#790 Thelma

I recently facilitated a retreat where part of the day involved watching Simon Sinek's TED Talk about starting with why*.  I also shared the map of Indiana and made the point that if you know the why or the goal (i.e.: the metaphorical "Indianapolis"), you can get there by going north, south, east or west.**

Someone asked the question:  "It all seems so obvious.  Start with defining the goal then go there.  Why don't more people do it?"

I had two answers.  First: because it is hard.  It may sound easy to know why you want to do something, but it really does take some reflection and digging.  

But my second answer probably stops more people:  it requires collaboration.  Trying to define a common "why" requires time on task, and you can't do it independently.  More often than not, people go off and do their own thing (set their own goals) vs. spending the time to work with others and come to a common understanding.  

It may be easier just to jump in the car and start driving, but the journey will be more rewarding if you take time to coordinate with your travel partner.  Thelma needed Louise and you need someone too.  No one has an awesome road trip driving alone.  

-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com

@leadershipdots
leadershipdots@gmail.com

* See Blog #598, January 20, 2014
** See Blog #29, June 30, 2012