Resources

Why start with Why?

business mission purpose why May 01, 2025

Finding your 'why' is a powerful tool that can guide your business decisions, build stronger relationships, and inspire those around you.

By discovering what your ‘why’ is and embracing your purpose, you can create a successful business that also makes a meaningful impact.

Here is a simple structure for self exploration and some useful examples of how others have integrated their ‘why’ into their own work.

If you spend a little time on this, your business, your clients, and you will be all the better for it. 100%.

 

What is Your 'Why'?


Your 'why' is your purpose, your cause, or your belief that drives everything you do. It's the reason you get up in the morning and the reason your customers should care.

When you start with your 'why,' you build a business that attracts loyal customers who believe in what you believe.

 

Why Finding Your 'Why' Matters


For women entrepreneurs, having a clear 'why' sets you apart in a crowded marketplace. It gives your business a sense of direction and helps you make decisions no matter how challenging the journey it becomes, you'll always have that guiding star to keep you motivated.

When you communicate your 'why' effectively, it draws in clients who share your values and creates stronger, more meaningful connections. It becomes emotional. And that is very powerful.

 

How to Think About Your Why


In his book "Start With Why”, Simon Sinek explores how great leaders and organisations inspire action by starting with a clear sense of ‘why' which is their purpose, mission or belief. He introduces the Golden Circle, which includes three layers:

  1. Why (the core belief)
  2. How (the process)
  3. What (the result)

He famously said, "People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it." This concept is essential if you want to create a business that is successful but also resonates deeply with your audience and customers/ clients.

One famous example is Apple. Steve Jobs and his team focused on why they existed: to challenge the status quo and think differently. This core belief inspired their innovative products and built a loyal customer base who believed in their vision, not just their products.

Another example is a freelance graphic designer whose 'why' is to empower small businesses with beautiful branding that tells their unique stories. Her clients are drawn to her not just for her skills, but for her belief in the power of authentic, heartfelt design.

And a local bakery run by a passionate baker whose 'why' is to bring joy through healthy, delicious treats. Her commitment to quality ingredients and community wellbeing sets her apart and attracts customers who value the same things.

 

Practical Steps to Discover Your 'Why'


❤️  Reflect on Your Passion
: Think about what truly excites you. What problems do you feel passionate about solving? Your 'why' often lies at the intersection of what you love and what the world needs. Even think about what made you cry or as a child. This can be a powerful route to what’s important to you.

💪  Identify Your Strengths: Consider what you're naturally good at. Your unique talents and skills can help define how you bring your 'why' to life.

📣  Ask for Feedback: Sometimes, others can see what you might overlook. Ask trusted friends, family, or clients what they perceive as the core reason behind what you do. Their insights can help you clarify your purpose.

📝  Craft Your Story: Once you've identified your 'why,' weave it into your brand story. Share it on your website, social media, and in conversations. Let people know what drives you.

 


Good luck!


I love these kinds of self exploration exercises.
The more YOU you can inject into your business, the more it aligned it will feel, the more authentic you will come across, and the more enjoyment you’ll get out of running it 🙌