Creating Something New: Simplifying Complexity Through Fundamentals
Creating something new is inherently challenging. However, complex situations become more manageable when we blend the right attitude, solid planning fundamentals, and clear, direct communication. Let’s explore four key fundamentals to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
FUNDAMENTAL 1: SELECT YOUR PERSPECTIVE
The ability to consciously shift your viewpoint is a remarkably potent skill—think of it like adjusting a camera lens to capture different perspectives.
A zoomed-in view is invaluable for precision and detail, such as analyzing data, proofreading, or solving intricate problems.
A zoomed-out view is crucial for strategic planning, spotting overarching trends, and maintaining balance in life’s challenges.
Mastering this skill requires practice and mindfulness. Start by zooming way out to see the big picture without getting distracted by details. This approach helps identify the most important goals and considerations before diving into the nuances.
FUNDAMENTAL 2: DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
Documentation is a cornerstone of successful collaboration and execution. As my grandpa used to say:
“JL, always write everything down and date it. It will help you in countless ways.”
Here’s why it’s so essential:
Alignment: A shared blueprint ensures everyone understands the objectives and stays on the same page.
Accountability: Recorded decisions and action items clarify who’s responsible for what, boosting productivity and commitment.
Reference Point: Well-documented plans act as a compass, guiding teams back to the main goal during moments of distraction or confusion.
Learning Tool: Documentation enables teams to review past projects, identifying successes and areas for improvement, building a repository of valuable insights.
My preferred documentation method is presentation slides, as they:
Highlight one topic at a time.
Enable a flowing narrative that can pivot as needed.
Integrate text and visuals for clarity.
Adapt to suit different audiences effectively.
FUNDAMENTAL 3: PROACTIVE PLANNING
Taking the time to plan thoroughly demonstrates initiative and a commitment to progress over comfort. Sharing plans—even imperfect ones—earns respect and signals a willingness to collaborate and refine ideas.
FUNDAMENTAL 4: OPEN & FLEXIBLE
Adaptability is just as important as planning. Embrace feedback from superiors with curiosity and a learning mindset. Seek to understand their reasoning, ask clarifying questions, and remain focused on growth rather than being "right."
SLIDE 1: CLARIFYING OBJECTIVES
Never overlook this step. Clearly state your objectives, incorporating as many SMART elements as possible:
Specific, not vague
Measurable when possible
Actionable
Realistic
Time-bound
Ensure your slide reflects the directive from your superior accurately to avoid confusion during presentations.
SLIDE 2: IDENTIFYING DEPENDENCIES
This slide, while optional, is crucial when your project has sequential steps. Highlighting these dependencies early on prevents unproductive discussions. Challenge these dependencies to refine your logic and broaden your perspective.
SLIDE 3: SPOTTING OPPORTUNITIES FOR OVERLAP
This slide contrasts dependencies by highlighting tasks that can proceed independently. It's about identifying chances to progress without being hindered by other tasks, offering a sense of freedom and expansion.
SLIDE 4: PHASE 1 GOAL
Focus here on the most achievable, impactful goal. Determine the simplest goal that indicates basic functionality, then list and prioritize easy goals, highlighting those directly contributing to the overall objective.
For instance, in a sales process aiming for $10,000 in revenue, prioritize tasks like adding leads to a database over obtaining certifications, which, while beneficial, don't directly drive sales.
SLIDE 5: PARKING LOT IN APPENDIX
After setting the initial goal, list future tasks in a "parking lot" section. This keeps ideas on the radar without detracting from current priorities.
SLIDE 6: OUTLINING PHASES
Define major steps and their timelines, akin to an athlete's training progression. For a sales process, this might look like:
PHASE 1: Building the Lead Database
PHASE 2: Testing Sales Messages
PHASE 3: Refinement and Expansion
PHASE 4: Full-Speed Implementation
Use visuals to make the timeline clear and connect phases to specific dates, illustrating the benefits of gradual progression.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Creating something new is undoubtedly challenging, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By blending the right attitude, strategic planning, and effective communication, you can simplify complexity and build excitement along the way. These fundamentals are more than steps in a process—they’re tools to inspire confidence and drive progress.
