Insights from ‘The Infinite Game’ by Simon Sinek

Question 1

What is the primary goal in an infinite game, according to Simon Sinek?

Answer 1

The goal is not to win, but to play as long as possible.

Question 2

True or False: Business is a finite game where success is defined by profit alone.

Answer 2

False

Question 3

How does a finite mindset in business affect long-term innovation?

Answer 3

It leads to short-term actions like layoffs, which harm long-term innovation.

Question 4

Fill in the blank: A ‘Just Cause’ is an ______ vision of the future that inspires people to join your mission.

Answer 4

idealistic

Question 5

What was Henry Ford’s ‘Just Cause’ for his business?

Answer 5

To provide safe and efficient transportation for everyone and open highways to all.

Question 6

Why is having a ‘Just Cause’ important for a business?

Answer 6

It helps resist short-term pressures, making sacrifices for a vision and sustaining long-term goals.

Question 7

Give an example of a company that renewed its commitment to its ‘Just Cause’ after decline.

Answer 7

CVS, with its mission to get people on the path to better health.

Question 8

Application: If your ‘Just Cause’ requires a change that could reduce short-term profits, what should you do according to Sinek?

Answer 8

You should prioritize the ‘Just Cause’ and be willing to overhaul your business for long-term vision.

Question 9

What questions can help determine a company’s ‘Just Cause’?

Answer 9

1) What profound change can we make in our customers’ lives? 2) What mission are we willing to make sacrifices for? 3) What idealistic vision will inspire others to join us?

Question 10

True or False: A worthy rival in business is meant to be defeated to win the game.

Answer 10

False

Question 11

How does a ‘worthy rival’ help in an infinite game?

Answer 11

It pushes you to improve and can help clarify and strengthen your ‘Just Cause.’

Question 12

What example does Sinek give of Apple using a ‘worthy rival’ in the 80s?

Answer 12

Apple used IBM to position itself as a brand for misfits and innovators, contrasting IBM’s corporate focus.

Question 13

Fill in the blank: ‘In an infinite game, the _____ are constantly changing, keeping participants on edge.’

Answer 13

rules

Question 14

Describe an example of a company that failed because it stuck to fixed rules in an infinite game.

Answer 14

Blockbuster failed by sticking to in-store rentals with late fees, while Netflix changed the game with online rentals and no late fees.

Question 15

True or False: In an infinite game, you should wait for the rules to change before adapting.

Answer 15

False

Question 16

How did Netflix redefine the rules in the game of movie rentals?

Answer 16

They allowed customers to rent movies online without leaving home and eliminated late fees, adapting the game to customers’ needs.

Question 17

What should business leaders remember about rules in an infinite game?

Answer 17

The rules will change, and leaders can proactively redefine the rules to better advance their Cause.