8 Steps To Implement ‘Why’ Into Leadership

Written by Jeffrey Sesol, Business, Executive and Leadership Coach

Jeff Sesol has been entrepreneurial for over 30 years. Over that time, he has built and sold several companies, but more importantly he has helped many companies grow to the next level as a Business Coach, Executive Coach and Leadership Coach.

The journey of leadership is more than a series of actions and decisions; it's a voyage guided by the powerful beacon of 'why.' Understanding and effectively communicating your 'why' is not merely a leadership tactic; it is the essence of building a successful, purpose-driven team or organization. This 'why' is the emotional and motivational core that connects you with your team, aligning your collective efforts with a deeper, more meaningful purpose. In the realm of leadership, the 'why' transcends being a mere component of strategy; it is the very soul of your organizational identity. It infuses your strategies with depth and resonance, making them not only effective but also impactful. As a leader, embracing your 'why' involves delving beyond superficial tactics to uncover the profound purpose that propels your organization forward.

As you continue on your leadership path, I urge you to embrace a moment of introspection. Reflect deeply on your 'why.' What is the core belief or value that drives you? What is the deeper purpose behind your leadership? This reflection is not a one-time exercise but an ongoing journey of discovery and clarity. Once you have grasped your 'why,' the next step is to communicate it – clearly, passionately, and consistently. Let this 'why' be the narrative that guides your decisions and actions. It should be the story that you tell every day, through every decision you make, every strategy you implement, and every interaction you have with your team and stakeholders. Remember, the true power of leadership lies not in the mechanics of 'what' you do or 'how' you do it but in the purposeful clarity of 'why' you do it. People are inspired not by the mere actions of a leader but by the compelling reasons behind those actions. They connect with the 'why,' the purpose that gives meaning to your actions.

Let the 'why' be your compass in the vast ocean of leadership. It is the guiding light that illuminates your path and that of your team, leading you all toward new horizons of success and fulfillment.

As you chart your course, keep asking the most powerful question a leader can ask: "Why do we do what we do?" The answer to this question is the key to unlocking inspirational leadership, the kind that leaves a lasting impact and drives true success.

So, as you step forward, remember: the 'why' is not just an element of your leadership; it is the heart of it. It's what gives life and meaning to your strategies, transforming them from mere plans into powerful missions. Embrace your 'why,' share it with the world, and watch as it becomes the driving force behind your leadership legacy. Let it guide you to create not just a successful business, but a meaningful movement that resonates with people and inspires them to join you on your journey. Your 'why' is your story, your beacon, and your legacy, cherish it, nurture it, and let it shine.

Here are 8 steps to help you implement the 'Why' in your leadership

1. Define your 'Why'

• Reflect and write: Take time for introspection. What drives you? What are your core values and beliefs? Write these down.

• Seek feedback: Sometimes, others can see aspects of our 'why' that we might overlook. Ask trusted colleagues or mentors for their insights.

2. Communicate Your 'Why' Effectively

• Storytelling: Use personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate your 'why.' This makes it relatable and memorable.

• Consistent Messaging: Ensure that your 'why' is evident in all your communications, from emails to team meetings.

3. Align actions with your 'Why'

• Decision-making: Before making decisions, ask yourself if they align with your 'why.' This ensures consistency and integrity.

• Policy and practice: Review your organization’s policies and practices. Do they reflect your 'why'? If not, consider what changes could be made.

4. Foster a culture around the 'Why'

• Team involvement: Involve your team in discussions about your 'why.' Encourage them to explore and share their own.

• Recognition: Acknowledge and celebrate when team members take actions that align with the 'why.'

5. Lead by example

• Model the 'Why': Demonstrate your 'why' through your actions. Be the embodiment of the values and purpose you advocate.

• Transparency: Be open about how your 'why' influences your leadership decisions. This builds trust and authenticity.

6. Adapt and evolve your 'Why'

• Stay open to growth: Recognize that your 'why' might evolve as you grow personally and professionally.

• Regular reviews: Periodically revisit your 'why' to ensure it still aligns with your current situation and future goals.

7. Measure impact

• Set metrics: Establish metrics to measure how well your 'why' is being integrated and its impact on the organization.

• Feedback loops: Create channels for feedback from your team and stakeholders to gauge the effectiveness of your 'why' in practice.

8. Educate and train

• Workshops and seminars: Conduct workshops to educate your team about the importance of the 'why.'

• Mentoring: Mentor team members to help them understand and integrate the 'why' into their roles.

By implementing these practical steps, you can ensure that your 'why' is not just a concept but a living, breathing part of your leadership and organizational culture.

Leadership is a journey of continual learning. Helping you and your people figure our your why and then communicating your why clearly from your heart will create an incredible culture that will transcend well beyond your wildest visions.

We can help! Pull the Chute Leadership Training provides ongoing coaching to help your current and next group of leaders grow and develop into True Leaders. Help them figure out their WHY. Set up an appointment, and let us help take your company to new heights – Grow your People, Grow your Company.

Email us at info@pullthechute.net or call us at 615-572-9500.

Read more from Jeffrey Sesol

Jeffrey Sesol, Business, Executive and Leadership Coach

Jeff Sesol has been entrepreneurial for over 30 years. Over that time, he has built and sold several companies, but more importantly he has helped many companies grow to the next level as a Business Coach, Executive Coach and Leadership Coach. Jeff leverages the experiences and lessons learned over the years as he grew his own companies to develop the ‘Grow your People, Grow your Company’ methodology that empowers your people while creating a culture that is supportive and appreciative.