Inspire, Don’t Manipulate

Start With Why by Simon Sinek (Part 2 of 4 mini series Chapters 4-6)

✍️ By Debbie Balfour | WBN News | July 6, 2025 | Click HERE for your FREE Subscription to WBN News and/or to be a Contributor.

Want to hear Simon Sinek explain this himself? Before diving in, watch this short video where he contrasts manipulation and inspiration in leadership:

🎥 Watch: Manipulation Vs Inspiration – Simon Sinek (TEDx)

Chapters 4–6 of Start with Why challenge the traditional ways businesses and leaders get people to act. Most rely on manipulations—discounts, fear, urgency, or peer pressure—to drive short-term action. But this doesn’t build trust. It builds dependence.

Sinek argues that true loyalty comes from inspiration, not manipulation. Inspiration stems from a clearly articulated WHY. People don’t want to be tricked—they want to believe. Think of brands like Patagonia or leaders like Howard Schultz. Their vision inspires action because it speaks to something deeper.

As entrepreneurs, it’s tempting to reach for the “quick win.” But those tactics run out of steam. Build your tribe by leading with belief, not gimmicks.

Step-by-Step Influence Instructions:

Audit your recent messaging. Was it inspiring—or was it urgent and pressure-based?
Write one story from your business that reflects your WHY.
Use that story in a post, email, or pitch this week.
Revisit how your brand communicates across platforms.
Replace one manipulation tactic with one belief-driven message.

Thought-Provoking Question:

Do you rely on urgency, scarcity, or discounts more than inspiration?

Task:

Reframe one client message or sales pitch this week around belief and values, not urgency or price.

Conclusion:

Real leadership moves people from within. If you want a lasting impact, stop selling features and start sharing your WHY. Next week, we’ll study how great leaders use their WHY to build movements.

Buy Start With Why by Simon Sinek on Amazon here.

Debbie Balfour | Real Estate Investing Success Coach + Podcast Host
📍 Website: www.DebbieBalfour.com
📧 Email: Debbie@DebbieBalfour.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Debbie Balfour
▶️ YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@DebbieBalfour

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