The Law of Complexity was substantiated by William of Occam, a 14th century philosopher, theologian born in Ockham, an English village in the country of Surrey. You may of heard of his principle in by the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Stupid). Occam’s knowledge, logic and scientific inquiry played a major role in transition from medieval to modern thought. Basing on scientific knowledge on experience and self evident truths Occam stressed the principle that “entities must not be multiplied beyond what is necessary.” This grew into a tremendously valuable business principle:
“With any problem or goal, the simplest and most direct explanation or method is usually the best and most effective.”
In other words, you should state any problem in its basic and most simple terms and then seek the simplest, most straightforward solution. Likewise, define a goal as simply as possible and then design the simplest, most straight forward plan possible for its achievement, keeping the number of steps to a minimum.
The solution to stubborn problems and apparently unachievable goals, problems, etc. can be summed up in three words:
Keep It Simple
This can be readily accomplished by utilizing a tool we Focal Point Business Coaches call G.O.S.P.A.
Goals
Objectives
Strategies
Plans
Actions
Using this tool ensure you define in the simplest and most direct explanation of the problem, goal and solution in the simplest, best effective method. Try it. Stop trying to delay or use the excuse “There are many moving parts.” “This is a very complex issue.”
So practice today’s Occam Razor principle and Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS)
-By Mark R. Steinke, Elite Business Coach and Business Owner of Focal Point Business Coaching of Pennsylvania
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