The #1 biggest secret of success

Simplification.

A successful leader is one who — among other things — can take a complex problem and simplify it down to actionable steps that lead toward the solution.

It's a clarity thing.

Simply put, simple: 

takes less time;

allows you to focus on the purpose;

is less expensive;

is motivating;

is clear;

eliminates excuses.

And there are many ways to simplify — and I'm going to give you a few of them — but first let me simplify—even that—further.

Here's the Real Secret:

THE KEY TO SIMPLICITY IS FOCUS.

When something feels complicated, it's typically because you are focused on the wrong thing.

Think about that for a minute.

You feel like you have too much to do —  but you were on email for 3 hours.

The project feels like it's falling apart — but you probably let it get to far away from the goals.

You can't get everyone to agree — but everyone is arguing different points.

You have to sometimes take a step back — get out of the weeds  — and re-focus. When you re-focus, you simplify the situation back down to the main priorities.

That said, here are some age-old ways of simplifying:

1. Start early

2. Set time limits

3. Use lists

4. Shorten communication

5. Only meet if you have to

6. Clean up the clutter

7. Take a break every 90 minutes

8. Automate as much as possible

9. Do "it" now [get it over with]

Some might work for you, some might not — you'll have to try and see.

Good luck and hopefully this post wasn't too complicated. Wakka wakka wakka.

Comments

[tim]

I needed that today Gary.