Why, and to what end?
We hear a lot about being connected to our why. In fact, my values-aligned messaging framework connects your brand mission to “your why.”
And sifting through and reconnecting with my personal why is the topic of this week’s (admittedly long-winded) solo podcast episode.
So as you think about your why, here’s a little exercise (that I didn’t create, but think could get your reflective juices flowing):
It’s called the “5 Whys.” You ask yourself why you want to be/do/have something. Then you ask why again related to your response. Basically, peeling back the onion to get to the less conditioned, more aligned heart of it all.
For example:
❓ Why do you want a podcast?
⇒ To get more visible.
❓Why do you want to get more visible?
⇒ To reach more people.
❓Why do you want to reach more people?
⇒ To open up as many new perspectives as possible.
Etc, etc.
Or if “why?” is too big or too farfetched, it might be a more useful question to ask yourself “to what end?”. (Or even use this in tandem with “why?”)
Especially for those of us who are logical, but get lost in theoretical visions and pathways of possibility…aka those pesky overthinking spirals.
Answering “to what end?” jumps right to the tangible, the concrete, the result.
Knowing “to what end” might just make the choice at hand specific enough to take action. Which is the goal.
So, as you listen to my psuedo-existential crisis around my “why,” I hope you make headway on understanding and identifying and taking action around your own.
I’d love to hear the reason behind your business, if you’re willing to share. Just hit reply here or drop me a voice memo.
This is an excerpt from Toward Purpose & Progress, my newsletter where I share business tips, good news, shoutouts to Founder Friends, and other juicy snippets. Subscribe here for more rants, reflections, and resources.
