These days, it’s impossible to go a day without hearing about the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). Companies and governments proudly declare, “We are working towards the SDGs!” Schools and workplaces also offer opportunities to learn about them. But have you ever felt that something about the SDGs seems a little off?

As someone who became a severely disabled person later in life, I have developed a strong interest in diversity and inclusive society. Many of the SDGs’ goals resonate with me, and I believe they are fundamentally good. Yet, I can’t shake off a sense of unease. Why do I feel this way? And more importantly, why is it crucial to think and act for ourselves instead of blindly following global trends? Let’s explore these questions.

Why Do SDGs Feel Suspicious?
The SDGs promote goals such as “eradicating poverty,” “ensuring education for all,” “achieving gender equality,” and “combating climate change.” These are undeniably important issues. However, that is precisely why I feel uneasy.

1. Anything Considered ‘Absolutely Right’ Often Has a Hidden Agenda
Looking back at history, many things that were once considered “undeniably right” later turned out to have hidden motives. For example, colonial rule was justified under the guise of “civilizing the world,” and wars were fought in the name of “peace.”

Could the SDGs be the same?
When corporations and governments say, “The SDGs are good, so let’s all work together!” what are their underlying intentions? Is their only purpose truly to make the world a better place? Or are they using it as a tool for improving their corporate image or expanding new business opportunities?

2. Who Is Promoting the SDGs?
The biggest advocates of the SDGs are international organizations, large corporations, and governments. If they were genuinely committed to improving the world, that would be a wonderful thing. However, in reality, many companies use SDG initiatives to attract investors or secure subsidies.

Moreover, companies or individuals who do not conform to the SDG movement risk being criticized as “going against progress.” This creates an atmosphere where SDGs are presented as the absolute truth—which, ironically, contradicts the very idea of an inclusive society.

3. Is ‘Sustainable Development’ Truly Sustainable?
The SDGs promote “sustainability,” but many of the initiatives require new technologies and infrastructure. For example, electric vehicles are often praised as “eco-friendly,” but their production requires rare metals such as lithium and cobalt. Mining these resources leads to severe environmental destruction and, in some cases, child labor in developing countries.

In other words, the push for sustainability sometimes creates new contradictions and problems. So, what should we do about it?

The SDGs’ Goals Themselves Are Valuable
Despite my skepticism, I don’t believe the SDG goals themselves are meaningless.
In fact, I strongly support many of them.

For example, as a disabled person, I appreciate efforts to create a more inclusive society. I also agree with initiatives promoting barrier-free environments and diversity. Similarly, environmental conservation is essential, and taking simple actions—such as sorting waste or reducing unnecessary electricity use—can make a difference.

The real issue is not the goals themselves but how they are implemented and used. And above all, what matters most is that we think and act for ourselves instead of blindly following the global agenda.

The Importance of Thinking and Acting for Yourself
Movements like the SDGs often have underlying intentions beyond their surface message.
That’s why we must not simply accept things at face value but instead ask, “Is this truly beneficial for me and society?” before taking action.

1. Don’t Take Information at Face Value
Social media and news outlets constantly push narratives such as “This is the right thing to do!” or “This is the global standard!” But are these claims truly accurate? We should gather information from multiple perspectives and think critically.

2. Focus on What You Can Do
Trying to personally contribute to all 17 SDG goals is impossible, and forcing yourself to do so will only lead to exhaustion. Instead, focus on what you can do within your own capacity.

For example, I contribute by writing blog posts about the realities of being disabled. I don’t need to wear an SDG badge or participate in corporate campaigns to make a difference. We each have our own ways of contributing to a better society.

3. Be Cautious of Value Enforcement
“If you don’t support SDGs, you’re ignorant!”
“If you don’t live an eco-friendly lifestyle, you’re outdated!”
When such statements become common, SDGs turn into another form of social pressure.
The SDGs claim to create a world where “no one is left behind.” If that’s the case, shouldn’t they also respect those who hold different perspectives?

Conclusion: Protect Your Own Way of Living
The SDGs present valuable goals, but it’s essential to question who is driving the movement and why rather than blindly following it.

“This is the right way, so follow it!”
“Everyone should work toward this goal!”
When these messages become the dominant narrative, we must resist the pressure and think for ourselves.

We are not here to live according to the expectations of others.
How we live should be our own choice.

So, instead of being swept up in the global agenda, let’s stay true to our own beliefs and take action in our own way. That might be the real definition of “sustainable living.”