When I applied to the Sustainable Investing Research Consulting Project class, I was motivated by a desire to expand my knowledge of sustainable finance and improve my skills. Although I had many expectations about the class and its potential benefits, I did not anticipate the importance of unlearning in the learning process.
Participating in a classroom of thirty individuals with diverse and impressive backgrounds who share a common passion for sustainability proved to be a stimulating experience. During one of our class discussions, a peer commented on how adopting and investing in alternative and renewable energy can be a strategic financial decision. This comment prompted me to realize that sustainable investing is not only about caring for the environment or future generations, but it is also a rational business decision. I asked myself why I had not previously considered this perspective, and realized that when we talk about sustainable development, we usually use the moral compass as an argument for it. This conversation made me realize that my background and previous experiences can limit my perspective, and stop me from considering alternative viewpoints.
That is why I think it is important to unlearn certain patterns. For me, unlearning is not about rejecting my values or unique identity, but rather accepting that there are other ways of looking at and solving problems. These alternative perspectives may challenge beliefs that I have held throughout my life, but that does not necessarily mean that my view was incorrect. Instead, it is likely that I simply lacked exposure to certain perspectives. Unlearning is a process of recognizing that there is no one perfect lens to look at global issues and being prepared to adapt and change as new information and viewpoints arise.
Ultimately, I believe that being open to unlearning is a sign of personal growth and development. The Sustainable Investing Research Consulting Project class has taught me that one important part of the learning process is to be ready to unlearn certain things.