Discover Simon Sinek’s “Why, How, What” framework and its role in career satisfaction
What Drives You: Starting With the Why
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to love what they do while others just go through the motions? I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about this, especially during moments when I felt stuck or uninspired in my own career. That’s when I stumbled upon Simon Sinek’s concept of the Golden Circle, a framework that breaks down the “Why, How, What” of what we do. It’s simple, but the insight it provides is profound.
The idea is this: most people and companies start with the “What.” What do I do? What product do I sell? But the ones who truly thrive start with the “Why.” Why am I doing this? What’s my purpose? That shift in perspective can change everything, whether you’re running a business or trying to figure out your next career move.
The Three Layers of the Golden Circle
Before diving into how this applies to your career, let’s break down the three parts of the Golden Circle.
1. Why
This is your purpose the reason you get out of bed in the morning. It’s not about making money or hitting targets; it’s about what truly drives you. Your “Why” is deeply personal, and it often takes time and reflection to uncover.
2. How
The “How” is your process. It’s the unique way you bring your purpose to life, whether that’s through creativity, problem solving, or collaboration. This is where your strengths and values shine.
3. What
The “What” is the end result, your job title, the tasks you complete, or the product you create. It’s the most tangible part of what you do, but without the “Why” and “How,” it often feels hollow.
Why Starting With the “Why” Matters
I can’t count the number of times I’ve started something new, whether it was a job, a project, or even a hobby, focusing entirely on the “What.” It’s easy to get caught up in the surface level stuff. What’s my job title? What’s the salary? What tasks am I responsible for? And while those things matter, they don’t tell the whole story.
Here’s the thing: starting with the “What” is like building a house without a foundation. Sure, you might have walls and a roof, but if you don’t know why you’re building it in the first place, it won’t feel like home. When you lead with your “Why,” everything else your “How” and “What” starts to fall into place. Your decisions feel intentional, your work feels meaningful, and your career becomes more than just a paycheck.
Finding Your “Why” (It’s Not as Scary as It Sounds)
Uncovering your “Why” can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re used to focusing on the practicalities of work. But trust me, it’s worth the effort. Here’s how to get started:
1. Reflect on What Energizes You
Think about the moments when you’ve felt truly alive and engaged in your work. What were you doing? Who were you helping? Chances are, those moments are tied to your “Why.”
2. Ask Yourself Big Questions
- What impact do I want to have on the world?
- What problems do I feel called to solve?
- What legacy do I want to leave behind? These aren’t questions you can answer in one sitting, but they’re a great starting point.
3. Look for Patterns
Sometimes, your “Why” isn’t immediately obvious, but it leaves clues. Look for recurring themes in your life, things you’re naturally drawn to or challenges you’re passionate about solving.
Applying the Golden Circle to Your Career
Once you’ve identified your “Why,” the next step is aligning your career with it. This doesn’t mean you need to quit your job tomorrow or completely overhaul your life. It’s about making small, intentional changes that bring your work closer to your purpose.
For example, if your “Why” is about helping others, but your current role feels isolating, look for opportunities to mentor, collaborate, or take on projects that involve teamwork. If your “Why” is about creativity, find ways to bring more innovation into your work, even if it’s just a side project at first.
The Ripple Effect of a Purpose Driven Career
Here’s what I’ve learned: when you start with your “Why,” it doesn’t just change your career, it changes your whole perspective. You stop seeing work as a series of tasks and start seeing it as a way to express who you are and what you care about. You feel more confident in your decisions because they’re rooted in something deeper than job titles or paychecks. And perhaps most importantly, you wake up each day with a sense of purpose.
That’s not to say the journey is always easy. There will be days when you doubt yourself, when the path forward feels uncertain, or when you fall back into the habit of focusing on the “What.” But every step you take toward aligning your career with your “Why” is a step toward a more fulfilling, meaningful life.
What’s Your “Why”?
If you’re feeling stuck in your career or unsure of your next move, take a moment to reflect on your “Why.” It might not come to you overnight, but it’s there, waiting to guide you toward a career that feels authentic and rewarding. Because at the end of the day, work isn’t just about what we do, it’s about why we do it.