The Power of Asking Why

My Why

It almost feels cliché to ask educators about their why. In recent years, the question has even received some backlash, with critics arguing that knowing our why doesn't necessarily impact our outcomes. (And honestly, "outcomes" may be another one of those overused words.)

So, what is my why?

I suppose the answer depends on which part of my life I'm examining—or maybe it doesn't.

For as long as I can remember, my boys have been curious. From the moment they could talk, they asked questions. Endless questions. Over time, I've come to believe that asking questions is one of the most powerful ways we deepen our understanding of the world around us.

And when we deepen our understanding, we have the potential to change the trajectory of almost anything.

Questions are healthy. Examining our why is essential. It fuels critical thinking, problem-solving, perspective-taking, and growth.

Just this past week, I was asked to reflect on my why in my current role. The assignment was simple: take five minutes and jot down how you would introduce yourself by sharing your why instead of your what.

For me, the answer came quickly.

I think about my why often.

By education and training, I have earned a bachelor of arts in journalism and two masters degress in social science and counselor education. I am an educator, school counselor, and licensed therapist. At my core, however, my passion is helping people discover their strengths and potential. I strive to empower, encourage, actively listen, and build self-efficacy in students, educators, school counselors, families, and community members.

I love collaborating with others to develop tools, strategies, and systems that help people become the best version of themselves. More importantly, I want those systems to be sustainable—not dependent on me, but strong enough to support others when they are working independently, facing challenges, feeling unheard, or finding the courage to use their voice.

But knowing our why is only part of the journey.

The real work happens when we put it into practice.

Growth doesn't happen through inspiration alone. It happens through habits. Through intentional strategies. Through learning, practicing, reflecting, and trying again. It is not a destination or a mastery skillset. It is an ongoing process.

My why is actually quite simple.

It's what I want for my own children, and it's what I want for every student and adult I encounter: the opportunity to become the very best version of themselves.

It's also what I want for myself.

On the drive home from dinner this week, my 22-year-old son asked a "why" question about crime rates in larger cities. Before answering, I paused and asked him what he thought.

His question wasn't rooted in a simple explanation like, "There are more people." Instead, he wondered about underserved populations, limited resources, educational opportunities, access to support systems, and the complex factors that shape communities.

His curiosity reminded me of something important.

Asking why is often the first step toward understanding what comes next.

As I navigate the coming week—and the many questions that arise around self-awareness, empathy, perspective, and human behavior—I want to remember my why.

I want to keep asking questions.

Because questions lead to understanding.

Understanding leads to growth.

And growth creates the possibility for change.

Sometimes the best answers begin with exploration. Iceland March 2026