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“Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.”
I’ve been reflecting on this quote for a few years.
One of my favourites.
We use the word ‘elegant’ to describe a simple idea or solution.
Elegant also means ”graceful and stylish”.
I don’t think this is a coincidence, as the origin of the word is the Latin ‘elegans’ meaning ”pick out, choose”.
Simplicity isn’t the end goal.
We can see the benefits of simplicity everywhere...
Using one headshot everywhere increases familiarity and trust.
Having one funnel means having less to think about.
A newsletter with only one link will get more clicks.
Yet, achieving simplicity can be challenging.
I often feel the need to add more...
Until I realize I’ve added too much.
How I Keep Things Simple
Whether I’m working on a writing, a design, a process, or a website…
I assess each draft:
Are there any elements that don’t need to be here?
What can I remove without decreasing the effectiveness of this?
I monitor any thoughts of adding something:
Do I absolutely need this other thing?
Will adding this cause complexity, confusion, or redundancy?
Will this take away from what I’m already doing or is it better to double-down on what’s working now?
I realize that sometimes… just sometimes… a little more can be better.
Will this make my identity more attractive, memorable, or trustworthy?
Will this give the viewer a better sense of my purpose or values?
Will this inject more of my personality?
It's all about finding that sweet spot…
Everything has its place.
No extra fluff.
“It is not a daily increase, but a daily decrease. Hack away at the inessentials.”
🤖 Robert
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