Book Review - "Start with Why" by Simon Sinek. How great leaders inspire everyone to take action.

Before we get started, this book is a must for entrepreneur's and people in a leadership position. Managers and supervisors will understand the connection between the concept of "Vision, Mission & Values" and why these concepts are so important in todays workforce.

A fascinating read that challenges the thinking of how corporations and companies go about their business and "why" is is so important to know "why"..

A clear sense of purpose and vision, according to Simon Sinek in "Start with Why," is necessary for effective leadership. People "don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it," according to Simon Sinek. Sinek (2009), p 28 This means that the organization's vision informs stakeholders of the motivations behind the production of goods or services as well as how it indirectly benefits or improves the lives of consumers.

According to Sinek, great visionary leaders include Steve Jobs of Apple, Martin Luther King Jr., and the Wright Brothers. Jobs, for example, was driven by a desire to challenge the status quo and bring about innovation through technology. He famously said, "Here's to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can't do is ignore them. Because they change things." (Jobs, 1997) The apple example also leads the reader to see how apple Mac, became apple, they didn't just make computers anymore, apple was an innovation company.

On the other hand, Sinek points to leaders who lack vision as poor examples. For instance, he explained and critiques leaders who are only focused on short-term finite gains and those who prioritise, a win at all costs characteristic over a shared vision or purpose. These leaders may make decisions based on what is best for their own personal interests, including bonuses they receive or what ranking number they may have in the industry, rather than considering the greater good or the impact on their stakeholders including employees, customers, society and the environment.

Having a clear sense of purpose and vision is crucial for organisations and successful leadership. This also applies to managers and supervisors or anyone who holds a position of influence, they must understand the leadership and organisation vision and why. Leaders who are driven by their "why" are able to inspire and motivate their followers, and create a sense of shared mission that flow all the way through to all stakeholders, bringing alignment and and a much better chance of success over the long haul.

As Sinek says, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge." (Sinek, 2009, p. 81) This global best seller is 225 pages long and very easy to read due to the connection from start to finish, with examples of great leaders all throughout the book.

Watch Simons Sineks inspirational Ted Talk here

References:

Sinek, S. (2009). Start with why: How great leaders inspire everyone to take action. Penguin.

Jobs, S. (1997). Apple Worldwide Developers' Conference.

Book rating by Redley Stewart Business Review (RSBR)

5 out of 5 stars !