Start with 'Why': The Power of Purpose in College Life

The 'why' behind your actions is the driving force that propels you forward. It's the answer to the question: 'What gets you out of bed in the morning?' Leaders we admire often have a strong 'why' that inspires them and mobilizes others. In the world of business, the 'why' is crucial for motivating customers and employees. There are two ways to achieve this: manipulation or inspiration.

Manipulation uses external factors like promotions or peer pressure, but it only provides temporary gains. Inspiration, on the other hand, motivates from within. People inspired by a company's 'why' become loyal customers, recommend services, and even forgive mistakes.

So how do you start with a 'why'? The Golden Circle, a visual representation of an organization's structure, emphasizes the importance of starting with the 'why'. It's a bullseye target with three rings: the 'why', the 'how', and the 'what'.

For example, Apple's 'why' is 'We think differently.' Their 'how' is 'We make easy-to-use, elegant, and well-designed products.' And their 'what' is 'We make computers.'

In your college life, what's your 'why'?

My 'why' in college is personal growth and development. It's about discovering myself, expanding my horizons, and developing valuable skills. This 'why' gives me a clear focus and direction, motivating me to step out of my comfort zone and seek new opportunities.

Does the Golden Circle work in college?

I believe it can be helpful, as it emphasizes the importance of having a strong 'why' as a foundation for decision-making. By starting with personal growth, I can align my choices – courses, extracurricular activities, relationships – with my overarching goal. This helps me prioritize and make conscious decisions that contribute to my development.

However, college life is multifaceted, involving academics, social life, career preparation, and personal well-being. The Golden Circle might not be effective if it focuses solely on one aspect. It's essential to consider the 'how' and the 'what' to achieve a holistic approach to education and personal growth.