The Why in the Road

Common directions:    "Go 3.5 miles and you will come a "Y" in the road."  This means you have a decision to make.

Directions at work:  you are communicating an initiative and you will come to a "Why" in the road.   You have a decision to make.

Do we just tell people "what" to do?  Or do we continue the journey and tell them "why" we want them to do what it is we are requesting?

I was reminded again today of the power of "why?"   Not only am I a strong proponent of asking the question "why?";   I'm also a strong proponent of answering the question (preferably before being asked to explain myself!).

It is obvious.  "Why" is the reason.  "Why" is the rationale.   This is the whole point of the undertaking.   Often though, in a rush, we get the basic task done of telling people "what" without telling them the "why."   That, then, is an incomplete conversation.  It's like building the framing of a house without a foundation.

Everyone (justifiably) wants to know "why."   It is power.   And if we provide that power, we are enabling people not only to feel complete and part of the team - we are enabling them to do so much more.    We are giving the complete picture that integrates team members and actions so that it all makes sense.   Once people understand the purpose and how everything works together - they can proceed with ownership, responsibility and with greater independence.

With every directive you will come to the "Why" in the road.    Take it.  You and your team will go a lot further.

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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available on Amazon Kindle.