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.
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.
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