There is an entire section in the bookshop called self-help, but what we really need is a section called Help Others.
Simon Sinek
Über den Autor
Simon Sinek built his career as a leadership expert, motivational speaker and author. His career took off following his famous TED Talk “How Great Leaders Inspire Action,” which became one of the most viewed TED talks of all time with millions of views.
Sinek wrote multiple bestselling books including Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last, and The Infinite Game. His work centers on leadership principles, organizational behavior and the psychology behind what motivates people to take action or support causes.
The quote about needing a “Help Others” section rather than just “Self-Help” in bookstores comes from his book Together is Better, published in 2016. This small, illustrated book contains inspirational messages and thoughts on leadership and teamwork.
Before becoming a thought leader, Sinek worked in advertising. After experiencing burnout and losing his passion, he rediscovered purpose by studying patterns in how great leaders and organizations think and communicate. This personal transformation led him to develop his Golden Circle concept, which explains how inspiring leaders and organizations think, act, and communicate from the inside out.
Die Bedeutung des Zitats
While society often pushes individual growth and achievement, the quote suggests that focusing on others brings greater meaning and satisfaction.
When we visit bookstores or browse online stores, we find countless self-improvement books promising personal transformation. Yet Sinek points out that we might find more value in learning how to improve the lives of those around us.
Research backs this up. Studies show that people who volunteer or help others report higher levels of happiness and purpose. Giving to others activates the reward centers in our brains, creating what scientists call a “helper’s high.”
This idea connects to Sinek’s broader teachings about leadership. True leaders, he believes, focus first on serving their teams rather than seeking personal gain. When people feel protected and supported by their leaders, they naturally work harder and remain loyal.
The quote also applies to business. Companies that build their brand around solving customer problems typically outperform those focused solely on profit. Think about brands with loyal followings, such as Patagonia or TOMS Shoes. Their commitment to social causes creates deeper connections with customers.
Next time you feel down or stuck, shift your focus to helping someone else. Call a friend who needs support, volunteer at a local charity, or simply perform small acts of kindness throughout your day. You’ll likely find your own problems shrinking as you invest energy in others.
Hinterlasse ein Feedback zu diesem Thema