How to Begin

About the Author

Michael Bungay Stanier stands at the forefront of transforming how organizations perceive coaching as an essential leadership competency. His acclaimed book, The Coaching Habit, is recognized as the best-selling coaching book of this century, boasting over a million copies sold. Named the #1 thought leader in coaching in 2019, Michael's influence spans from speaking on Brené Brown’s podcast to gracing the TEDx stage. He founded Box of Crayons, a learning and development company dedicated to helping organizations shift from being advice-driven to curiosity-led. Presently, he leads MBS.works, a platform designed to help individuals find the clarity, confidence, and community necessary to be a force for change.

Main Idea

In How to Begin: Start Doing Something That Matters, Michael Bungay Stanier provides a comprehensive guide to unlocking your potential by pursuing a "Worthy Goal." This book is intended for those who seek more than just success; it is for those who aspire to make a meaningful impact. Whether you are setting out on a new venture or seeking to redefine your life's purpose, this book offers practical advice to help you find focus, build courage, and achieve goals that truly matter.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: The Call to Begin
2. Find Your Focus: Defining Your Worthy Goal
3. Test Your Ambition: Strengthening Your Commitment
4. Claim Your Goal: Finalizing Your Vision
5. See Where You Stand: Overcoming Past Failures
6. Weigh Up the Status Quo: Evaluating Risks and Rewards
7. Take Small Steps: Building Momentum
8. Remember Your Best Self: Staying Motivated
9. Don’t Travel Alone: Building Your Support Network
10. Conclusion: The Time is Now

Find Your Focus: Defining Your Worthy Goal

Finding your Worthy Goal is the first step in the journey of doing something that matters. A Worthy Goal is defined by three essential elements: it must be Thrilling, Important, and Daunting. These elements combine to create a goal that excites you, aligns with your values, and challenges you to grow.

“Worthy is less about an abstract moral rating and more about whether it’s worthy enough for you to be committing to it.” — Michael Bungay Stanier

To begin, take a moment to brainstorm what a Worthy Goal might look like for you. Think about what excites you and makes you feel alive. This is the "Thrilling" part of the goal. Next, consider the importance of this goal. Does it align with your core values and contribute to a greater purpose? Finally, assess the "Daunting" aspect. Does this goal push you out of your comfort zone and compel you to grow?

• Thrilling: A goal that excites you and makes you feel alive.
• Important: A goal that aligns with your core values and contributes to a greater purpose.
• Daunting: A goal that pushes you out of your comfort zone and compels you to grow.

Once you have identified these elements, you are ready to draft your Worthy Goal. Remember, the first draft doesn't have to be perfect. Allow yourself to write a "crappy first draft" and refine it as you go.