I really enjoyed reading this book. I’m pretty familiar with the whole “Start with Why” concept from the time I watched Sinek’s TED talk many years ago. The talk itself covered a decent chunk of what the book goes through.
The book itself is well written and has lots of examples of companies that start with “Why” and how it has made them successful. Sinek does keep using the same examples over and over which can get tiresome to read; to be fair he does mention it early on.
There are some beautiful thought provoking quotes which really stuck with me that I can’t help but share. The whole book is filled little gems like these; even if you don’t agree with them they’ll get you to stop and think.
To lead requires those who are willingly follow. It requires those who believe in something bigger than a single issue. To inspire starts with the clarity of WHY.
Chapter 2: An Alternative Perspective
And a little something to remember heading into 2020.
Achievement is something you reach or attain, like a goal. It is something tangible, clearly defined and measurable. Success, in contrast, is a feeling or a state of being.
Chapter 5: The Biggest Challenge is Success
What you’re really after:
- It’s a book for people who want to inspire and rally people
- It’s not just for people in leadership positions
- I can see myself referring back to this book throughout my career, so I treat it as an investment
- The TED Talk isn’t a replacement for this book
- It’s a fairly easy to read
Would I recommend it to my past self?
Yes
Rating:
3.5/5
Get your copy on paperback or Kindle:
Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone To Take Action
