"Find something you love to do

and you'll never have to work

a day in your life."

— Harvey MacKay

1. Find your love…

Find what you love and go after it. Know where you would love to build your strength. Pursue what keeps you excited for longer than anyone else, for that’s the thing where you will start to have an added advantage over everyone else.

Method: Don’t work – Only play!

Find the game you like to play - not just to win but because it clicks with you differently. 

"That’s the whole secret: to do things that excite you."

— Ray Bradbury

Real-life Example: Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, is a prime example of how working on what you love can lead to success. From a young age, Jobs had a passion for technology and design. He and Steve Wozniak, his friend, and fellow computer enthusiast, started building and selling computers out of their garage. They had a clear passion and vision for what they wanted to create, which led to the formation of Apple Computer in 1976.

Despite initial struggles and setbacks, Jobs' passion for technology and design never wavered. He continued to pour his energy and creativity into the company, and Apple went on to become one of the most successful and innovative companies in the world. Jobs' passion for technology and design led to the creation of groundbreaking products such as the Macintosh computer, the iPod, and the iPhone, which revolutionized the way we interact with technology.

This real-life story of Steve Jobs illustrates how working on what you love can lead to success. When you have a passion for something and you put your energy and creativity into it, you are more likely to achieve your goals and make a significant impact in the world.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.

As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”

— Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc.

Real-life Example: Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey, who is known for her talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show" – is a media executive, actress, talk show host, television producer, philanthropist, and also a very successful businesswoman.

Oprah's passion for communication and storytelling started at a young age when she began giving speeches and winning talent contests. She pursued her passion by working in radio and then moving on to television, where she hosted a local talk show in Nashville before being offered her own nationally syndicated talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show."

The show ran for 25 years and made Oprah one of the most recognizable and influential figures in media. She used her platform to tackle important social issues, promote self-improvement, and inspire her audience to live their best lives.

"You get in life what you have the courage to ask for."

"Do what you love and the money will follow."

"Follow your passions, stay true to yourself,

never follow someone else's path

unless you're in the woods and you're lost,

and you see a path

then by all means you should follow that.”

"Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes

from focusing on what excites you."

— Oprah Winfrey

Real-life Example: Steve Irwin

Steve Irwin, the "Crocodile Hunter" was an Australian zookeeper, conservationist, and television personality. Steve's passion for wildlife and conservation started at a young age when he began working at his parents' reptile park in Australia. He went on to become a wildlife expert and television personality, hosting the popular show "The Crocodile Hunter" which was watched by people all over the world.

Steve's passion for wildlife and conservation led him to become a leading voice in the effort to protect endangered species and their habitats. He was also an advocate for education about wildlife and was dedicated to educating people about the importance of conservation.

Steve's story illustrates how working on what you love can lead to success, as well as making a positive impact in the world. His passion for wildlife and conservation led him to become a popular and respected figure in the field, and his work helped to raise awareness and promote conservation efforts around the world.

Real-life Example: Marie Curie

Marie Curie, a physicist, and chemist was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and the first person to win the award twice. Marie's passion for science and research started at a young age when she began studying physics and mathematics in college. Despite the fact that she was a woman and faced many obstacles, she was determined to pursue her passion and make a difference in the field of science.

Marie went on to make pioneering contributions to the fields of physics and chemistry, particularly in the areas of radioactivity and X-ray technology. She was awarded two Nobel Prizes, one in Physics in 1903 and one in Chemistry in 1911, and her work played a key role in the development of nuclear energy and the treatment of cancer.

Marie Curie's story illustrates how working on what you love can lead to success and making a positive impact in the world. Her passion for science and research led her to become a leader in her field and make groundbreaking contributions to the fields of physics and chemistry. Her determination and hard work helped her to overcome obstacles and make a lasting impact on science and technology.

Check-out More…

More real-life examples in the exhibit section of this book.

Quotes

“The most important thing in life is

to love what you’re doing

because that’s the only way you’ll ever be

really good at it.”

— Book: The Art of Deal 

"Follow your bliss!" — Joseph Campbell 

"Don't think about what you want to be, but what you want to do."

— Richard Feynman

"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."

— Steve Jobs

“Knowing others is intelligence;

Knowing yourself is true wisdom.

Mastering others is strength;

mastering yourself is true power.”

— Tao Te Ching

2. Start with the Why

“Why” precedes “How” in all places other than the dictionary. If your why is strong enough, you will figure out how in one way or another.

"Starting with the why" is a concept popularized by Simon Sinek, in which he argues that people and organizations that lead with their purpose or belief are more successful than those that lead with their products or services. The idea behind this concept is that when people understand the "why" behind what they do, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work.

“People don't buy what you do, they buy why you do it.”

