Simon Sinek: 'All the great organizations in the world, all have a sense of why that organization does what it does.'

All the great organizations in the world, all have a sense of why that organization does what it does.

The quote by Simon Sinek, "All the great organizations in the world, all have a sense of why that organization does what it does," encapsulates a fundamental truth that is often overlooked in the world of business. At its core, this quote emphasizes the significance of purpose and meaning in the success of an organization. Sinek suggests that organizations that truly understand and embrace their "why" possess a unique advantage that sets them apart from the rest.To summarize the quote, it essentially conveys that successful organizations do not merely focus on the "what" or the "how" of their operations, but rather, they prioritize understanding their underlying purpose, their "why." This purpose forms the basis for their actions, decisions, and overall direction. It provides a sense of clarity, passion, and conviction that fuels their progress and differentiates them from their competitors.However, let's delve into a philosophical concept that sheds light on the deeper meaning of Sinek's quote. Existentialism, a philosophical movement rooted in individual freedom and personal responsibility, offers an unexpected lens through which we can further explore the importance of an organization's "why."Existentialists believe that human existence precedes essence, asserting that individuals have the power to define their own purpose and meaning in life. Similarly, great organizations have the agency to determine their unique "why"—a purpose that aligns with their values, vision, and ambition. Embracing existentialist principles, organizations can break free from conforming to predefined norms and forge their own path, resonating with both employees and customers alike.Drawing a parallel between existentialism and organizational success, we find that organizations that truly understand their purpose have the ability to engage and inspire their stakeholders. By aligning their "why" with the values and aspirations of their employees and customers, these organizations create a sense of existential connection - a shared purpose that motivates individuals to go above and beyond their responsibilities.Moreover, just as existentialists emphasize personal responsibility, organizations that possess a strong sense of "why" foster an environment where every individual takes ownership of their role and impact. This shared sense of purpose drives collaboration, innovation, and accountability throughout the organization, propelling it towards greatness.Crucially, it is essential to address the crucial distinction between merely having a sense of purpose and genuinely embodying it. Many organizations may claim to understand their "why," but only a few are truly able to live it authentically. This contrast becomes evident in the level of emotional resonance an organization's purpose evokes, both internally and externally.Organizations that embody their purpose foster deep emotional connections with their employees, engendering loyalty, commitment, and a sense of belonging. Employees are not simply engaged in their work, but rather, they are fueled by a shared mission that inspires them to surpass expectations and make a meaningful impact.In addition to cultivating passionate employees, organizations that genuinely embrace their "why" also attract loyal customers. When customers see an organization that not only provides quality products or services but also demonstrates a clear sense of purpose, they are drawn in by the inherent authenticity. They feel connected to the organization's values and narrative, fostering long-term loyalty and advocacy.To conclude, Simon Sinek's quote on the importance of an organization's "why" resonates strongly with the existentialist belief that purpose and meaning are fundamental in both individual and organizational success. By understanding and embodying their purpose, organizations can unlock a powerful force that fuels passion, inspires collaboration, and generates a genuine emotional connection with both employees and customers.Just as existentialism highlights the importance of personal responsibility, organizations must recognize that the onus is on them to define and live their purpose. In doing so, they can transcend mediocrity, stand apart from the crowd, and ultimately become one of the great organizations in the world.