“People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.

Simon Sinek

One of my favorite message rocks is ‘Inspire’, seen above in the midst of
a few other stones. This is from a picture I took in late February. This gives you an idea of how the garden looks. It changes as people leave or take rocks—there were several new ones today. It is like an ongoing conversation of hope and inspiration.

The reason I like the ‘inspire’ stone is that I appreciate the inspiration
that I have received from singers, writers, and speakers. And in my speaking, I always try to inspire my listeners. I recently read a book called Find Your Why by Simon Sinek. He starts with “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.” He explains organizations finding their ‘why’ to improve their business. But he also covers individuals finding their way. The ‘why’ is the purpose for which you do what you do. It gives passion to everything you do.

I have a work-in-progress version for me. I began my Toastmasters career by citing the 3-E’s that I saw as defining me: Exploration, Experimentation, and Expression. And I have realized that stories are a big part of my speeches. So, I see my ‘why’ this way—I seek to inspire others to explore, experiment, and express their stories so that together we can change the world.

So, what inspires you? What would you say is your ‘why?’ And what message would you want to write on a stone to place in this garden? Stay tuned for more pics and messages to come.