As a leader, having a clear purpose isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about having a guiding force that helps you make decisions, inspires your team, and keeps you moving forward when things get tough.
In leadership circles, we often hear about the Hedgehog Concept, an idea made popular by Jim Collins. It comes from the parable of the Hedgehog and the Fox—where the fox knows many things and tries many strategies, but the hedgehog knows one thing and does it really well: defending itself.
So, how do we apply this to leadership and purpose?
The Three Circles of the Hedgehog Concept
Collins outlines three key areas that help define your one thing—the thing you can dedicate yourself to fully.
What can you be the best in the world at?
What’s your unique ability?
Is this something that truly aligns with your strengths?
What are you deeply passionate about?
Do you have the Craftsman Mindset—the willingness to improve and refine this every day?
Can it be an economic engine?
Can you turn this into something that sustains you financially?
Is it a viable, long-term pursuit?
When I first considered this concept about 20 years ago, I was working in the pharmacy space. But I realised that while it was a solid profession, it didn’t quite align with my unique ability, my deepest passion, or my economic goals. That realisation led me to explore other paths—ones that resonated more deeply with my purpose.
Adding One More Layer: Ikigai
In Japan, there’s a concept called Ikigai, which expands on the Hedgehog Concept by adding one more key question:
💡 What does the world need from you?
What unique value can you provide that the world actually wants?
When you overlay this fourth layer, you get an even clearer picture of your purpose.
Why Purpose Matters in Leadership
Purpose gives us vision. And vision is what inspires and motivates a team.
A leader without purpose is like a ship without a rudder—drifting, reactive, and easily knocked off course. But when you’re clear on your one thing, you bring clarity and focus to everything you do.
So, here’s my challenge for you today:
Have you defined your Hedgehog Concept?
Does it feel legit? Does it work for you?
Have you considered Ikigai—what the world needs from you?
Drop a comment and let me know what you think!
💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Reply to this email or share your thoughts in the comments. And if this resonated with you, forward it to someone else who might need to hear it.
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