Start with Why by Simon Sinek (A1 Level)

ULTIMATE READING

Teacher Ignacio Chávez

4/23/20252 min read

black smartphone near person
black smartphone near person

In his book Start with Why, Simon Sinek talks about how the most successful people and companies think. He says that great leaders and businesses don’t just focus on what they do, but on why they do it. Understanding why you do something gives you a purpose, and it inspires others to follow you.

The Golden Circle

Sinek uses something called the “Golden Circle” to explain his idea. It has three parts:

  1. Why – This is the reason you do something. It is your purpose or belief.

  2. How – This is the way you do things. It is your process.

  3. What – This is what you do. It is your product or service.

Most people and companies start with what. For example, a company may focus on making a product. But Sinek says that the most successful companies start with why. They know their purpose, and it helps them make better decisions and inspire others.

The Power of Why

According to Sinek, when you know why you do something, it is easier to stay motivated and keep going, even when life gets hard. People are more likely to follow leaders that have a clear purpose. When they understand why they do something, it builds trust and loyalty.

“People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.”

For example, Apple focuses on why. Its purpose is to think differently and challenge the usual way of doing things. It connects with people who believe the same. Apple is not just selling products; they are selling an idea and a way of thinking.

Leaders and Inspiration

Good leaders inspire others by starting with why. They know their purpose and share it with others. This makes people want to follow them. They don’t just tell people what to do; they show why it is important.

“Great leaders don’t tell you what to do. They show you why it’s important.”

When a leader starts with why, it motivates people to work together toward the same goal. They create a strong sense of purpose and make everyone feel part of something bigger.

The Importance of Purpose

Sinek’s message is simple but powerful: know your why. Whether you are a leader, a student, or a worker, starting with why can help you stay focused and inspired. When you have a clear purpose, it becomes easier to do great things and help others.

“The goal is not to be perfect by the end. The goal is to be better today.”

Main Ideas

  1. The best leaders start with why, not what.

  2. It is important to have a clear purpose.

  3. They inspire others through their actions and beliefs.

  4. The Golden Circle explains how great companies think.

  5. It all begins with understanding why you do what you do.

Conclusion
Start with Why teaches that success begins with purpose. When we know why we do something, it helps us stay motivated, creative, and connected. The idea is simple: if we start with why, we can inspire others and make the world better.