Simple Systems – Less is More
Simple Systems are the game-changers, and their beauty is often overlooked. They keep everyone on the same page. Rinse-Lather- Repeat might sound boring at first, but once simple systems are in place, the possibilities are endless. Complexity can lead to confusion, frustration, and inefficiency, while simplicity can bring clarity, effectiveness, and less stress. When you embrace simplicity, individuals, families, and organizations can do more with less time, effort, and resources. Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple Inc., famously said, “Simple can be harder than complex: You have to work hard to get your thinking clean to make it simple. But it’s worth it in the end because once you get there, you can move mountains.”
The good news is you already use simple systems all the time without even thinking about it. Once they become automatic, you don’t think through each step anymore. Do you remember the first time you ever drove a car by yourself? It took so much concentration in the beginning, but it got easier. As an experienced driver, have you ever parked the car in the driveway and then realized you drove all the way home without really thinking about it? 😉 The same thing can happen when you head out to visit a friend and then end up going the familiar route to work or school instead. Your brain is at work, and those processes have become automatic over time.
Simple Systems are the winner for keeping you on track and avoiding the brain drain of decision fatigue. What would it be like if you could skip the stress? Simple systems can be a quick rescue, but remember that any new habit needs time and attention to take root and grow. When people tell me systems never work in their organizations or families, I ask how the process was presented or implemented.
Simple systems are powerful. Tim Ferriss, author of “The 4-Hour Workweek,” points out that simplifying processes can maximize efficiency and, I would add, minimize frustration. He says, “Focus on being productive instead of busy.” Too often you can get lost in unnecessary steps and too many options. By automating repetitive tasks, you individuals can stay on track and get to the finish line faster.
Do you realize that you are in sales? ☺ #1 You get to lead by example; #2 Sell the idea; #3 Give people time to adjust as the new habit takes root. It might take days, weeks, or months, but it’s worth it. It takes patience to get everyone on board and to push past the awkward starting place. No plan is perfect, but simple systems are stress-busters. If routines sound boring or impossible, think about how great it will feel to have less stress and more time for what matters most.
Here are some simple tips:
* Start with a clear goals and objectives
* Think through the repeating steps of each task
* Eliminate any unnecessary steps
* Use charts, tools, and technology to help with automation
* Sell the idea
* Mentor your team on the simple system
* Celebrate the success
Before jumping in and dreaming up new ideas, remember, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Establishing simple systems is not about over-hauling everything at once. That’s a formula for crash and burn. The best plan for success is to set up one simple system at a time. Start with the one that solves the biggest problem first. Other trouble spots can be addressed later, one by one.
Give each team member the time and attention they need to build this new habit. It’s not one size fits all. Some people need more time to buy into the idea, and some need even more time to form a habit. Don’t feel rushed, or you might want to quit before the effort pays off. Make the practice light and fun, not a list what they are doing wrong.
Remember, what works for one organization or family might not work for another. Comparison can be a disaster! Try out an idea, but be encouraged even if it doesn’t work. Look for a solution that will improve, if not solve, the problem. It might not be perfect, but it’s better than doing nothing. It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about focusing on what truly matters to maximize efficiency and minimize frustration on your path to success.