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Simon Sinek's (2011) Start with Why is a much sought-after leadership and business book which has sold more than one million copies. Its wide popularity, having generated one of the most well received TED talks of all time (TED, n.d.), has been fascinating to observe. As a Leadership Development Specialist in the corporate sphere and as an Educational Leadership Scholar, I have a keen interest in Sinek's work. Therefore, this manuscript serves as a review of Sinek 's Start with Why. I begin by summarizing his book before critiquing it through both scholarly and practitioner lenses.
Keywords: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Business, Simon Sinek, Start with Why, Motivation, Culture, Equity, Employee Engagement
INTRODUCTION
Start with Why by Sinek (2011) is framed around the central idea that leadership that inspires others should start with WHY. Sinek posits "Great leaders.. .are able to inspire people to act. Those who are able to inspire give people a sense of purpose or belonging that has little to do with any external incentive or benefit to be gained" (p. 6). It is this sense of purpose that Sinek identifies as WHY.
SUMMARY AND MAIN ARGUMENTS
Part 1: A World That Doesn't Start with Why
Assume You Know (chapter 1): Sinek challenges us to recognize that many of our assumptions guide our thinking. He highlights "...our behaviour is affected by our assumptions or our perceived truths" (p. 11). Interestingly, Sinek challenges us to go with our gut.to embrace what cannot be seen. He states ".great leaders understand the value in the things we cannot see" (p. 11).
Carrots and Sticks (chapter 2): Sinek draws a distinction between manipulation and inspiration. He states that organizations that use manipulative strategies may achieve success but will likely not achieve long-term loyalty from their customers. He explains that manipulations include selling an idea based on price, promotions, fear, aspirations, peer pressure, and novelty.
Part 2: An Alternative Perspective
The Golden Circle (chapter 3): This chapter begins with Sinek explaining "There are few leaders who choose to inspire rather than manipulate in order to motivate people" (p. 37). He explains that at the core of the Golden Circle is WHY, followed by HOW, and then followed by WHAT. Sinek reiterates that people do not buy WHAT...