Strategy

Nine Whys

Uncover your work's core purpose by repeatedly asking, "Why is this important?" This exercise reveals fundamental motivations. It connects daily tasks to your core values. It's simple, but powerful.

Duration
20 mins
Group Size
4-40
Category
Strategy
Difficulty
Easy

  • Uncover the deep purpose behind your work.

  • Connect daily activities to fundamental values.

  • Build intrinsic motivation within the team.

  • Create compelling purpose statements.


  • Completed Nine Whys exercise.

  • Explored deep purpose.

  • Identified meaningful direction.

Pairs work best. Solo work can feel forced. Large groups are too slow. Pairs create safety and accountability.

In rounds 1-3, answers are usually practical. Rounds 4-6 often reveal values and beliefs. Rounds 7-9 can uncover core human needs. It’s fascinating to observe.

The interviewer should ask, "Why is THAT important?" (not "Why do you think that?"). Don't judge or debate answers. Encourage deeper exploration. Pauses are okay.

Early answers come easily. The middle rounds can be harder. The deeper rounds often feel profound. Many people find their purpose around the 5th or 6th 'why'.

If people get stuck, ask: "What would be lost if this didn't happen?" or "Why does this matter to YOU?" It's okay if they don't reach nine 'whys'. Sometimes they just hit a wall.

Success is when participants connect their daily work to a deeper purpose. Expect 'aha' moments.

  1. Setup (2 minutes): Pair participants and explain the process. Share the 'Nine Whys' pattern.

  2. The Nine Whys Pattern: Start with: "What is the work you do?" Then, ask nine times: "Why is that important?" Each answer forms the basis for the next "Why?"

  3. Example Flow:

Work: "I design software interfaces."
 Why? "So people can use the software easily."
Why? "So they can get their work done faster."
 Why? "So they have more time for what matters."
Why? "So they can be with their families."
 Why? "Because relationships are what make life meaningful."
Why? "Because connection is fundamental to being human."
 Why? "Because we need each other to thrive."

  • Why? "Because isolation diminishes us all."


  1. Paired Work (12 minutes): Partner A interviews Partner B (6 min). Then switch; Partner B interviews Partner A (6 min). The interviewer asks "why" nine times. The answerer should go deeper each time.

  2. Share Discoveries (6 minutes): Volunteers share their journey. Discuss surprises and emerging purpose statements.

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

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  • Nine Whys worksheet (optional)

  • Pens

  • Timer

Unlock Materials Required

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  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

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