Start with Why Part 2 of 7: The Golden Circle
April 27, 2010 by dr. lam · 6 Comments
The Golden Circle of Simon Sinek begins with the why on the inside of the circle, moves to the how, and ends with the what. Apple, Inc. believes that they are here to challenge the status quo and to think differently (the WHY), using innovation and revolutionary thinking (HOW) in order to create the greatest technological products on the market (WHAT). Most companies create the what first. They create a great product first, then you as a consumer are supposed to buy it.
However, many people that claim that they buy Apple products (including myself perhaps foolishly) believe that we are buying the product for the WHAT, i.e., a great computer. That is actually a bit of a lie. We Apple fanatics buy the computer because we aspire to be the WHY: we are opposed to the status quo; we are creative professionals; we value excellent design and functionality in our life; and we are intrepid people who think differently.
As Sinek says, people who wear a Harley-Davidson tattoo emblazoned on their arm do not do so for the WHAT, i.e., not because Harleys ride that much better. They instead subscribe to the WHY, i.e., the lifestyle, the philosophy, the perspective celebrated by Harley-Davidson.
I think Sinek’s Golden Circle can be a great starting point for any of us who are desirous in finding what we want to do in our life. I had a cousin who asked me how he could find his passion. I asked him to start with why. He said he loved connecting with people. I said that is great. Start with that desire and move backwards to the what. You might just find your passion that way. All of us should start at the beginning, which is the why not the what of it all.
Start with Why Part 1 of 7: Carrots and Sticks
April 23, 2010 by dr. lam · 2 Comments
This is perhaps one of the few times that I am writing a blog series on the same topic that I did over a year ago. Don’t worry I won’t be directly repeating the content herein. The first blog series on “Start with Why” was inspired by listening to the author/speaker, Simon Sinek, speak at an Entrepreneur Organization (EO) meeting about 2 years ago. I was so moved by his words that I felt compelled to write about his unique ideas soon after his talk. His announcement that his book by the same title was about to be released excited me so I purchased his book and am writing this current blog series loosely based on the ideas enumerated in his new book, Start with Why.
As a quick introduction, Sinek’s thesis for those who are unfamiliar is that most individuals and companies are focused on the WHAT, i.e., what service they are providing, and not the WHY, i.e., why are they in business. Sinek talks about getting all of us to be inspired to think of why we are on this planet. Is it just for money, sex and power? Is there a deeper motivation that lies within our hearts and souls for why we get up in the morning?
The opening of Sinek’s book he discusses the case for inspiration against manipulation. Manipulation means “I will lower my price” to get you through the door or add “value added” bonuses. How often do we buy the stupid digital camera because it came with the free memory card or we choose to buy an extra book on Amazon to get the free shipping if you spend over $25 (well, actually I do). However, all forms of manipulative behavior may be more short-lived and are not as satisfying as inspirational motivation.
Whether we choose to lead our employees, patients, and friends by carrot or a stick, we are stuck with a low form of manipulation that may create short-ended changes but not lasting improvement. We should all investigate how we treat others around us and how we desire to manipulate behavior rather than inspire it. The carrot and the stick are both bad ways to get yourself or others to do what you want. Start to focus on the WHY. Why do you do what you do?
For me, a huge part of what I do is focus on healing. I love the ability to come to work every day and to effect a positive change in a patient (and staff)’s life. Don’t get me wrong. I love facial plastic surgery but what I love more is touching a life and inspiring change. My staff are empowered to do the same. We are all focused on our WHY. What is your why?