WHY YOUR ‘WHY’ SHOULD PRECEDE YOUR WHAT:

Understanding the power of leading with a compelling vision

Leadership is not just about getting people to do things; it’s about inspiring them to want. The best leaders, those who build legacies, don't just appeal to logic – they connect to the heart. They don't just share what they do; share why they do it. A heart connection is much more powerful than a head connection. In all areas of life – from marriage to parenting, to friendships, to business and leadership – love, not logic, is what truly unites us.

Think about it. When was the last time you felt deeply moved by a PowerPoint presentation? Compare that to how a heartfelt story or meaningful conversation stayed with you for days, weeks, or even years. That’s the power of leading with a compelling vision – your “why.”

The power of why in life

Marriage is not just about sharing a house or dividing tasks. The strength of a partnership lies in the shared vision of your life together. It's about why they choose each other and why they stay. Couples who lose sight of the “why” often end up simply existing side by side rather than thriving as a team.

When raising children, children are much more influenced by who we are and what we value than by the rules we establish. Parents’ “why” shapes the environment they create. Are you raising your children to be kind and brave because you believe the world needs more qualities? That's why. And that stays with your kids long after the rules are gone.

Friendships are not about scoring points or exchanges based on logic. True friends are bound by shared values and mutual care – a “why” that often remains unspoken but deeply felt.

In business, leaders who focus on the “what” – sales, KPIs and productivity – can drive results, but this is rarely sustainable. Those who start with the “why” and connect with their teams and customers on a deeper level build loyalty that stands the test of time. Just think about companies like Apple. They don't just sell products; sell a belief in innovation and challenging the status quo. Their “why” is what sets them apart.

Love above logic

Let's be real: the logic is sound. It is measurable, predictable and easy to explain. But love – love is messy, unpredictable and powerful. It's the strength that drives parents to sacrifice without hesitation, friends to stick around in difficult times, and employees to go the extra mile.

Logic may inform decisions, but love transforms them. That’s why people will follow a leader with a compelling “why,” even when the path is uncertain. They’re not buying into the plan – they’re buying into it.

Three Non-Traditional Steps to Leading with Love

Share your imperfections

People don't connect with perfection; they connect authentically. Share your struggles, your failures, and the lessons you learned. Vulnerability breeds trust, whether with your team, your children or your partner. When people realize that their “why” comes from an experience, they will rally around it.

Set aside time for meaningful moments

Love is not built in boardrooms or to-do lists; it’s built on moments of connection. Leaders who take the time to listen, celebrate small victories, and genuinely care about others create lasting bonds. This might mean talking to an employee to ask about their business goals. At home, it might mean putting away your devices for an uninterrupted dinner.

Align actions with purpose

Your “why” loses power if your “what” doesn’t match. Are your daily actions reflecting your vision? If your “why” is to stimulate creativity, but you micromanage your team, there is a disconnect. If your “why” is to take care of your family, but work always comes first, your actions say something different. Consistency between your purpose and your practice is non-negotiable.

The conclusion

People are moved by what they feel, not by what they understand. Love, passion and belief are magnetic qualities that logic cannot replicate. When you lead with your “why,” you harness that strength, creating lasting connections and inspiring others to join you.

Whether you’re building a family, a friendship, or a Fortune 500 company, start with your “why.” It's not just the first step to success; it is the only way to truly lead.