What’s up, everyone! 👋🏻

Let’s get real for a minute. Why do you go to work every day?

I’m not talking about the answer you give that makes you hope you’ve satisfied whoever is asking it. I’m talking about the deep-down, gut-level reason.

Is it just for the paycheck? Free coffee? The work trips? Or is there something more that drives you?

Whatever it may be – your “why” is your North Star. It’s what fuels your fire and guides your actions. Think about it this way:

• Why do you want to succeed? Is it about status, money, or something more meaningful like building a legacy or providing for loved ones?
• What makes your team show up every day? It’s not just about the numbers. It’s about inspiration. Do they believe in the mission? Do they feel valued?

The Power of Reflection

Here’s the kicker: how often do you check in with yourself? Why are you really here? In the chaos of your daily work life, it’s easy to lose sight of this. So, let’s fix that.

Here are some actionable steps to start figuring out your “why”:

1. Reflection: Spend 10 minutes each week thinking about what motivates you. Was it a team win? A breakthrough? Teaching someone how to do their job better? Write it down.
2. Team Conversations: Open the floor for discussions about motivations. Ask your team about their “whys” and see how they connect to what you feel.
3. Visual Reminders: Post your “why” where you can see it every. Single. Day. Whether it’s a sticky note on your desk, a screensaver, or an office full of little things that keep you tethered to it — keep it front and center.

Be Teachable

Listen, you can’t teach someone who thinks they know it all. That mindset will hold you back. No matter your role, stay open to learning. Embrace feedback and adapt. It’s the only way you’ll really be able to grow.

Because the truth behind knowing what you value in your work and what keeps you there? Nothing great gets accomplished without a solid reason behind it. When you connect your daily tasks to your “why”, you’ll find more satisfaction in your work. And guess what? You’ll inspire those around you to do the same.

So this week, I challenge you: revisit your “why.” Share it with your team or people close to you. Or if you don’t know your “why” — do some of the work above so you can get closer to your values. Elevating our purpose will unlock levels of potential you didn’t even know you had.

Keep paddling!

– SL