Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.

~Albert Einstein

The Simplicity Test

Every day we are faced with decisions and challenges, many of which have a significant impact on our lives. While none of us have a crystal ball, it would be nice to be a little more certain about the outcome of a major decision. But is there really anyway to know what results a decision will yield?

I use what I call “The Simplicity Test” to guide my decisions. Really, it’s no big secret. As Einstein suggests, make it as simple as you can. Actually ask yourself a question, for example, “Is this the simplest way that I can accomplish this task?” or perhaps “Will this choice result in added layers of complexity or the simplest way of doing things?”

Here’s an example. I was recently faced with a business decision that was quite significant in its repercussions. Should I close an unprofitable division (a recording facility) of my music business, or should I try to save it? There was money, time and pride at stake, to be sure. At first, closing the business seemed unthinkable. I had put 5 years of work into it, tens of thousands of dollars, and I really like recording equipment (all those blinking lights and dials are pretty cool). However, saving it would mean borrowing money, bargaining with the landlord, trying to find new customers, working more hours than I already was, and a whole lot more. Besides, I had a few other things on my plate. I decided to close.

It was fairly evident which was the simpler choice, but I was not prepared for the additional unexpected benefits of that decision. As it turned out, I was able to sell plenty of equipment and put some cash in my pocket. I regained at least 20 hours a week of my time, and now I have one less accounting headache and I save a whole lot of money to boot! I have more energy, more focus and I’m even enjoying my other resposnsibilites more. The benefits of this decision continue to reveal themselves. Why did I ever hesitate to close in the first place?

I realized it was my ego that was attached to the business, not any kind of real need. The simple truth was I did not need it. It was just adding layers of complexity to my life. Shutting down opened up doors that I didn’t even know existed, yet I could not see that until I framed the choice with this simple question: What would make my life simpler?

While this approach does not give you a crystal ball, it certainly gives you an advantage over making the same choice without applying the test. I know for a fact that decisions that are made in this manner yield better results, less stress and therefore more happiness. If you consistently employ the simplicity test, you will see results. I realize of course that there is a huge variety of decisions that we need to make in our lives. Critics will proclaim that this method is an oversimplification, to which I respond that it is not necessarily an oversimplification, but just a simplification, and isn’t that the whole point?

Keep it simple!