Ever wondered why some people wake up at 5 AM, grind for hours, and push through setback after setback while others give up at the first sign of trouble? It all boils down to “The Why Factor”—the deep, personal reason behind their pursuit of success. It’s the foundation of every great endeavour, the invisible force that fuels ambition, and the compass that guides individuals towards their dreams. In our latest blog post, “The Why Factor – The Real Reason People Chase Success” we’ll explore the “Why” factor in depth, examining the motivations behind starting a business, the desire for success, and the internal and external forces that drive people to strive for greatness.
Your “why” isn't just a fancy mission statement or a goal written in a notebook. It's the fuel in your tank, the fire in your belly, the thing that keeps you going when nothing else will.
Starting a business is no small feat. It requires courage, determination, and a willingness to take risks. So, what is it that truly drives people to start businesses and chase success? For most entrepreneurs, the decision to start a business is deeply personal, rooted in their unique “Why.” Let’s break it down.
The Desire for Freedom—Calling the Shots
For many, starting a business isn’t just about making money—it’s about gaining control over their life. Many entrepreneurs are driven by the idea of being their own boss, setting their own schedule, and building something that aligns with their values and vision.
Entrepreneurs crave the ability to:
✅ Work on their own terms
✅ Choose who they work with
✅ Decide how much they want to earn
👉 Example: Think about Steve Jobs, who left college because he refused to conform to the traditional system. His “why” was to create something meaningful and ground-breaking—on his own terms.
Takeaway: If freedom is your driving force, define what that means to you—whether it’s financial independence, time flexibility, or creative control.
The Need for Impact—Making a Difference
At its core, the desire for success is often about fulfilment. People want to feel that their lives have meaning and that their efforts matter. Achieving success—whether in business, relationships, or personal goals—provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose that is deeply satisfying.
Some people start businesses not just to make money but to make a difference. They see a gap, a problem, or an injustice in the world, and they feel compelled to fix it.
This could be:
🌎 A social entrepreneur solving environmental issues
🏥 A doctor-turned-founder improving healthcare access
📚 A teacher creating better educational tools
👉 Example: Elon Musk didn’t just create Tesla to make money—his deeper mission was to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. That’s a powerful “why.”
Takeaway: If your “why” is about impact, get crystal clear on the specific problem you want to solve and the people you want to help.
The Pursuit of Passion—Loving What You Do
Some people simply can’t imagine doing anything else. Their business is a reflection of their passion for a particular product, service, or cause. They are motivated by the desire to solve a problem, fill a gap in the market, or make a positive impact on the world. Their businesses are an extension of their personal values and interests, and their passion fuels their perseverance. These could be:
🎨 Artists who build businesses around their craft
💻 Tech lovers who develop software and apps
🍽️ Foodies who open restaurants
👉 Example: Oprah Winfrey started as a talk show host, but her passion for storytelling and personal growth led her to build an entire media empire.
Takeaway: If passion drives you, make sure your business aligns with what truly excites and energises you—otherwise, burnout will come knocking.
The Hunger for Financial Success—Building Wealth
Let’s be real—money matters. Many people start businesses to create wealth, provide for their families, or achieve a level of financial security that a traditional job might not offer. The idea of building something that generates income and creates long-term stability is a compelling “Why” for many entrepreneurs. For them, the ultimate goal is financial success, or put another way, financial independence.
Whether it’s:
💰 Escaping financial struggles
🏡 Providing a better life for their family
📈 Creating generational wealth
Money isn’t a bad motivator—it gives people options, security, and opportunities. But those who succeed don’t chase money itself—they chase the value they can create.
👉 Example: Jeff Bezos didn’t start Amazon just to make money—he focused on providing unmatched convenience for customers. The billions came as a result.
Takeaway: If money is your “why,” focus on creating real value—money follows impact.
The Thrill of the Challenge—The Game of Success
Some people are wired to compete. They are driven by the need to challenge themselves and grow. Starting a business is one of the most demanding and rewarding personal development journeys you can undertake. It requires learning new skills, overcoming obstacles, and constantly adapting to change. For these entrepreneurs, the “Why” is about pushing their limits and becoming the best version of themselves. They thrive on challenges, risks, and the adrenaline rush of achieving the impossible.
These are the:
🔥 Risk-takers who love high-stakes decisions
🏆 Competitors who constantly aim to outdo themselves
🛠 Innovators who seek to revolutionise industries
👉 Example: Richard Branson, founder of Virgin, thrives on new challenges—launching airlines, music labels, and even space travel. His “why” is all about pushing boundaries.
Takeaway: If challenges drive you, set big, audacious goals that excite and scare you at the same time.
The Drive to Prove Oneself
For many, the “Why” behind success is tied to a desire to prove themselves—to their families, their peers, or even to themselves. This drive often stems from a need to overcome self-doubt, defy expectations, or validate their abilities. It’s a powerful motivator that can push people to achieve extraordinary things.
The Desire to Leave a Legacy
Another common “Why” is the desire to leave a legacy. This desire to make an impact is a powerful motivator. People want to create something that outlasts them, whether it’s a successful business, solving a social issue, creating a product that improves people's lives, or simply making a positive impact on their community, the idea of leaving a lasting legacy can be a strong driving force. This sense of purpose gives their efforts meaning and inspires them to keep striving for success.
This is especially true for social entrepreneurs, who are driven by a mission to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. They're not just building businesses; they're building movements. They're not just making money; they're making a difference. And for them, the “Why” is clear: they want to leave the world a better place than they found it.
