ABSTRACT
Unsustainability is very often a result of following automatic habit patterns. The processes of the inner world inform and guide human actions in the outer world. Still, nowadays we pay immeasurably more attention to, and consequently know much more about the outer world than about the inner dimensions of human life affecting the outer world. This also applies to discussions about achieving sustainable development. There are different ways to achieve a more sustainable development. The usual way includes regulations, control mechanisms and is very (inner) resource intensive. This chapter explores alternatives based on increased use of awareness as the key to personal and societal sustainability. It suggests that individuals, communities and societies can function sustainably in the long run only when the amount of automatic emotional and mental complexes disconnecting us from the surrounding reality are reduced and substituted by action with awareness. Being aware always includes becoming aware of the present. Awareness of awareness constitutes a new paradigm offering a new, more sustainable way of living. To clarify several points, some practical experiments to foster personal experience are suggested throughout the chapter.
