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simplify

How to simplify in the extreme

October 30, 2017 by Jan Leave a Comment

Sometimes you’re thrown into a situation that makes a mess of your well-laid plans.

And sometimes you’re suddenly in a chaotic situation that’s one hundred times more complicated than that.

Just one current example? You know where this story is going…

It’s the COVID-19 pandemic experience we share.

In chaotic times what do you do to simplify the chaos?

And not just simplify, but simplify in the extreme?

Try one or more of these four steps:

1. Focus on one priority. 

Yes, just ONE.

When you’re trying to right a world that has turned upside down, you don’t need the drag and drama of trying to juggle multiple goals.

Like a laser beam, narrow your focus to a single point. Make that your sole priority for now.

2. Let go. Say no.

The only way you’re going to let go is to say no.

And if that’s not easy for you, well, frankly, that’s tough.

You need to be able to clear out the underbrush. You have to let go of what is extraneous for now.

What was once important may be again someday.

Now, it it not.

Practice the word, “No,” until you can say it with the calm confidence you need to back it up. And then live your fully-owned “no.”

3. Pay attention.

You need information that’s easy to gather and use in order to know if you’re getting back on track, and staying there.

Select a few key indicators you can count on.

Then pay attention to the information it is providing you.

Use it simply, consistently.

4. Follow up.

Take the time to see how things are working, and if they could work better.

And if things aren’t working, face the facts.

If you need to adjust your plans and actions, do it.

Your work and the world will right itself, with time, but in the meantime, it needs your help.

The best way to start?

Simplify, in the extreme.

 

Here’s another post you may be interested in:

How to lead successfully through uncertainty

Filed Under: Change management, Leadership Tagged With: complexity, focus, resilience, simplicity, simplify, streamline

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