Could success hinge on simply asking a better question?
There’s a book I return to again and again—both for my own growth and for my clients—and it’s Who Not How by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy.
If you’re a coach, speaker, or business owner, you are probably known for being resourceful, creative, and driven. Those are great qualities—until they become obstacles. When you try to do everything yourself, you end up stuck in the weeds, overwhelmed, and under-leveraged. I’ve been there, and chances are you have too.
That’s where Who Not How comes in.
The big idea is this: instead of asking “How can I do this?”—a question that often leads to frustration and overwork—start asking “Who knows how to do this?” and “Who can help me do this?” That shift alone can unlock more time, more impact, and more freedom.
Here are a few key takeaways that hit home for me.
- Time and Energy Are Better Spent in Your Zone of Genius
Trying to do everything yourself is inefficient and limits growth. Finding the right Who (a person with the skill, expertise, or passion for the task) allows you to focus on what you do best.
- Collaboration Beats Control
Delegating or partnering with others can feel risky, but true progress often comes through collaboration. The right partnerships can accelerate outcomes far beyond what you could do solo. Stop hustling like The Lone Ranger chasing bandits across the mesa!
- Abundance Mindset Creates Momentum
The book encourages shifting from a scarcity mindset (where you guard your time and money) to one of abundance—investing in others is what multiplies results. When you start seeing other people’s strengths as opportunities instead of costs, everything changes.
- Freedom Is the Real Goal
This book reminded me that I didn’t start my business to be busy—I started it to be free. Free to connect with others in the way I’m called to. Free to think, create, and serve at a high level. And of course, free to have time to enjoy my wonderful family and friends. That freedom starts with Who.
Give it a read—and let yourself off the hook for being the how in every situation. Your next level might just start with asking a better question.
