What’s Your Why

“We say WHAT we do, we sometimes say HOW we do it, but we rarely say WHY we do WHAT we do.”
- Simon Sinek

This is a common problem in the for-profit sector but surprisingly it carries over to the non-profit sector as well.

Organizations get so caught up in what they do that they often neglect to communicate Why they exist. They tie their identity to their current programs or services but to truly inspire others you need to communicate Why you do what you do.

I truly recommend you get your hands on a copy of  “Start with Why.”

I’d love to lend you mine but it’s literally falling apart from all my re-reads. 

In the meantime, I’ll give you an example from one of my favorite charities to follow @CharityWater

Let’s break down their Why, How, and What. Stay with me:)

WHY does charity water exist?

“There will be a day–in our lifetime–when we get to celebrate every person on the planet having access to clean water. We want to celebrate that day with you.”

Ok, I have chills. That’s inspiring and something I want to identify with. I want to belong .

HOW do they do it?

“We bring safe drinking water to people in developing countries.”

Your how is generally your mission statement. It’s the practical implementation of your WHY and may include what makes you different than others in your sector.

And WHAT to do they do?

“We partner with experienced local organizations who build sustainable, community-owned water projects around the world.”

That’s the product or service you provide. It’s the tangible result of your WHY.

Now imagine reading it from What to Why instead? Or marketing and planning based on your what instead of your why? It just makes no sense, it’s plain crazy! If you’ve lost touch with your WHY don’t panic. Try and go back in time and remember the early days. The drive the energy and the WHY and work backward from there.

What’s your WHY friends? I’d love to hear!