My afternoon with Simon Sinek.

One of the key reasons I trekked from Brisbane, Australia to London, England was to spend the afternoon listening to Simon Sinek.

A few years ago, I was doing some strategic planning work with a client and we were in the depths of discussing values and brand and their relationship with culture and customer experience. I was explaining that the how in business is what sets you apart, and if you concentrate only on what then you are only ever the same as your competitors. I went on to explain the method for communicating the how needed to be linked closely with the company's vision - their reason for existence. Steve (my wise client - now retired) leans in and says 'like the golden circle'. I had no idea what he was talking about.

Following Steve's advice, I googled this Simon Sinek guy and BOOM:

My

World

Changed.

I went on to read anything and everything I could get my hands on to understand this Simon fellow and his key message. His work influences the way I see the world and the way I conceptualise marketing strategy for my clients. So when it was announced that Simon Sinek would be at World Business Forum in London in 2019, I booked my ticket.

As a professional development opportunity, the entire conference has been sensational.

But in particular, I will remember the afternoon I spent with Simon Sinek forever. 

Simon is an idealist who is famous for one of the most watched TED Talks ever. He was as engaging in real life as he challenges us to be in his messaging.

His presentation at World Business Forum London was about business being an infinite game that requires an infinite mindset, as opposed to a finite mindset and approach. He uses sport as an analogy for business and life and explained ever so eloquently how to win. The good news is Simon has a new book coming out; The Infinite Game which I suspect will explain these concepts in detail. 

After Simon's engaging presentation to myself and 1700 of my closest friends, he signed my book! He was attentive and genuine and oozed everything he preaches.

To learn more from Simon Sinek, check out these:

• TED Talk - How great leaders inspire action / The golden circle
• TED Talk - Why good leaders make you feel safe
• Website - Simon Sinek's website
• Book - Start With Why
• Book - The Infinite Game - to be released in October 2019

I look forward to hearing more from Simon as he continues to inspire. 

Simon and I hanging out in London - June 2019.

Start With Why
A book by Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek on stage in London 2019