What is your Why?
Is your “why” different than your “purpose”? A quick Google search came up with the following: “While often used interchangeably, 'why' (motivation or reason) and 'purpose' (meaning or reason for being) are distinct concepts. 'Why' focuses on the immediate driver, while 'purpose' delves deeper into the overarching meaning and contribution.”
I have been listening to the “Take the Leap” podcast hosted by Victoria Proppe and Ashlan Glazier-Anderson, who interview entrepreneurs to understand what drove them to start their business. They recently interviewed Jeni Nguyen, founder of BINK Rabbit Goods. To make a long story short, Jeni has two pet rabbits and realized there was no market for rabbit-related paraphernalia. However, her love of bunnies was not why she started her company. Rather, she reminds us of what the flight attendant says during their flight instructions: “Put your oxygen mask on first.” Jeni’s why was her “pursuit of creative fulfillment.” She started the business for herself.
Understanding your why can be a powerful tool in both personal, professional, and business growth. It’s the underlying force that drives your actions, decisions, and perseverance. Unlike purpose, which is more outward-focused and often tied to serving others or making an impact, your why is about your personal motivations. It’s the spark that pushes you forward even when things get tough.
My purpose is to help people live their best lives, and I now do that as a life and business coach. However, my why or motivation for starting Seven Stones was to prove to myself that I could start my own business. Throughout my career and life, my why has been proving I can do something. I wanted to be a CFO to prove I could do it. I learned how to climb a rock wall to prove I could do it (although I did not like it much). This internal drive to prove myself has shaped many of my choices. Often, it has fueled achievements and brought confidence and resilience.
When you identify your why, it becomes a source of strength and direction. Are you driven by a need for financial security, a desire for independence, a passion for creativity, or perhaps a longing for recognition? There is no right or wrong why, it’s simply yours.
Take a moment to reflect on your own why. What’s the real reason behind your goals? Are you pursuing a promotion to prove your capabilities, or is it to create a better life for your family? Are you starting a business for the thrill of entrepreneurship, or are you seeking more control over your time?
Asking yourself these questions can provide clarity and deepen your sense of fulfillment. And once you understand your why, your purpose often becomes clearer. Your why fuels your journey, while your purpose defines where you’re headed. Embracing both can lead to a more intentional and rewarding life.
So, what’s your why? If you want to explore this further, book a free session via my website.