94 - Transform Your Challenges Through a Simplification Strategy
This episode explores how simplification can unlock better execution and faster results. Learn why removing complexity is a smarter strategy and how one powerful question can transform the way you solve problems.
Less Isn’t Just More. It’s Faster.
When we’re stuck, our instinct is to add more ideas, tools, and layers. But often, the path forward isn’t in doing more; it’s in doing less.
In this episode of Pattern Cognition, we explore a deceptively powerful question:
“What would this look like if it were easy?”
This is the fourth principle in a five-part framework for smarter problem-solving, and it might be the one most people overlook.
• Complexity can be procrastination. We build systems that look productive but hide fear or indecision. Simplicity forces commitment.
• Simplicity sharpens focus. When you remove friction and clutter, you get to the signal faster.
• Small shifts unlock scale. Jeff Bezos asked how to simplify online book buying. The answer: one-click purchasing changed e-commerce forever.
• Execution improves when friction disappears. Fewer moving parts means faster feedback, faster decisions, and less mental load.
• Simplicity is a strategy, not a shortcut. It’s not about doing less work. It’s about doing the right work with clarity and speed.
Ask yourself: What’s something that feels heavy right now? What’s the lightest version of it that would still get the job done?
Listen to this episode of Pattern Cognition to learn how to navigate these challenges and invest wisely.
Highlights:
00:00 Introduction: Five Keys to Smarter Problem Solving
00:03 Simplifying Complexity: The Key to Efficiency
00:10 Real-World Example: Amazon's One-Click Purchasing
00:29 Applying Simplification to Your Life
Links:
Website: https://www.sidmofya.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidmofya/
Transcript:
Five keys to smarter problem solving number four remove complexity and the question to ask here is what would this look like if it were easy? We tend to overcomplicate things complexity can be a form of procrastination a good example of this is when Jeff Bezos asked what's the simplest way for customers to buy books online? And the answer one click purchasing that tiny simplification turned Amazon into a giant what's something in your life or work that feels overwhelming? Strip it down what's the simplest version of this that still works?