The Pursuit of Happiness
Ultimately, the desire for success is often about the pursuit of happiness. People believe that achieving their goals will bring them joy, satisfaction, and a better quality of life. While the journey to success is rarely easy, the promise of a happier, more fulfilling life is a powerful “Why” that keeps people motivated.
What Drives and Motivates People to Strive for Success?
Motivation is the fuel that powers the journey to success. But what drives people to keep going, even when the odds are against them? The answer lies in a combination of internal and external factors.
1. Intrinsic Motivation
Intrinsic motivation comes from within. It’s the internal drive to achieve something because it’s personally meaningful or rewarding. People who are intrinsically motivated are driven by their passions, values, and sense of purpose. They don’t need external rewards to keep going; the act of pursuing their goals is fulfilling in itself.
2. Extrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, comes from external factors such as money, recognition, or social status. While intrinsic motivation is often more sustainable, extrinsic motivation can be a powerful driver, especially in the early stages of a journey. For example, the desire to earn a promotion, win an award, or gain the approval of others can push people to work harder and achieve more.
3. The Fear of Failure
Interestingly, the fear of failure can also be a motivator. For some, the thought of failing is so uncomfortable that it drives them to work tirelessly to avoid it. While fear-based motivation can be effective in the short term, it’s important to balance it with positive motivators to avoid burnout.
4. The Power of Vision
A clear and compelling vision is one of the most powerful motivators. When people have a vivid picture of what they want to achieve and why it matters, they are more likely to stay focused and committed. This vision serves as a constant reminder of their “Why” and helps them navigate challenges and setbacks.
5. Support and Encouragement
Finally, the support and encouragement of others can be a significant source of motivation. Whether it’s a mentor, a supportive partner, or a community of like-minded individuals, having people who believe in you and your vision can make all the difference.
What's particularly fascinating is how entrepreneurial motivation tends to evolve over time. Many entrepreneurs start with straightforward goals – perhaps making enough money to quit their day job or solving a specific problem they've encountered. However, as their businesses grow, their “why” often expands to encompass broader objectives. They begin to see their business as a platform for creating positive change, whether through innovation, job creation, or community impact.
Remember, your “why” doesn't need to change the world from day one. It just needs to be authentic enough to get you started and meaningful enough to keep you going when things get tough. The beauty of the entrepreneurial journey is that it often reveals purposes and possibilities you never initially imagined
The Importance of Knowing Your "Why"
Understanding your “Why” is not just about motivation; it’s about clarity and direction. When you know why you’re doing something, you’re better equipped to make decisions, stay focused, and overcome obstacles. Your “Why” becomes your anchor, keeping you grounded when things get tough and guiding you toward your goals.
1. Clarity of Purpose
Knowing your “Why” gives you a clear sense of purpose. It helps you prioritise your efforts, focus on what truly matters, and avoid distractions. When you’re clear about why you’re pursuing a goal, you’re less likely to be swayed by doubt or external pressures.
2. Resilience in the Face of Challenges
The journey to success is rarely smooth. There will be setbacks, failures, and moments of doubt. But when you have a strong “Why,” you’re more likely to persevere. Your “Why” gives you the strength to keep going, even when the road gets tough.
3. Sustainable Motivation
Finally, understanding your “Why” helps you stay motivated over the long term. While external rewards can be fleeting, a deep and meaningful “Why” provides a source of motivation that doesn’t fade. It keeps you inspired and energised, even when the initial excitement wears off.
4. The Impact of Purpose
Perhaps the most powerful “why” of all is purpose – the belief that your work matters and makes a difference. In today's world, where consumers increasingly support businesses that align with their values, purpose-driven entrepreneurship isn't just fulfilling – it's good business sense.
Consider how many successful modern businesses have built their entire models around solving social or environmental problems. From companies developing renewable energy solutions to those addressing food waste or educational inequality, purpose-driven enterprises are showing that profit and positive impact can go hand in hand.
The Psychology of Success
The pursuit of success itself is a fascinating psychological phenomenon. Research shows that successful entrepreneurs often share a common trait: they're not just motivated by the end goal but find genuine enjoyment in the process of building and growing their businesses. This intrinsic motivation – the love of the game, so to speak – often proves more sustainable than purely external rewards.
Think about it like this: if you're only motivated by the potential financial outcome, every setback feels like a step away from your goal. But if you're genuinely passionate about what you're building, challenges become opportunities to learn and improve. This mindset shift is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction.
The Role of Personal Growth
Here's something that might surprise you: many entrepreneurs discover that their greatest reward isn't the success of their business but who they become in the process. The entrepreneurial journey is an intensive personal development program disguised as a business venture. It forces you to confront your fears, develop new skills, and evolve as a person.
This personal growth aspect often becomes a powerful motivator in itself. Entrepreneurs frequently cite the thrill of learning, adapting, and overcoming challenges as one of their primary drivers for continuing their journey, even after achieving their initial goals.
Find Your Why—And Fuel It
Your “why” is the foundation of everything you do. If you don’t have a strong reason behind your business, success will feel like a never-ending grind.
So, ask yourself:
- What problems do I feel passionate about solving?
- What activities make me feel most alive and energized?
- Who am I trying to help?
- What do I want my legacy to be?
- If money were no object, what would I spend my time doing?
Don't rush the process. Your “why” might not be immediately apparent. It might evolve over time as you gain experience and clarity.
Once you lock in on your true why, it becomes easier to stay focused. It's the compass that keeps you on course when you encounter setbacks, face difficult decisions, or feel overwhelmed. It's the fuel that reignites your passion when you're running on fumes.
Now It’s Your Turn!
What’s your “why”? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear what drives you! 🚀🔥
