In my journey with leaders across many industries, one core principle stands out: knowing our WHY—our core motivation—is essential for effective, transformative leadership. Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle concept, with WHY at the center, reminds us that real impact begins from within. We can all lead with greater purpose when we start with clarity around why we do what we do.

The PLAY NICE approach I use to foster collaboration and respect in the workplace is rooted in this very idea. A strong WHY in leadership doesn’t just attract followers—it builds trust, loyalty, and a culture of shared purpose. People are drawn to leaders who act with intention, who communicate with sincerity, and who are clear about their values.

Bringing Your WHY into Leadership

Think about your own motivation for leading others. What acts as your ‘North Star’ during turbulent times? Is it a vision of collaboration, a commitment to innovation, or a passion for building something meaningful? When your leadership decisions are guided by this inner purpose, they resonate more powerfully with those you lead because your ability to articulate clear, inspiring visions will be enhanced.

Your WHY in Action

I encourage you to spend time with your WHY. Let it shape your interactions, your decisions, and your approach to challenges. Leaders who communicate from their core purpose inspire others in a way that transcends strategy or goals—they create movements.

When we lead from our WHY, we elevate everyone around us. Our workplaces become more resilient, connected, and energized. Conflict often stems from differing perspectives, making it crucial to communicate openly and honestly. By articulating our WHY, we not only express our motivations but also invite others to share their own. This dialogue fosters understanding and helps to bridge the gap between opposing viewpoints. In the spirit of my PLAY NICE system, resolving conflict isn’t about “winning” but about collaboration and finding common ground.

Start from your core and let your leadership make waves that uplift and empower. Read more about the PLAY NICE approach in my latest book, Sandbox Strategies for the New Workplace.

With peace,

Penny

Learn the strategies that will help your team resolve conflict in the NEW workplace.

• Embrace, accept, and welcome conflicting values
• Understand the importance of collaborative relationships for career advancement
• Take responsibility to co-create a winning culture with productive and profitable results
• Empathize with coworkers and even competitors to be the leader others WANT to follow

Press Appearances:

• CEOWorld Magazine 
• Blue Heron Journal
• Mareo McCracken
• EverydayMBA, Host: Kevin Craine 
• Savvy Business
• Swimming in the Flood
• Get Down to Business
• HR.com Leadership Excellence
• Indian Management Magazine
• Crafting Solutions to Conflict
• Vantage Fit Podcast
• Stay tuned, more coming soon…