The Doughnut of Balance: A Lesson from Kate Raworth

What if the secret to a thriving business and a thriving world isn’t endless growth, but balance?
Kate Raworth’s Doughnut Model shows us how.

Kate Raworth, a renegade economist, created the Doughnut Model—a simple yet powerful way to understand our planet’s limits and humanity’s needs.

She didn’t just stop at theory. With the Doughnut Economics Action Lab, she handed the model to society, inviting everyone to experiment, adapt, and thrive within its boundaries.

What I love most? She makes complex ideas accessible. And in her presentations, she doesn’t just answer questions—she connects, embodies, and makes every person feel heard.

For entrepreneurs, Kate’s lesson is clear: Success isn’t about growing at all costs. It’s about finding the sweet spot—where your business meets its needs without crossing planetary boundaries or leaving people behind.

Think of your business as part of a larger ecosystem. How can you create value without depleting resources or exploiting communities?

Here’s your habit for today:
Every morning, ask yourself: ‘How can my business give back as much as it takes?’
Write down one action, big or small, that aligns your work with the Doughnut’s balance. Then, do it.

Small steps, repeated daily, create lasting impact.

By Erno Hannink

Sparring and accountability partner for entrepreneurs who create sustainable positive impact. Explores decision-making. Shares his insights on this in, articles, books (Dutch), podcast, newsletters, and tools. Has a life mission to reduce social and ecological inequality. Father of two children, husband of M., runs, referee for the national soccer league, and uses stoicism for calm. Lives in the Netherlands. Speaks Dutch, English, and German.

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