According to research, the human brain tries to solve most of life’s problems by adding solutions. But let us let you in on a little secret; it takes less time and energy to solve problems not by adding more but by subtracting, eliminating, and minimizing.
In today's episode, Clint Herndon and Dr. Parker Houston talk about how to solve problems by subtraction, less is more, quality over quantity, and then dive into practical steps to help you solve problems by subtraction.
Take action now, solve your problems by minimizing your:
- Goals. Many high achievers mistakenly assume that more goals are always better. However, fewer goals may increase our efficiency and likelihood of achieving that goal by focusing on the few most important goals.
- Finances. Most people are looking for ways to make more money. But for most of us, the best solution is spending less instead of constantly looking for ways to make more.
- Commitments. There is virtually no limit to the number of things you can commit to. But every single thing we allow into our lives fights for our time. Try cutting back on your relationships or commitments. Focus on depth over breadth.
- Work. If you are a leader, don’t overwhelm your employees with new initiatives or set a ton of meetings. Try eliminating meetings and stacking only the most important meetings on one day of the week. Don’t be afraid to cancel or eliminate meetings that have no clear purpose or benefit. You can always restart meetings if you discover you really need them.
- Possessions. Nearly everything we accumulate requires storage, maintenance, cleaning, or insurance. Think twice before you accumulate that next thing. It’s a slow death by a thousand cuts.
- Clothing. Maybe it’s time to thin out your wardrobe and pick a few outfits you love. It might even save you the 20 minutes every day you look at yourself in the mirror.
People Systematically Overlook Subtractive Changes
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