Breaking Free: The Rise of Climate Quitting
In today's world, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in history, where the urgency of addressing climate change has never been more apparent. As a Positive Psychologist with a focus on climate career transitions, I'm not surprised to see the phenomenon of "climate quitting" making headlines (check out this great episode by the BBC podcast The Climate Question: Meet the Climate Quitters) - a growing trend where individuals are leaving their conventional careers to pursue work centred around climate action and social justice. In this article, we'll delve into the motivations and reasons behind this transformative shift, and we'll hear two real-life stories from my own work with climate quitters that exemplify the spirit of climate quitting.
What is climate quitting? And who are the people who climate-quit?
Climate quitting, also known as “conscious quitting”, refers to the act of resigning from a job or turning down a job offer due to the belief that the employer's commitments to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards are insufficient. This concept has gained prominence in recent years as more employees prioritize roles that positively impact society.
This trend is most prevalent among Generation Z and Millennials, who exhibit a strong dedication to combating climate change, especially within the corporate realm. They seek employment with organisations or businesses that prioritise climate action.
But beware, this is not a “young people” phenomenon! A recent survey conducted by KPMG revealed that nearly half of 6,000 adults surveyed across all age groups expressed a desire to work for an organization committed to ESG principles.
Why working on climate matters
Climate quitting is a more or less radical departure from traditional career paths in pursuit of work that directly addresses environmental and climate-related challenges. It's a testament to the growing awareness of the climate crisis and the desire to contribute to solutions. Let's explore some key motivations for this career change. But what are the main drivers behind the trend of climate quitting?
Pursuing purpose and meaning
One of the most compelling reasons for climate quitters is the pursuit of a meaningful and purpose-driven career. Many individuals experience a deep sense of fulfilment when their work aligns with their values. This alignment can be especially powerful when the cause is as crucial as combating climate change. In my latest research The Climate Career Movement Report, I analysed the motivations of 74 aspiring changemakers who are eager to transition into climate work. Their number one reason for considering this type of career change is the quest for more meaning and purpose.
An antidote to climate grief and anxiety
The emotional toll of witnessing the environmental degradation caused by climate change often leads to climate grief and anxiety. For some, leaving their current career is a way to cope with the emotional burden and take positive action. It's a way to turn feelings of helplessness into proactivity. Taking action is an effective way to combat eco-anxiety - at least for a while. However, there is a need for individuals and organisations within the climate-impact space to address climate anxiety as an ongoing health crisis and normalise talking about the emotional toll while creating toolkits to effectively deal with these emotions.
A strong motivation to do good
Climate career changers are often intrinsically motivated by a desire to contribute to the greater good. They find inspiration in the possibility of leaving a lasting positive impact on the planet and future generations. Their main motivation for exploring working on climate goes beyond money. It’s a shift away from the goals proclaimed by the predominant capitalist system, to intrinsic goals that are driven by compassion, community and care.
Using transferable skills
Many skills acquired in traditional careers can be transferred to climate-related roles. Whether you're an engineer, marketer, or finance professional, your expertise can be applied to sustainability, renewable energy, conservation, and other climate-focused fields.
Hope for a sustainable future
Hope is a powerful driver of change. Climate quitters have hope for a more sustainable future and believe they can be a part of the solution. This optimism fuels their transition into climate work.
Real-Life Stories of Climate Quitters
Let's now hear two inspiring real-life stories of individuals who made the bold decision to leave their conventional careers and embark on a path dedicated to climate action.
Story 1: Jane's Journey from Finance to Renewable Energy Advocate
Jane, a successful financial analyst, had a thriving career in the corporate world. However, as she learned more about the environmental consequences of fossil fuels and climate change, she felt a growing sense of unease. Her pivotal moment came when she attended a sustainability conference, where she saw the potential of renewable energy to transform the world.
Motivated by a sense of purpose, Jane worked with me as a career coach to help her find her sweet spot between what she is good at, what brings her joy and what needs doing in the world. Career change is a time of transition and Jane also needed to build her confidence to make that move. Through our work together she decided to leave her job and pursue a career in renewable energy advocacy.
She joined a nonprofit organisation focused on promoting clean energy initiatives. Jane's work now focuses on educating the public, lobbying for renewable energy policies, and driving meaningful change. She believes that her work is not only fulfilling but also essential for the future of our planet.
Story 2: Mark's Transition from Corporate Marketing to Sustainable Farming
Mark had a thriving career in corporate marketing. He enjoyed the fast-paced world of advertising but felt increasingly disconnected from nature and concerned about the environmental impact of consumerism. He decided to take a sabbatical and spent time volunteering on organic farms.
During his sabbatical, Mark discovered a deep passion for sustainable farming practices. He realized that by growing organic food and promoting local, sustainable agriculture, he could contribute to reducing carbon footprints and promoting healthier living. What he needed help with was creating a transition plan to help him set realistic and motivating goals and break them down into actionable steps. Mark eventually left his corporate job to start his own organic farm, which has since flourished. He finds immense joy and satisfaction in producing food in harmony with the environment, and he is proud of his role in supporting local food systems.
What can we learn from these courageous climate quitters?
The rise of climate quitting underscores the profound desire of individuals to align their careers with values, purpose, and the urgent need to address climate change. These real-life stories and the insights from the report highlight the transformative power of career transitions that enable individuals to contribute to a more sustainable and hopeful future.
Chances are you are reading this article because you are thinking of transitioning into climate work yourself.
A recipe to find your climate career
Reflect on Your Values: Take a moment to consider how your current career aligns with your personal values and the urgent need to address climate change. Use the insights from The Climate Career Movement Report to guide your self-reflection.
Tap into Your Strengths: In a world that has us conditioned to look for our weaknesses, produce gap analysis and picture worst-case scenarios, tapping into our strengths is an empowering experience that builds confidence, a positive outlook and a new perspective on the question: “And what can I do?”. Start your strengths discovery by completing this free online survey from the renowned VIA Institute. Consider working with a strengths-based coach to take a deep dive into how your strengths inform your behaviour, thinking and feeling and most importantly: how you can turn your strengths into a climate career.
Explore Climate Opportunities: Research climate-related job openings, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs that resonate with your skills and values. Many skills are transferable to climate-focused roles. Check out my 6-week community-focused learning group Find Your Climate Career to work through this with the support of like-minded people.
Join Climate Communities: Connect with like-minded individuals in online climate communities, such as those mentioned in the report. These communities can offer valuable support, resources, and networking opportunities as you embark on your climate career journey.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about climate issues, solutions, and developments. Knowledge empowers action. Leverage the insights from the report to deepen your understanding of the climate landscape.
Advocate for Change: Use your voice to advocate for climate-friendly policies and practices within your community and workplace. The report emphasizes the importance of individual contributions to the broader climate movement.
Seek Professional Guidance: If you're uncertain about your career transition, consider seeking guidance from career coaches or mentors with expertise in climate-related fields. Guidance can be instrumental in navigating this transition.
By implementing these individual actions, you can contribute to the growing climate career movement and play a crucial role in addressing the climate crisis. Your efforts can lead to a more sustainable and hopeful future for both individuals and our planet as a whole.
Work with me during your climate career transition. Book a free discovery session.
