Empieza con el porqué

02'Understanding Sinek's Golden Circle Model'

Ever wondered why some leaders or organizations manage to inspire and motivate, while others struggle to even get noticed? The answer lies in a simple yet profound model proposed by Simon Sinek and Martín Rodríguez-Courel Ginzo in their book "Empieza con el porqué: Cómo los grandes líderes motivan a actuar". This model, known as the Golden Circle, flips the conventional approach to leadership and organizational strategy on its head. Typically, organizations start with 'What'. They clearly define what they do - the products they sell or the services they offer. Then they move on to 'How' - the processes, strategies, or unique selling propositions that set them apart from their competitors. Finally, if at all, they address 'Why' - the purpose, cause, or belief that inspires them to do what they do. However, this approach often fails to inspire or motivate, as it doesn't tap into the emotional drivers that influence behavior and decision-making. Enter the Golden Circle Model. Picture a bullseye target with three concentric circles. The outermost circle represents 'What', the middle circle represents 'How', and the innermost circle, the bullseye, represents 'Why'. The model suggests that inspiring leaders and organizations start from the inside out. They start with 'Why'. 'Why' is the core belief of the business. It's the reason the business exists beyond just making money. It's like the heart of the body, pumping blood (or in this case, purpose) to the rest of the organization. 'How' are the actions taken to realize the 'Why', the methods and processes used to bring the core belief to life. Think of it as the body's veins and arteries, carrying the blood from the heart to the rest of the body. 'What' are the tangible results of those actions - the products or services the organization sells. These are like the body's limbs, the visible parts that perform the actions directed by the heart through the veins and arteries. Consider the case of Apple, a company that epitomizes the Golden Circle Model. Apple's 'Why' is to challenge the status quo and think differently. Their 'How' is by making products that are beautifully designed, simple to use, and user-friendly. And their 'What' is the actual products they sell - computers, iPhones, iPads, and so on. By starting with 'Why', Apple inspires its customers and creates a loyal following. Starting with 'Why' taps into the limbic part of the brain, which is responsible for feelings, behavior, and decision-making. It's the part of the brain that makes us say, "I don't know why, but it just feels right." This is why we often feel a strong emotional connection to certain brands or leaders. They speak to our emotions, not just our rational minds, influencing our behavior and prompting us to act. So, the next time you're wondering why some leaders or organizations manage to inspire while others don't, remember the Golden Circle Model. Reflect on your own 'Why' and consider how you can apply this model in your own life or organization. After all, as Sinek and Ginzo remind us, "People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it."

Continue reading with LeapAhead app

Full summary is waiting for you in the app

Continue reading