responsible leadership and sustainable success. Thus, cultivating a sustainability mindset during mid-career not only enhances individual career trajectories but also contributes to global efforts toward a healthier, equitable future.
SAMUEL T. REDDY is an authority on career transition and Sustainability Leadership for mid-career leaders, specialising in International and Commonwealth citizens. He is the CEO of the Leavers to Leaders Institute (LTLIN), an accredited training and development organisation that partners with universities and business schools across the UK, Asia, and Africa.