The Higher Consciousness Future of an OM-Envisioned Economy

As the world faces the mounting challenges of inequality, environmental degradation, and unsustainable growth, the need for a new economic model has never been more urgent. The Oneness Movement (OM) envisions a future where the global economy is rooted in higher consciousness (HC)—a system that prioritizes sustainability, compassion, equity, and the well-being of all beings. This HC-based economy would represent a fundamental shift from the current profit-driven, competitive model to one that reflects our interconnectedness and shared responsibility for each other and the planet.

In this article, we will explore what an HC-based economy would look like, the values that would underpin it, and how this future can be brought to life.

1. Purpose-Driven Businesses and Innovation

In an HC economy, the primary purpose of businesses would be to serve the collective good. Instead of focusing on maximizing profits for shareholders, businesses would align their missions with the well-being of humanity, the environment, and future generations. This does not mean innovation or competition would be stifled—in fact, innovation would thrive under HC principles, but it would be directed toward creating sustainable, ethical, and long-term solutions.

Features of HC Businesses:

• Mission-Centered Enterprises: Corporations and businesses would have clear purpose-driven missions that emphasize sustainability, social justice, and ethical practices. Every product, service, or technological innovation would be designed with the collective well-being in mind.

• Circular Economies: Instead of the current linear economy model of "take, make, waste," businesses would embrace a circular economy, where materials are reused, products are designed for longevity, and waste is minimized. This ensures that resources are cycled back into the economy in ways that regenerate ecosystems and communities.

2. Sustainable Resource Management and Environmental Stewardship

In an OM-envisioned HC economy, environmental sustainability would be a non-negotiable foundation. The degradation of ecosystems and overconsumption of resources would be viewed as not only unethical but also as a fundamental threat to the collective future. Businesses, governments, and individuals would all play a role in ensuring that the Earth’s resources are used responsibly and replenished wherever possible.

Features of Sustainable Resource Management:

• Regenerative Agriculture: The global food system would be transformed through regenerative agricultural practices that restore soil health, increase biodiversity, and eliminate harmful chemicals and monoculture farming.

• Renewable Energy as Standard: Fossil fuels would be phased out, and renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal would power homes, businesses, and industries. Energy systems would be decentralized, allowing communities to be self-sufficient and resilient.

• Conservation of Biodiversity: Protection of ecosystems, forests, oceans, and wildlife would be integral to the economy. Business activities would ensure that ecosystems thrive, and companies would be required to integrate conservation strategies into their operations.

3. Equitable Distribution of Wealth and Resources

An HC economy would address the stark wealth inequality present in today’s world. In this model, wealth would not be hoarded by a small elite but would be shared equitably to ensure that everyone’s basic needs are met. While businesses would still generate profits, those profits would be distributed in ways that uplift communities and contribute to societal well-being.

Key Features of Equitable Wealth Distribution:

• Living Wages for All: Every person, regardless of their job or profession, would earn a living wage that allows them to live with dignity and security. Economic structures would ensure that there are no working poor, and the exploitation of labor would be eliminated.

• Universal Basic Needs: The HC economy would prioritize the fulfillment of basic human needs such as housing, healthcare, education, and food. These essential services would be accessible to everyone, removing the economic disparities that lead to suffering and division.

• Shared Ownership Models: More businesses would adopt worker-owned models, where employees have a direct stake in the success of the company. Profit-sharing systems would ensure that everyone benefits from the company’s success, reducing the extreme wealth disparities seen in the current system.

4. Collaboration Over Competition

The culture of competition that dominates today’s economy would be replaced by one of collaboration. Instead of businesses and individuals vying for dominance or market share, they would work together to solve global challenges and ensure mutual upliftment. This shift would promote a spirit of unity and collective progress, where the success of one business or individual contributes to the greater success of all.

Key Features of Collaborative Economic Systems:

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Companies, governments, and NGOs would work together in open innovation networks to address issues like climate change, poverty, and health crises. By sharing knowledge and resources, they would amplify their positive impact.

• Ethical Partnerships: Business partnerships would be built on a foundation of shared values and a commitment to ethical practices. Companies would choose their collaborators based on their alignment with sustainability and human rights, ensuring that all economic activity benefits the collective.

5. Empowering Workers and Local Economies

In an HC economy, workers would be empowered to thrive personally and professionally. Rather than being treated as expendable resources, employees would be seen as vital contributors to the mission of the business. Furthermore, the emphasis on local economies would strengthen communities, making them more self-sufficient and resilient.

Features of Worker Empowerment and Local Economies:

• Education and Lifelong Learning: Workers would have access to continuous education and opportunities for growth, allowing them to develop new skills, pursue passions, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

• Cooperatives and Small Enterprises: Local cooperatives and small businesses would be essential components of the economy, providing goods and services while keeping wealth circulating within communities. These businesses would prioritize local hiring and ethical sourcing.

• Work-Life Balance: The structure of work would shift to prioritize the well-being of employees, with shorter workweeks, more flexible schedules, and a focus on work-life balance. Productivity would be measured by impact and fulfillment rather than sheer output.

6. Redefining Success and Growth

In an HC-based economy, success would no longer be defined by GDP growth or shareholder profits. Instead, success would be measured by the well-being of society, the health of ecosystems, and the happiness and fulfillment of individuals. The economy would still grow, but in ways that are regenerative, inclusive, and aligned with the flourishing of all beings.

Key Features of Redefining Success:

• Happiness Indexes: Governments and organizations would adopt well-being metrics—such as the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index—to track the success of economies. These metrics would take into account mental health, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

• Sustainable Growth Models: Economic growth would be measured by how it contributes to long-term stability and sustainability, ensuring that the resources used today do not harm future generations. Growth would be celebrated not in terms of consumption but in terms of quality of life improvements for all.

Conclusion: A Future Economy Grounded in Oneness

The future of an HC economy, as envisioned by the Oneness Movement, is one where humanity operates with a deep sense of interconnectedness and shared responsibility. In this economy, businesses, governments, and individuals work together not to extract and compete but to uplift and sustain. The result is an economy that thrives on innovation, expertise, and quality, while ensuring that compassion, justice, and sustainability are woven into the fabric of every economic activity.

This HC-based economy isn’t just about economic transformation—it’s about spiritual evolution. It reflects the understanding that true prosperity comes not from material wealth alone, but from the collective flourishing of all beings on this planet. In this future, the economy becomes a tool for achieving balance, equity, and harmony with ourselves, each other, and the natural world.