Steering Complex Systems: A joined up, ecosystem-inspired approach that empowers us to improve our world

When I work with people who understand various parts of a system, I find that together we can create models that empower us to make better decisions.

Working with a system, with a full appreciation of its complexity, allows us to intervene effectively and continuously, to steer it along better, more sustainable courses over the long term.

Complex systems are always adapting to changes in their component parts, and the world around them.

This means that we need to maintain relationships with them, constantly learning and improving our interventions, as they change.

So, working with a system, with a full appreciation of its dynamics, allows us to steer it towards more sustainable paths in which its momentum is naturally aligned with our desired outcomes.

Developing interactive and ongoing relationships of love and care with complex systems will help us to understand and manage them sustainably over the long term.

And connecting ourselves to the awe-inspiring complexity of ecology and evolution is a huge source of joy and well-being!

I am working on combining models with this mindful practice to help foster a deeply interactive worldview and real system connectivity with the groups I work with.

I work with artists, scientists and practitioners to enable people to perceive and connect to ecological complexity and help to open peoples’ eyes to the incredible wonder of the myriad complex systems they are part of.

I discussed this value of awe on BBC Radio 4's More Wow on 5 September 2024, available on BBC iPlayer.