Sometimes, the real reason isn’t the first one… it’s the fifth

Sakichi Toyoda, founder of Toyota, had a habit.

Whenever something didn’t make sense, he’d pull out a simple tool — not from a toolbox, but from his mind:

The "5 Whys" rule.

It’s exactly what it sounds like. You ask “Why?” — not once, but five times.

Let’s say you want a fur coat.

You ask yourself:

• Why do I want a fur coat?

Because I want to impress people.

• Why do I want to impress people?

Because I want attention.

• Why do I want attention?

Because I feel insecure.

• Why do I feel insecure?

Because I feel stuck — like I’m not growing.

• Why am I not growing?

Because I’m doing something I don’t love.

And suddenly, the coat has nothing to do with warmth or style. It’s about purpose. About identity.

And that fifth “why”? That’s the one that tells the truth.

That’s where you are hiding. And sometimes, that’s where healing begins.

Sakichi Toyoda gave the world more than just cars.

He gave us a method to peel away the layers — until we finally see ourselves clearly.

So next time you’re unsure — don’t just stop at the surface.

Ask why. Then ask again.

Until you reach the real answer.