The phrase, "What's your why?", has become a popular maxim, especially in the corporate world, thanks to best-selling author Simon Sinek. But what does it mean, and why is understanding your 'why' so significant?
Your 'why' refers to the core reason behind your existence, your purpose, or your main objective. It's the force that drives you, compelling you to act in a certain way. This isn't just about business; it transcends into personal life, relationships, and self-awareness.
Understanding Your 'Why'
Before exploring the power of your 'why', it's crucial to comprehend its nature.
The 'why' is not about being grandiose; it's not a mission statement or a tagline. Instead, it's your innermost passion, your deepest drive, or the nut behind the bolts that keep you going.
Digging into Your Core
Finding your 'why' requires introspection. It's about rummaging through your memories, experiences, and opinions to find what truly matters to you.
It could be your core values, a dream you've always desired to achieve, or the desire to make a difference. For instance, Oprah Winfrey's 'why' is 'to use her past to create a future of possibility for others'."
The Golden Circle
The 'why' is a central component of Simon Sinek's Golden Circle, which asserts that people are more likely to buy from, work with, or be influenced by those who follow the Golden Circle.
The Golden Circle comprises three concentric circles: the 'why', the 'how', and the 'what'. According to Sinek, most companies communicate from the outside in, starting with 'what' they do, then 'how', and finally 'why'. Exceptional organizations communicate from the inside out, beginning with 'why' they do what they do.
Activating Your 'Why'
Understanding your 'why' is the first step. Activating it is where the transformative power lies.
Activating your 'why' means letting it guide your decisions, actions, and relationships. It's about aligning every aspect of your life with your core purpose.
Articulating Your 'Why'
Crafting a clear, concise, and compelling statement that encapsulates your 'why' is the perfect starting point. It serves as a beacon, guiding you whenever you feel lost or ambiguous.
For example, Apple's 'why' is 'We believe in challenging the status quo and thinking differently, the way we challenge is by making our products beautifully designed, simple to use and user-friendly.' This clear 'why' drives their 'how' (innovation, simplicity) and their 'what' (products).
Living Your 'Why'
Leveraging your 'why' reaches far beyond the business realm. It's about incorporating your purpose into your daily life, investments, relationships, and even your hobbies.
Whether it's selecting a new job, deciding whom to love, or making lifestyle changes, your 'why' should be the compass navigating your choices. However, remember, it's not always an easy path, but aligning with your 'why' makes it worthwhile.
Ultimately, activating your 'why' is a journey of self-discovery, purpose, and growth. It's about understanding, accepting, and living your truth. The power of your 'why' activity lies in connecting your present decisions with your core reason for existence.