Start with Why: How This Book Changed My Perspective on Marketing

Last year, I participated in an entrepreneurship program, and during one of the activities, I won the book Start with Why. Since I was busy at the time, I put the book on my shelf to read later. Two weeks later, we did another activity, and after spinning a wheel, it landed on the same book again. When that happened, I thought, “Okay, I really need to read this book.”

In Start with Why, Simon Sinek introduces the concept of the “Golden Circle.” He explains how some businesses focus solely on what they do, while others succeed by communicating why they do it. Before reading the book, most of what I had learned about marketing was centred around showcasing a product—highlighting its benefits and how it fulfills a customer’s needs.

However, after reading Sinek’s examples, I realized that companies that have a clear purpose and communicate it authentically to their audience and potential customers are more likely to achieve long-term success. This shift in perspective made me realize that marketing isn’t just about selling; it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level and showing them why your brand exists.

In one of the chapters, the author discusses the clarity of WHY, the discipline of HOW, and the consistency of WHAT. The part that resonated with me the most was his explanation of authenticity, where he says, “It means that everything you say and everything you do you actually believe” (Sinek, p. 68).

Before reading this, I’d often hear my marketing professors in school and various experts online saying things like, “You need to be authentic,” or, “Authenticity is the key to success.” But it always felt vague—like a buzzword without much depth.

After reading the book, it finally clicked for me. When your brand has a clear WHY, it becomes so much easier to know what actions to take and to stay authentic to who you are and what your brand represents. Authenticity isn’t just about being relatable or transparent—it’s about aligning your actions and message with what you truly believe.

Bringing this idea into the context of creating content online, it’s essential to start by clearly defining WHY you do what you do. Why did you start your business? Why do you want people to know about it? Sharing your story and talking about these reasons with your audience can create a deeper connection. People connect with people, and when you focus on sharing why you do what you do, they’re more likely to connect with your purpose rather than just what you’re selling.

When planning your content calendar, balance content that highlights your WHY, WHAT, and HOW. This mix keeps your content engaging and ensures your audience sees the full picture of your brand’s purpose and value.

Feeling inspired? Share this post with someone who would love to know more about this book! Hope you have a great day,

Thalia Vianna @thalia_digitalmkt