In his famous TED Talk, Simon Sinek shared an idea that has shaped how leaders, companies, and individuals think about their work: Start With Why.
Most people explain what they do first, then how they do it… and stop there. But truly inspiring leaders and companies flip the order. They work from the inside out:
Why → How → What
Why: The purpose, cause, or belief that drives you.
How: The process or values that bring that purpose to life.
What: The products, services, or results you deliver.
Sinek calls this The Golden Circle. His insight is simple: people don’t buy what you do — they buy why you do it.
Think about Apple. They don’t just sell electronics.
Their why is about challenging the status quo and thinking differently.
Their how is through elegant design and user experience.
Their what is the devices themselves.
The clarity of that purpose is what makes their message resonate far beyond technology.
But this isn’t only for companies. It applies to individuals too.
When your why is clear:
Decisions align more naturally.
Actions have direction instead of being reactive.
Your communication inspires trust and loyalty, because people sense the conviction behind your choices.
Without a clear why, even strong efforts can feel scattered. You may work hard, but you’re not always sure whether you’re moving toward something meaningful — or just staying busy.
Starting with why isn’t about writing a clever mission statement or hanging nice words on a wall. It’s about uncovering the belief that fuels you and making sure it shows up in how you work, how you lead, and how you live.
👉 Your turn:If someone asked you today, “What’s your why?” — would you have an answer?
Share it in the comments. I’d love to read your perspective.