When Doubt Creeps In
Staying motivated in conservation can be challenging. The pressures of public scrutiny, bureaucracy, and environmental crises often make us question why we chose this work. Yet, reconnecting with our ‘why’—the purpose that drives us—is one of the most powerful ways to reignite our motivation and resilience.
In my resilience workshops, I ask participants to reflect on two key areas:
- Core Values – What are one or two values that drive your passion for conservation? Perhaps it’s a love for the natural world, a commitment to justice, or a belief in the interconnectedness of life.
- Daily Tasks and Broader Goals – Consider the work you do each day. Even mundane tasks contribute to the broader mission. For example, answering emails may seem routine, but it facilitates collaboration that ultimately impacts ecosystems and species.
When we connect these dots, our daily efforts to our larger conservation goals, we gain clarity and purpose.
When I Almost Walked Away
I’ve experienced this firsthand. A pivotal moment for me came when I was removed from a program based on false rumors. It was a place where I believed I could impact the future of conservation leadership for the better. It shook me deeply. For a while, I doubted my path. I even sought guidance from my counselor, who suggested I consider leaving the field entirely—why continue punishing myself in a system so resistant to change?
For a day or so, I considered it. Maybe I was pushing too hard. Maybe well-being and culture would never be welcome in conservation. Maybe the system would always reject efforts to make space for emotions, connection, and care.
But then, I was reminded of the countless workshop participants — especially young conservationists — who thanked me for this work. They have told me, with deep sincerity, how much they needed to hear that their struggles are real and valid, that resilience is possible, and that conservation doesn’t have to mean sacrificing themselves.
At this point in my life, I’m no longer doing this for me. I feel beaten and broken sometimes. But I know that the people coming after me—the next generation of conservationists—will have an even harder time. They will be facing multiple, compounding crises: endangered species loss, invasive species, intensifying natural disasters, habitat destruction, and systemic pressures that demand more and more with fewer resources.
They deserve a field that acknowledges their humanity. A field that supports their ability to thrive.
Practicing What I Preach
Once I validated my own purpose and engaged back with it, I could stand even stronger in the work that I do. In a way, what is happening now—with executive orders randomly terminating people, banning words, and attempting to erase progress—has forced me to practice what I preach.
I am not immune to fear or frustration. But I am actively choosing to respond differently. I go inward before reacting. I stay grounded through daily connection with nature—even if it’s just a quick walk outside or practicing mindful eating. I focus on priorities and what I can control. I lean into mindfulness and resilience practices not just as theories, but as necessities.
How to Reconnect with Your ‘Why’ and Stay Motivated in Conservation
If you find yourself questioning your path, here are some ways to reconnect with your purpose:
- Reflect on Your Journey – What brought you to conservation in the first place? Think back to a moment when you felt deeply aligned with your purpose.
- Revisit Your Core Values – Write down your core values and ask how they manifest in your daily work.
- Find Inspiration in Community – Talk to others who share your passion. Their stories and feedback can reawaken your sense of purpose.
- Acknowledge the Struggle – It’s okay to question your path. In fact, those moments of doubt often clarify your deeper purpose.
- Ground Yourself in Daily Practices – Whether it’s time in nature, breathing exercises, or simply remembering why you started—create habits that reinforce your resilience.
We fight for what we love. That’s why we must become clearer on our “why” and purpose. Conservation needs you—not a perfect version of you, but the version that challenges norms, speaks truth, and fights for what matters.
What’s your “why”? Share it with me—I’d love to hear.
Contact me for information on my workshop: Nurturing Resilience: Finding Fulfillment in Challenging Conservation Work or check out my workshops page – https://anavahconsulting.com/services/workshops/.