IDGs: an inward look to transform the world

The Inner Development Goals (IDGs) represent a new perspective on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While the SDGs focus on external changes, the IDGs focus on each individual’s internal development, looking for the qualities and skills needed to promote deeper and more lasting social transformations.

The connection between IDGs and SDGs

The IDGs do not replace the SDGs, but complement them. The idea is that by developing qualities such as empathy, collaboration, and systems thinking internally, we will be better prepared to face global challenges and actively contribute to building a more sustainable future.

The UN’s 17 SDGs

Source: UN Brazil

1. 1. Presence: Ability to be present in the moment, with full attention and openness.
   2. Understanding: Ability to understand oneself and others deeply and compassionately.
   3. Intention: Ability to define and pursue meaningful goals in line with higher values.
   4. Relationship: Ability to build authentic and collaborative relationships.
   5. Action: Ability to act purposefully and effectively to create a positive impact on the world.

Raízes and SDGs 5, 8 and 10

Raízes, as a company committed to sustainability, aligns itself with SDGs 5, 8, and 10.

1. 1. • SDG 5: Gender Equality: Achieve gender equality and empower all people who identify as women and girls.
      • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
      • SDG 10: Reducing Inequalities: Reduce inequalities and promote social and economic inclusion.

1. 1. The 23 IDG Competencies (detailed in each dimension):
      • Presence: Mindfulness, focus, acceptance, gratitude, physical presence.
      • Understanding: Self-awareness, empathy, active listening, emotional intelligence, insight.
      • Intention: Clear vision, purpose, values, passion, commitment.
      • Relationship: Collaboration, effective communication, building trust, conflict resolution, and servant leadership.
      • Action: Initiative, creativity, adaptability, resilience, positive impact.

IDG framework

The full archive, from the IDG Org website, can be accessed here.

The interconnection between the IDGs and the SDGs

IDGs and SDGs are interconnected in many ways. For example, developing empathy and understanding (IDGs) can lead to greater collaboration and collective action (SDGs), which is key to tackling challenges such as gender inequality and climate change.

Expanding knowledge:

• The concept of SOGIESC

Raízes

Raízes is committed to promoting the SDGs and IDGs. The company, a B Corp since 2014, adopts sustainable practices in its operations. In addition, Raízes invests in training its employees and promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI).

How Raízes Promotes IDGs and SDGs

Raízes promotes the IDGs and the SDGs through various initiatives, such as:

• Education and awareness: The company offers training, subsidized book clubs, and workshops, including the principles of the ODIs and the SDGs in its interactions with employees, beneficiaries, and clients.
• Partnerships: Raízes collaborates with other organizations to promote sustainability and social development.

The importance of IDGs today

In an increasingly interconnected and challenging world, IDGs offer a holistic approach to human development. By cultivating these skills, we can:

• Increase our resilience: be better prepared to deal with uncertainty and change.
• Improve our ability to collaborate: work together to solve global problems.
• Become more effective leaders: inspire and motivate others to make a difference.
• Contributing to a fairer and more sustainable world: acting as agents of positive change.

The IDGs and SDGs are powerful tools for building a fairer, more sustainable future. Join our team in building a better world for all people.

By Anna Ferreira