Why. How. What. The Golden Circle rule. A simple concept that could change the way you view your life for the better. The creator of this concept is a man named Simon Sinek, an inspirational speaker and ethnographer, someone whose work I greatly admire. I first became familiar with Simon when I watched a TED talk titled “How Leaders Inspire Action.” It was the most thought provoking and incredible TED talk I have ever listened to. Simon came to speak at my school today and I was lucky to be there for it.

I have watched his TED talk about 3 times already and I was expecting him to speak about similar topics. He talked about the exact same things, using almost the same language. I was already familiar with everything he said today. However, I went there not for the content, but for the subjective energy and connection that I felt in that room on a human level. Simon speaks with confidence, clarity, and complete honesty in what he believes, and that in turn re-inspired my outlook on life.

The main chord he hit that really reverberated within me was understanding what you believe in, being clear about what you believe in, and remaining authentic on how you show your beliefs. This, he believes, is how businesses and people who make impact think.

For the past few months, I lost some motivation to continue my work. It was beginning to pile up, and my mindset was such that I was in it for something else. I fear that I became too focused on the rewards of my work that I began living to wait for the prizes. I wanted to push through and get to the end quickly because I was tired of waiting. My concentration on the result made me less focused on the present, and consequently, made me less motivated to work.

Today, Simon helped get me back on track. He preached that the ultimate fuel for oneself is understanding exactly what they believe and why. It is the difference between someone who gets up and goes to work excited to accomplish something as opposed to someone who gets up and goes to work hoping to get through the day. It is the difference between leaders and those who lead. And when you find those who share your vision and wish to make it theirs, you begin to have the capacity to create movement and impact.

I believe in a world that appreciates science and technology and supports its continued innovation to do good and to further the potential of humankind. This is what gets me up in the morning. This is what gets me to class. This is what gives me hope for a better future. Thanks for coming to Queens College Simon. Please come back at some point. Maybe the next time we meet it will be at Columbia.

Watch an amazing and inspiring talk.
VIDEO: How Great Leaders Inspire Action