Have you ever felt stuck or unsure about the true reason behind a goal or decision? Maybe you’ve set your sights on something — a career change, personal milestone, or even a big purchase — but the motivation behind it feels unclear. You’re not alone. And that’s where the simple yet powerful act of asking ‘Why?’ can be transformative. In today’s blog, I’m diving into the 7 Levels Deep Model, a method I’ve used for years in business and personal coaching. It’s an evolution of the 5 Whys Approach, originally created by Sakichi Toyota for problem-solving in business. The 7 Levels Deep Model takes it a step further, helping you uncover the core motivation behind your goals.
Let’s explore how this method works, why it’s valuable, and how it can empower women to make conscious decisions that align with their values and aspirations.
Why ‘Why?’ Matters
Asking “Why?” is deceptively simple but incredibly powerful. When we take the time to peel back the layers of our thoughts and motivations, we uncover truths we may not have consciously recognised.
This technique is especially useful for women, who often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. By digging deeper into your motivations, you gain clarity, focus, and alignment, three things that make decision-making so much easier.
The 7 Levels Deep Model doesn’t just help with personal growth; it’s also a valuable tool for leadership and business. Whether you’re solving a workplace problem or exploring a new opportunity, understanding the real reason behind your actions can lead to better outcomes.
What Is the 7 Levels Deep Model?
The 7 Levels Deep Model builds on the 5 Whys, a method developed by Sakichi Toyota to find the root cause of problems in business. While the 5 Whys focuses on problem-solving, the 7 Levels Deep Model shifts the lens to personal development.
Here’s how it works:
- Start with a goal, desire, or problem you want to explore.
- Ask, “Why is this important to me?”
- Use the answer to form the basis of the next question.
- Repeat the process seven times.
- By the seventh Why, you’ll uncover the deeper emotional or value-driven motivation behind your initial goal.
The process works because it moves beyond surface-level answers, helping you explore your beliefs, values, and emotions.
7 Levels Deep Model: Some Practical Examples
1. Investing in Property
- Initial Goal: I want to purchase an investment property.
- First Why: Why is this important?
- I want to generate additional income.
- Second Why: Why is additional income important?
- It will provide financial stability and security.
- Seventh Why: After digging deeper, the final answer might be:
- I want to instil strong values in my children, teaching them about hard work and responsibility, so they grow up to be well-adjusted, successful adults.
What starts as a financial goal evolves into a deeply personal one tied to legacy and family values.
2. Becoming a Better Leader
- Initial Goal: I want to lead my team more effectively.
- First Why: Why is this important?
- It will help achieve departmental goals.
- Seventh Why: The final answer might be:
- I want to leave a meaningful legacy, shaping the organisation’s future and inspiring others.
The journey moves from tactical objectives to a broader vision of leadership and impact.
3. Improving Communication Skills
- Initial Goal: I want to express my ideas more clearly.
- First Why: Why is this important?
- To avoid misunderstandings.
- Seventh Why: The final answer might be:
- I want to fulfil my potential, make a meaningful impact in my field, and feel a sense of accomplishment in my career.
The deeper motivation reveals a desire for personal and professional fulfilment.
How Women Can Benefit from the 7 Levels Deep Model
As women, we often face unique challenges — balancing ambition with expectations, juggling roles, and making decisions that affect not just ourselves but those we care about.
The 7 Levels Deep Model can help by:
- Providing Clarity: Understand your true motivations, making it easier to prioritise and stay focused.
- Building Confidence: When you know why you’re doing something, you can pursue it with conviction.
- Aligning Actions with Values: Ensure your goals and decisions align with what truly matters to you.
Whether you’re looking to grow in your career, strengthen your relationships, or achieve personal milestones, this method offers a roadmap to greater self-awareness and intentionality which are keys in achieving conscious leadership.
Using the Model in Business and Leadership
The 7 Levels Deep Model isn’t just for personal growth, it’s also a powerful tool for business leaders.
Here’s how you can use it:
- Problem-Solving: Get to the root cause of challenges within your team or organisation.
- Decision-Making: Ensure strategic decisions align with your company’s values and vision.
- Team Motivation: Help team members uncover their own “why”, fostering deeper engagement and purpose.
By applying this method in the workplace, you create a culture of intentionality, alignment, and growth.
Final Thoughts: Why Asking ‘Why?’ Changes Everything
The 7 Levels Deep Model is more than just a coaching tool, it’s a way to connect with your deepest motivations and align your actions with your values.
For women in leadership, asking why provides them an opportunity to make decisions that reflect their true self, build trust with your team, and leave a meaningful legacy.
Are You Ready to Dig Deeper?
If you’re ready to dig deeper into your ‘why’ and take your personal and professional growth to the next level, let’s work together.
- Follow me on LinkedIn for actionable insights on leadership and performance management.
- Subscribe to my YouTube channel for practical how-to videos.
- Connect with me on Facebook for daily inspiration and leadership advice.
Take the first step today, because the most meaningful growth begins when you ask yourself, Why?
