Unveiling the Power of "Starting with Why" in Everyday Decision-Making
As a young kid "why" was one of the most common things to come out of our mouth as we attempted to understand the world and our place in it. Have you forgotten how to use this important question?
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In the dynamic landscape of professional and personal pursuits, the concept of "Starting with Why" has become a timeless guide for decision-makers seeking alignment and purpose. Popularized by Simon Sinek in his groundbreaking TED Talk over a decade ago, the idea revolves around understanding the core motivation behind any action before delving into the specifics of how and what. As I revisit Sinek's talk and reflect on my own experiences, it's evident that embracing the power of 'Why' has transformative implications in various aspects of life.
One of the profound applications of starting with 'Why' is in creating alignment. When initiating a change or embarking on a new project, the 'Why' serves as the compass, helping define the importance and impact of the endeavor. By contemplating who will be affected by the change, when it will occur, and where it fits into the larger picture, a holistic understanding emerges. This practice aligns stakeholders and rationalizes subsequent considerations of what, when, where, and how.
In my role as a product owner, I have integrated the 'Why' into everyday tasks such as crafting feature cards and development cards for engineers. By instilling the 'Why' at the forefront, I enable the team to grasp the significance of their work, fostering a deeper connection to the end goal. Expressing user stories as "As a [role], I want to [do something] because [reason]" provides a foundational template that not only communicates the objective but also the emotional resonance behind it.
Starting with the 'Why' proves instrumental in addressing pain points directly. By diving into the reasons behind a task or project, teams can better comprehend the problem at hand. This approach precedes the establishment of acceptance criteria, user flows, and other technical requirements. The 'Why' acts as a direct route to the heart of the matter, ensuring everyone is aligned and emotionally invested in the solution.
Crucially, I refrain from dictating the 'How' in my interactions with engineers. Instead, I trust that once the 'Why' is well-understood, creativity and innovation can flourish as the team collaboratively defines the 'How.' This approach empowers individuals to contribute their unique perspectives, fostering a sense of ownership and collective problem-solving.
Beyond project scoping, I advocate for starting meetings with the 'Why.' By clarifying the purpose and expected outcomes upfront, participants can actively engage with a shared understanding. In sales calls and mentoring sessions, I consistently lead with the 'Why' to uncover the client's or mentee's core motivations. Understanding why a prospect cares about a product or why a problem matters is foundational to establishing meaningful connections and crafting effective solutions.
In essence, 'Starting with Why' is not just a tool; it's a mindset that permeates decision-making at all levels. Whether grappling with product development, leading meetings, or addressing personal challenges, the 'Why' serves as the compass that guides individuals and teams toward purposeful, impactful outcomes. As we navigate the intricacies of our roles and responsibilities, let us not forget the transformative power of beginning with 'Why.'
Image by Arek Socha