Working on my “Why”

In business, and in life, you’re often encouraged to consider your “Why”. This is the concept of having a purpose, belief or cause that is a driving force in what you do and how you do it. Simon Sinek describes the concept in this TED talk.

Like many simple ideas I found it easy to understand but much harder to define an answer for myself.

Over the years I’ve realised I get a sense of personal satisfaction and purpose from contributing to my local community and that I value community building. I’ve already talked about the benefits of this in a previous post.

 

Last year my local community garden group created a  community garden fundraiser and I contributed my design skills – on the understanding I would not need to be involved in the selling!

The project included photos, content and artwork from other collaborators (indio Anne) and support from our local Palmers Garden Centre and The Print Room.

 

It was a successful fundraiser and I enjoyed a creative project, the chance to play around with collage and experiment with making a promotional video in Canva.

 

But, what does a sense of community look like in the way I do business?
A lot of what I do professionally is about connecting and building relationships. Things like:

• Working with organisations and businesses that want to build and connect with communities and make a positive difference.
• Contributing to many clients teams, often over years.
• Collaborating with other complementary businesses (and co-authoring a book).
• Supporting business groups such Chrysalis for Women (sharing my knowledge through presentations and as an Advisory Board Member).
• Attending workshops and presentations such as the Creative HQ series.
• Donating my time and skills to initiatives that resonate with me.

I’d love to hear what motivates you.