I spent the day re-listening and reading Tyler Cowen’s interview with David Brooks from 2018. There were many highlights, including his thoughts on the 2020 election and spirituality. But, the quotes I’d like to share are linked to finding your Big Idea. I’ve written about the Big Idea here. It’s the core purpose of your life (or organization). If possible, I like to sum it up into three to five words that anybody can understand.

Brook’s strengthens my beliefs about the Big Idea. 

“He who has a why to live for can endure almost any how.” (Quoting Friedrich Nietzsche)

Sounds a lot like Sinek. Often, companies want a rebrand, or individuals wish to reinvent themselves. Perhaps, they should start with their why first? But, how do we find our why?

Brooks suggesting looking for a problem:

“What problems are around me that are really calling me? And then, one, is it a big problem? You got to fall in love with a big problem because if you have some human capital, you might as well go for the big problem. Two, is it a problem your life history has made you uniquely qualified to serve?”

Sometimes, I think it’s tempting to idealize a position instead of making real steps toward selecting and solving a problem. We want to mark our status in the world without sacrifice. I’m starting to recognize that it’s through working problems (we fall in love with) that we find our place. Rather than becoming an “influencer,” find a problem to solve, that pairs well with your story and skills, and that will influence you.

In other words:

“Find the spot where your deep gladness meets the world’s deep need, so something you intrinsically love doing and match it with some deep problem that’s out there.” (Quoting Fred Buechner.)

I have this exercise in my messaging workshop that’s based on Buechner’s statement. It’s a Venn diagram. One circle is dedicated to what makes you unique. The other is for what’s wrong with the world. It’s in that overlap that one can begin to discern their Big Idea.

This is our life’s work. It’s unrealistic to think you can spend four hours in a conference room and walk a way with your why. No, we need to pay attention to the whispers of everyday life that guide us toward our work. It helps to do that in community with friends and partners. I’d love to hear where you are on your journey and share where I am on mine. Reach out and let’s grab a coffee and or go on a walk to swap stories.

Click here to read or listen to the rest of Tyler Cowen’s conversation with David Brooks.