Discovering My Purpose:

Why Am I Doing This?

Simon Sinek's idea of "starting with why" underscores the significance of comprehending the core reasons that drive our actions and choices. With this in mind I share my story and purpose behind AdamHenckler.com.

I grew up in a middle-class family with two full-time working parents who did their absolute best to ensure my brother and I were cared for and loved. My dream of studying engineering, nurtured since I was playing with Legos on the living room floor, led me to college and eventually into a career in the public sector at a large industrial facility. The prospect of a steady progression in assignments and promotions over a forty-year career seemed promising. However, a question lingered: “Why am I doing this, and am I meant to be just an engineer?”

Seeking a change, I pivoted and moved over a thousand miles to join a small design firm in the private sector, despite having little experience in the field. The opportunity's risk and weight inspired me, propelling me from being a student to being a teacher as I grew a small branch within the company. I learned the importance of putting people first and recognizing that investing in others yields better results. Yet, amidst sixty-hour work weeks and constant stress, my health deteriorated, prompting me to reflect once more: “Why am I doing this, and is it worth it?”

Seeking a change, I pivoted and moved over a thousand miles to join a small design firm in the private sector, despite having little experience in the field. The opportunity's risk and weight inspired me, propelling me from being a student to being a teacher as I grew a small branch within the company. I learned the importance of putting people first and recognizing that investing in others yields better results. Yet, amidst sixty-hour work weeks and constant stress, my health deteriorated, prompting me to reflect once more: “Why am I doing this, and is it worth it?”

Realizing that putting people first also meant caring for myself and my young family, I pivoted again, finding a role in the public sector that offered a healthy work-life balance. This balance and an opportunity to explore how people function led my family back over a thousand miles to be closer to loved ones. If engineering did not fulfill me, perhaps teaching and coaching others did. I started anew with a small group of Generation Z employees, studying their needs, desires, and values to improve our development programs. This introspection led to my most recent reflection: “Why not be vulnerable and share what you know?”

Supported by incredible teammates, mentors, and supervisors over the last twenty years, some of whom believed in me more than I did in myself, I have gained perspective and realized my true passion: to return the gift that had been given to me.

Since completing my TED Talk on Mentoring Generation Z in February 2022, I have felt a compelling need to share my insights on coaching, teaching, mentoring, and leadership. While my resume may not be extensive, I believe my experiences hold valuable lessons for those

seeking inspiration and guidance. With this website launch, I aim to provide a free platform where a broader audience can share tools, tips, and techniques for coaching. Why am I doing this? Simply put; the greatest return I could receive is helping others find success in themselves.

Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Copyright 2024

AdamHenckler.com