– Simon Sinek

The importance of "starting with the why" is that it helps to create a sense of purpose and direction for an individual or organization. By understanding the "why" behind what they do, people are more likely to be motivated to work towards a common goal. This can lead to increased productivity, engagement, and a sense of fulfillment in their work.

Another impact of "starting with the why" is that it can help to create a strong, loyal, and dedicated community of followers who are inspired by the purpose and belief of an individual or organization. When people understand and align with the "why" behind what an individual or organization does, they are more likely to be loyal and dedicated to that individual or organization.

“The Why is the thing that inspires us to get

out of bed in the morning and the thing that

inspires others to follow us.”

— Simon Sinek

What drives you to success is your WHY. Because if all else fails, when you encounter hurdle after hurdle and mountain after mountain of struggles. You don't endure your WHAT or HOW. You endure and persist in your WHY. 

Questions:

Why should you keep going where everyone else would have quit?

Why do you put in the extra 30 hours a week to make your job or company successful? 

Why should I give you the benefit of doing business with you?

This “WHY” is the purpose that you started with, the purpose that set you on this path in the first place. That primary motivation. That primary motivation should be more than just an emotional curve you ride (like some anger or frustration or just wanting to come back or one-up something, since emotions can subside with the passage of time). It should be based on rationale - a desire to make an impact, to fill a gap, to solve a problem, to weave a way, or to fix what’s broken.

“The Why is not about making a sale.

It's about making a difference.”

— Simon Sinek

In summary, "starting with the why" is important because it helps to create a sense of purpose and direction that can motivate and engage individuals, leading to increased productivity and a sense of fulfillment. It also helps to create a strong, loyal, and dedicated community of followers who are inspired by the purpose and beliefs of an individual or organization.

Real-life Example: Apple Inc.

One example of "starting with the why" in action is the story of Apple Inc. Apple's "why" is to challenge the status quo and think differently. They believe that technology should be easy to use and accessible to everyone, and that design should be simple and elegant.

Apple's co-founder Steve Jobs was known for being a master at communicating the "why" behind Apple's products and services. He would often talk about how Apple's products were designed to empower and enrich people's lives, rather than just focusing on the features and specifications of the products themselves.

This approach helped to create a loyal and dedicated community of Apple customers who were inspired by the company's purpose and belief. Apple's customers felt a sense of personal connection and emotional attachment to the brand. This has led to increased brand loyalty and customer retention, even in the face of competition and changing market conditions.

Apple's story illustrates how "starting with the why" can be an effective strategy for building a strong and loyal customer base. By communicating their "why" and aligning with the values and beliefs of their customers, they were able to create a sense of emotional connection that has helped to drive the success of their brand.

Real-life Example: Patagonia.

Another example of "starting with the why" in action is the story of Patagonia, an American clothing company that specializes in outdoor clothing and gear. Patagonia's "why" is to build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis. They believe that their success as a company is measured not only by their financial performance but also by the environmental and social impact they make.

Patagonia's founder, Yvon Chouinard, has always been vocal about the company's purpose and belief, and this has helped to create a loyal and dedicated community of customers who share those values. Patagonia has always been transparent about its environmental and social impact, and they have implemented a number of sustainable practices, such as using organic cotton, recycling, and reducing energy consumption.

This approach has helped to differentiate Patagonia from its competitors and create a loyal customer base that is willing to pay a premium for products that align with its values. Patagonia has also been able to attract a dedicated workforce that is committed to the company's mission and values.

Patagonia's story illustrates how "starting with the why" can be an effective strategy for building a strong and loyal customer base and workforce. By communicating their "why" and aligning with the values and beliefs of their customers and employees, they were able to create a sense of emotional connection that has helped to drive the success of their brand.

Real-life Example: The Body Shop.

Another example of "starting with the why" in action is the story of The Body Shop, a British cosmetics company. The Body Shop's "why" is to campaign for human rights, animal rights, and environmental issues, and to use business as a force for good. They believe that their success as a company is measured not only by their financial performance but also by the positive impact they make on the world.

The Body Shop's founder, Anita Roddick, has always been vocal about the company's purpose and belief, and this has helped to create a loyal and dedicated community of customers who share those values. The Body Shop has always been transparent about its environmental and social impact, and they have implemented a number of sustainable practices, such as using natural ingredients, fair trade, and reducing packaging waste.

This approach has helped to differentiate The Body Shop from its competitors and create a loyal customer base that is willing to pay a premium for products that align with its values. The Body Shop has also been able to attract a dedicated workforce that is committed to the company's mission and values.

The Body Shop's story illustrates how "starting with the why" can be an effective strategy for building a strong and loyal customer base and workforce. By communicating their "why" and aligning with the values and beliefs of their customers and employees, they were able to create a sense of emotional connection that has helped to drive the success of their brand.

Real-life Example: TOMS Shoes.

Another example of "starting with the why" in action is the story of TOMS Shoes, an American shoe company. TOMS' "why" is to improve lives through business and to provide shoes, sight, and safe water to people in need. They believe that their success as a company is measured not only by their financial performance but also by the positive impact they make on the world.

TOMS' founder, Blake Mycoskie, has always been vocal about the company's purpose and belief, and this has helped to create a loyal and dedicated community of customers who share those values. TOMS has always been transparent about its social impact, and they have implemented a "one for one" model, where for every pair of shoes purchased, a pair of shoes is donated to a child in need.

This approach has helped to differentiate TOMS from its competitors and create a loyal customer base that is willing to pay a premium for products that align with its values. TOMS has also been able to attract a dedicated workforce that is committed to the company's mission and values.

TOMS' story illustrates how "starting with the why" can be an effective strategy for building a strong and loyal customer base and workforce. By communicating their "why" and aligning with the values and beliefs of their customers and employees, they were able to create a sense of emotional connection that has helped to drive the success of their brand.

Real-life Example: Warby Parker.

Another example of "starting with the why" in action is the story of Warby Parker, an American eyewear company. Warby Parker's "why" is to provide affordable, stylish eyewear and to give back to the community. They believe that their success as a company is measured not only by their financial performance but also by the positive impact they make on the world.

Warby Parker's co-founders, Neil Blumenthal and Dave Gilboa have always been vocal about the company's purpose and belief, and this has helped to create a loyal and dedicated community of customers who share those values. Warby Parker has always been transparent about their social impact, and they have implemented a "Buy a Pair, Give a Pair" model, where for every pair of glasses purchased, a pair of glasses is donated to someone in need.

This approach has helped to differentiate Warby Parker from its competitors and create a loyal customer base that is willing to pay a premium for products that align with its values. Warby Parker has also been able to attract a dedicated workforce that is committed to the company's mission and values.

Warby Parker's story illustrates how "starting with the why" can be an effective strategy for building a strong and loyal customer base and workforce. By communicating their "why" and aligning with the values and beliefs of their customers and employees, they were able to create a sense of emotional connection that has helped to drive the success of their brand.

3. Find your "Ikigai"

Ikigai is a Japanese concept that refers to one's reason for being or purpose in life. The word "ikigai" is made up of two parts: "iki" which means "to live" and "gai" which means "the reason for." Finding one's ikigai is considered to be an important aspect of achieving a fulfilling and happy life. 

The importance of finding one's ikigai lies in the fact that it helps an individual to identify their passions, values, and talents, and align them with their life's purpose. It helps them to focus on what they truly love and what they are good at, and to make choices that lead to a more meaningful and satisfying life.

In addition, research suggests that people who have a sense of purpose in their lives tend to have better physical and mental health, and a lower risk of developing certain chronic diseases.

Furthermore, having a sense of ikigai can also lead to greater productivity, creativity, and motivation in the workplace, and can help to improve one's overall well-being. 

For instance, someone who has a passion for photography, who is good at it, has the opportunity to make a living out of it and the world needs it, could be a photojournalist. Someone who loves working with children, has a skill for teaching and the world needs more educators could become a teacher.

It's important to note that Ikigai is not a magic formula for success, but it can be a helpful tool for discovering one's purpose and aligning one's passion and skills with a career or personal project that can bring fulfillment and satisfaction.

In summary, finding one's ikigai can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment, purpose, and well-being, both in one's personal and professional life. It can lead to an increase in productivity and motivation, and can improve one's physical and mental health.

Quotes

"Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart."

— Steve Jobs

“Your ikigai is at the intersection of what you are good at, what you love, what the world needs, and what you can get paid for.”

— Dan Buettner

“Ikigai is finding that thing that makes you want to get out of bed each morning and start the day.”

“Ikigai is not a destination, but a journey.”

“Ikigai is the thing that you would do even if you weren't paid for it.”

— Unknown

Don’t settle until you find your Ikigai. Do what works and that you love – hustle/ iterate till you find that combo. Don't settle. Don’t give up!

Illustration

“Happiness is an inside job.”

— William Arthur Ward

—Illustration “Happiness Within” by VisualizeValue.

Real-life Example: Steve Jobs.

At Apple, Jobs found his ikigai at the intersection of his passion for technology, his talent for design, the world's need for innovative and user-friendly products, and his ability to make money by creating and selling those products. Under his leadership, Apple created some of the most iconic and popular products of the last few decades, such as the Macintosh computer, the iPod, and the iPhone.

