Simplicity

Simplicity is a state of ease of understanding or doing. Without complexity.

Japanese: kanso (simplicity) - the aesthetic and spiritual virtue that aims to leave what is essential by eliminating anything that is unimportant.

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Key Insights & Principles

Communication

1. No matter the intention, communication is always understood through the context and experience of the receiver.
2. The purpose of communication is simplicity and clarity.
3. Complexity in communication can lead to confusion.
4. If communication is too simple, it may not be clear. It can be open for misinterpretation or ambiguity.

1. Use plain language.
2. Do not oversimplify by leaving out key pieces of information.

Business

1. For small businesses simplicity may be essential for survival.
2. Simplifying processes can reduce costs of training for and dealing with complexity.
3. Simple solutions are not always accepted.
4. The best plans are simple.

1. Make simplicity a mandate.
2. Embed simplicity in the culture.

Life

1. Simplicity is not always easy.
2. Simplicity can help enforce habits.

1. Strive for simplicity.
2. Notice complexity.
3. Remove what is not essential.

Book References