"Why" is the Way

Having a grounded answer to 'why' in life is as important as breathing. The question "why" answers the purpose of action, enhances motivation, inspires people to move, and gives hope for future. A person who lost sight of purpose, motivation, inspiration, and hope is as good as dead, he is a walking dead.

Last week, I had a great talk with one of my great friends back from college. We talked about life struggles, Theology, reality of pain, and career. I couldn't forget what he told me about his career.  He mentioned that a multi-national company was pirating him, and offered him more than four times higher than the salary he is earning now. He turned it down. When asked why, he said, I love my job, I love the cause of the company I am involved in. It's not about money.

After that, he jokingly said, "maybe you want to apply?" The job position was in line with my course, my past job, and my ability, but I was not 100% in line with the position itself. In short, if I apply for the position, I'm sure I am only applying for money.

Two weeks ago, I passed my resume in a non-profit organization. I wanted to be part of that org because their vision captivated me, education. I have this great heart for teaching, and mentoring the influential people. Even before applying for it, a friend told me the approximate compensation for the position I am applying. The salary of the multi-national company is still 3x higher than the compensation of the org I applied for.

However, I was convinced to purse the org where I know I would maximize my learning and influence. I know that money alone is not the best motivation. It only increases my status quo. It has been proven by the poorest and riches people on earth that status quo cannot provide a joyful life. And so, while I am young I am open for opportunities that could give me the best variety of experience and learning.

Photo from Google

Having a questionable answer to 'why' today, when not addressed, will surely lead to a questionable 'way' someday. The why overcomes the what and how. On the other hand, having a grounded answer to 'why' is the threshold to success, in its real sense.