Make It Simpler

I’ve noticed over the years that I am drawn to complexity. I become intrigued by things that take a while to figure out.

This has often worked against me. I think deeply about an issue until I understand it, but often have trouble conveying what I have learned to others in a way that they can absorb.?

I’ve come to understand that the deeper our understanding of a complex issue is, the greater our obligation is to simplify it for others.

Here’s an example of what I mean…

1. You start with a simple idea or hypothesis. Example: "Maybe we could save money and increase both customer and employee satisfaction by adopting this new process for taking and fulfilling orders."
2. When you start investigating it, you realize there are a million complexities. Different kinds of customers, different kinds of products, and many suppliers who would need to change their processes, too. The complexity is so vast, you almost give up.
3. After a great deal of thinking, analysis and refinement… you and your team of experts develop a process that will work.

The first time you explain it to people, it falls flat.

You've told them too much, overcomplicated it. You have to admit: if someone had first explained it to you that way, you would have been just as overwhelmed as they are.

You go back to your office, frustrated and disheartened that your idea was not well received. You meet with your working team: How can we explain this in a way that people can understand and build upon?

The team is just as passionate as you are about the potential. They suggest that you move to an offsite location and not return until you have a simple, straightforward and actionable way to explain what is so clear in your heads.

The challenge is on.?

1. The first day is spent suggesting and ultimately rejecting ideas.
2. Each of the team members finds their own way to let their brains rest, rejuvenate and reset that evening. Some go for a run or swim laps, a few take a walk around the nearby lake, and one or two just sit and stare at the fire in the lobby.
3. In the morning, you all feel more clear headed, and a solution emerges. A simple way to explain the essence of the new process that everyone throughout the company will be able to understand, latch onto and communicate to others so that they can implement it in their respective areas.?
4. Complexity becomes simplicity!

Was that easy? No. Did it require real time and effort? Yes.

Was it worth it? If the project was truly important to you, then yes, almost certainly.

If you liked this post,?please share it.?

I help successful leaders and their teams agree on what needs to change and how to make it happen. I am the author of?Fearless?Growth and?The Agility Advantage.?

For more strategies, videos and free materials, please visit?www.setili.com. If you are curious, here are a few quick examples of the work we do. You might also enjoy my Fearless Growth Podcast.

Contact me anytime to discuss your situation and how I can support you.