Influencing ICT sustainability is a complex challenge requiring a multifaceted approach. We applied UNLOCK, a transdisciplinary systems approach, bringing together engineers, user behavior experts, business professionals, and policy researchers to identify key tension fields and dysfunctional patterns. This works aims to identify actionable transition pathways going forward. Our focus was on two paradoxical tension fields: control vs. freedom and competition vs. collaboration. ICT companies seek freedom for innovation, and consumers desire choice, but societal environmental concerns necessitate control, potentially restricting this freedom. Similarly, while competition fosters innovation, collaboration is crucial for addressing ICT’s societal challenges. Reconciling these opposing values emerged as a key leverage point for positive change. We examined dysfunctional patterns like “fixes that fail” (Jevons’ Paradox), “tragedy of the commons,” and “success to the successful”. These patterns highlight that despite increased ICT efficiency, its ecological footprint has grown due to pervasive use and overconsumption. In the current “attention economy,” global companies vie for user attention and market share. Our proposed transition paths advocate sufficiency to break Jevons’ Paradox, shifting focus from “more efficiency” to “reduction to save ourselves”. Recognizing widespread overconsumption, reducing ICT use is achievable, by promoting digital wellbeing for consumers and IT rationalization for organizations. Aligning ICT use with its intended goals, i.e. making ICT a means rather than an end, can substantially reduce its environmental impact.