Finding purpose in EUDR

Dear ,

Deforestation is a hot topic in cosmetics, with the EUDR in full focus. But in every conversation I’ve had recently, there’s a shared sigh of frustration.

I get it. The last few years were turbulent, and that took a lot from us in our daily lives and daily work. No one is excited about more paperwork.

How would you feel if this work wasn’t about complying to a new set of externally imposed rules?

Curiosity is my guide — it’s the spark that lead to my career as a cosmetic scientist, my passion for sustainability and my obsession interest in productivity (a lifelong coping mechanism for my ADHD). It also helps me reframe frustrating tasks into meaningful contributions.

Putting time and energy into complying to a new set of externally imposed rules is demotivating, because it makes you feel you are giving up control. You and I need to feel we have autonomy; a sense of ownership.

There is a way to regain the sense of ownership and still do the work that needs to be done to comply to EUDR.

Own your mindset.

The EUDR isn’t just a set of rules; it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger. When you shift your mindset from “I have to comply” to “I’m choosing to protect forests,” you reclaim our autonomy. It’s no longer about giving up control—it’s about owning our impact.

Forests are essential to our survival. They store carbon, stabilize ecosystems, and are home to incredible biodiversity. Protecting them is noble work—it’s helping all life on Earth.

If you’re feeling stuck, here’s another secret: helping others helps you. A small but powerful question, like in this powerful scene from New Amsterdam, can change everything:

“How can I help?”

Let’s make this easier together. I’d love to schedule a virtual coffee date—just you, me, and a hot drink. Share your challenges, whether about the EUDR or sustainability in cosmetics, and I’ll do my best to help. No strings attached, no invoices, just a conversation to spark solutions. Just email me on priscilla@priscillarolvers.eu.

Warm regards,
Priscilla

P.S. This mindset shift is explained in Feel-Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal