How to Build a Life-Changing “Why” Statement
What’s Going to Keep You Going on the Hard Days?
As much as I’d like to promise that building a business will be easy-peasy, the truth is there will always be some days that are just tougher than others. I remember many nights early into my business when I would collapse into bed after a full day of juggling an 8-hour corporate job and an 8-hour side hustle. I was running on caffeine, big dreams, and the drive to create something bigger than myself. What kept me moving wasn’t just the promise of financial independence or leaving the 9-to-5 grind. It was the deeper belief that I was building a life and a business my future children could look up to—a career that would inspire them to chase their dreams boldly and unapologetically, and a venture that would create more beauty in our world.
This is the power of a strong "Why". It’s the reason you keep going when the road gets tough, the mantra you can hold strong to when doubts start to creep in, or when the sheer weight of building something from scratch feels overwhelming. A "Why" statement isn’t just a nice idea—it’s your personal motivator and your business’ guiding light.
Building Your "Why"
Your "Why" is that deep rooted purpose that inspires you to take action. But more importantly, it’s what inspires others to take action, too—to spread your ideas, share your work, or buy your products.
Your story, including the messy and challenging parts, is your edge. It shapes the “Why” behind everything you do. Unlike a mission statement, which reflects your future-looking goals, your "Why" is deeply personal and comes before any formal business plans. It’s likely the reason you started your business in the first place and represents the impact you’re striving to create in the world.
What Makes Your Why Unique?
"Why" does your business exist, and what makes it different? Your "Why" is grounded in what’s uniquely yours: the experiences, challenges, and passions that have driven you to create something meaningful. It’s important to understand that your "Why" is primarily a guidepost for you, the business owner. Keeping your "Why" front and center will help guide your decisions and maintain focus on your ultimate impact.
Start With Honest Reflection
To uncover your "Why", begin with some honesty and self-reflection. Ask yourself:
What has been the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome?
What has been your biggest professional challenge?
What lessons have these experiences taught you?
Next, connect those lessons to your business:
What drives you to get out of bed every day and work on your business?
What satisfaction or impact have you always sought to create in the world?
Pro Tip: These reflections can make a powerful opening for your “About” page if you’re comfortable sharing them publicly.
Crafting Your "Why" Statement
To articulate your "Why", use the simple but effective formula:
“To ___ so that ___.”
The first blank represents your contribution—what you bring to others through your work. The second blank represents the impact of your contribution. Your "Why" should be actionable, inspiring, and emotionally resonant.
Examples of "Why" Statements
To help people know and believe that they matter, so that they can achieve their dreams.
To feel good in everything I do every day, so that I can live my best life.
To empower and educate others, so that they can improve their lives and achieve their goals.
To purchase whatever I want without fear, so that I can always have freedom of choice.
To make the world a more beautiful place, so that others feel inspired and happy.
Putting Your "Why" to Work
Once you’ve crafted your "Why", put it somewhere you’ll see it daily. Create a visual reminder in Canva, jot it down in your planner, or write it on a sticky note near your workspace. Seeing it often will reinforce your purpose and keep you motivated, even on tough days.
Your "Why" can also be a powerful marketing tool. If you think others will resonate with it, weave it into your About page, social media bios, and other touchpoints where you connect with your audience. Sharing your "Why" builds emotional connection and inspires trust.
Final Thoughts
Your "Why" isn’t just a statement—it’s the foundation of your motivation, your business decisions, and your impact. Keep it simple, evergreen, and focused on contribution. Whether you’re using it to inspire yourself or others, a clear and meaningful "Why" will anchor you to your purpose and fuel your journey forward.
Ready to discover your own "Why"? Grab a pen and paper and start drafting your statement today. Don’t rush it—your "Why" deserves the time and thought it takes to truly resonate with your heart and soul.
CTA: DOWNLOAD OUR FREE “BUILD YOUR WHY” TEMPLATE