Real-life Example: Oprah Winfrey.

Oprah's ikigai is at the intersection of her passion for communication, her talent for storytelling, the world's need for relatable and inspiring content, and her ability to make money by creating and hosting her own show, and by producing and promoting various programs.

Real-life Example: J.K. Rowling.

Before becoming a successful author, Rowling was struggling with depression and financial difficulties. She had always loved writing and had the idea for the Harry Potter series in her mind for a long time, but she didn't start writing it until she was on a delayed train ride. Once she started writing, she couldn't stop and the Harry Potter series was born.

Rowling's ikigai is at the intersection of her passion for writing, her talent for creating captivating stories, the world's need for imaginative and entertaining literature, and her ability to make money by publishing her books and creating a franchise. The Harry Potter series not only brought her financial success but also brought joy and inspiration to millions of readers around the world.

This story highlights how finding one's ikigai can lead to both personal fulfillment and professional success. It also shows that it is never too late to pursue your passions and that sometimes, it takes a difficult situation to push you to do what you truly love.

Eyes on ambition

Envision the goal and sort your priorities for the long game - never lose focuson what's important in the exchange for what's urgent. 

A great retail pioneer said:

"Give me someone with no goals and I'll give you a stock clerk. Give me a stock clerk with a goal and I'll give you someone who will make history."

Method: Zoom Out.

Always zoom out and have a look at the big picture. Connect the dots and catch the patterns. As they say: “Follow the money”, in other words, follow the trail of the thing most valued and cherished and you may crack a formula or unlock some secret.

Illustration

– Illustration: “Zoom out” by VisualizeValue.

—Illustration: “Frame vs. Picture” by VisualizeValue.

Even problems we encounter start to appear quite small when we have the ability to zoom out and carry a vision from a bird-eye perspective.

Real-life Example: Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps, an American competitive swimmer and the most decorated Olympian of all time. Michael's passion for swimming started at a young age when he began competing in local swim meets. He set a goal for himself to become the best swimmer in the world and worked tirelessly to achieve it.

Michael set specific, measurable, and achievable goals for himself, such as breaking world records and winning Olympic medals. He also set long-term goals for his career, such as winning multiple Olympic gold medals and becoming the most decorated Olympian of all time.

Throughout his career, Michael consistently achieved his goals through hard work, dedication, and a relentless drive to improve. He won a total of 23 Olympic gold medals, 3 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals, becoming the most decorated Olympian of all time. He also broke 39 world records and held the record for the most Olympic gold medals won by an individual athlete.

Michael's story illustrates how setting goals can help us to win. By setting specific, measurable, and achievable goals for himself and working tirelessly to achieve them, he was able to become one of the greatest swimmers in the world and achieve incredible success in his career.

Real-life Example: Elon Musk

Elon Musk, the founder and CEO of SpaceX and Tesla. Elon's passion for technology and innovation started at a young age when he began reading books about science and engineering. He set a goal for himself to make a significant impact on the world through technology and innovation and worked tirelessly to achieve it.

Elon set specific, measurable, and achievable goals for himself and his companies, such as launching the first privately-funded spacecraft to reach orbit, creating a low-cost and efficient electric car, and colonizing Mars. He also set long-term goals for his companies, such as revolutionizing the space industry and transitioning the world to sustainable energy.

Throughout his journey, Elon faced many obstacles and challenges, but he never gave up on his goals. He kept working on his projects, and his companies SpaceX and Tesla have achieved remarkable success. SpaceX has developed reusable rockets and is working on interplanetary travel while Tesla has become one of the most valuable car companies in the world by producing electric cars and solar energy systems.

Elon's story illustrates how setting goals can help us to win. By setting specific, measurable, and achievable goals for himself and his companies and working tirelessly to achieve them, he was able to make a significant impact on the world through technology and innovation.

Real-Life Example: Apollo 11 Mission

The goal of the Apollo 11 mission was to land a man on the Moon and return him safely to Earth. This was a very ambitious goal that required years of planning and preparation, as well as the development of new technologies.

The mission was led by NASA, and they set specific, measurable, and achievable goals for the mission, such as landing the Eagle lunar module on the surface of the Moon, conducting scientific experiments, and returning safely to Earth.

The team worked tirelessly to achieve these goals, and on July 20, 1969, the Apollo 11 mission successfully landed astronaut Neil Armstrong on the surface of the Moon. He famously said, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind". Not only was the mission a technological achievement, but it also was a huge step for human history.

This story illustrates how setting goals can help us to win. By setting specific, measurable, and achievable goals for the Apollo 11 mission, NASA was able to achieve one of the most important achievements in human history and achieve a goal that was once thought impossible.