“Take what you need, not what you want,” I learned ten years ago from wilderness guide Alan McSmith, in the bush of the Okavango Delta. During a week-long walking safari, he conjured up a hearty meal every evening from the meager provisions we could carry. Based on that motto, there was enough for the whole group. That motto is a lesson that applies to many of the achievements of our Western civilization.

It is abundantly clear that our economic, social, climate, food, health, and cultural challenges cannot be solved if we continue doing what we’ve always done. How can we shift from one-sided economic growth toward a more equitable distribution of wealth, a more sustainable use of resources, and greater well-being? What changes do we need to make before the ship changes course?

A lot of things are different

Awareness of the need for a better balance is growing, but breaking out of our patterns requires a different perspective in various areas. One obvious factor is technological innovation. For example, AI can help us find smarter solutions. In addition, it’s important to calculate total costs more accurately. We must continue to explain that flying to southern Spain for thirty euros is no longer feasible. It’s also important to make well-being —rather than prosperity —measurable, and thus to evaluate performance in ways other than purely material terms. In our free Western society, honor and meaning have become insufficiently motivating foundations of value. Yet deep down, we know that possessions do not bring happiness. Freedom does. Freedom of choice and movement has once again become a tangible value since the Russian invasion. Finally, it is fitting for us to start viewing leadership as a contribution to a greater whole. What is the organization’s contribution to society? Build a cathedral!

More Nature

All true and relevant. But difficult, because it’s big and far away. There’s a closer perspective, an angle we’ve lost sight of: ourselves! There is, within ourselves, a fundamental longing that unites us all: connection and meaning. It’s hard to achieve in our busy world. But it is our nature—ever since the days of hunter-gatherers. We’re out of balance with it, even though in these modern times we still want to share and show compassion toward others.

As soon as we come into contact with nature—with our nature—we can engage in learning. Even a simple walk in the woods or on the beach brings immense peace. We all carry nature with us every day, but we’ve lost sight of its essence. During tsunamis, for example, animals flee in time to safer areas, while we humans rely on technology—and so are often too late.

In our search for a new balance, our nature is a step forward—toward ourselves. Difficult? Yes, for me too. But just follow Alan’s motto: “Take what you need, not what you want.” Then there will be enough for everyone.

Alan McSmith is currently in the Netherlands. You are warmly invited to attend his lecture in Breukelen on June 8 and 9 (5:00–8:00 p.m.). A limited number of seats are available through me. Come experience the wisdom of nature with Alan McSmith. Send an email to pdebruin@turner.nl Full is full.