Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

Questions About Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

by Simon Sinek (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (16)

A lot of people say the ideas of the book are great, but it's got too much fluff. Are there certain chapters that should be read and some that should be skipped, or are the ideas scattered throughout?
Dustin Certainly - although you'll miss some great flavor! I personally found this to be a pretty quick read. To shorten it up, you could focus on the first …moreCertainly - although you'll miss some great flavor! I personally found this to be a pretty quick read. To shorten it up, you could focus on the first 100 pages and skim the rest - although be sure to read the bit about his "celery test" in chapters 9 and 10. Also the afterward is a good description of what leadership is. Honestly, Simon's talks are better than his books - watch some first, get a feel for how he thinks; if you enjoy those, you'll enjoy the book. (less)
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Dear concerns, how would I start reading this book? Please show me the steps to start reading.
David Simple and powerful concept. Due to repetitive point of view, I recommend to listen audiobook while driving or watch ted talk with some interview, ins…moreSimple and powerful concept. Due to repetitive point of view, I recommend to listen audiobook while driving or watch ted talk with some interview, instead of reading book. (less)
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Did anyone else feel like this book was sponsored by Apple? Other companies and leaders are mentioned but it seems like Apple was highlighted throughout the entire beginning then keeps coming up every few pages.
Julie Yes, and it seemed quite ironic because I think most people today would say that Apple's image has changed over recent years. Sinek says "We associate…moreYes, and it seemed quite ironic because I think most people today would say that Apple's image has changed over recent years. Sinek says "We associate Apple with authenticity and challenging the status quo".

That may have been true in 2009 when the book was written, but now I think people associate Apple with "massively overpriced", "not allowing customers to repair their own devices" and "accused of deliberately slowing down older models so customers have to buy newer ones."

It's like reading a book from 2004 that talks about how inspirational Lance Armstrong is.

On the positive side, if Sinek ever releases a new edition of 'Start With Why', he could make an excellent new chapter with a case study of why Apple is no longer the company it once was.(less)
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what is the neoclassical approach?
Jane In economics, the neoclassical approach is the concept that the entire structure of economics (production, pricing, and consumption) is driven by the …moreIn economics, the neoclassical approach is the concept that the entire structure of economics (production, pricing, and consumption) is driven by the supply-and-demand cycle. Sinek uses this concept to drive his Golden Circle idea, which encourages entrepreneurs to come up with a "why" (a reason behind their supply-and-demand process) before they identify their "what" (goal) and "how" (process). Sinek is basically positing that companies will always thrive economically when they have a clear "why" vision.(less)
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What are the main points in the book?
Konstancja "Start with Why" is a book that explores the concept of purpose-driven leadership and communication. The main points of the book include:

The most succ…more"Start with Why" is a book that explores the concept of purpose-driven leadership and communication. The main points of the book include:

The most successful leaders and organizations are those that start with "why" - that is, they begin by communicating their purpose or belief, rather than simply listing their products or services.

People are more likely to be inspired and motivated by a clear sense of purpose, and that leaders who are able to articulate their "why" are more likely to build trust and foster a sense of belonging within their organizations.

Organizations that are able to consistently communicate their purpose are better able to attract and retain customers, employees, and other stakeholders.

The "Golden Circle" framework can be used to understand and communicate the "why" of an organization: why an organization exists, how it does what it does, and what it does.

To inspire others, leaders should communicate from the inside out, starting with their own personal "why" and working outward to the "what" and "how" of their organization.

Trust is built when people understand the "why" behind an organization's actions and decisions.

A clear sense of purpose can help organizations navigate change and adversity, and it can also help them to innovate and stay relevant in the long term.

It's worth noting that Simon Sinek's book "Start with Why" is based on his own observations and interpretations of successful organizations and leaders, and as such, the examples and case studies presented in the book should be understood as illustrative rather than definitive.(less)
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