Five Why's

When discussing an answer you follow up with Why five times. This can lead you to reveal a more significant reason for an implementation. This can be used for both technological troubleshooting and goal setting.

At Work

If someone comes in with a redesign, it can be helpful to apply the 5 Why’s as a way to see if the solution is addressing the real issue.

Northstar

You can use 5 Why’s to find a “north star” which is a reason that transcends immediate goals.

Northstar Example

This was used by Noom when creating goals.

1. What is your goal?
   1. I’m trying to lose weight.
2. Why are you trying to lose weight?
   1. Because I want to be able to run a 5k.
3. Why do you wnat to runa 5k?
   1. Because I want to have more stamina.
4. Why do you want to have more stamina?
   1. I want to be able to have the strength and energy to play with my kids.
5. Why do you want to have strength and energy?
   1. Because I want to give my family as much quality time and energy as I can.

With the final why of “I want to give my family as much quality time and energy” you have your north star. This means that even if you are or aren’t losing weight, or run a 5k, or improve your stamina, you still have an unflinching reason.