2023 was a year of diverse experiences and lessons for many. For me, it was a period of profound learning.

Entering 2024, the key takeaway from last year is the significance of beginning with the question “WHY?”

In late 2023, a friend presented me with Simon Sinek’s book “START WITH WHY,” which included a remarkable story that I’m sharing in this article.

The story goes: A team of American car executives visited a Japanese assembly line. At the end of the line, doors were attached to hinges, just as in America. However, a notable difference stood out. In the U.S., a worker would use a rubber mallet to adjust the door for a perfect fit. This step was absent in Japan. Perplexed, the American executives inquired about the door-fitting process. The Japanese guide replied with a modest smile, “We ensure it fits right from the design stage.”

 

Reflecting on this, I realise my approach, much like the American executives, has been overly reliant on data and problem-solving at the moment of occurrence. This mindset steered my plans in 2023. Like many readers, my resolutions were vague and more wishful thinking than concrete goals, often lacking divine guidance from the outset. Sometimes, God was sought only after things deteriorated, reminiscent of the Americans’ approach to the final product. Though occasionally successful, this approach led to failure and doubts about God’s love.

At the start of each year, we all have our aspirations and visions. Those who succeed in the short and long term integrate God or a higher purpose right from inception. They don’t wait for plans to falter before seeking divine guidance.

For some, it’s not about including God but about considering all elements to achieve specific outcomes. Note that even well-laid plans can go awry without a touch of divine intervention or, for some, a bit of luck.

But something deeper needs to be done from the beginning, which is an examination of our drive. Success often comes to those with a well-devised plan and who consistently ask “WHY?”.

Reflecting on last year, I regret not asking “WHY” more frequently. This question isn’t just about re-evaluating decisions or gaining deeper insights; it’s about guiding every step.

Consider your New Year’s resolutions and decisions:

• Why did you set these goals?
• Why include a financial target?
• Why move overseas?
• Why start a business or seek a promotion?
• Why end or begin a relationship?
• Why take up a new course?

Understanding your “WHY” uniquely reflects your identity, current state, ambitions, and motivations.

This year, let’s prioritise starting with “WHY”!