Every Good What, Needs A Great Why

June 17 2015
By: Brian Scott & Rod Matheson

In life we spend a great deal of time focused on The What's of Life - what to strive for, what to do, say, be, achieve, have or create… this includes the when's, how's, who's, where's, etc. (all are variations of what's). These things are important because they instruct us and identify direction or procedures/steps for us to follow; they guide our actions so we may be successful, productive and effective… including Being Safe.

So, it's good to know the what's. They're important!

But with some things, especially those that are essential or vital, we also need a why... for example:

  • Why are we doing this?
  • Why is it important?
  • Why do it that or this way?
  • Why should I do it your way?
  • Why should I car
  • Why is it (or how is it) good for me and my self-interests (What's In It For Me)?

Those are fundamental questions, especially the last two. Yet we often fail to ask them… or answer them for others.

To do or be anything good or great, we must have more than a what; we must have a good or great why - a powerful compelling cause that moves us, focuses us or inspires us; a vital goal, purpose, motivation or driving force.

Every what in the workplace connects directly or indirectly to the most important and fundamental why for every employee: Self-Interest. One of the keys, then, to leading or influencing others is to help them to SEE…to see how important things vitally connect to them.

Human beings are more likely to act in certain ways if they can see that it is in their best interests to do so. They need to see the why of the what. The more clearly or directly it connects to them (and their own self-interests), the more likely they will be engaged and committed to it. The more clearly they see it and buy into it, the more likely they will care deeply about it, seeing it as theirs too not just yours; like you, they too will now "own" it with you.

If you want your people to "work for you", then help them to see that they are not just "working for you"; they are, far more importantly, "working for themselves".

Every Good What, Needs A Great Why.

What's Yours?

Case Study: http://www.coreculture.ca/pdf/Walker%20Industries_Case%20Study_v4-1.pdf

Brian Scott – President, CoreCulture, Inc.

As an industry leader in employee communication, Brian has helped businesses develop, deploy and embrace turnkey safety communication programs and culture. His 25-plus years of experience has made him an asset to organizations looking to change the way their associates think, behave and act in regards to safety issues. Leveraging existing culture and employee touch points, Brian employs a highly-effective motivational approach that has been the foundation for creating the culture shift and above standard safety records his clients seek.

Rod Matheson - Training & Facilitation Leader, CoreCulture, Inc.

Rod has a rich and comprehensive range of skills, knowledge and wisdom acquired from his work in diverse organizations, communities and cultures within Canada and abroad where he's been recognized for his strong leadership and teamwork skills, and for the creation of unique and innovative working and learning environments that promote the development of individuals, teams and organizations. As an educator, coach, facilitator, author and speaker, Rod's areas of expertise includes the fields of leadership and leadership development; adult education and the facilitation of learning; personal, interpersonal and organizational development, including the areas of Culture, Change, Character and Character Building, Communication, Critical Thinking, Motivation, Safety, Team Work and Team Building, Wisdom and Wisdom Creation.





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